Once thought of as a sleepy little fishing village, Destin has become one of Florida’s top two drive-to destinations. Known for its sleek architecture and world renowned dining, as well as fabulous shopping and entertainment venues, Destin is the hot spot on the Florida panhandle.

The beaches of Destin and neighboring South Walton County are ranked among the best in the world year after year. This area is Florida’s best kept secret with crystal blue emerald waters and sugar white sands year round. Many people are surprised to know that the sands of Destin come from the Appalachian Mountains. The sand arrives as deposits into the Gulf of Mexico from the Apalachicola River and then settles along the Emerald Coast.

Those looking to relocate to the Destin area can expect to find low-crime rates, excellent fishing, topnotch schools and plenty of recreational opportunities. The local restaurants are some of the finest in the area, with chefs hailing from the world over. There are plenty of places to enjoy waterfront dining, particularly along the famed Destin Harbor where Florida’s largest fishing fleet docks.

Destin has entertainment for both families and the young twenty-somethings looking for adventure. Water parks, amusement parks, large outdoor shopping centers, movie theatres and night clubs intermix along Highway 98, the main thoroughfare through downtown Destin. While many other areas of Florida are struggling in today’s market, the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors reports that single family home sales in Destin went up 50% this year. It’s a great time to relocate to Destin!