It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Destin History & Fishing Museum gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Destin, FL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
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“I’ve been with Always Best Care for 6 months and Jermey has been consistent with showing he TRULY cares for his clients and his employees. Would highly recommend his company if you’re looking for a job in the healthcare field or to any client looking for a company to take care of a loved one .”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Henderson Beach State Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Ruth's Chris Steak House or visit HarborWalk Village, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Destin, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Destin, FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Destin, FL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Many consider a trip to the Emerald Coast a Caribbean retreat without a passport. The stretch of pristine in the Panhandle region of Florida has azure-colored water, white sandy beaches, and loads of coastal charm. One of the best things about the coast for visitors is that there is something for everyone.The communities of most, if not all, of the Emerald Coast towns are focused on natural preservation and conservation. This initiative...
Many consider a trip to the Emerald Coast a Caribbean retreat without a passport. The stretch of pristine in the Panhandle region of Florida has azure-colored water, white sandy beaches, and loads of coastal charm. One of the best things about the coast for visitors is that there is something for everyone.
The communities of most, if not all, of the Emerald Coast towns are focused on natural preservation and conservation. This initiative protects valuable resources and ensures their longevity. The communities are eccentric, with a laidback vibe and welcoming atmosphere that illustrate the best of beach life, with a pleasing blend of culture and historical points of interest thrown into the mix.
More In Florida's Emerald CoastThis 100-mile stretch of coast comprises five counties along Florida's Panhandle region, and many coastal towns have thriving local businesses.
Panama City Beach (PCB) is famous for its white sandy beaches, fun attractions at Pier Park, and as a Spring Break destination. Pier Park adds a unique flavor to the city with premier shopping, dining, and live events, including the always-fun Margaritaville resort. No visit to PCB is complete without a visit to the SkyWheel.
The SkyWheel is an entertainment venue featuring an 18-hole mini golf course and an observation wheel 200 feet above the beach. This is hands down the best way to get a bird's-eye view of the clear waters and the coastal town. PCB is arguably the most recognized name among Emerald Coast towns, known for its fun flair and eccentricity.
Miramar Beach is one of South Walton's premier neighborhoods, renowned for its architectural beauty. Outdoor activities include walking or biking on the paved Scenic Highway 98 Trail. There are also cultural attractions in town, such as the Emerald Coast Theatre Company.
The live performance theatre is an enriching experience, and many shows are coming out, including Little Shop of Horrors, Baskerville, and Jersey Boys. The beach neighborhood isn't as crowded as the neighboring towns like Destin, which is a draw for those looking for a tranquil Florida stay. It is also one of the rare coastal towns where people can rent jet skis and parasails.
Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," Destin is a global destination for anglers and those looking for a small seaside town with breathtaking water views. Part of the attraction is that the beach is only minutes from the 100-fathom curve, the quickest access in the Gulf of Mexico. Henderson State Park is a natural attraction for many, offering 30-foot dunes, 60 campsites, and a boardwalk for strolls along the beach.
Families should not miss the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Running along the coastline, this is the prime location for family-friendly activities like Dolphin Cruises and Tours and Crab Island shuttles. Crab Island is a landmark sandbar in the clear Gulf waters where boats hang out. You will find floating bars, obstacles, and a small community of like-minded friends enjoying the sun and sea.
Seaside is a famous shopping destination along the Emerald Coast. The resort community is known for its 20th-century New Urbanist architectural design, pastel-colored houses, and white picket fences. The beach access has pavilions that provide shade near the town center, packed with notable restaurants and retail outlets.
Many visit Seaside to walk, shop, and dine in paradise. The Shrimp Shack and Great Southern Cafe are among the favorite eateries. They offer the laidback coastal charm people expect here, with excellent menus and cocktail selections. A hot afternoon spent at Sundog Books, a landmark with a 30-year history, should always be on the agenda. This ideal shopping hub has gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico and casual outdoor dining options.
Rosemary Beach is an idyllic Florida town with a neo-traditional flair and multi-colored structures encircling the walkable town center with elegant grey cobblestone roads. The town center is as epic as the natural scenery. It has a distinctly European architectural design featuring European Colonial styles from the West Indies, St. Augustine, and New Orleans. The balconies overlook the retail hub featuring boutiques like Bombora and Rosemary Beach Trading Company.
The town center boasts several cozy yet sophisticated dining options with outdoor seating. Havana Beach Bar and Grill and Edward's Fine Food and Wine offer outdoor seating where you can dine in the heart of the town center and enjoy Rosemary Beach's unique atmosphere. This is one of the best walking towns in the state and one of the best places to visit on the Gulf Coast.
