Yahoo Lifestyle Embrace Your Inner Taylor Swift with a Trip to Florida's Gulf Coast
It’s only natural to be influenced by Taylor Swift, so of course as soon as The Tortured Poet’s Department dropped, we were on our way to the idyllic beach town T-Swift called out by name in her new song “Florida!!!”: Destin. In an Amazon Music commentary, Swift described Florida as the perfect place to run off to and start anew, and who doesn’t want that, at least for a day or two? Especially considering Destin is home to some of the whitest beaches in the country and stunning emerald-green waters.
We don’t happen to have a “timeshare down in Destin,” so we needed a place to stay, and Destin’s Henderson Beach Resort was the obvious choice. Nestled within the Henderson Beach State Park, it’s secluded coastal appeal reminds us of the glory days of the Florida Panhandle, when the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast wasn’t overshadowed by go-cart tracks, airbrush T-shirts, and high-rise condo buildings. At Country Living, we're all about a small town feel, but also having amenities that make a beach vacation ~actually~ relaxing.
Here's how Henderson Beach Resort achieves the perfect mix of quaint and luxurious, offering experiences that cater to each group or individuals wants and needs!
Bring the Kids (and the dog!) or Enjoy a Child-Free Escape
Whether you're planning a family vacation or a relaxing adults-only getaway, there's a Henderson property for you.
The Henderson Beach Resort accommodates the whole crew from kids to fur-babies, offering a wide variety of family-fun activities including two pools complete with kid-friendly splash zones and a lazy river. Keep the fun going with lawn games, complimentary bike rentals, and private beach access. Children can also hang out at Poppy's Kids Club for a full or half day while adults enjoy other amenities like the spa or adults only pool.
Henderson Park Inn's duality also makes it perfect for those looking for a quiet escape. The beachside property is adults-only and doesn't allow pets, unlike its sister property. Park Inn guests have access to all the same amenities and dining experiences as resort guests, nestled away from all the hustle and bustle. Plan a trip to The Henderson Spa for a facial, mani-pedi, or massage and attend morning yoga on-site to ensure peak relaxation.
Dining to Die For
There's truly everything you could possibly need all on the resort property, including incredible dining options. Whether you're in the mood for the catch of the day, comfort food (fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits to boot), fine dining, light fare (Sprinkles cafe pastries, we're looking at you), or sushi, you won't leave the resort hungry. Take in golden hour views with a side of dinner and drinks at The Rooftop Bar or Beach Walk Cafe. Don't lift a finger for lunch fare with poolside service from Sea Level and beach access to Cantina on the Beach.
For hard-core foodies, Executive Chef Tyler Simmons offers an intimate chef's table experience where you can enjoy courses prepared and plated right before your eyes in the kitchen. Get even more hands on with other food-centric event offerings including sushi making classes, themed dinners, cupcake decorating tutorials, and more.
Relaxation with a Side of Adventure
If you're looking to unlock your adventurous side on more than just the food front, an excursion in the greater Destin area should be on your list. Henderson's concierge can coordinate anything from a cruise on a 60-foot yacht to a fishing trip in the "world's luckiest fishing village" to a day spent at one of Destin's most popular attractions: Crab Island. Henderson Beach Resort partners with local operators to ensure guests the best possible experience on and off property.
This is your sign to take the trip to Destin (blasting TTPD all the way) and experience the Emerald Coast the right way!
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