As your toes sink into the fluffy, white sand and you gaze out at the sparkling, clear water, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported into a tropical postcard. But this is no postcard—these are the picture-perfect views of Destin, Florida. When you visit Destin, Emerald Grande is the premier accommodation option. Here are our top insider tips to make your stay at Emerald Grande unforgettable. Shhh, these are our secrets!
How to Get to the Beach from Emerald Grande
Guests of Emerald Grande enjoy exclusive access to our private beach, with complimentary boat shuttle service. Keep an eye out for dolphins during the ride—they often frequent the area!
The beach is equipped with chairs and umbrellas, complimentary for our guests. Best of all, you can be spontaneous—no reservations are required.
Insider Tip: Pack a few comfort items for your time at the beach, such as water, snacks, and sunscreen, as it is a private area away from stores and restaurants.
How to Get the Best View
With rooms facing in every direction, we have a dreamy view for every preference. Our views include, but are not limited to:
East Tower: Overlooks Destin Harbor and the city of Destin.
West Tower: Offers views of Crab Island and Choctawhatchee Bay.
Both Towers: Provide pool views, with some rooms looking out toward the Gulf of Mexico.
Insider Tip: Request a high floor to get an amazing view, regardless of your preference. While it can’t be guaranteed, we certainly try our best to accommodate your requests. For those traveling with children, a lower floor is usually preferred to minimize wait times and stay closer to all the fun amenities on our property.
How to Make the Check-In Process Easier
We know you’ve had a long travel day, and our goal is to get you into your room to relax as fast as possible. Here are a few simple steps to simplify and speed up your check-in process:
Identification: Ensure the guest whose name is on the reservation is present at the front desk with a photo ID. For security reasons, we cannot issue room keys to anyone, including friends and family members, unless they are listed on the reservation.
Payment: We require a credit or debit card on file at check-in to process a $250 incidental hold. Having this ready can save you from going back to your car and speed up the check-in process.
Vehicle Information: Know your car’s make, model, and license plate number. Many guests find it helpful to take a photo of their license plate on the way in.
Guest List: Have a list of the people who will be staying in the room, as you will need to list them on the registration card at check-in.
How to Avoid the Dreaded Highway Traffic
One of the most convenient features of staying at Emerald Grande is our location. Once you park your car, you don’t have to get back in and face the highway traffic because we have everything you need within walking distance. HarborWalk Village, just steps from your room, is an outdoor strip of local stores, waterfront restaurants, activities, tour operators, and watersports rentals. Everything you need for a fun vacation is close by.
If you do need to drive off-property, here are a few tips to avoid getting caught in Destin’s notorious traffic:
Leave Early: Start your day before 9 AM to avoid peak traffic times when everyone is heading to the beach.
Grocery Delivery: Many local grocery stores deliver to our property, helping you avoid the peak season grocery store crowds. Nearby options include Target, Winn Dixie, Walmart, Publix, and The Fresh Market.
Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Destin
Destin boasts a wide range of cuisines to satisfy every palate. Here are a few of our insider favorites, all located within HarborWalk Village:
Café Café: Start your day with specialty coffees and breakfast sandwiches to fuel your adventures.
Azul: Experience invigorating Mexican-Mediterranean fusion—don’t miss the Mahi Mahi tacos!
Jester Mardi Gras Daiquiris: For something quick and easy, grab a slice of pizza.
Harry T’s: Enjoy American dining in a fun, waterfront atmosphere.
East Pass: Indulge in a seafood feast with amazing waterfront views—try one of their steamer trays!
The Fudgery: End your day with something sweet—their self-serve frozen yogurt bar is a sweet tooth’s paradise.
Where to See Fireworks in Destin
During peak season, fireworks light up the harbor on Monday and Thursday nights at 9 PM. Emerald Grande offers a close-up view of these magical shows.
The Thursday night show is the most popular, starting early with a vintage air show and concert.
Insider Tip: Avoid the crowds and watch the fireworks from our private beach with a beach bonfire and s’mores. This experience is one of our add-on adventures that can be booked HERE!
Our favorite spots to view the fireworks are from our pool deck, where you can relax with a cocktail in hand, or in front of Azul on HarborWalk.
How to Make the Most of Summer Events and Activities
Summer is when HarborWalk Village truly comes alive, with regularly scheduled events sure to entertain you during your stay.
Some iconic favorites include the fireworks shows, Fat Tuesday Parades, and the ever-popular Silent Disco. We also host farmers markets and outdoor yoga sessions, so there’s something for everyone. All the details for summer events can be found on our website.
Insider Tip: Go early to the Silent Disco to dance your heart out—it’s very popular!
In addition to special events, HarborWalk Village offers a range of activities, including zip lining, magic shows, mini golf, escape rooms, and boat tours to Crab Island.
With these tips, you’re all set for a fantastic vacation in beautiful Destin. If you need any more information to prepare for your visit, we’re just a phone call away.