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Planning a summer vacation is already stressful and chaotic, but when you add kids and so many conflicting preferences, opinions, and ideas to the mix, it all seems impossible.
And if you’re one of the many people struggling to find the perfect destination for the whole family this coming season, relying on evidence-based recommendations published by trusted sources could be the best place to start your search .
Take Booking’s latest report, for example.
The company has compiled a ranking of the top 10 destinations families love each other the most right now, and it just so happens that one of the top 5 is right here in the US
But what makes Destin, Florida, a beach gem often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors, such a fantastic place for families to visit this summer?
Families are flocking to their destinations like never before
Before I get into the real reasons, I want to quickly point out how insanely popular Destin, Florida, has become in recent months among family travelers.
It has officially become one of the most popular destinations in the world, and the only American city to make the top 10, alongside other big names like Tokyo, Madrid and Palma de Mallorca.
The number of families flocking to central Florida this summer has increased by nearly 10%, which is nothing short of impressive considering the stiff competition.
Beautiful, relaxing beaches
So now that that’s out of the way, it’s time to delve into what actually draws so many people to Destin.
Primarily, people come to the city for its breathtaking beaches.
Here, the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico meet the pristine, powder-white sand in what looks like a view straight out of the Caribbean – far more impressive than most other surrounding beaches.
What’s extra great about places like Henderson Beach State Park is the fact that the soft sand is perfect for building sand castles or taking a dreamy stroll along the shore, so the whole family will find something to love here.
And if your kids are a bit more grown up and you want to go somewhere livelier, Destin Harbor Beach is just around the corner.
Lots of fun experiences to share with the whole family
The #1 challenge of traveling with kids is that you always have to keep them busy (while also trying to have a little adventure or two for yourself).
Luckily, Dustin helps make this all possible thanks to the incredible range of family-friendly experiences, especially in the summer.
You can spend your days watching dolphins and sea lions at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, getting curious at the Emerald Coast Science Center, or just having some fun at the Track Family Fun Park.
Adults will also have a great time taking deep sea fishing excursions and exploring the highly renowned local golf courses.
And if you can’t take time alone, you can always take a dolphin cruise, hike the Calhoun Beach Trail, or catch a fireworks show at Destin Harbor Boardwalk—the choices are endless.
Great food scene
The Booking report I mentioned earlier also noted that an abundance of food choices was one of the top priorities families had when choosing a summer destination. After all, with so many mouths to feed, it is essential that there are sufficient options. .
Fortunately, you can find just about anything in Dustin, from fresh seafood platters, generously topped with oysters, crab legs and shrimp, to luxurious waterfront restaurants.
You can browse some of the best dining options here.
Family-friendly accommodations
I’ve always believed that when it comes to family travel, choosing the right hotel/resort makes a world of difference.
That’s why the fact that there are so many family-friendly places to stay in Destin is such a big plus.
Because places like Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Village Inn of Destin, Destin Inn & Suites, Courtyard Sandestin at Grand Boulevard, and Henderson Beach Resort are so highly rated, I can guarantee that you will have no trouble finding a place that the whole family loves.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
