No vacation is complete without a little shopping in Destin. Luckily for guests, Destin is home to two great outdoor shopping centers that allow visitors to stroll through their favorite shops while still enjoying the beautiful Florida weather.

Destin Commons

Just a short drive from Henderson Park Inn, Destin Commons offers visitors over 400,000 square feet of shopping. Tour through popular stores like Soma Intimates, Chico’s and Sephora for her; and Bass Pro Shops, Penguin by Munsingwear and Brookstone for him.

You can’t forget the 13 different restaurants and snack shops for guests wanting a quick snack, or a light lunch during their day spent shopping in Destin. There is also an AMC movie theatre housing 14 different auditoriums with true stadium seating where guests can see the latest blockbuster hits on the big screen.

The biggest news for Destin Commons is the recent announcement of a new expansion for this shopping in Destin location. By spring 2014, developers hope to welcome up to 25 new stores and restaurants, and plan to break ground by the end of the summer.

From now until Labor Day weekend, Destin Commons is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sundays 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Please keep in mind, restaurant and movie times may vary.

Silver Sands

Silver Sands is the premium location for outlet shopping in Destin. Here guests can pick up some of their favorite designers at discounted factory rates. Stores here include Banana Republic, Coach, J. Crew, Michael Kors, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and much more. A little bit further of a drive from Henderson Park Inn than the Destin Commons, Silver Sands is still sure to bring a pleasant outside shopping in Destin experience.

After a long day of shopping, guests of Henderson Park Inn can enjoy a freshly prepared dinner at our Beach Walk Cafe. Voted one of the most romantic restaurants in America, Beach Walk Cafe’s menu showcases fresh seafood straight from the ocean. Diners can also continue their day of outdoor relaxation by choosing the cafe’s Toes in the Sand dining opportunity where restaurant staff will set up your table and serve you directly on the beach.

The city of Destin is not only a paradise for fishermen but a drawing card for those who enjoy playing golf in one of the country’s most beautiful settings. Within one hour of the city are numerous courses designed by well-known architects of the game. Destin golf courses, which offer a challenge to the best and to the amateur, all take advantage of the natural beauty of the area. Any one of these five Destin golf courses, among the many in the area, is a must for anyone who enjoys the game.

Regatta Bay

Weaving along the Emerald coast is this beautiful course. Wide fairways that curve around 120 acres of woodlands, 28 lakes, and abundant wildlife make Regatta Bay one of the most beautiful golf courses in Destin. A family friendly course, it has been named among the top 15 places to play golf in the state. At par 72 and covering 6,894 yards, it offers a challenge even to the pro but a fun experience for all.

Seascape Resort

Noted as a vacation spot for everyone, Seascape is especially favored by local golfers. The 18-hole Destin golf course winds around lakes and through the woods, and the scenery is spectacular. In addition, Seascape offers lodgings on site, a restaurant, and tennis.

Indian Bayou

Located in the heart of Destin, Indian Bayou covers 27 holes that feature bunkers and water areas to challenge any golfer. Players of all talents find satisfaction with this Destin golf course as well as the scenic surroundings.

Windswept Dunes Golf Course

Located on 750 acres, the golf and the views are spectacular, featuring huge white sand dunes for a rare golfing experience. It covers 7,607 yards, all of them away from the usual hustle of most courses. The scenery is breathtaking and the golf is satisfying for pro and amateur alike.

Sharks Tooth Golf Course

Called number 7 on the list of best golf courses in Florida, Sharks Tooth is tucked into a spectacular area of rolling lands covered with pine and oak trees. It is one of five courses in the state commended by the Audubon Society for its commitment to preserving nature while offering the best in fairways and greens. The course extends for 7,209 yards with fairways on the edge of Lake Powell.

The Henderson Beach State Park in Florida is one of the nicest in the world. The 208-acre park’s southern border is on the warm and clean water of the Gulf of Mexico with the clearest blue hue, which often looks more like a sparkling emerald green. The Gulf provides opportunities for surfing on occasion but beach goers will also see paddle boarders, and of course, swimmers enjoying the rolling waves. The beach is soft white sugar sand and has 6,000 feet of shoreline with no shells or rocks.

