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 Destin History & Fishing Museum in Destin, FL 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.
“ABC staff, owner and especially their caregivers have been exception. Communication is excellent and they”
“ABC took excellent care of my neighbor. They provided her with support, comfort, and companionship.”
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“Jeremy and his care team provided trustworthy and compassionate home care for my parents. I”
“I would like to thank you all for taking such good care of my friend”
“I truly appreciated the extra mile the caregiver went to give my parents the care”
“Jeremy and Tracy are so very helpful, polite and very accommodating and willing to go”
“We needed help fast with our father and Always Best Care Senior Services stepped in”
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“We give Always Best Care five stars. We had two different caregivers and each one”
“ABC staff, owner and especially their caregivers have been exception. Communication is excellent and they have gone above and beyond to support our needs in caring for our loved ones. They have made our difficult journey a bit easier.”
“ABC took excellent care of my neighbor. They provided her with support, comfort, and companionship. They did for her what she couldn't do for herself. I highly recommend Jeremy and his staff for anyone needing personalized home care.”
“My father was in memory care and Jeremy’s team went above and beyond for my mother during those 2 years! Very flexible, allowing my mom to change weekly schedule when needed. Would assist with hospital visits and stayed with him even when went to long term care unit. Highly recommend their services.”
“I live in a different state from my mother. Always best care are there for me any time. They are very kind and helpful and honestly I don’t know what I would do without them.”
“Jeremy and his care team provided trustworthy and compassionate home care for my parents. I highly recommend them.”
“I would like to thank you all for taking such good care of my friend y’all went out of your way for us and we’re so so much help for me and for Bobbie .. such a wonderful company and very compassionate.. I would not hesitate and suggesting your company to my friends and family..”
“I truly appreciated the extra mile the caregiver went to give my parents the care they deserved. The house was nice and tidy and the meal prep was a lifesaver. This company really deserves 5 stars.”
“Jeremy and Tracy are so very helpful, polite and very accommodating and willing to go that extra mile to help you or your family member. The staff is very polite and helpful. I feel blessed to have found Always Best Care to assist my family members.”
“We needed help fast with our father and Always Best Care Senior Services stepped in and provided excellent guidance and help. Jeremy helped us get answers to questions we didn’t know to ask and made sure we were aware of everything every step of the way. A true professional with a kind heart! I can’t recommend them enough. My family is truly grateful to have found their services.”
“I think the administration are very professional and sent out an employee that's a perfect fit for my needs! They have been very accommodating to schedules/appointments.”
“We give Always Best Care five stars. We had two different caregivers and each one was friendly, cheerful and followed the directions of their care plan very well. This company is well managed and organized - very oriented towards providing the best senior care but also concerned for the family's well being as well.”
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 in Destin, FL 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.
Leaving the car behind changes how you see the Emerald Coast. On foot you notice the brick underfoot in Rosemary Beach and the charter boats bobbing along Destin's harbor. You can walk out over the Gulf on Navarre Beach's pier and reach a turtle conservation center a few blocks later. These nine Florida town centers hold sights that drivers speed right past. Each one puts its best food and beaches within a stretch you can cover in an afternoon.Weekend Escapes Across The PanhandleSeaside Planners design...
Leaving the car behind changes how you see the Emerald Coast. On foot you notice the brick underfoot in Rosemary Beach and the charter boats bobbing along Destin's harbor. You can walk out over the Gulf on Navarre Beach's pier and reach a turtle conservation center a few blocks later. These nine Florida town centers hold sights that drivers speed right past. Each one puts its best food and beaches within a stretch you can cover in an afternoon.
Weekend Escapes Across The Panhandle
Planners designed Seaside around a compact town center that made it one of the earliest walkable communities on 30A. Central Square sits at the heart of town, ringed by boutiques and a cluster of Airstream food vendors called Airstream Row. A few minutes south, Seaside Beach spreads out below its distinctive white wooden pavilions. Performers take the stage at the Seaside Amphitheater, an easy walk back from the water through the middle of town. Side streets branching off the square lead to more galleries and shops for anyone who wants to keep browsing.
Brick streets and boardwalks tie Rosemary Beach together, linking the beach, the parks, and the shops without a parking lot in sight. Barrett Square sits at the center, the town's main gathering place and a good spot to start. Specialty shops and cafes such as Charlie's Cafe and Hissyfits Boutique fill the surrounding blocks. Nine dune walkovers carry visitors south from the square to the Gulf while shielding the fragile dunes underneath. A wooden walkway threads through the Butterfly Garden on the north side, a quieter stop after time on the sand.
