Top reasons to visit Emerald Coast
- Stunning Beaches: The Emerald Coast boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in a variety of outdoor activities, from thrilling water parks to scenic golf and fishing excursions.
- Charming Towns: Explore picturesque areas like Rosemary Beach, filled with delightful shops and eateries against stunning ocean views.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The region offers a welcoming environment, ideal for families seeking fun and adventure.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of top-rated resorts and hotels that cater to every travel need.
Find great hotels near Emerald Coast
Discover a myriad of accommodation options along the stunning Emerald Coast, Florida, where family-friendly resorts and hotels await your arrival. Whether you seek an adventurous getaway or a relaxing beach holiday, you'll find an array of top-rated establishments offering outstanding amenities and services. Explore the best resorts and hotels, complete with glowing reviews, to ensure your stay is nothing short of exceptional.
- Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin: A modern 3-star hotel that blends comfort with convenience, Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin is an ideal choice for beach-goers and business travellers alike. Located 3km from Emerald Coast, this property features direct beach access, allowing guests to easily enjoy the sun and sand. Rated at 8.8 out of 10, it offers pet-friendly accommodations, ensuring your furry friends can join the adventure. Amenities include spacious suites with kitchen facilities, a fitness centre, and an outdoor pool, creating a relaxing atmosphere for both work and leisure.
- Village Inn Destin: This budget-friendly motel, boasting a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, is a delightful option for those seeking adventure and proximity to the beach, situated only 2km from Emerald Coast. Village Inn Destin offers direct beach access and a variety of nearby adventure sports, such as fishing, motorboating, and parasailing. With a pet-friendly policy, guests travelling with pets will find their stay accommodating. The hotel provides essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit while exploring the vibrant activities the area has to offer.
- SummerPlace Inn Destin: Another budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, SummerPlace Inn Destin is located 3km from Emerald Coast and caters to adventure-seeking guests. The property allows easy access to local recreational activities like hiking, surfing, and rental bikes. Pet-friendly facilities ensure that your pets can accompany you during your stay. With comfortable rooms and essential amenities, this hotel strikes a balance between affordability and convenience, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore the Emerald Coast.
Where to stay near Emerald Coast
The Emerald Coast is a stunning destination offering a perfect blend of beachside relaxation and vibrant city life. Explore the picturesque Rosemary Beach, where charming shops and delightful eateries line the streets, all set against breathtaking ocean views. This family-friendly region along the Gulf Coast invites you to enjoy outdoor adventures, soak up the sun, and immerse yourself in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of friendly locals. Experience the best of Florida's coastal charm on your unforgettable holiday.
- Destin: Nestled approximately 3km from the stunning Emerald Coast, Destin is renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant city atmosphere. This coastal gem attracts travellers seasonally, with peak visitation from May to July. Visitors flock to Destin for its outdoor adventures, shopping centres, and lively boardwalk. The pristine beaches offer an idyllic setting for family gatherings, while the local shopping malls cater to all tastes. Destin is a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.
- Fort Walton Beach: Located about 11km from the Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach is a charming city that boasts a slightly more laid-back vibe. Seasonal travel peaks during April and the summer months of June to July. Known for its beautiful beachfront and outdoor activities, this city offers a variety of shopping centres and boardwalk attractions. Fort Walton Beach is perfect for families seeking a fun-filled holiday, with local landmarks like family-friendly beaches and vibrant neighbourhoods to explore.
- Holiday Isle: Just 2km from the Emerald Coast, Holiday Isle is a delightful neighbourhood that embodies the spirit of a beachside retreat. With moderately seasonal traveller arrivals peaking from May to July, it’s a favourite for those wanting a beach-themed holiday. Holiday Isle features easy access to shopping centres and a beautiful boardwalk, making it an excellent spot for leisurely strolls. The proximity to family-friendly beaches and a welcoming community atmosphere enhances the charm of this neighbourhood, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.
Things to do near Emerald Coast
Shopping
In Emerald Coast, visit the Silver Sands Premium Outlets for a variety of designer brands at discounted prices. For a unique experience, explore the local shops at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, where you’ll find charming boutiques and local crafts perfect for gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
At the Serenity by the Sea Spa in Destin, indulge in rejuvenating treatments that incorporate local ingredients, all within a tranquil beachside setting. In Santa Rosa Beach, the WaterColor Inn offers yoga classes on the sand, allowing you to connect with nature while enhancing your well-being.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Southern Raceway, situated 48km from Emerald Coast. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed races, surrounded by an energetic atmosphere that embodies the spirit of adventure and competition.
Nightlife
Visit The Red Bar in Grayton Beach for a lively atmosphere with great cocktails and live music. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the 30A Songwriter Festival, where local artists showcase their talents. Don’t miss the rooftop bar at The Henderson for stunning sunset views.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Emerald Coast
To save money during your visit to Emerald Coast, consider travelling between December and February when hotel prices are at their lowest, especially on Tuesdays. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare room rates, filter for eco-certified hotels, and book package deals that include flights and activities for extra savings. Additionally, explore free activities along the coast and utilise the affordable public transport options available. This will help you maximise your experience without overspending.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Emerald Coast is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Emerald Coast are December to February, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are moderately higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Emerald Coast is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Emerald Coast is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation on the Emerald Coast with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Emerald Coast
Emerald Coast is a perfect destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its stunning beaches, vibrant tourist precincts, and nearby national parks, visitors can enjoy a myriad of activities that highlight the area's natural beauty. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the shore or adventurous experiences in nature, Emerald Coast promises a memorable getaway for every type of traveller.
- Destin Harbor Boardwalk: This vibrant tourist precinct offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor leisure. Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy local eateries, and partake in various water sports while soaking in the lively atmosphere and stunning views of the harbour.
- Crab Island: A unique island experience, Crab Island is a popular spot for beachgoers seeking a lively outdoor vibe. Accessible by boat, this shallow sandbar is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and socialising with fellow visitors amidst crystal-clear waters.
- Henderson Beach: As a national park, Henderson Beach showcases breathtaking scenery and offers a range of outdoor adventures. Explore scenic trails, relax on pristine beaches, and enjoy the diverse wildlife that inhabits this coastal haven.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Emerald Coast
Reaching Emerald Coast is convenient with several major airports nearby. Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional) is situated 13km away, with excellent hotel options such as The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa, a 5-star resort 16km from the airport, and The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach, a 4-star resort 11km away. Also, Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches International) is located 66km from Emerald Coast, featuring hotels like Sterling Breeze 1904 and Celadon: Unit 102, both 18km from the airport. Lastly, Pensacola, FL (PNS-Pensacola International) is 68km away, with notable hotels like The Pensacola Beach Resort and Hilton Pensacola Beach, both 16km from the airport.