Destin is the largest and most popular vacation destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast for three simple, hard-to-beat reasons.
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First, it’s family-friendly and large group-friendly. You can find large rentals that will fit a crew of ten without too much work. The beaches are spacious, to boot. Destin’s restaurants and entertainment venues are also prepared to host larger groups—even if you need a few high-chairs, too.
Second, Destin is affordable. If you want a classic summer vacation that won’t put you in debt, you can find a neighborhood in Destin that suits your budget. At the same time, if you want to go a little more luxurious, you can find an offer that hits your perfect price point. In other words, you can stay ultra-casual in Destin, then get gussied up when the mood hits.
Third, it’s part of the scenic Emerald Coast. Destin has white-sand beaches with calm tides. Depending on the season and weather, you might even notice the water actually has a green-ish tint to it. That coloration is natural and due to the area’s sand composition. It contains tiny flecks of white quartz, which reflect the sunlight to create an emerald hue.
Ready for your Destin getaway yet? While the area is home to dozens of large resorts and private condominiums, it’s also got a number of clean, roomy Airbnbs—and some of them are located right on the beach.
Here’s my short list of some of the best Airbnbs in Destin on or near the beach. First up, I’m covering beachfront condos, then moving on to homes and townhouses. In the case of the former, I’ve stuck to high-floor condos to capitalize on those Gulf views.
Best Airbnbs in Destin on the beach: condos
10th floor beachfront condo (Pelican Beach)
You can sleep up to six in this one-bedroom, two-bathroom beachfront condo. There are two bespoke bunk beds near the living room, making this perfect for families. Located on the tenth floor, you can soak up views of the ocean—or head downstairs and step onto the white-sand beach without any delays. Pelican Beach also has three large outdoor pools and two hot tubs to enjoy.
12th floor three-bedroom condo (Jade East)
If you’re looking for a true three-bedroom in Destin, this Airbnb is a spacious alternative. Located on the tenth floor, you’ve got great views from the living room and bedrooms. The master bedroom has a king-sized mattress, while the other two have two queens and two twins, respectively.
That means you can comfortably sleep up to eight—or even ten, if you’re fine using the pull-out. Jade East is considered one of the more upscale condos in Destin, giving you access to pickleball, outdoor pools, grills, and plenty more.
Best Airbnbs in Destin on the beach: homes & townhouses
Townhome with private beach access (South Bay)
This townhome gives you a private unit to enjoy with two bedrooms, letting you sleep up to eight. While it’s not located right on the beach, you have private beach access, which is reserved for South Bay residents. The unit comes with all the beach gear you’ll need, too, from tennis courts to kiddie pools to grilling areas.
Three-bedroom townhouse on the beach (South Bay)
This property is also located in the gated South Bay community. There are three bedrooms, although you can sleep up to eight with a queen-sized sofa sleeper. You’ve got access to the private beach, along with beach service during the warmer months and tons of kids’ toys to bring with you. As an added perk, South Bay also has a fully stocked lake for any anglers.
Townhouse with lake views (South Bay)
This final South Bay property comes with lake views. It’s a true two-bedroom that fits up to four, making it ideal for small groups and small families. You’ve got all the same amenities listed above, from private beach access to tennis courts. While the unit faces the lake, it’s still a very short walk to the beach—and this rental even comes with a buggy so you can bring all your supplies onto the white-sand beach.
Townhouse near the beach with three bedrooms
This townhouse is located one minute from the beach. It also doesn’t have direct beach views. In exchange, however, you get a true three-bedroom setup that’s perfect for families that want a lot of downtime at home. The full kitchen is geared up for family dinners, while the townhome’s location also puts you within walking distance to some of Destin’s top eateries. The master bedroom also has a new memory-foam mattress, for any fans of great sleep.
Luxury eight-bedroom home with private pool
If you’re heading to Destin with a caravan of family and friends, and you’re okay splitting the bill for a nicer property, look no further. This luxury home has eight bedrooms with eleven beds that can sleep over 15 guests. Not only do you have stellar ocean views, but you also have direct access to the white-sand beaches of Destin. Because it’s a luxury rental, all bedrooms have ensuite baths, and there’s also a 24/7 concierge available.
Townhouse with lake views (short walk to beach)
If you’re okay with a lake view instead of a beach view, this townhouse is an awesome alternative. The beach is a five-minute walk away, and you also have on-site pickleball, tennis, pools, and even a private beach. From March to October, the rental also comes with a complimentary beach setup with chairs and an umbrella.