Bonifay is a small town about an hour's drive north of Panama City Beach. It is known for its historical attractions, natural scenery, and charming restaurants. After a day of exploring, visitors like to dine at local favorites, such as M&W Barbecue, Castaway Seafood, or Holiday Restaurant, depending on their taste preferences.
The charming town is known for hosting annual live events, an ideal time to visit. The Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo and the World's Largest All Night Sing add a fun, eccentric vibe to the community and are a great way to get to know the locals. Bonifay is also perfect for a self-care stay with wineries like Old Oaks, spas, and tranquil surroundings.
Apalachicola is a historic fishing village and famous for its oysters and coastal town charm. Many consider the fishing village a must-see when driving through the Emerald Coast. Its eccentricity comes from a homogenous blend of hometown charm, historic uniqueness, and modern hipness as an arts and cultural hub.
The six historic squares (City, Chapman, Gorrie, Franklin, Madison, and Washington) are Apiclachicola's trademark and showcase various architectural styles. After exploring the squares on foot, dine at one of the many award-winning restaurants, such as Bay City Lodge or Owl Cafe. Downtown Apalachicola has art galleries like Backstreet Garden Art Gallery and 49 Palmetto Gallery that add a cultural exclamation point to any Emerald Coast trip.
The "Lost City" of Port St. Joe has a fascinating 19th-century history. It was the largest city in Florida, with a population of 3,000, and the state constitution was drafted for this sleepy town. It is a popular fishing destination with many seasoned guides available for booking. If you walk around Joe Beach or book a charter, take the opportunity to photograph the historic San Blas Lighthouse, one of the landmarks of Port St. Joe.
The walkable, compact downtown is ideal for history buffs enjoying the coast's laidback vibe. Part of its history is in its cemeteries, such as St. Joseph Cemetary. There are many stories surrounding the faded headstone, and local lore maintains that the captain who brought the town the Yellow Fever epidemic from the Antilles is laid to rest here. The downtown area also has notable shops and restaurants where you can wind down after exploring all St. Joe offers.
From well-known party beaches to historic sites, the Emerald Coast promises a destination. The alluring tropical waters and sandy beaches call many. The less-than-crowded beaches and family-friendly attractions interspersed between the preservation areas make this coast even more attractive.
The Emerald Coast is unique, even in an exceptional state like Florida. Visitors can find raucous beach parties, sophisticated dining, and tranquil beaches within five counties. Apalachicola is hard to beat for its history, which is still apparent on its quiet shores. Port St. Joe offers serene fishing opportunities with unique bits of history, while Seaside is the place to be for retail therapy in the salty air. Though all of these towns have similar atmospheres, each one exudes its own characteristics that make them unique and eccentric.
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With the same sugar-white sand and thoughtfully planned layout as its due-west counterparts on Highway 30A on Florida's Gulf Coast, Rosemary Beach mak...
With the same sugar-white sand and thoughtfully planned layout as its due-west counterparts on Highway 30A on Florida's Gulf Coast, Rosemary Beach makes a play for the distinction of most charming.
The town's iconic architecture draws influences from St. Augustine, New Orleans, and Charleston, with deep eaves, broad porches, and tucked-away gardens. Nothing is more than a five-minute walk from the town square, which is centered on a green space frequented by vacationers as they bike to and from the beach, play bocce ball, or just chill in the middle of it all with a good book.
In between boogie boarding and bike rides, don't be surprised if you stumble upon a nicely shaded, secluded bench. In fact, you might find yourself sitting a spell. This place has that kind of effect.
10 Affordable Florida Beach Towns Perfect For Your Next Vacation
The cobblestone streets are more than conducive for eating and shopping your way through the town. To best explore the town and surrounding areas such as Alys Beach and Eastern Lake, rent a cruiser from nearby Peddlers 30A, or make it an easy ride with an electric bike from 30A Electric Bike Company. You'll also find plenty of footpaths to meander within Rosemary Beach.
peddlers30a.com30aelectric.com/rent
Start at Pish Posh Patchouli's and rack up on artisanal soaps, skincare, and other apothecary items. Every scent feels special enough to bring home. Snag a beach read at The Hidden Lantern Bookstore and Gallery, and pick up goodies for the little ones at Gigi's. Along the way, you'll land on plenty of other boutiques worth checking out.
patchoulis.com; 82 S. Barrett Square, Suite 1C, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461thehiddenlantern.com; 84 N. Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461gigisfabkids.com; 62 Main Street, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
On Sundays, you can catch the 30A Farmers' Market in the town square of Rosemary Beach, featuring fresh vegetables, fruits, prepared foods, fresh flowers, and more delicious finds. It makes for a fun way to spend a morning, and perhaps find some ingredients for a homemade dinner. While most vendors accept cards, it's never a bad idea to bring cash.