The beach is usually sparsely populated, which is appreciated especially when vacationing with the family, and it is A.D.A. accessible for wheelchair needs.

Access to Henderson Beach State Park’s beach is by boardwalks, and popular activities include sunbathing, walking through shallow water, swimming and fishing. Picnicking and grilling can be enjoyed in two small and four large covered pavilions with picnic tables.

Henderson Beach State Park’s nature trail leads through three-quarters of a mile of a coastal scrub and dune ecosystem. You are welcome to take your pet there, although pets are not allowed on the beach itself. There is a playground at the beginning of the nature trail to give the children a special place.

The facilities are extremely clean and well maintained. There are restrooms, changing rooms and indoor and outdoor showers.

A small parking fee of $6.00 for two people in a car is used to maintain Henderson Beach State Park and there are large parking lots for the convenience of any type of vehicle. Annual family passes are available for up to eight people plus has with discounts for military members. This pass is good for entry into all Florida state parks.

Henderson Beach State Park was the first acquisition under the Save Our Coast program. It was opened to the public on March 29, 1991, after having been purchased in 1983 for $13.1 million from the Henderson family estate. The family wanted the land to be preserved with its scrub oaks, sand pines, dune rosemary, magnolias and wildflowers, and wanted it to be enjoyed by the public.

You can go into nearby Destin for the restaurants, shopping and activities there and then retreat back to your “oasis” inside one of Henderson Park Inn’s spacious hotel rooms. Within ten miles you will find several eighteen-hole golf courses, and a miniature golf course, a Butterfly Garden, historic sites, horseback rides, a Water Sport Theme Park and other activities. You can also rent a canoe and go jet skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking and windsurfing.

Why is Destin, Florida a top destination area? While Florida has long been crowned king of Gulf beach vacations, the city of Destin, recognized nationally as a top destination area, has more to offer than miles of sugar-white beaches and turquoise waters. It’s also awash in history, culture, nature and plenty of outdoor adventure that doesn’t involve getting sand between your toes. Destin’s beaches are continually voted some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Award-winning, championship golf courses are plentiful, and Destin is truly the “world’s luckiest fishing village.” Combine all that with a shopper’s paradise at both our nation’s largest designer Silver Sands Outlet Center and Destin Commons, a unique open-air town center mall, and you have a perfect vacation spot to return to year after year! Some of Destin’s recent accolades…..
Destin beaches received the most votes for the Best Beaches in Florida from U.S. News & World Report: 8 Best Beaches.
Good Morning America: Destin, FL – One of the Most Beautiful Places in America!! Click here to see the clip (be sure you watch until the end)!
Ask any of the helpful staff at the Henderson Park Inn and they will recommend just a few of the many activities and things to do when visiting Destin in late spring and early summer. Besides relaxing on the beach, playing a round of golf or shopping, below are just a couple of ideas to make your destination vacation in Destin, Florida a truly memorable experience!
1. Rent a Street Legal Golf Cart - With so many miles of beautiful beaches it’s hard to cover it all on foot. Rent a “Street Legal Golf Cart” that can be delivered anywhere from Destin to Miramar Beach to Hwy 30A. Don’t miss out on this unique way to tour the area….or if you’re staying at Henderson Park Inn, you may prefer a casual ride on one of our complimentary bicycles!
2. Find a Restaurant – If you love great local fresh food, Destin has some of the finest restaurants around …..in fact, Destin’s Henderson Park Inn eatery, Beach Walk Café, was just named among the top 100 most romantic restaurants in the county by the dining website OpenTable. Offering several options for enjoying a romantic dinner, the intimate dining room overlooks the Gulf and for the ultimate romantic dinner, book their “Toes in the Sand” dining right on the beach!
3. Dolphin Tours - Looking for a little excitement? Try a Dolphin Watch and History Cruise. If you’re not ready to go into the water, perhaps a trip on the water is right for you. Offered several times throughout the day, these excursions deliver the best of both worlds. You get to hear about the local history while cruising along the shore or inland waterways in search of dolphins. Pack a picnic (include a little wine or beer) and enjoy a sunset cruise!

