Travel Writers & Influencers Share Their Experiences & Tips For 30A and Destin Vacations
As a top-rated vacation destination, Destin, Florida and South Walton’s 30A offer a variety of vacation experiences for all types of travelers. Whether traveling with kids, looking to get away solo, considering an escape with friends or planning a celebration vacation, the sugar white sand beaches along Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast provide a scenic setting for relaxation or activity.
Don’t just take our word for it. We’ve welcomed many travel writers and social influencers to the beach to experience Newman-Dailey’s well-appointed vacation rentals and resorts. Here’s what these influencers and travel experts shared about their experience visiting Florida’s Emerald Coast.
Girls Trip! Enjoy 30A at A Newman-Dailey Resort Property
by Maria Dinoa for City Lifestyle Publications
Maria shares her experience taking a girls getaway to Sanctuary at Redfish in Blue Mountain Beach on Scenic Highway 30A. Her recommendation on where to eat:
“Redfish Taco Village in Blue Mountain Beach. Redfish Taco is South Walton's newest gem. Led by South Walton restaurant owner and Chef Jim Richard, Redfish Taco is the "hot" place to go for tacos with a casual, fun atmosphere and specialty drinks including Stink Juice and Pirates Punch. RedFishTaco.com”
Read her story and recommendations online here.
Beach Rental in Destin: Newman-Dailey Property Review at Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort
By Jessica Turner, TheCreativeMom.com
Jessica visited Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort for a spring break family vacation after not vacationing for 18 months due to COVID-19 restrictions and concerns. Her family had a blast and her article is full of great tips, including:
“… the kitchen in our Hidden Dunes was well-equipped for cooking. The property also had multiple grills, so we grilled chicken and burgers during our stay. Like many rental properties, the condo was not stocked with any seasonings, so be sure to pack some basics like salt, pepper, cooking oil, etc. or you will need to buy it all at the grocery store.”
“Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, sand toys and buckets and wakeboards. We spent hours playing in the waves and the sand. Also, if you have a baby/toddler, I definitely recommend bringing a small inflatable pool to keep your baby wet and cool without the worry of toddling into the Gulf. Someone shared this tip with us and I love it! A little pop-up tent like this is also handy.”
Read about Jessica’s experience and all her tips online here.
How to Plan the Best Trip to Destin, Florida
By Jill for TravelingMom.com
Jill brought her family to Destin for their summer vacation. While the location of her stay no longer exists making way for a local park, her tips are fantastic and relevant for anyone considering a summer beach vacation to Destin. She shared:
“Summer is the busy, tourist season so if that’s when you go, plan for wait times and traffic. A local recommended late summer or early fall visits, if you can swing off peak season travel. It’s still warm enough to swim and the beaches and attractions won’t be as crowded.”
Read more of her suggestions and tips from her visit on her blog here.
Visiting Destin, Florida with Kids – What to See & Do + Places to Eat
By Alisa Sleep, MadisonMom.com
Alisa traveled with her family from Madison, WI to experience Jade East Towers in downtown Destin. Her family loved the condominium complex and especially its great location across from Big Kahuna’s Waterpark and short drive to the Destin Harbor. In her article she shares lots of great suggestions including where to eat with the family:
“Al’s Beach Club is a beachfront restaurant with weekly firework shows, DJs & a menu of burgers, craft beer & milkshakes. They are known for their famous key lime pie shake – made famous by the Travel Channel. When we were there, it was ‘Pirate Night’ – so not only is the food family-friendly, but the entertainment is included!”
Read more about Alisa’s experience and her tips for what to see & do in Destin online here.
Sanctuary at Redfish: A Hidden Gem on 30A
By Jami Ray, 30A Mama
A South Walton local, Jami decided on a staycation to Sanctuary at Redfish on Scenic Highway 30A in the fall. In her article, she shares why she selected Sanctuary at Redfish as well as tips on the best places to eat and play in Blue Mountain Beach.
“At the risk of sounding repetitive, Sanctuary at Redfish is well… a sanctuary. It’s amazing how you can feel miles away from crowds or busy beaches, yet be within walking or biking distance to favorite destinations like Grayton Beach, Seaside and Watercolor. This spot really is the perfect location that offers proximity to hot spots balanced with seclusion that feels like a true luxury in a busy beach town. Sanctuary at Redfish is uniquely situated on both 30A and one of South Walton’s coastal dune lakes. It’s a quiet stretch that feels tucked away yet close to so many amazing places.”
Read more of Jami’s suggestions and recommendations for places to play and eat online here.
