“Destin, Florida: Hidden Gem”

Florida beaches April through September are the best months to travel here for vacation, but stay away from the college 'spring break' months if you prefer a quieter vacation. During the months of October through March the weather and water is generally much cooler than the southern parts of Florida. Most travelers to this area drive in from the surrounding southern states of GA, AL, MS, LA. I live in Boston, MA now, but I travel to this area about once every couple of years to visit family and friends. I am always surprised to learn that not many folks I talk to know about this part of Florida. Their typical destination to Florida is either Orlando or Miami. Destin and the surrounding beach communities (Panama City Beach to the west and Pensacola Beach to the west) have the most beautiful beaches in Florida and even the United States. The sand is soft and snow white. The water is emerald green. This is why the area is known as 'The Emerald Coast'. Vacationing here is different than vacationing in Miami or Orlando. There is a calmness to the area. No big theme parks to speak of around here, but there is still a 'family oriented' vibe with lots of things to do.