Things To Do In Destin Florida

Whether you are planning a trip to the beautiful seaside community or live close by the sandy beaches of Destin, Flordia I’m sure that you are looking forward to relaxing to the sound of ocean waves and the laid back feeling that accompanies life near the shore.  When you are looking for things to do in Destin Florida to step up the entertainment possibilities you will want to take a look at some of the 2013 events we felt were worthy to highlight

It might surprise you if you’re wondering what to do in Destin, FL in the “winter” months (with 70 degree temperatures this week!) that Destin offers world-class entertainment. Of all my favorite events in Destin, FL, the Mattie Kelly Arts Center is featuring the New York Tenors on Saturday, January 12th. Henderson Park Inn’s staff will be happy to arrange transportation to enjoy a night of Broadway, opera and American classics with three of New York’s greatest talents! Make a special romantic evening by dining at BeachWalk Cafe and enjoying one of the most romantic events in Destin, FL!

For those unfamiliar with the New York Tenors, Daniel Rodriguez, Andy Cooney and Michael Amante will showcase some of world’s greatest repertoire in their national touring show. Rodriguez, known as “The Singing Policeman” and “America’s Tenor,” soothed the nation’s grief in the days following September 11. Cooney, christened “Irish America’s favorite son” by the New York Times, has performed internationally, including two sold-out performances at Carnegie Hall and Amante, “The People’s Tenor,” is a combination of All-American good looks, romantic Italian charm and an incredible voice.

Individually, the three men are superb, but together, The New York Tenors provide an overwhelming, “can’t miss” showcase of some of the world’s greatest vocalists and repertoire. For ticket information, call the Henderson Park Inn and we’ll gladly assist or you may purchase online at the center’s website.
For more things to do in Destin Flordia, I would highly recommend another well-known event – the musical celebration of peace and love – HAIR, the 2009 Tony Award-Winning Best Musical Revival directed by Diane Paulus, appearing at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center for one night only on Wednesday, January 30, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.

HAIR is a joyous celebration of youth and a poignant journey through a tumultuous 1960′s America, and features an iconic score including chart-topping hits such as “Let the Sun Shine In,” “Aquarius,” “Hair” and “Good Morning Starshine.” This inspiring new production of HAIR features an exuberant finale where audiences are invited onstage to dance with the cast, and has a level of inclusiveness that is rarely seen in musical theater. Executive producer, Daniel Sher, notes that, “We are excited for audiences across the country to take this journey with us. See for yourself, let your hair down and share the love!”
This is truly one of the most exciting things to do in Destin, FL and will make your stay at the Henderson Park Inn a memorable occasion!

Still not sure what to do in Destin, FL? For those less musically inclined and looking for sporting events in Destin, FL, try “Sunset on the Harbor” usually held in March or April, kicks off with a Corporate Fishing Challenge, where 4-person teams, 2- person teams, and individuals board a party boat at noon and compete for the largest fish award. The boat docks and unloads its catch, where participants join in a community cookout and other fun activities already underway on the docks.

For another fun sporting event in Destin, FL, join the crowd for Destin’s third Bayou, Bay & Back 5K Run/Walk, 10K & Half Marathon sponsored by Shoreline Church set to take place Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013! The USATF-certified half marathon will begin at Clement Taylor Park in Destin at 7:30 a.m., and the 5K/USATF-certified 10K will begin at 8 a.m., rain or shine. While all courses are set alongside Destin waterways, the half marathon course yields breathtaking views of the Choctawhatchee Bay, Destin Harbor, and East Pass, as it leads you through Destin, along a 4-mile undeveloped stretch of Okaloosa Island, and back.

For registration, the Henderson Park Inn staff will assist you or you can visit Active.com. The 5K and 10K are $30 through Jan. 25, and $35 on race day. The half marathon is $60 through Jan. 25, and $70 on race day.

So…if you need an excuse to take a break from the winter blues, there are many events in Destin, FL to keep you busy. We hope to see you soon! Call us or visit us at www.hendersonparkinn.com.