28 N Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
Bring the family for a wholesome movie night under the stars at Rosemary Beach's weekly outdoor movie night on St. Augustine Lawn. Blankets and Lawn Chairs are welcome, and there are other vendors for everyone to enjoy, including balloon animals, fresh popcorn, and hot dogs.
A hidden network of secluded pathways winds throughout the town, encouraging you to explore at your leisure. Amavida Coffee Roasters offers cold brew and espresso shots to give you that morning jolt before or after a long walk. This specialty coffee company serves some of the locals' favorite java, sourcing its products ethically and sustainably to support several small producers in developing countries.
amavida.com; 104 N Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
Late in the afternoon, head up to Pescado, a rooftop bar and restaurant right off the square. It's the best place in Rosemary Beach to watch another beautiful day slowly fade into the pastel swirls of sunset. Grab yourself a cocktail—surprise yourself with a Pescado's Choice, a mystery mix of seasonal ingredients—and take in the view.
rooftop30a.com; 74 Town Hall Rd, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
Luckily, there is no shortage of great restaurants to tickle every fancy. During your stay, hit both Cowgirl Kitchen and The Summer Kitchen Café for more casual bites.
cowgirlkitchen.com; 54 Main Street, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461thesummerkitchencafe.com; 78 Main Street, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
After dinner, get your dessert fix at The Sugar Shak for kid-friendly candies and La Crema Tapas & Chocolate for a more upscale dessert experience.
instagram.com/thesugarshak30a; 5 Main Street Suite 2A, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461lacrematapas.com; 38 Main Street, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461
In the northwest corner of Rosemary Beach on West Kingston Road is an lush butterfly garden, which was constructed as a display garden that would emphasize the native landscape. A wooden walkway weaves through colorful plantings that lure butterflies.
This 180-acre park is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell, the largest coastal dune lake in Florida. Rent a kayak or paddle board through Friends of Camp Helen State Park, and enjoy the scenery.
friendsofcamphelen.org; 23937 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
For tennis lovers and newbies alike, the Racquet Club offers something fun to do when you get weary of the beach. You can snag a visitor pass by the day or week, and those renting through the Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Agency can take advantage of complimentary court time. You can also rent bicycles, and kids can enjoy playing at one of the many small parks scattered around town.
rosemarybeach.com/racquet-club; 235 E Water St, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Unlike some public beaches, on Rosemary Beach, you're allowed to plan a beach bonfire with friends and family that begins at sunset and goes until all the s'mores are gone. The Rosemary Beach Service can help you schedule the bonfire and set up everything you need, including chairs; as well as other bonfire businesses such as Light Me Up Beach Bonfires. At the end, they'll clean it up safely. Really, is there any better way to cap off a fun-filled trip?
rbpoabeachservice.comlightmeup30a.com/30a
The architecture seems the town's biggest treasure. If so goes, The Pearl Hotel is its crown jewel. The 55-room hotel makes itself anything but scarce with grand turrets and terraces, black and white striped awnings, and private beach access with all the fixings. The in-house restaurant, Havana Beach Bar & Grill, certainly comes in handy, too.
thepearlrb.com; 63 Main St, Rosemary Beach, FL 32413
Other bookings can go through the town's rental website, or you can stay anywhere up or down Highway 30A for an easy commute.
With 1,350 miles of coastline, the state of Florida offers there are plenty of options when it comes to beaches. From curling waves and the golden sands along the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the warm Gulf of Mexico waters gently lapping onto the white sand beaches to the west, there truly is a beach for everyone.If it's white sand beaches you're looking for, you've come to the right place—the ...
With 1,350 miles of coastline, the state of Florida offers there are plenty of options when it comes to beaches. From curling waves and the golden sands along the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the warm Gulf of Mexico waters gently lapping onto the white sand beaches to the west, there truly is a beach for everyone.
If it's white sand beaches you're looking for, you've come to the right place—the Sunshine State is home to some truly beautiful ones; so much so, they've been recognized as some of the best beaches in the U.S. Here, we take a look at a handful or so of the prettiest white sand beaches in Florida, starting on the Panhandle and working our way south.
This Florida Beach Has The Whitest Sand In The South
At the westernmost edge of Florida is Pensacola and its spectacular shores, including Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key (Spanish for "lost island"). These beaches are so spectacular, in fact, that they've been ranked among the best in the U.S. by Dr. Beach, the Travel Channel, TripAdvisor, and USA Today.
