A Look Back on 2016
Each year brings new possibilities and a fresh start. We are a month in now and we thought we would take a stroll down memory lane and remember how good 2016 was for Destin. We all have our own reasons for loving this beautiful beach area but it’s always nice seeing the love from all over.
The popular travel site TripAdvisor named Destin in the top 10 list of “Destinations on the Rise in the U.S.” Our little town has come a long way in recent years and continues to grow each year. With fine dining, premier shopping outlets, championship golf courses, and amazing beaches, it’s no wonder it’s a destination on the rise! Destin made the list along with Anchorage, Alaska, Jackson, Wyoming, and Hawaii.
The widely known Lonely Planet named the Emerald Coast as one of the best U.S vacation destinations. It’s affordable, family-friendly, and the weather is ideal for a relaxing getaway making it one of their top suggestions for must-see places in 2017. Also on the list were California’s Low Desert and the Adirondacks in New York. Lonely Planet included an article on Hidden Gems of Florida’s Emerald Coast as well so you don’t miss anything on your trip!
Let’s not forget about romance! Destin’s own Henderson Park Inn was number one on TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Hotels for Romance last year. The charming bed and breakfast offers stunning Gulf views and beach dining featuring award-winning cuisine with luxury amenities. It was listed along with the Wentworth Mansion in Charleston, South Carolina and Post Ranch Inn of Big Sur, California.
Down the road on 30-A, Grayton Beach State Park was recognized as a top beach by “Dr. Beach”. Coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman releases a list each year of top beaches and takes into consideration everything the beach park has to offer. Grayton made the list along with San Diego’s Coronado Beach and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve in Hawaii.
The Emerald Coast is making its way into hearts all over the world and we are happy to call it home. We look forward to another great year here in Destin.
Published on Thursday, February 9, 2017