Wondering what to do in Destin, Florida this holiday season? We’re experiencing beautiful weather and many are enjoying simple walks on the beach, paddle boarding or just relaxing by the surf with a good book. But there are many things to do in Destin, Florida other than spending time on the most beautiful white sandy beaches in the world!
If you want to get in the spirit of the season, Destin, Florida is a shopping mecca with Destin Commons located just a mile from the Henderson Park Inn. Boasting a huge Christmas tree and holiday decorations galore, Destin Commons is a unique, open air town center, featuring upscale shopping, casual and fine dining, Bass Pro Shop, Belk Store, Rave Motion Pictures and many more.
Of the many things to do in Destin, Florida, locals and tourists alike visit the Silver Sands Factory Stores , a shopping extravaganza with over 100 designer names and located just minutes from the beautiful white sandy beaches and emerald green waters of Destin, Florida. You’ll enjoy Saks Off Fifth, Michael Kors, Coach, Cole Haan, Ralph Lauren, Carter’s and more in a festive holiday atmosphere.
Still wondering what to do in Destin, Florida in December?

For fishing and history enthusiasts, learn about the history of Destin, its founders and families at the Destin History and Fishing Museum. For the serious fishermen, you’ll see award-winning fish caught in Destin and view a collection of antique fishing rods and reels.  If an afternoon in the museum is not your “cup of tea” and you prefer an outdoor experience, take a sunset cruise on a glass bottom boat in Destin’s harbor and gulf in a climate-controlled cabin with a snack bar. Watch Dolphin’s splash around and play while you experience one of our gorgeous sunsets! The concierge at Henderson Park Inn will be happy to arrange this or other cruises, fishing charters or water sports.

One of the locals favorite things to do in Destin, Florida is Harborwalk Village on the Destin Harbor. Here you’ll find quaint boutique shopping, great restaurants overlooking amazing views of the harbor and more than 20 of the Destin Charter Boat Fishing Fleet.

The key to a perfect romantic getaway is a pristine destination and creativity. Destin Beach, Florida is the perfect setting for these dimensions of paradise to come to life. Fusing elegant beach surroundings with your own unique creative elements is the ideal way to explore the things to do in Destin. Creating a romantic scavenger hunt on the beach allows you to experience a beach retreat that will remain in your memories for the rest of your life. Your partner is sure to be thrilled by the effort you put into making your romantic escape together like nothing they have experienced before.

Romantic scavenger hunts provide the opportunity to experience a sense of adventure and explore all the attractions that Destin Beach has to offer at the same time. Romantic relationships are at their best when lovers are still able to surprise one another. A scavenger hunt is easy to tailor towards the interests and personal experiences that have allowed your love to grow over the years. Starting on the Emerald coast, intrigue your partner with the first clue. Move through the beauty of the sand dunes and along the golden shores to find the next clue to send you off to another destination.

There are a variety of attractions that can lead the expedition off the beaches and into the mainland as well. Clues from a scavenger hunt on the beach may guide you to Florida’s Gulfarium where you can experience dolphins and sea lions first-hand. Perhaps you will be led to the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier where you can move out over a quarter mile above the gulf. Clues may abound throughout Big Kahuna’s. A mini-golf course and over 40 water attractions provide an ample setting for fun and inventive ways to guide your lover to the next attraction. The fun can continue as you make your way to the Walton Beach Skating Center. For those that enjoy history, the clues can even be educational. A hint or two that takes you to the Baker Block Museum can allow you to explore the heritage and culture of the shores which has been collected since and put on display since 1870. The possibilities are varied and exhilarating.

Clues from your scavenger hunt on the beach can even take you off-shore. Boating excursions and dolphin tours circle the coast lines and even offer underwater viewing areas. The scavenger hunt can be a day filled with intrigue and exotic surroundings. A romantic scavenger hunt on Destin beach can reach its conclusion back on the shores where you started. Here, you and your lover can enjoy a romantic sunset together as you recount the fun and adventure of the day over a romantic dinner.