Skip The Crowds At These Florida Spots
Bright white walls set Alys Beach apart from every other community along 30A, giving its pedestrian streets a Mediterranean look. The Alys Beach Town Center gathers most of the restaurants and shops in one easy-to-navigate stretch. Fonville Press Market & Cafe works as a good first stop, with the town's signature white buildings rising on every side. North of the center, the Alys Beach Nature Trail runs on an elevated boardwalk through roughly 20 acres of preserved pine forest and wetland. Diners cap the day at Indaco, a short walk back into town after an afternoon at the beach.
Older and scrappier than the planned communities to the east, Grayton Beach retains a lived-in feel that its neighbors lack. Weathered coastal cottages line the historic neighborhood, alongside galleries such as Andy Saczynski Studio Gallery and Moon Creek Gallery. Grayton Beach State Park sits within walking distance, with white sand on one side and Western Lake on the other. Western Lake counts among the region's rare coastal dune lakes, a formation found in only a handful of places worldwide. Seafood dinners at AJ's Grayton Beach round out a stroll back to the center of town.
Set between Seaside and Grayton Beach, WaterColor has a resort feel, a larger master-planned community built around outdoor amenities. Cerulean Park works as a good starting point, a landscaped green among the prettiest corners of the community. The WaterColor Beach Club lies a short walk on, home to three separate pools and lounge areas overlooking the Gulf. Walkers and cyclists looking to go farther can pick up the Timpoochee Trail, a paved multi-use path that follows 30A for roughly 19 miles.
Gulf Place holds Santa Rosa Beach's most walkable core, with restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and beach access packed into a tight footprint near the corner of 30A and County Road 393. Colorful buildings frame a central green at Gulf Place Town Center. Sunrise Coffee Co. pours the morning coffee and lays out pastries, a short hop from the Ed Walline Regional Beach Access just across 30A. Live music fills the amphitheater and event center on many evenings. Vendors set up the 30A Farmers Market on market days for anyone timing a visit around it.
Baytowne Wharf holds Miramar Beach's most walkable stretch, a pedestrian village stocked with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Sugar Planet lets visitors mix their own bag of candy, and Bunkley's Burgers and Grill covers a heartier lunch. Waterfront paths lead through the village toward the marina and back to the central plaza. Evenings bring a livelier crowd to Fat Tuesday Daiquiri Bar on the plaza. Designated pedestrian routes connect the nearby resort area to the Gulf beach for guests staying close by.
Fishing built Destin, and that past stays visible across the Harbor District, a concentrated waterfront where charter boats, seafood, and history sit within a short walk. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk runs along the water, lined with charter and fishing vessels heading out and coming in. Marina Cafe plates fresh local seafood for anyone between a sunset cruise and a parasailing run. The Destin History and Fishing Museum lays out the town's shift from a small fishing village into a major resort. An evening walk back along the waterfront closes the loop.
Quieter than the busier stops to the east, Navarre Beach stretches along the Gulf in Santa Rosa County. The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier reaches far out over the water, with wide ocean views for anyone who walks its length. Gulf Boulevard runs from the pier to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, a short walk devoted to sea turtle education. The Navarre Beach Marine Science Station sits next door, adjacent to the conservation center. The Gulf shoreline waits a few steps away to finish the walk.
The One Florida Town Everyone Should Visit At Least OnceThis historic town is something special. A place outside of time but with plenty to keep visitors occupied.
Most visitors know Florida's Emerald Coast for scenic 30A and beach-hopping by car, yet the best of its town centers opens up on foot. Seaside and Rosemary Beach put the most on foot within a few blocks, while Alys Beach pairs that walkability with architecture you find nowhere else. Grayton Beach trades polish for character, and Destin's Harbor Boardwalk keeps a working waterfront at its core. Nine walkable centers add up to plenty of reasons to park the car on the Emerald Coast for a day.
Public beach access expanded in Destin this week.Destin city officials along with Okaloosa County leaders came together on July 15 to cut the ribbon on the Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park, expanding public beach access for residents and visitors.“Beach front access continues to be a main priority,” said Destin Councilman Kevin Schmidt.“It’s been important to allow the public access to this amazing God’s creation behind us,” Schmidt said.Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park to open up beach ac...
Public beach access expanded in Destin this week.
Destin city officials along with Okaloosa County leaders came together on July 15 to cut the ribbon on the Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park, expanding public beach access for residents and visitors.
“Beach front access continues to be a main priority,” said Destin Councilman Kevin Schmidt.
“It’s been important to allow the public access to this amazing God’s creation behind us,” Schmidt said.
Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park to open up beach accessShop the best deals before they're goneHe thanked the foresight of those before him on the council as well as those who have served alongside him.
“It’s amazing to be here at the end to be able to have access,” he said.
The new park, at 3310 Scenic Highway 98, has opened up 340 feet of beach access.
The park has 49 standard parking spaces, three ADA-accessible spaces, 29 low-speed vehicle spaces, bathrooms, and four pavilions.
The park is a collaborative effort between the city of Destin, Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners and the Trust for Public Land.
Several people spoke at the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Shane Moody, president and CEO of the Destin Chamber, thanked Schmidt and mentioned God and his creation.
'Just an open white beach:' Destin opens up the view, clears the way for Tarpon Beach Park“Because without him, this doesn’t exist and happen,” Moody said.
Moody pointed out that the Tarpon Beach park is the sixth park dedication in the city of Destin in the past six years.
“Think about a city this size, that’s a lot,” Moody said, noting that Destin just added another big city amenities for such a small community.
Moody also talked of how the new park checks all the boxes from a “chamber guy” perspective.
He spoke of how the new park is generational, transformational, and has a positive economic impact.
“This is absolutely generational,” Moody said, noting generations to come will be able to enjoy the park.
It’s transformation in that, “it’s not what was here, but what is here now,” he said.
As for the economic impact, it could be endless from people going to local stores for food and drink to eating at restaurants for dinner.
“Congrats to all the partners,” Moody said.
Okaloosa County Commissioner Drew Palmer celebrated what partners can do.
Palmer talked of arriving at the beach on Wednesday and looking to his left and right and already seeing chairs set up on the beach.
“As I see the ghost chairs set up and, in the water, ... this is a place where we will not have that. That is an enormous win,” Palmer said.
“I’m proud that the city council and county commission and others saw the opportunity,” Palmer said.
“This is a generational thing and that’s important,” he said, as he thanked everyone that was involved in the project.
The project was a dedicated effort by the city of Destin and Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners to use tourism revenue and expand public beach access for residents and visitors with a total investment of $16.96 million shared between the city and county.
The Trust for Public Land was the lead agency that helped negotiate the purchase of the properties for the Tarpon Beach project, according to a news release.
Deputy Chief Mike Landis with the Destin Fire Control District was there with his young daughter at the ribbon cutting.
“The more public parks we have, the better it is for our city,” Landis said.
“Thank you for the design of the park ... for allowing our first responders to have access and make sure we have an easy way in and out,” Landis said.
He was thankful for dedicated parking for lifeguards and beach safety people.
Okaloosa Board of County Commission Chair Trey Goodwin was last up and said Landis’ daughter is exactly the reason government does projects like this.
“Doing a project is great for us and tourists ... but for the next generation and the generation behind them,” Goodwin said.
“I’m so glad Mike (Landis) brought his daughter, that’s why we do this,” he said.
“There want be a condo or hotel here,” Goodwin said.
Goodwin said the project took a bit longer than they wanted, “but now it's done and will be here for years to come.
“I’m excited, it turned out beautiful. It is going to be a great amenity for anybody in Okaloosa County,” Goodwin said.
There’s lots to love about the Emerald Coast beach town of Destin, Florida. First and foremost, visitors go for its gorgeous stretch of beach along the Gulf that boasts white-quartz sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. Over the years, the Panhandle community has grown considerably. Travelers have their pick from the many resorts, condominiums, and rental homes that all enjoy prime waterfront real estate on this barrier island. Local seafood restaurants, several well-preserved natural areas, and attractions like adventure outfitters ...
There’s lots to love about the Emerald Coast beach town of Destin, Florida. First and foremost, visitors go for its gorgeous stretch of beach along the Gulf that boasts white-quartz sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. Over the years, the Panhandle community has grown considerably. Travelers have their pick from the many resorts, condominiums, and rental homes that all enjoy prime waterfront real estate on this barrier island. Local seafood restaurants, several well-preserved natural areas, and attractions like adventure outfitters and shopping developments, create the ultimate environment for a week or weekend of both fun and relaxation. Dubbed the “Happiest Fishing Village in the World,” this once small-time spot now has hit it big time as a top vacation destination.
There are 24 miles of sandy shoreline in Destin, so you won’t have to worry about overlapping towels and umbrellas blocking your view of the water. If you aren’t staying in a beachfront house, resort, or condo, don’t worry either. There are several public beaches that are ready to accommodate groups of all sizes. A day-use reservation and $6 per car entry fee gets you into Henderson Beach State Park for the day, where you can enjoy the mile-long beach, plus a ¾-mile nature trail through coastal scrub. Other excellent options include the Shore at Crystal Beach Park and James Lee Pak, which features 9 access point and 166 parking spots.