But don't take these experts' word for it — plan a visit and discover them for yourself. Fifteen public sugar-white sand beaches beaches spanning 18 miles in the Pensacola area are all yours to stroll, swim, sun, and savor.
There's a scientific reason for the soft, white sands of Destin's beaches: quartz. At the end of the last Ice Age, the rising Apalachicola River carried quartz particles from the Appalachian Mountains down to the Gulf of Mexico. When the Ice Age ended and the sea levels rose, the quartz sand formed the beaches found along the Destin area's shorelines.
Today, Destin's sandy beaches are made of finely ground, perfectly round quartz crystals that account for the powder-soft white sand beaches that the area is known for. Not only that, but the sand stays cool, even in the hottest summer months.
With 27 miles of beaches along Florida's Panhandle, you're sure to find just the right one for you in Panama City Beach. This stretch of coastline is broken into seemingly endless public beach access points, and you could easily spend weeks or even months exploring each to find your favorite.
If you're looking for a private island experience, hitch a ride aboard the Shell Island Shuttle. The uninhabited seven-mile-long barrier island is just three-quarters of a mile at its widest, so there's plenty of space to stake your claim for the day. As its name implies, the island is terrific for its shelling; keep an eye out for sand dollars, periwinkles, conch shells, pin shells, whelk, and olive shells.
There's a very good reason that Clearwater Beach has been named the #1 beach in the U.S. multiple times, and it's the beach itself! What makes it stand out among the 35 miles of beaches that stretch from Dunedin and Honeymoon Island south to St. Pete Beach is its powder-soft, glistening white sand, not to mention its width! The beach seemingly stretches on and on from the turquoise water to Mandalay Avenue and Gulfview Boulevard.
The fun doesn't stop in Clearwater Beach when the sun sets, either. Stick around for the nightly sunset celebration and see if you can spot the elusive green flash!
Just outside of Sarasota is Siesta Key, a terrific spot to lay your beach blanket, pop up the umbrella, and spend the day… or more. This stretch of beach was ranked among the 25 Best Beaches in the World by TripAdvisor in 2022, and was named the #1 Beach in the U.S. in TripAdvisor's 2020 Traveler's Choice Awards, and it's easy to see why. The seemingly endless stretch of shoreline has the same quartz-crystal powdery sand as the beaches on the Panhandle, and the sand stays somewhat cool in the hot summer months.
The public beach at Siesta Key is hospitable with its large parking lot and concession stands for refreshing drinks and bites. If you're staying in the area, catch a ride on the free trolley and hop off at the beach to avoid searching for a place to park.
Nearly 30 miles of idyllic beaches stretch along Florida's Paradise Coast, from Naples south to Marco Island and the Ten Thousand Islands on the Gulf coast. While all of the beaches in this part of the state are pretty spectacular, one that we recommend is South Marco Beach, which has one of two public beach accesses on Marco Island.
There's plenty of room to spread out on this beach, and the harder packed sand at the shoreline makes it easy to walk along in search of seashells.
Thinking outside the box is not unusual for Destin High School.It was the first in the area to offer a fishing class, which has been quite successful in the past three years.Now Destin High is looking at a four-day school week for 2025-26.In recent weeks the school sent out a survey asking teachers, parents and students thei...
Thinking outside the box is not unusual for Destin High School.
It was the first in the area to offer a fishing class, which has been quite successful in the past three years.
Now Destin High is looking at a four-day school week for 2025-26.
In recent weeks the school sent out a survey asking teachers, parents and students their thoughts on the idea of the four-day week.
“I’m getting tons of positive feedback from students and parents,” said Destin High Principal Diane Kelley.
So far, 95 percent of the faculty respondents are strongly in favor of the four-day week, while 5% are neutral on the topic, Kelley said.
The mission statement of Destin High includes “the goal of being innovative,” said Heidi LoCicero, president of the Destin High Governing Board.
More:Destin High reefs go down in memorial
“Making the four-day school week an idea worth exploring because of its potential to enrich students’ lives both inside and outside the classroom,” LoCicero said.
LoCicero noted that a year and a half ago one of the teachers suggested the school investigate the benefits of a four-day school week. That option was recently brought to the attention of the governing board again.
“Our school leadership team took the suggestion and began conversations with our staff, parents and students to see if the interest and benefits showed value to our school,” LoCicero said.
“The momentum behind the idea gained traction and school-wide surveys are underway to determine feasibility,” LoCicero said.