Romantic beach picnic  ideas are quite a special way to celebrate a special occasion with your loved one, or just a great way to relax outdoors. Most picnics take place in a park – to ensure that yours is really original, why not have a romantic picnic on the beach? Planning a beach picnic to enjoy with your partner is one of the most romantic and unique activities you could think of. Not only is it a refreshing reprieve from indoor dates, it is relaxing, intimate, and memorable. It takes a little bit of planning to ensure that your beach picnic goes down perfectly, so this article is written to help you design your perfect romantic beach picnic date.
Planning a romantic picnic revolves around the food. Since the theme of your picnic will be romance, you might want to include some notorious aphrodisiacs to ensure the mood is set. Foods such as oysters, asparagus, almonds, and avocado are all famous for their supposed romantic effect, however they are not necessarily the most picnic-friendly foods. Instead, why not plan a meal that centers around your partner – what are their favorite foods? By including foods that you know your significant other loves, you are sending an intimate message that you know them, care about them, and want to provide for them. You could include hors d’oeuvres or finger foods, which as a romantic activity you could feed to one another. Another course could be a deliciously sweet fruit salad, with fruits such as pineapple, strawberries, mango, and kiwi. Chocolate is, of course, also a popular and winning ingredient to a romantic date. Wine is the classic choice for a romantic picnic, pairing excellently with picnic foods as well as chocolate, and providing a romantic mood and uplifting effect. If you are traveling you can pick out special treats from a beach walk cafe.
The atmosphere of the picnic is, or course, just as important as the foods and drinks that you bring along. Destin Florida You want to make sure that you pick the right spot and in the outdoors this can be a tricky thing to do. The picnic spot must be comfortable – if your picnic is on a warm or hot summer day, be sure to pick a spot in the shade, preferably under a big overhanging tree like palm. However, not all beaches have palm trees and so be sure to bring along a large umbrella to stick in the sand. This also provides some privacy from other people. To ensure the utmost privacy, try to pick a beach or spot on the beach that is not crowded. Make sure that you lay down a large, thick blanket to ensure that neither of you gets too sandy.
What makes beach picnics romantic is the proximity of the ocean. The sound of softly crashing waves, gently blowing breezes, and the supportive feel of soft sand underneath make for a very special atmosphere for romance. Most beach picnic ideas revolve around the idea of an evening or night picnic. This is ideal because not only are there less people (and more privacy), but the lighting can be magical. A sunset on the beach is a very special experience. The beach during the night with the moon reflected on the surface of the ocean ensures that you will have a truly memorable, romantic occasion.

Destin rests on the Emerald Coast, and its white beaches and stunning emerald waters serve as the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway with your sweetie. This once sleepy fishing community is now a thriving destination for tourists, with over 4.5 million visitors each year. If you’re thinking of taking your special someone on a romantic vacation, consider visiting a bed and breakfast in Destin, FL.

Your Destin Florida Beach vacation sets the stage for a magical getaway. Henderson Park Inn on the beach offers comfortable lodging, home-cooked meals and a stunning view of the coast. You can spend some romantic time together lounging on the pristine white sands of the beach during the day or take advantage of one of the many night cruises in the evening.

Moonlight cruises provide top-notch food and entertainment aboard a luxury yacht. After an evening of feasting and dancing, you and your sweetheart can come back for a romantic evening at your bed and breakfast in Destin, FL. The city offers the perfect back drop for a honeymoon or weekend getaway, and there’s something for everyone along the gorgeous coast.

In addition to lodging in Destin, FL, you can enjoy several fine dining options from a number of different cuisines. If you’re a couple that enjoys active sports, you can try surfing, snorkeling or hiking. Spending time together and enjoying the sea breeze is the perfect reason to book your next romantic vacation in Destin.

Days in Destin, Florida are relaxed and easy. By night, keep sharp and get spooky thrills at Act4Murder’s mystery dinner theater!You will love this murder mystery dinner in Destin FL

Knock ‘Em Dead is among our favorite current attractions in Destin. The show features three difficult divas: Augusta Wind, Marion Haste and Royal Payne. They’re always at odds with each other but adore media attention. Any of these divas might do anything dastardly to preserve her place in the spotlight. What will happen tonight when divas and paparazzi take to the stage? Stellar musical performances are only the beginning. Somebody is about to literally Knock ‘Em Dead!

Join the divas, their agent Stan Back, a music fan named Rusty Pipes, and other Destin, Florida bed and breakfast vacationers at Angler’s Beachside Grill. Angler’s is located in the Okaloosa Island shopping complex at 1030 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach, FL. Tickets cost $40 plus tax.