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Family walking the beach in Sandestin, Florida
Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort
The Ultimate Family Getaway:
Sandestin, Florida
Powder-white beaches kissed by calm emerald water, plus a laid-back vibe create a serene backdrop for a memorable family beach vacation, and Sandestin, Florida, delivers on all the above.
By Kristy Tolley
Situated within Florida’s Emerald Coast, Sandestin’s drivable distance from many major Southern cities also makes it an ideal road trip destination for families.
Here’s why families are flocking to Sandestin, Florida, and why you should, too.
Fireworks at The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin, Florida.
Sandestin Golf Beach & Resort
Activities
The resort community is one of South Walton’s 16 distinct beach neighborhoods, offering easy access to fun activities on and off the sand. It’s the sort of place where mornings might start on the beach and afternoons drift between bike paths and casual waterfront eateries—without ever feeling rushed.
The Baytowne Carousel is a family-friendly attraction.
The Village of Baytowne Wharf is a hub for families, thanks to shopping, restaurants and family-friendly activities. During the spring and summer, find free events, including magic shows, live music, games and fireworks over the lagoon. Fuel your inner adrenaline junkie at Baytowne Adventure Zone, home to ropes courses, zip lines, and a Eurobungy trampoline—part traditional trampoline, part bungee, and all fun. Next door, Baytowne Marina is the launching spot for almost limitless water-based adventures, such as paddleboarding, kayaking and Jet Skiing.
Have a mermaid wannabe in your family? They can transform into one with the Discover Mermaid experience. If the pirate life is more your cup of rum, check out the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise. This popular cruise keeps scalawags of all ages entertained with pirate-themed activities, such as hoisting the colors and firing the cannon, along with lots of singing and merry-making.
Quieter outdoor adventures await visitors at the 5-acre Jolee Island Nature Park, with walking trails, a playground, picnic areas and wildlife encounters.
Crab Crusted Grouper from Slick Lips Seafood & Oyster House
Slick Lips Seafood & oyster house
Family-friendly Dining
Restaurants that cater to families (and kids with picky palates) are plentiful in the area.
At The Village of Baytowne Wharf, choose among casual spots like Hammerhead’s Bar and Grille and Roberto’s Pizza Sports Bar & Grill. Seafood options include Slick Lips Seafood & Oyster House and Poppy’s Seafood Factory.
BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD AND OYSTER HOUSE VIDEO
Just outside of Sandestin, The Back Porch Seafood and Oyster House has been a favorite for both locals and visitors for more than five decades. It was the first restaurant along the Gulf Coast to serve its customers chargrilled amberjack, one of its most popular menu items. Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House is another sure bet for families, thanks to spacious outdoor decks and a sandy play area for kids.
Balcony view at Hilton Sandestin Resort
KRISTY TOLLEY
Where to Stay
Situated along sun-splashed sands, AAA Three Diamond Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is a great home base for families seeking a stress-free stay. A recent $35 million make-over brought extensive improvements across the property, including room upgrades, pool and deck space enhancements, and restaurant revamps.
Bunk beds for children at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Choose from among 590 guest rooms spread across two main towers—the Emerald Tower and the Spa Tower. Emerald Tower rooms feature a separate alcove with bunk beds, offering a bit of privacy for families. All guest rooms also have private balconies. AAA Members save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA rates.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
adobe stock
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is located on the eastern edge of the hotel’s property, making it a great location to hike and enjoy extensive views of protected dunes and coastal lakes. Beach days here unfold at your pace, with sandcastle building, snorkeling and relaxing the order of the day. Create even more family memories with a bonfire, complete with s’mores (bookable through the recreation team).
Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood prepares delicious Prime beef and seafood dishes.
Hilton
Six on-site restaurants offer an impressive variety, from casual bites at Barefoot’s Beachside Bar & Grill (opened seasonally) to an upscale meal at Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood, Northwest Florida’s only AAA Four Diamond restaurant. A full-service spa, a coffee shop, a 24/7 fitness center and a well-stocked gift shop round out the list of resort perks.
Sandestin is more than just another sunny destination. It’s a family tradition in the making. Whether your brood is drawn to the blue-green waters and white-sand beaches, the countless area activities, or laid-back beachfront accommodations, the Emerald Coast has it in spades.
Ready to plan your Sandestin getaway? Get started today at AAA.com/TripCanvas or speak to a knowledgeable AAA Travel Agent.
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