“It’s always exciting to introduce new ways to enhance our students' academic experience and provide additional time for teachers to lesson plan, partake in professional development and enjoy more personal time,” LoCicero said.
If the school decides to go to the four-day week, it would be Monday through Thursday.
Some people have expressed concerns about what kind of effect that would have on Friday night football or other activities on Friday evenings.
“I don’t see it as interfering with the Friday Night Lights events at all,” Kelley said.
“Players and coaches could even take Fridays as an extra prep day, have more time prior to the game for pep talks, feeding players, etc.,” Kelley said.
“I see it as a good thing for sports programs,” she said.
On the survey, the school pointed out some of the advantages of a four-day school week.
Academic Performance and Engagement 1. Improved Focus and Reduced Burnout: A shorter school week can help students maintain focus and energy, reducing fatigue that negatively impacts academic performance. 2. Increased Attendance: Studies have shown that four-day school weeks often lead to improved attendance rates among both students and teachers. 3. Enhanced Time Management Skills: With slightly longer class periods in a four-day schedule, students can better engage in project-based learning and hands-on activities. Cost Savings 4. Operational Costs: Reducing the number of school days decreases expenses related to transportation, utilities, and custodial services. 5. Staff Savings: Fewer days can lower costs associated with substitute teachers and support staff overtime.
Teacher Retention, Recruitment, and Satisfaction 6. Work-Life Balance: Teachers report higher job satisfaction due to an extra day for lesson planning, professional development, or personal time. 7. Recruitment and Retention: Schools with a four-day week often attract and retain more qualified teachers due to the appealing schedule.
8. Reduced Stress and Improved Mental Health: Students benefit from an extra day to rest, pursue hobbies, or receive mental health support.
9. Opportunities for Enrichment: The additional day off allows for extracurricular activities, internships, or part-time jobs that develop real-world skills.
Community and Family Benefits
10. Flexibility for Families: Families can schedule appointments, trips, or childcare more conveniently with the additional day.
11. Community Integration: Partnerships with local businesses and organizations can provide enrichment programs on the fifth day.
Challenges and Solutions
While there are potential downsides (e.g., childcare concerns for working parents, longer school days), many districts that adopt a four-day week address these by offering community programs or extending after-school care options.
Research into case studies of districts that have successfully transitioned can provide additional evidence and strategies for implementation.
“I’m excited to see the results of the survey and what our Sharks have in mind,” LoCicero said.
“I’m most intrigued by the student’s suggestion of using the day off to explore their passions, whether it is music, art, career internships, sports or community service,” she said.
The SS United States, the world's fastest ocean liner dubbed "America's Flagship," is taking its final voyage, destined to become the world's largest artificial reef off Florida's Gulf Coast.The long-retired, 990-foot liner was ...
The SS United States, the world's fastest ocean liner dubbed "America's Flagship," is taking its final voyage, destined to become the world's largest artificial reef off Florida's Gulf Coast.
The long-retired, 990-foot liner was purchased by Okaloosa County in Florida's Panhandle in October.
On Feb. 20, the ship left Pennsylvania, where it had been docked for nearly 30 years, guided by four tugboats.
After a stop in Mobile, Alabama for cleaning and renovation, the vessel will be sunk off Destin-Fort Walton Beach in Florida.
? Graphics: How SS United States, bigger than Titanic, will become world's largest artificial reef
Sighted off Palm Beach County's coast Wednesday, the ship was located off the Florida Keys Thursday.
Here's how you can track the liner's journey as it heads into the Gulf and to its destination:
In service from 1952 to 1969, the USS United States saw its share of famous passengers, including:
After a remediation process in Mobile expected to take about a year, SS United States will be towed south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach to be sunk. A date and location have not been revealed.
"Before her deployment in the Gulf waters, all of the environmentally unsafe materials will be removed. This includes all non-metal items, wiring and fuel. She will have holes strategically cut around the ship to ensure she lands upright as she is submerged. Passages will also be opened allowing for marine life to thrive in and around the ship. All of the preparations in Mobile are in close collaboration with multiple environmental agencies including the Department of Environmental Protection and Environmental Protection Agency," Destin-Fort Walton Beach's website states.
USS United States left Philadelphia Feb. 14, traveled down the Delaware River to Delaware Bay and out to the Atlantic. The estimated two-week journey takes the liner down the East Coast and into the Gulf on the way to Mobile, Alabama where it will be readied for its final move south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach to be sunk.
You can track the SS United States live. An interactive map provided by Okaloosa County, showing the liner's current location, can be found here.
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