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Vacation Rentals in the Florida Panhandle
Find Beachfront Vacation Rentals with Ocean View in the Florida Panhandle
Northwest Florida, or the Florida Panhandle, as it is also named, is one of the favorite vacation destinations with travelers that visit Florida. Located just west of Tallahassee, it includes Destin, also known as the "worlds luckiest fishing village", includes some great places to stay for families, while Panama City Beach offers white-sand beaches with affordable vacation homes. The South Walton area is more upscale and includes neighborhoods such as Rosemary Beach, Seaside all a short drive to Fort Walton Beach.
Best Beaches in Northwest Florida
Find Places to Stay on the Beaches in Northwest Florida.
St. George Island
St. George Island is a serene barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its uncrowded beaches, laid-back vibe, and a wide range of vacation homes—from cozy cottages to luxurious beachfront estates. St. George Island stretches 22 miles along the Gulf of America in Franklin County, Florida. It’s celebrated for its pet-friendly beaches, world-class fishing, boating, and nature trails, making it a favorite for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The island is largely undeveloped, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of more commercialized beach towns.
Destin
Destin, Florida is a wonderful destination for a family vacation, offering a blend of natural beauty, outdoor fun, and laid-back charm. The beaches are famous for their powdery white sand and clear emerald waters, making them ideal for swimming, relaxing, and building sandcastles. Henderson Beach State Park is a favorite spot for families, with nature trails and picnic areas that add to the experience. For something more adventurous, Crab Island—a shallow sandbar accessible by boat—is a unique place to float, play, and grab snacks from floating vendors.
Water activities are a big draw in Destin. Families often enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, and dolphin-watching cruises. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park is a hit with kids, offering slides, a lazy river, and mini golf all in one place. If your family loves wildlife, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park features dolphins, sea lions, and hands-on exhibits that are both fun and educational. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is perfect for evening strolls, with live music, fresh seafood, and a festive atmosphere.
Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach is a coastal city in the Florida Panhandle, known for its stunning white-sand beaches, emerald-green waters, and laid-back vibe. Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, it offers a mix of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions. The city is part of the larger Destin-Fort Walton Beach area, which draws visitors for its fishing, boating, and water sports. Fort Walton Beach is home to Okaloosa Island, a barrier island with scenic views and popular spots like the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and the Okaloosa Island Pier. The area also has a strong military presence due to nearby Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field. Downtown Fort Walton Beach features a charming mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites like the Indian Temple Mound Museum. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore nature trails, or enjoy fresh seafood, Fort Walton Beach offers a welcoming blend of recreation and relaxation.
Things to Do while on Vacation In the Florida Panhandle
Places to Play after you leave your Vacation Rental Home.
Visit Destin
Visit Destin Florida and step into what the residents like to refer to as the “world’s luckiest fishing village.” The village was established in the 1840s by Leonard Destin who was a New England fisherman. There are also fantastic restaurants and a large factory outlet mall for shopping.
Visit Panama City
Visit Panama City for excellent family fun kayaking, sailing, dolphin watching, and bumming around on the beautiful beach. Enjoy the seaside restaurants for some of the best seafood around.
Visit Port St. Joe
Another great Northwest Florida spot to visit is Port St. Joe. Here you can experience more powerful Florida history. Florida's first constitutional convention was hosted here in 1838. The area also boasts the state’s tallest oldest sand dunes and has been named American’s best beach.
Northeast Florida
Northwest Florida and the Florida Panhandle is a great spot for family vacation adventures. There are some great cities to choose from. From shopping, to nature walks, to award winning beaches, there is something for everyone.
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