By Renuka Christoph
Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort offers the perfect luxury beachfront experience for all ages. From breathtaking balcony views of the Emerald Coast to exhilarating water activities to some of the finest dining choices in the area, the resort makes for the perfect location for play and relaxation for the entire family.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The resort offers a variety of accommodations whether a guest room, villa, town home or condo. Some of the most spectacular views are offered from the Beachside condo units with convenient beach access to the seven mile stretch of white sand. Many of the units offer a full kitchen, washer and dryer and dining room.
TIME FOR PLAY
The beaches are therapeutic paradise with the perfect soft, white sand, clear calm water and picturesque sunsets. Sandestin guests can hit the waves with complimentary one-hour kayak and boogie board rentals. In addition, there are wave runner rentals, pontoon boat rentals, sailing instruction, sailboat rentals, sailing charters and sunset cruises.
Guests are also provided two complimentary 4-hour bicycle rentals to explore the scenic trails. The resort has done a phenomenal job preserving rich vegetation throughout the property with miles of winding trails for bikers, walkers and runners.
Explore Jolee Island nature park. surrounded by thick Florida pine. Brave pirates will feel at home as they discover a pirate ship playground, a pirate roost and other secret passages perfect for young adventurers.
The property also features a fitness center, salon and day spa and 19 swimming pools.
Golfers can choose from 72 holes of golf on four championship courses. The courses were designed by three world-renowned golf course architects and offer various landscapes, from wetlands to marshes and beach to bay. The options are conducive for all skill levels.
SEASIDE DINING
After a full day of activity, top off the evening with a savory dinner at the Elephant Walk. Upon entering the African-themed restaurant, guests will be mesmerized by the views from the lower and upper levels. An elegant staircase leads guests to the upper level bar, where giant tusks adorn the entrance. Doors at the back of the bar lead to the balcony, which offers stunning aerial views of the beach. From the prized location to hospitality to outstanding local fare, the Elephant Walk is a must for dining. Start with either a fresh gulf shrimp cocktail, spinach and artichoke dip or smoked tuna dip. Recommended is the Fish of the Day, which is a sautéed grouper topped with three succulent fried jumbo sea scallops and citrus roasted red pepper buerre blanc. Enjoy the entree with a side of sautéed green beans. For something a little spicier, consider the blackened mahi-mahi, a fresh catch blackened and topped with fresh mango and roasted red pepper chutney. And be sure to save room for key lime pie.
Another great dining choice is French dining at Another Broken Egg Café, located in the Linkside Conference Center near the Bayside Inn. Start off with a Brie topped with pecans, apples and raisins which are sautéed in an orange liquor. It is served with French bread and is perhaps among the tastiest starters for a breakfast or brunch. Order this along with beignets which are fried dough pastries covered with powdered sugar. To satisfy a hearty appetite, select the The Floridian, a cream cheese filled omelette topped with garlic sautéed crabmeat, Monterey Jack & green onions. Another great option is the Southwest scrambled skillet, made with scrambled eggs, a hearty portion of breakfast chorizo along with onions, diced tomatoes & green chilies with Cheddar-Jack, guacamole, salsa and flour tortillas. Another great signature dish is the Banana’s Foster French Toast, lavishly covered with pecans and whipped cream and topped with New Orleans style sauce. Sip on the award winning Bloody Mary to top off the meal.
For a more casual dining experience, head to Sandestin’s Marina Bar & Grill, located at the Baytowne Marina and overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay. The scenic beachbar offers a unique “you catch ‘em, we cook’em” service where fisherman can dine on their prize catches, prepared by skilled chefs. Menu items include sandwiches, salads or pizza. Recommended is the fresh catch grouper sandwich with potato salad. Sit outdoors at sunset for perfect bay views. After a meal at the Grill, stroll along the boardwalk, through Bark Park, to the Village Baytown Wharf. The Bark Park will amuse young adventurers with unique tree houses built within the treetops. Climb on up and explore the natural playground.
The Village of Baytowne Wharf is a lively 28-acre pedestrian village with restaurants, shops, boutiques and nightlife venues. Enjoy a gelato or a cappuccino at San Gelato Café. There are plenty of activities such as the Baytowne Adventure Zone which offers a zipline across lagoon.
Many of the venues offer live music along with scenic views. Browse in the boutiques and gift shops and find unique artifacts.
There is a complimentary shuttle service for Sandestin guests throughout the resort for convenient travel.
To make the memories last, Sandestin visitors get a complimentary photo sitting and 8×10 from Beachside Photography (www.beachsidephotography.net)
For the next perfect vacation, head to the coast. The calm allure of the emerald blue waters glistening under Florida sunshine and the white sugar sands appeal to the whole family. There is no better place than Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, where all ages will be amused. Visit www.Sandestin.com for more information.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR:
28th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival
Where – Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort at The Village of Baytowne Wharf
When – April 10-13, 2014
Sample more than 800 domestic and international wines from all major producing countries in all varieties, styles and price ranges. Talk with wine makers about their craft. Sandestin provides a culinary pavilion and the opportunity to purchase wines at special event pricing at the Retail Wine Tent on Friday and Saturday.
Check Sandestinwinefestival.com for full event details.