OUR FAVORITE LOCAL EATERIES

DONUT HOLE

Great home cooking! It has become our family tradition to come here the evening before we leave to head back home. Get some hot chocolate, pancakes, and hashbrowns. Then play a few games of ping pong and corn hole toss. It is always parents vs. kids. The winner has bragging rights until the next visit.​

SHADES BAR & GRILL

This is our family staple!! We love going during happy hour and getting half priced appetizers. Especially the Volcano Shrimp paired with the Arugula Salad!  They have an outdoor area that is great for letting the kids run around and play a little corn hole toss. Can not go wrong trying this place. There is something for everyone on the menu.​

DESTIN ICE MARKET 30A

They have a great selection of local seafood. They will even steam your item for you if asked. The wine selection is expansive too.​

NATURE AND OTHER ACTIVITES TO EXPLORE

CAMP HELEN STATE PARK

This is within 10-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride from our cottage. It is bounded by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell.  Lake Powell is the largest coastal dune lake in Florida.  You can hike, bird watch, rent kayaks or paddle boards, and fish in the brackish water where you can catch both salt and freshwater fish. There is an entrance fee at the gate.​

ST. ANDREW STATE PARK

This is a quiet place to take the family and do some amateur snorkeling. It is only partially open at this point. May need to call before going. ​

MAN IN THE SEA MUSEUM

 We have been visiting this museum since our kids were young. A lot of hands-on activities and demonstrations.​