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Destination Destin – -Love Sparkles on the Emerald Coast of Florida

A Grown Up’s Getaway for Romance and Relaxation

It’s not often that Orlando Family Magazine suggests that parents take a break from parenting…but it is Valentine’s Day, after all, so we are going to go out on a limb here and suggest that you plan a getaway to get reacquainted with the love of your life. Even family experts agree that Mom and Dad need a couple of days to rest, recharge their batteries, and rekindle the romance.

Destin, Florida is the perfect place to go for romance. Just over six hours away from Orlando by car, it’s just far enough away from home to feel like you are in paradise, but close enough to keep tabs on the kids back home. It’s the perfect spot to splurge on luxury, tap into your sense of adventure, and engage in peaceful early morning or sunset walks on pristine beaches. We suggest you pack a bag with nothing but a bathing suit and some resort casual wear and you’ll be set to enjoy some heart happy, hand-holding time in Destin.

balcony-wine-grapesStay in Style

Recognized as one of the nation’s premier beaches, Destin is also host to some of America’s finest hotels. Make a reservation at Henderson Park Inn Beachside Bed & Breakfast, voted #1 B&B in North America and #2 in the world in 2011, and experience quiet charm and historic elegance on the Emerald Coast. Relax and refresh in this all-inclusive, adults only, New England-style Inn while lolling on the veranda or your private terrace overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Wine, grapes and flowers on arrival…it doesn’t get more romantic than that! For more info check out http://hendersonparkinn.com, or call (866) 398-4432.

Delightful Dining

The best part of getting away is getting away from your kitchen, and Destin, a personal favorite of celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, has a wide range of dining experiences to give you a break from your little picky eaters at home. Make a reservation to enjoy a memorable meal at the award-winning Henderson Park Inn’s Beach Walk Café. Soak up the spectacular ocean view while dining on locally grown produce and elegant fare. For rates and reservations, visit http://hendersonparkinn.com/ or call (866) 398-4432.

If you want coastal cuisine with a New Orleans flair, plan to dine at the full service Bistro Bijoux known for its fresh, perfectly seasoned dishes, presented as works of art. A mere two miles east of Destin, this establishment was voted Best of the Emerald Coast in 2010, and Best for a Romantic Dinner in 2009. Visit their website at http://www.bistrobijouxdestin.com/ reservations.

If you have a yen for dinner on the high seas, then check out Sunquest Dinner Cruises. Not only will you enjoy entertainment, a gourmet meal, and a luxury yacht, but you can sneak away to the top deck for a smooch under the stars. Call (850) 650-2519 or visit www.sunquestcruises.com for reservations.

Soak Up Serenity at a Local Spa

No romantic getaway is complete without indulging in some quality time at a world class spa. Check out Serenity by the Sea at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa, voted the Best Spa on the Emerald Coast since 2003. Now, we think a round of golf is too much like work, but we do recommend visiting their luxurious spa to revitalize your energy levels as well as the romance factor. Imagine yourselves wrapped in fluffy robes, surrounded by luxury amenities, with nothing to do but melt in delicious delight. Here’s how to splurge on a mind, body, and soul experience. Visit www.sandestinbeachhilton.com/serenity or call (850) 622-9595.

Activities Abound

So, you’ve relaxed into a puddle of shameless pleasure, and now want to get the blood pumping a bit…well, there’s no shortage of invigorating activities in Destin to make some romantic memories. For an energizing way to start your day, try Destin Yoga at the Beach. Both Yoga-nistas and novices are welcome to practice Sun Salutation during sessions held year round rain or shine. A $15 drop-in fee is required for visitors at the Destin location. The website provides info on classes, location, and time. www.yogadestin.com.

If you’ve walked the boardwalk along the Henderson Beach State Park and now have a hankerin’ to stroll among moss-draped oaks, Koi ponds, and butterfly gardens, take a short road trip to Eden Gardens State Park, located 25 minutes east of Destin in Santa Rosa Beach. Indulge in a little fantasy (he, dashing Rhett Butler and she, hoop-skirted Scarlet O’Hara) as you meander the grounds of an elegantly restored, white-columned mansion, inhale the aroma of camellias, and delight in the colorful displays of azaleas. For more info call (850) 267-8320 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/edengardens.

Heart not pumping yet? No romantic vacation is complete without checking off a couple’s bucket list item. Check out Pelican Adventures in Destin for some heart thumping fun. Try your hand at gasp-inducing parasailing, exciting shark fishing, fascinating snorkeling, or adventurous kayaking along the gulf shoreline. Find out the details at www.pelicanadventures.net or call (850) 650-3825 for info.

What are you waiting for? Destin, Florida beckons to couples looking for romance and adventure. Pack those bags and hit the road with your favorite Valentine.  It’s time to make Destin your destination for love!