Emerald Dunes: A Heavenly Family Holiday
By Suzanne Ferrara for 008 Magazine
Suzanne celebrated the holidays at Emerald Dunes. Here's what she had to say about a holiday gathering at the beach:
"A family vacation during the winter on the shores of the Emerald Gulf Coast is about as magical as it gets. In fact, in and around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve is when unmatched, intangible forever memories are made for all."
"Take it from me, once you experience the intimate oasis offered at Emerald Dunes in the heart of Crystal Beach, you’ll be hard pressed to find a coastal retreat as personal as this. Emerald Dunes only has 26-units and six floors and your family will feel as though they own the beach. The fact that this gated tobacco-free property is so close to the coastline is one of the most rewarding and convenient features."
"Tip: Bring the family to the Crab Trap--an unmatched dining tradition, which boasts stunning views of the Gulf and serves mouth-watering fresh, local seafood and a wide variety of dishes."
Read more about Suzanne's experience and tips online here.
Destin, Florida
By Brittany Wright for thedestinationcouple.com
Brittany and her family traveled to Destin for the first time. In her blog, she shares her experience and tips for a first-time visit to Destin.
"I had waited with anticipation to see if it really is all that everyone said it would be, and it was! This trip we had a group traveling with us, we rented a big house close to the beach for six nights. This being our first time traveling with a group, I would say that I learned a few tips to help you if you are planning on traveling with a group.”
“We decided to go with a professional rental company. I have noticed that when you rent through other sites, the owners can cancel on you, and I didn’t want to find myself in that situation. We went with renting a house on 30A, close to the action and beach.”
The Destination Couple stayed at Stairway to Hammock Heaven home in Crystal Beach, and made their way 15 local restaurants, sharing tips and menus on where to eat when staying in Destin, Florida. Check out her great tips and videos here: https://thedestinationcouple.com/?p=32
Top Five Reasons to Book Your Stay with Newman-Dailey Resort Properties
By Jaime Michelle for thesimplemoms.com
Jaime took a 3-week road trip and ended at an amazing house in Destin that Newman Dailey Resort Properties manages. Here's what Jaime shared about her experience:
I can’t even tell you how gorgeous this place was so please check out the photos and video. Newman-Dailey is well-respected in the vacation rental business for its superior staff and philosophy of excellence. Dedicated to turning dreams into reality, the team at Newman-Dailey go above and beyond to create spectacular experiences for guests. With a diverse collection of quality properties including Destin beach houses and 30A vacation homes along our pristine beaches, Newman-Dailey is proud to consistently achieve “excellent” ratings from guests on TripAdvisor and has become the trusted source for family vacation planning."
In her story, Jaime shares her top 5 reasons to stay with Newman Dailey Resort Properties. Check out her top 5 list here.
To the Beach! Emerald Waters in Crystal Beach
By Karyn Slovin for Alpharetta Lifestyles
Karyn visited Destin with her daughter. In her story, she shares her experience in Crystal Beach and tips for a mother-daughter beach getaway.
“For this getaway, we chose relaxation on the powdery white sand of Crystal Beach in Destin, Florida. Thanks to the efficiency of the experts at Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, we were able to put together a hassle-free long weekend stay that fit our needs. We have found that using a professional management company like Newman-Dailey is a benefit, as the property is kept exceptionally clean and safe.”
"For dining, there are several walkable spots including Camille’s, the sister restaurant to well-known Harbor Docks, known for their mouth-watering sushi. We also took a drive one evening to the local spot, Crab Trap, for some delicious grouper and drinks."
Read more of Karyn’s experience online here.
Convenience and Luxury at Jade East – Beaching for my Birthday
By Brad Ferrand for Inside New Orleans
Brad visited Jade East Towers for his birthday in May. Here's what Brad had to say about his experience:
“Jade East Condominiums in Destin, Florida is your perfect destination for your next Florida Beach getaway. Conveniently located on the beach in central Destin, Jade East Condominiums offers spacious and luxurious two and three-bedroom condominium units to accommodate families of all sizes. Each condo unit offers Gulf-view balconies with breathtaking views of the beach and the beautiful emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico.”
“The private beach access allows an escape from the sometimes over-crowded nearby beaches. Guests also have private access to chairs and umbrellas along the beach. Guests can also rent kayaks and Yolo boards to enhance their beach-going experience.”
Read more of Brad’s tips for stays at Jade East Condos online here.
Ready to book your Destin or 30A beach getaway?
Newman-Dailey Resort Properties offers a variety of vacation rental homes and condominiums from Okaloosa Island in Destin through Inlet Beach on 30A. View vacation rental options online or call one of the friendly, local vacation specialists to assist with your vacation planning. Remember to always book direct with Newman-Dailey for the best rates guarantee and concierge services.
See you @ the beach!