Laid back, friendly and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in world, the Emerald Coast enchants visitors year round.

Destin Florida, Ft. Walton Beach Florida and Navarre are among the delightful Southern communities that line the Emerald Coast, an area known for its mouthwatering seafood, gentle surf and sugar-sand beaches. Dotting the beaches of Santa Rosa Boulevard in Ft. Walton Beach, the region's largest city, you'll find inviting Emerald Coast resorts, restaurants and bars. Mostly residential with a handful of motels, Navarre is loved for its serene beauty. Cozy Destin to the east has a reputation as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," and houses the state's largest charter fishing fleet because Destin Florida deep sea fishing is world renown. Destin Florida shopping ranges from huge outlet centers to quaint boutiques and the town is also home to a number of four-star restaurants. Local events include an annual fishing rodeo and the Emerald Coast Bikefest.

Spring offers a unique opportunity to frolic in the warm emerald green tides, unwind under the balmy sun and explore an exuberant playground - both on and off the water.

Whether you've come to explore the pleasures of our natural coastal communities, light up the night dancing 'til dawn, shop 'til you drop, dive into some Emerald Coast scuba, hit the links or hook your favorite fish, you'll find an Emerald Coast vacation delivers a one-of-a-kind blend of sun and fun. Whether you choose one of the Emerald Coast hotels, an Emerald Coast condo or other Emerald Coast vacation rental, you will find quality accommodations in a variety of price ranges.

Opportunities abound for fun on the water - rent a canoe or kayak and paddle around the bayou edges of Choctawhatchee Bay or zip around in the Gulf on a Waverunner from an Emerald Coast rental company. See the Emerald Coast’s flippered friends one of several dolphin cruises or catch a water slide at the Big Kahuna Water Park. Perhaps you'd prefer a charter fishing excursion - where you'll get guidance and equipment to help lure in your catch. Or just spend the day with your toes in the sand at an Emerald Coast beach.

You'll find shopping on the Emerald Coast is a gift-buyer's dream. Outdoor shopping villages take advantage of the mild climate. Blooms abound. Unique items are plentiful, and shopkeepers bring true meaning to Southern hospitality.

And for a perfect end to a fun-filled day, don't forget to sample the delicious fare at one of our area restaurants.