There’s hardly a better time to visit Destin and Miramar Beach than during fall

There’s hardly a better time to visit Destin and Miramar Beach than during fall. The summer crowds are long gone, with kids back to school and vacation time complete. For the lucky few who have a weekend to themselves, a quick getaway to the beautiful beaches of Florida’s Emerald Coast is guaranteed to provide a memorable experience. We’ve even taken the work out of planning your trip, so all that’s left for you to do is pick a date! Set up your weekend base at Seascape Resort in beautiful Miramar Beach. This unique property has accommodations to suit every need. Whether your preference is to take in sweeping views of the private beach from the luxury of a high rise condo balcony at Ariel Dunes, or feel closer to nature in one of the surrounding Golf, Tennis and Boardwalk villas overlooking lakes and the golf course, Seascape has a variety of options for your stay. Choose your rental and then follow our plan for a weekend of fun and relaxation.

Friday night: Drive right to your rental and enjoy the perks of virtual check-in...key codes are texted and emailed, allowing a quicker start to your weekend. After settling in, take a short stroll on the boardwalk across Stewart Lake to view Seascape’s 2000 foot stretch of beautiful white sand beach. Take a walk down an uncrowded beach, then throw out a blanket, relax and watch as the sun sets over emerald water.

Saturday: Pick up a beach cruiser from La Dolce Vita, who offer discounts to Seascape guests and are located right on resort property. Hop aboard and pedal over to the bike path along Old Highway 98, just in front of the resort. We recommend a stop by Bad Ass Coffee Co. for a muffin and a cappuccino to get your energy levels up. Continue on your bike, enjoying the views of beautiful Miramar Beach and the cool ocean breeze. After pedaling up an appetite, ride back towards the resort and hit up the famous Whale’s Tail restaurant. It’s a can’t-miss, oceanfront restaurant and bar, offering traditional beach fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We recommend their smoked tuna dip and juicy burgers.

After lunch, rack your bike and visit La Dolce Vita again at their hut on the beach, right by the Whale’s Tail. They’ll outfit you with a discounted ocean kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Explore the waters around Seascape, keeping an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. When you’ve had your fill of water based activities, pull into the beach and soak up the last rays of the day’s sun with a Mai Tai from bartender Jerry at the Whale’s Tail. You’re just a short ride or walk from your rental, so head back to clean up from the day, then choose from one of many nearby restaurants to round out the day. From upscale beachfront dining, to casual chains and locally owned establishments, the choices are unlimited. Drive just 5 minutes to Destin Commons, where you’ll find shopping, nightlife, and dining options galore. Get your game on at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl, or take in a movie at the AMC theatre after dinner.

Sunday: Before you say goodbye to the weekend, plan to get up a little earlier to watch an unforgettable sunrise over the gulf. Follow that up with a round at the golf course at Seascape or the world class Emerald Bay Golf Club, just down the road. It’s a bucket list destination for Florida golfers, and you’ll receive a discount for setting up your tee time online. Not a golfer? Try a class at nearby Destin Hot Yoga, where you’ll be lead through 90 minutes of stretches and poses in a heated room, guaranteed to work out any kinks before going back to your work week. Still not quite ready to head home? Grab a quick lunch at Cabana Cafe, then try casting a line in the ocean or one of the many lakes on the resort property, or simply enjoy the solitude of the beach this time of year.

Though the weather is usually brilliant in fall, rainy days call for a trip to the Silver Sands outlets, where you’ll find great deals on brands like Nike and The North Face. Several nearby spas also offer the chance to pamper yourself regardless of weather; Surfside Spa is adjacent to the resort and provides exceptional massage and spa services. However you choose to wrap up your perfect weekend, you’ll find it quick and easy to check out of your rental via text message. With all the hard work taken out of vacation planning, there’s no reason not to visit Destin this fall!