Choosing the perfect place to stay can make or break your vacation. When planning a trip to Florida’s Panhandle, with its pristine beaches, emerald waters, and charming towns, finding the right accommodation is key to unlocking a memorable experience.
Best Places to Stay in Florida’s Panhandle
From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals, the Panhandle offers a diverse range of lodging options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly getaway, a romantic escape, or an adventure-filled trip, this guide will highlight some of the best places to stay in Florida’s Panhandle, ensuring you find the ideal spot to create lasting memories.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Accommodation
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s helpful to consider your priorities and preferences. Some factors to keep in mind include:
- Beach Access: Do you want to be steps away from the sand and surf?
- Budget: Are you looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget-friendly options?
- Activities: What kind of activities do you enjoy? Fishing, golfing, watersports, or exploring charming towns?
- Family-Friendliness: Are you traveling with children and need amenities like pools, kids’ clubs, or playgrounds?
By reflecting on these factors, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect place to call home during your Panhandle adventure.
Best Places to Stay in Panhandle Florida
The Florida Panhandle, with its sugar-white beaches, emerald waters, and charming coastal towns, is a haven for sun-seekers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront escape, a family-friendly vacation rental, or a cozy bed and breakfast, the Panhandle has something to offer every traveler. Let’s explore some of the best places to stay in this beautiful region of Florida.
Destin
Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin boasts stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a plethora of water activities.
Luxury Resorts
For a truly indulgent experience, consider staying at one of Destin’s luxurious resorts.
- The Henderson: This award-winning resort offers stunning gulf views, multiple pools, a full-service spa, and fine dining options.
- Crystal Beach Resort: With spacious suites, direct beach access, and a variety of amenities, this resort is perfect for families and groups.
Vacation Rentals
Destin also offers a wide range of vacation rentals, from cozy condos to sprawling beachfront homes. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In El Poblado Medellin)
- VRBO and Airbnb: These popular platforms offer a vast selection of vacation rentals in Destin, catering to all budgets and preferences.
- Local Property Management Companies: Several local property management companies specialize in Destin vacation rentals, providing personalized service and expert local knowledge.
South Walton
This picturesque stretch of coastline, known for its 16 unique beach towns, offers a more laid-back and artistic vibe than Destin.
Charming Beach Towns
Each town in South Walton has its own distinct character and charm.
- Seaside: This iconic town, known for its pastel-colored cottages and charming squares, is a popular destination for families and couples.
- Rosemary Beach: This upscale town features elegant architecture, boutique shops, and fine dining restaurants.
- Grayton Beach: This bohemian town is known for its art galleries, live music venues, and laid-back atmosphere.
Boutique Hotels and Inns
South Walton offers a variety of boutique hotels and inns, providing a unique and intimate experience.
- The Pearl Hotel: This beachfront hotel in Rosemary Beach features stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and a renowned restaurant.
- The Grayton Beach Inn: This charming inn offers cozy rooms, a courtyard pool, and a convenient location in the heart of Grayton Beach.
Panama City Beach
Known for its lively atmosphere, white-sand beaches, and thrilling water sports, Panama City Beach is a popular destination for families and young adults.
Family-Friendly Resorts
Panama City Beach is home to numerous family-friendly resorts, offering a wide range of amenities and activities.
- Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach: This beachfront resort features multiple pools, a lazy river, a water park, and a variety of dining options.
- Sheraton Panama City Beach Golf & Beach Resort: This sprawling resort offers golf courses, tennis courts, a spa, and a variety of restaurants.
Water Sports and Entertainment
Panama City Beach is a water sports paradise, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, parasailing, jet skiing, and more. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Near Nice)
- Pier Park: This popular shopping and entertainment complex features a Ferris wheel, amusement rides, restaurants, and shops.
- Gulf World Marine Park: This marine park offers dolphin shows, sea lion encounters, and other animal exhibits.
Apalachicola
This historic coastal town, known for its oyster industry and charming Victorian architecture, offers a glimpse into Florida’s past.
Historic Inns and Bed and Breakfasts
Apalachicola is home to several historic inns and bed and breakfasts, providing a unique and charming stay.
- The Gibson Inn: This beautifully restored Victorian inn features elegant rooms, a gourmet breakfast, and a charming courtyard.
- The John Gorrie Museum State Park: This historic museum and park offers a glimpse into the life and work of Dr. John Gorrie, a pioneer in the field of refrigeration.
Oyster Farms and Seafood Restaurants
Apalachicola is famous for its fresh oysters, which can be enjoyed at numerous oyster farms and seafood restaurants.
- Up the Creek Oyster House: This popular restaurant serves up fresh oysters, seafood dishes, and Southern comfort food.
- Apalachicola Oyster Company: This oyster farm offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the oyster industry firsthand.
Key Points to Remember
When planning your trip to the Florida Panhandle, consider your budget, travel style, and interests.
- For a luxurious escape, Destin and South Walton offer upscale resorts and vacation rentals.
- For a family-friendly vacation, Panama City Beach boasts numerous resorts and water sports activities.
- For a historical and charming experience, Apalachicola offers historic inns, oyster farms, and seafood restaurants.
No matter where you choose to stay, the Florida Panhandle promises a memorable vacation filled with sunshine, beaches, and Southern hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular beach towns in the Florida Panhandle?
Some of the most popular beach towns in the Florida Panhandle include Destin, Panama City Beach, South Walton (home to Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Grayton Beach), Pensacola Beach, and Fort Walton Beach.
What type of accommodation is best for families in the Panhandle?
For families, vacation rentals like condos, houses, or beach cottages offer more space, privacy, and amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities. Many resorts also cater to families with kids’ clubs, pools, and other activities. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Tybee Island)
Is the Florida Panhandle good for budget travelers?
Yes, the Panhandle offers options for budget travelers. You can find affordable motels, campgrounds, and vacation rentals, especially during the off-season. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for lower prices.
What are some activities besides swimming and sunbathing in the Panhandle?
The Panhandle offers a variety of activities beyond the beach, including fishing, boating, kayaking, golfing, hiking, exploring state parks, visiting historic sites, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife in some towns.
What is the best time to visit the Florida Panhandle?
The best time to visit the Panhandle depends on your preferences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with warm temperatures and lots of activities, but it can be crowded and hot. Winter is mild but can be cooler and wetter.