Welcome to Destin—Holiday Isle
The must-see vacation paradise with a hidden gem.
While the city of Destin, Florida is a well-known destination hot spot that sits like a jewel along the resplendent waters of the Gulf, there’s a lesser-known, resort-style location tucked away along a three-mile stretch: Holiday Isle. Private, serene, and set apart from some of the hectic bustle of Destin, Holiday Isle provides luxury beach real estate rentals that evoke an exclusive, oasis feeling.
Bordered by the Gulf on one side and Destin Harbor on the other, Holiday Isle is ideal for those who crave an escape from the banalities of everyday living to indulge in a luxurious beach experience, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to be close to an active and thriving beach city.
What to Love
- Unbeatable Creole-style fare at The Louisiana Lagniappe
- Entertainment, shopping, and recreation options at Destin HarborWalk
- Drinks in the clear turquoise waters at Crab Island
- Charming ambiance and the title of, “The Luckiest Fishing Village in the World”
People & Lifestyle
Holiday Isle in Destin radiates with a kind of vintage, original style that’s often underrated, especially in comparison with the town of Destin itself. But for those who are lucky enough to be in the know about this little strip of paradise, Holiday Isle offers all of the excitement of Destin in addition to a more laid-back, exclusive vibe.
Shopping, Dining & Entertainment
The beautiful, open-air shopping center,
Destin Commons, is one of the most visited retail locations in the greater Destin area. Among towering palms, charming cobblestone streets, and elegant designs are some of the most well-known name brands like
Sephora,
Express,
Steve Madden, and many more. While you’re here, grab a sweet treat at
Destination Little Donuts, refuel with your
Starbucks favorite, or take the time to sit down and dine at one of the many
appetizing options.
Destin is also known for its incredible eateries, and one particularly bright location never fails to draw in a crowd. Enjoy mouth-watering pub fare at the famous
McGuire’s Irish Pub and find a spot on that wall—or ceiling, or booth, or anywhere—to staple your own dollar per restaurant tradition. Make sure to try the unbelievably good shepherd's pie, and stop in at the gift shop for well-stocked, Irish-themed amusement.
For waterfront dining on the Destin harbor, visit
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House. Here, you’ll be treated to live outdoor music, an amazing menu of the freshest seafood, and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. A more upscale location featuring some of the best Italian fare on the Gulf,
Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano is the place to go for decadent pasta and truly authentic food.
Things to Do
One of the most beloved vacation spots in Florida, one of Destin’s most appealing facets—apart from the resplendent beaches—is the sheer amount of things to do in the town. Enjoy an active lifestyle, watersports, or anything adventure related? Try
parasailing over the turquoise waters, taking a dolphin cruise aboard the original
Seablaster, or renting a jet ski to zip along the waves.
Take a walk along
The Destin Harbor Boardwalk, which is where the city of Destin truly began. Drink at the famous
Crab Island, a shallow sandbar accessible by boat that’s become a popular place to float, drink, relax, and socialize.
Destin is also constantly hosting
events and festivals that draw in the entire community with a lively and energetic ambiance. Check out popular festivities like the
Concerts in the Village, a family-friendly series held on Thursday nights in the fall that offers live music, food from featured local restaurants or food trucks, and plenty of memory-making moments.
Schools
Destin is home to many excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- Destin Middle School, 5-8, well-rated public middle school
- Destin Elementary School, PK & K-4, well-rated public elementary school
- Destin School of Music and Dance, a premier, private ballet conservatory for all ages