Planning a summer vacation is stressful and chaotic as is, but when you add kids and so many contradicting preferences, opinions, and ideas into the mix, it all seems borderline impossible.
And if you, too, are one of the many people struggling to find that perfect destination for the entire family this upcoming season, relying on evidence-supported recommendations published by reliable sources might be the best place to start your search.
Take Booking’s newest report, for example.
The company compiled a ranking of the top 10 destinations families are loving the most right now, and, as luck would have it, one of the top 5 is right here in the U.S.
But what makes Destin, Florida, a beachy gem that has often been overshadowed by its more popular neighbors, such a fantastic place for families to visit this summer?
Families Are Flocking To Destin Like Never Before
Before diving into the actual reasons, I quickly want to point out just how insanely popular Destin, Florida, has gotten among family travelers these past couple of months.
It’s officially become a top global trending destination, and the only U.S. city to enter the top 10 among other heavy hitters like Tokyo, Madrid, and Palma de Mallorca.
The number of families flocking to the Florida hub this summer has increased by almost 10%, which, considering the tough competition, is nothing short of impressive.
Gorgeous, Relaxing Beaches
So, with that out of the way, it’s time to delve into what’s actually drawing in so many people to Destin.
First and foremost, people are coming to the city for the jaw-dropping beaches.
Here the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico meet the pristine, powdery-white sand in what looks like a view straight out of the Caribbean – way more impressive than most other surrounding beaches.
What’s extra amazing about places like Henderson Beach State Park, is the fact that the soft sand is just perfect for building sandcastles or taking a dreamy stroll along the coast, so the entire family will find something to love here.
And if your kids are a little more grown up and you want to go somewhere livelier, Destin Harbor Beach is just around the corner.
Plenty Of Fun Experiences To Share With The Entire Family
The No. 1 challenge of traveling with kids is having to always keep them entertained (all while trying to sneak in a small adventure or two for yourself, too).
Luckily, Dustin helps make all that happen thanks to its incredible array of family-friendly experiences, especially in the summer.
You can spend your days watching dolphins and sea lions at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, getting curious at the Emerald Coast Science Center, or just having some good ol’ fun at the Track Family Fun Park.
Adults will also have a fantastic time going on deep-sea fishing excursions and exploring the highly renowned local golf courses.
And if you can’t take any time alone, you can always go on a dolphin cruise, hike in the Calhoun Beach Trail, or catch a fireworks show on Destin Harbor Boardwalk – the choices are endless.
Amazing Food Scene
The Booking report I talked about before also mentioned that an abundance of choices when it comes to eating was one of the main priorities families had when choosing a summer destination – after all, with so many mouths to feed having plenty of options is of the essence.
Luckily, in Dustin, you can find just about everything, from fresh seafood platters, piled high with oysters, crab legs, and shrimp to upscale waterfront restaurants.
You can browse through some of the best eateries here.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
I’ve always held onto the belief that when it comes to family travel, choosing the right hotel/resort makes a world of difference.
That’s why the fact that there are so many family-friendly accommodations in Destin is such a huge plus.
With places like Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Village Inn of Destin, Destin Inn & Suites, Courtyard Sandestin at Grand Boulevard, and Henderson Beach Resort coming so highly reviewed, I can guarantee that you won’t struggle to find a place that the whole family loves.
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