Spanning 4 miles from the Marler Bridge in Destin to the Brooks Bridge in Fort Walton, this new multiuse path gives visitors the opportunity to safely explore Okaloosa Island without having to be shoulder to shoulder with traffic on Highway 98, the main thoroughfare. There’s no better view than from whizzing over the water on these scenic bridges.
If a boat sailing into the sunset doesn’t say vacation, nothing does. Have your own postcard worthy memory with Smile N’ Wave, a charter company that offers sails that specialize in everything from snorkeling to swimming to dolphin chasing from their shaded 31-foot catamaran. You can even charter a boat to Crab Island, a local-favorite sandbar on Destin’s bayside that features floating restaurant shacks and giant blow up slides in the emerald waters.
; 404 Harbor Blvd, Slip 5, Destin, FL 32541; 850-368-5921
There’s always something happening at this hot spot for restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Right before the bridge leading to Okaloosa Island and overlooking the calm waters of the Destin Harbor is this exciting strip of all things entertainment. Grab a meal at restaurants like AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar and Margaritaville. Then take your pick from ice cream shops and spend some time enjoying the festivities including frequent live music, carnival style games, and even a zipline.
Whether you want to cast a line from the pier or charter a boat to take you out to sea, you have to try your luck at the “Luckiest Fishing Village on Earth”. Experienced anglers can lead you and your family on a fishing experience that’s perfectly suited to your skill level and desires. Beginner fishing in the bay is always a good option, but deep sea surf fishing is also available for those looking for bigger catch.
If you need a break from the sun and surf, you can spend an afternoon engaging in some retail therapy at Destin Commons. With more than 80 retail stores, plus a movie theater and plenty of dining options, it’d be easy to spend an entire day exploring the compact entertainment district. Don’t visit without taking a self-guided stroll on the Destin Commons ArtWalk, featuring a collection of colorful and interactive murals.
; 4100 Legendary Drive, Destin, FL 32541; 850-337-8700
Beachside dining and Michelin recognition may seem an unlikely combination, especially on Florida’s Gulf Coast, but farm-to-table restaurant Bitterroot proves that both are possible. The restaurant has separate brunch, lunch, mid-day, and dinner menus but specialties like their Nutty Goat Flatbread, Boudin Balls, and Smoked Mullet Dip are available whenever you stop in. Go for dinner and indulge in dishes like blue crab pappardelle and braised short rib with Korean potato rösti and kimchee.
; 4463 Commons Drive West, Destin, FL, 32541; 850-460-8881
There are admittedly plenty of places to get ice cream in Destin (it is a beach destination after all), but there’s only one spot to get homemade ice cream and it’s Pink Coyote Dessert Co. Cookies, cupcakes, and lots of specialty drinks are also on the menu, but don’t leave without a scoop or two of ice cream. Having a hard time choosing? A flight with six scoops to share might be your best bet.
; 9 Calhoun Avenue, Destin, FL 32541
Don’t be alarmed if you see a line creeping out the front door of this Destin institution in the mornings. It tends to move pretty quickly, and you can always bypass the line and just grab a dozen donuts from the pastry case if you don’t feel like sitting down. Flavor options are seemingly endless and include everything from one’s filled with chocolate whipped cream to key lime custard. Breakfast is served all day, so if you don’t quite make it out before noon, you’ll still have access to eggs, bacon, and pancakes.
; 635 Harbor Blvd., Destin, FL 32541; 850-837-8824
It might seem a little odd to head to an Irish pub when you’re on the Gulf Coast, but trust us this is one experience you won’t want to miss. Situated at the edge of the bridge leading to Fort Walton, look out for the neon green signage and double-decker bus that lets you know you’ve arrived at McGuire’s Irish Pub. Inside, the moodily-lit, maze-like dining room seats 500, and also includes a gift shop, on-site brewery, and attached pizza and sushi restaurants. Order an excellent steak or burger or opt for Irish specialities like fish and chips or steak and mushroom pie. Every visit should include at least one Irish Wake, a curiously green concoction that comes in a souvenir Mason jar and has a three drink limit.
; 33 East Highway 98, Destin, FL 32541; 850-650-0000
Leonard Destin founded the town of Destin in 1835, and more than 150 years later, his great-great grandson Dewey opened Dewey Destin’s Restaurant. What started as a small-scale seafood market turned into a restaurant, and today you can visit one of two locations in Destin and a third in nearby Navarre. The original location on the bay includes seating at picnic tables on the pier overlooking Crab Island. Choose to get your fresh seafood grilled alongside corn on the cob and new potatoes or fried with French fries and hush puppies. The restaurant will even cook up your fresh catch if you’ve reeled in a haul.
