I am not a first timer, more like a 15 times or more, but still love it like a kid!!!! I prefer hanging on the beach in Destin over any fancy vacation. ... more

23 days until I bring my wife to Destin for Spring break, 112 days til the whole family comes down for summer vacation (and my wife and I celebrate our 30th Anniversary) ... more

158 days until i am in my little piece of heaven!!! i love that we all countdown like kids to vacation! ... more

... dead there! We are coming in 18 days, woot woot! our first condo rental and first beach trip. 3 kids, 13 &11 yo girls, 4 yo boy. Staying at ElMatador on Okaloosa Island. Since we are newbies, what do we need to bring that we probably don't know about ... more

does your condo include chair rentals? If not plan on bringing beach chairs or purchasing them in destin. I would call your condo owner and see if they have a cooler, beach toys for the kids and what toiletries are furnished. Just bring bathing suits,beach towels, suntain lotions, something ... more

if paid for in advance, you should have no problem. and you have beach service, that is good. Like you, we were very green this year and we are having a great vacation, but you learn great stuff after your first visit....things you will do different the next time!! ... more

Which beach area is better for a family (ages 11-8) vacation, main criteria is great beach (less crowded the better), don't plan on too many other activites (maybe a day on the water) just focused on beach. ... more

We like both places, but Destin is our favorite. The water is so much prettier and there are more things to do. I would say go to Destin if you want to have the best vacation. ... more