Destin, Florida is a great vacation destination for families looking for some fun in the sun. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this paradise on the Emerald Coast. But where should you stay? I’ve compiled a list of 16 great places to stay in Destin, Florida that are perfect for families sorted by their cost.
Higher Cost
- Henderson Beach Resort – This luxury hotel offers 170 rooms and suites, a full-service spa, and private beach access. Families will love the lagoon-style pool and the Kids Club, which offers a variety of fun activities for children. The Henderson also offers a shuttle service to the beach and the nearby Henderson Beach State Park. Other amenities include multiple dining options, a fitness center, and complimentary bike rentals.
- Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort – This massive resort spans over 2,400 acres and offers a variety of accommodations, including villas, condos, and hotel rooms. Families will enjoy the multiple swimming pools, beach access, and endless activities such as golf, tennis, and water sports. The resort also offers a shuttle service to the beach, shopping centers, and restaurants. Other amenities include a full-service spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options. This resort is located about 20 minutes from Destin proper.
- The Palms of Destin – This luxury resort offers family-friendly amenities, including four outdoor pools with water slides and lazy rivers, tennis courts, and mini-golf courses. Families will also enjoy the onsite arcade and the proximity to shopping centers and restaurants. The Palms of Destin offers a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions. Other amenities include a fitness center, multiple dining options, and a full-service spa.
- Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa – This hotel is situated on Miramar Beach and offers fantastic views from its balconies. Families will enjoy the championship golf course, full-service spa, and beach access. The Hilton Sandestin Beach also offers a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions. Other amenities include multiple dining options, a fitness center, and a Kids Club. Check out their Beach Cam!
- WaterColor Inn – This luxury hotel is located on the beach and offers a full-service spa, bike rentals, and access to multiple swimming pools. Families will love the Kids Camp, which offers a variety of fun activities for children. The WaterColor Inn also offers a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions. Other amenities include multiple dining options, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. This resort is located in nearby Santa Rosa Beach about a 45-minute drive from Destin proper.
6. Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village – While you’ll pay a pretty penny for this resort, it’s right smack dab in the middle of everything. Located at the Harborwalk Village, you’ll have access to numerous restaurants and Destin attractions as well as Destin harbor and all the water activities you could imagine. The resort also features a swimming pool and spa.
Lower Cost
- Inn on Destin Harbor – This budget-friendly hotel is located on the harbor and offers beautiful views of the water. Families will enjoy the outdoor pool and the free continental breakfast. The Inn on Destin Harbor also offers a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions. Other amenities include complimentary bike rentals and free Wi-Fi.
- Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin at Grand Boulevard – This hotel offers spacious rooms and is located near shopping centers and family-friendly restaurants. Families will enjoy the outdoor pool and the free Wi-Fi. The Courtyard by Marriott also offers a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions. Other amenities include a fitness center, multiple dining options, and complimentary breakfast.
- Wingate by Wyndham – This budget-friendly hotel features an outdoor pool, free breakfast, and a fitness center. Families will love the proximity to the beach and the free Wi-Fi. The Wingate by Wyndham does not offer a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions.
Ready to start packing? Get grab My Easy Beach Packing List!
- Best Western Sugar Sands Inn & Suites – This hotel offers suites with fully equipped kitchens and is located near family-friendly restaurants. Families will enjoy the outdoor pool and the free breakfast. Other amenities include a fitness center and free Wi-Fi.
- Candlewood Suites Destin-Sandestin – This hotel offers spacious rooms with fully equipped kitchens and is located near the beach. Families will love the outdoor pool and the free Wi-Fi. The Candlewood Suites Destin-Sandestin does not offer a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions. Other amenities include a fitness center, laundry facilities, and a 24-hour convenience store.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Destin – This hotel is located near family-friendly restaurants and shopping centers. Families will enjoy the outdoor pool and the free breakfast. The Hampton Inn & Suites Destin does not offer a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions. Other amenities include a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin – This hotel is located near family-friendly restaurants and is a short drive from the beach. Families will enjoy the outdoor pool and the free breakfast. The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin does not offer a shuttle service to the beach and other nearby attractions. Other amenities include a fitness center and free Wi-Fi.
- Shoreline Towers – This budget-friendly resort is located on the beach and offers spacious condos with fully equipped kitchens. Families will love the outdoor pool and the proximity to the beach. The resort does not offer a shuttle service.
- Sandpiper Cove – This resort offers a variety of accommodations, including condos and villas, and is located near the beach. Families will enjoy the multiple swimming pools, golf courses, and tennis courts. The resort does not offer a shuttle service, but other amenities include a marina, free Wi-Fi, and a beachfront restaurant.
- Pelican Beach Resort – This budget-friendly resort is located on the beach and offers multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a fitness center. Families will enjoy the proximity to family-friendly restaurants and shopping centers. The resort does not offer a shuttle service, but other amenities include an EV charging station, a poolside bar, and a convenience store.
No matter your budget, there are plenty of great family-friendly places to stay in Destin, Florida. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels, there’s something for everyone. Make your next family vacation a memorable one by staying in one of these 16 great places in Destin. Take the next step in planning your Destin vacation check out my Guide to Visting Destin!