; 9 Calhoun Avenue, Destin, FL 32541; 850-837-757
For a classic beach stay, an oceanfront condominium has everything you need. Cook dinner, do laundry, relax at the pool, and do it all just steps from the sandy shores. Sandpiper Cove offers low-rise units on a sprawling property that also includes a 9-hole par 3 course, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, pickleball courts, shuffleboard, an onsite Cajun and seafood restaurant, and a bar and restaurant conveniently located on the beach.
; 775 Gulf Shore Dr., Destin, FL 32541; 850-971-6755
For almost 40 years, Newman-Dailey has been the trusted company for those looking for rental homes and condos in the area. Their impressive collection of rentals to accommodate all group sizes and styles is sprinkled throughout town, so it’s easy to find your home away from home.
; 12815 Highway 98 W Suite 100, Miramar Beach, FL 32550; 850- 837-1071
If you’re looking for a stay with all the fixings, Henderson Beach Resort & Spa is your spot. Situated on the beach right next to Henderson Beach State Park, this is the place for travelers of all types, from multigenerational families to couples looking for a romantic weekend away. Enjoy a resort-style pool; a private beach complete with chair and umbrellas setups; complimentary bike, paddle board, and kayak rentals; multiple dining options; and a luxurious spa.
; 200 Henderson Resort Way Destin, FL 32541; 855-741-2777
RREAF Holdings has acquired the Sea Oats Motel, a 46-key, beachfront hospitality asset located in Destin, FL. The acquisition marks RREAF’s first beachfront hospitality investment since 2022.First opened in 1964, Sea Oats is one of only two hotels located directly on the beach within Destin proper, offering direct beachfront access in one of Florida’s most supply-constrained coastal markets.The property is uniquely positioned adjacent to city-owned land slated for development into a future state park with public bea...
RREAF Holdings has acquired the Sea Oats Motel, a 46-key, beachfront hospitality asset located in Destin, FL. The acquisition marks RREAF’s first beachfront hospitality investment since 2022.
First opened in 1964, Sea Oats is one of only two hotels located directly on the beach within Destin proper, offering direct beachfront access in one of Florida’s most supply-constrained coastal markets.
The property is uniquely positioned adjacent to city-owned land slated for development into a future state park with public beach access, further enhancing the location’s long-term desirability and reinforcing the asset’s intrinsic value, according to the company.
“Beachfront hospitality is inherently opportunistic,” said Brad Busby, EVP, hospitality, RREAF Holdings. “Properties like Sea Oats rarely come to market, and when they do, we must ensure that the opportunity aligns across location, basis and long-term demand. This acquisition showcases our patience and conviction as a hospitality owner, and we are thrilled to add such a scarce and iconic property to our portfolio.”
Since establishing its hospitality platform in 2012, RREAF has consistently targeted Destin due to its robust tourism fundamentals, limited beachfront supply and enduring demand drivers, the company reports. Fourteen years later, the acquisition of Sea Oats now fulfills a long-standing strategic goal for the firm.
“Destin has been a market we have pursued thoughtfully for more than a decade,” said Mitch Provosty, CFO/founder, RREAF’s beachfront hospitality platform. “Acquiring a hotel directly on the beach in Destin represents a significant milestone for our firm.”
RREAF plans to retain the current on-site team members, many of whom have extensive experience and operational knowledge of the property, while transitioning the corporate-level property management oversight to RREAF’s in-house hospitality team. This strategy will allow the firm to maintain the property’s established service culture while implementing institutional operational standards.
RREAF intends to operate the hotel through the conclusion of the 2026 peak season to maximize high-season performance. Following the season, the property will temporarily close for a comprehensive renovation.
The capital improvement plan includes renovations to all 46 guestrooms and the addition of at least two new keys, increasing the total to 48 rooms. Planned improvements include full FF&E and OS&E upgrades, along with select infrastructure enhancements to modernize the asset and improve operational efficiency.
In tandem with the physical renovation, RREAF will execute a full rebrand to develop a refreshed identity and elevate guest experience. The repositioning will be supported by dedicated revenue management and advanced pricing systems to strengthen market presence and optimize long-term revenue performance, the company reports.
The transaction stemmed from a mutual relationship between the seller and RREAF, highlighting the firm’s relationship-driven sourcing strategy and its ability to access unique opportunities.
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