Whether you’re banking on the predictions of a small group of famous groundhogs or looking to meteorologists for a glimpse of warmer weather, one thing’s certain: it’s never too early to start planning for a wonderful family vacation! Spring and summer will be here before you know it, so beat the crowds and book your next adventure. For a destination with style, class and bucket loads of fun, be sure to secure the ultimate family vacation in Destin, Florida, where you’ll find everything your family needs to both enjoy the warm weather and soak in the fun, fun, fun!

With white sandy beaches and beautiful Gulf waters, Destin’s popularity is unmistakable. It was recently honored in 2015 with another of Trip Advisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards, this time for being one of the Top Destinations on the Rise in the United States. If that’s not enough praise, here’s more: this family “hotspot” also has the honor of being named the “Best Family Beach” in The Travel Channel’s Best Beach Awards for 2013. In addition, it was named one of the top 25 destinations in the United States by Trip Advisor, and received the Travers’ Choice Award in 2011! With accolades like these, it’s no wonder that families are frantic to experience the tranquility and welcoming beauty of Destin, Florida.

Your ultimate family vacation should ultimately begin with family-style accommodations, and Destin has you covered. Choices indeed range from island-chic hideaways to sprawling beachside resorts, and everything in-between. For a list of the most family-friendly hotels in general, you can visit Trip Advisor for crowd-favorite suggestions. Otherwise, here are a few of the best beachfront resorts that also cater to vacationers with families.

The Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is certainly one for the books. It covers 2,400 acres and several waterfront locations in the area. Regardless of your choice—along the Gulf of Mexico, the Choctawhatchee Bay or lakeside—you’ll receive access to all the resort’s amenities, including private beach access, kayak rentals, 4 award-wining golf courses, a spa, and the Village of Baytowne Wharf with dining and entertainment. Check out all the resort has to offer here: http://www.sandestin.com/

The WaterColor Inn and Resort is another top-notch destination. Situated just east of Destin, the 499-acre property is a true beachfront oasis, and is part of a larger resort complex of cozy vacation rentals. It offers guests a 1,400-foot-long beach, rooms with private balconies, kayak and bicycle rentals, 6 resort pools, and kids-camp activities, such as beach bonfires. View the beauty of this getaway and make your booking here: http://www.watercolorresort.com/

The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is another family favorite, and makes it so that you don’t even need to leave the property for food or captivating fun! Guests can enjoy 2 outdoor pools, 4 golf courses, 15 tennis courts and mini-golf, to name just a few activities. There’s also a Kids Krew program that offers activities like arts and crafts, games and building sandcastles. For more details, visit: http://www.hiltonsandestinbeach.com

As far as beaches are concerned, you’ll definitely want to visit Henderson Beach State Park, which received a noteworthy accolade as well as a 2016 Travelers’ Choice for Trip Advisor. With more than 6,000 feet of natural shoreline, as well as 60 campsites, a playground, boardwalks, and multiple pavilions for picnicking and family events, this breathtaking destination truly offers something for everyone! The white sand beach is also the perfect family enclave in that, as it’s located in a state park, it offers a plethora of additional activities in case the kids get bored of the water, and is also secluded enough from the crowds and people watchers to offer ample, safe and memorable family time. Add this stop to your itinerary and you won’t be disappointed.

Another must-see spot to tack onto your itinerary is the fun-filled Village of Baytowne Wharf, which received a Certificate of Excellence in 2014. Located within the gates of the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, along the shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay, this lively point of interest is a favorite among those in the know, and is a perfect place to unwind after spending a day at the marina or hours getting soaked with various water sports. Kids and adults alike will find activities such as a zip lining, arcade games, hamster balls, magic shows, concerts, shopping and dining—and much, much more!

Want to try your luck with creating a work of art, and all while soaking up the sun in the sand? Then don’t miss a chance to create a unique work of art with Beach Sand Sculptures! Book a class with these professional sand sculptors for the entire family, and you’ll learn the tips and tricks to creating your own sandy masterpiece. You can even buy a starter kit to continue the fun while on your own or back home. And with the Mobile Unit, the instructors can meet you at your resort’s private beach or a public beach based on where you’re lodging. It’s recommended to book classes in advance, as this hidden gem of family fun is gaining traction visitors. So don’t delay, visit the website for more information and to book your class!

If you have the time, you might make plans to visit the Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club. This stunning golf course, designed by the lead architect for Arnold Palmer, has been named one of Golf Digest’s “Top Places to Play in North America!” It’s also been designated by Emerald Magazine as “The Best Golf Course of the Emerald Coast” for ten straight years. The venue offers on-course circulating beverage carts, a state-of-the-art Parview GPS system on its golf carts, a clubhouse with a golf shop, chilled apples on the 1st and 10th tees, and mango-scented iced towels. There are also a variety of specials and packages to suit your needs, so be sure to inquire before you go. Another wonderful amenity is a full-service restaurant! Overlooking Lake Regatta, the Regatta Bay Clubhouse offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a daily happy hour with 2-for-1 drinks.

One of the most popular family venues in Destin is Harborwalk Village, where all sorts of fun—and at all levels—can be found around the clock! In addition to multi-level shopping right on the waterfront, guests get a thrill from the variety of aqua adventures offered, such as boat, Jet Ski and pontoon rentals, as well as fishing, and Harborwalk Village’s celebrated dolphin cruises! There are also weekly fireworks and live entertainment, as well as Cubby Caboose, a choo-choo train that weaves through the Village itself. Regardless of your family’s choice of fun, Harborwalk Village ensures that your enjoyment while on vacation will indeed come in many forms.

Destin Snorkel offers an exciting array of interactive tours for the entire family. Tours include a 2-stop snorkeling adventure where guests spend 3 hours throughout the day in search of crabs, shells, small schools of fish and other underwater delights. Guests are also treated to a dolphin tour as part of the adventure. Another fun tour from Destin Snorkel is Snuba, which combines the best of scuba and snorkeling into one amazing tour. The tour allows guests to breathe underwater by means of a 20-foot air line that is connected to a scuba tank. Sights include marine life not visible when snorkeling, such as toadfish, spadefish, sea anemones, and flounder. Shelling tours allow small children to get in on the fun. They can search for shells, learn about marine life and look for dolphins! Destin Snorkel also offers a variety of cruises, including sunset, dolphin and firework cruises.

The dolphin cruises, run by Olin Marler Charter Boats, will provide your family with enough memories to last a lifetime! Booking a fishing charter with Olin Marler Charters means that your family is in the capable hands of the oldest and longest running recreational fishing fleet in Destin, with 45 years in the business of charter fishing! The Destin Dolphin Cruises are popular for both the recreational and educational aspect of the cruises. Your family will embark on a daily dolphin watching tour and learn about the history of Destin itself! This family friendly approach to dolphin cruises and charter fishing is what has made Olin Marler Charter’s Destin’s favorite charter service since 1967!

Another cruise that will have everyone in the family joining in the fun is the interactive treat known as the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise. The Buccaneer Pirate Ship departs from the Harborwalk Village Marina. Guests will then sail the high seas of the beautiful Emerald Coast like the pirates of old! While out to sea, you’ll be entertained with sword fights, storytelling, water gun battles, singing, dancing, and treasure hunts! One of the advantages of the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is that parents can either participate in the fun with their children or simply sit back and relax while watching their children have the time of their lives. As well as providing the Scurvy Dogs’ Club cruises for adults, the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise also offers birthday cruises for children, which include a private area on the quarter deck, decorations, a complimentary group photo, a flag raising ceremony, and a souvenir flag to being back home! The birthday child even gets to steer the ship!

For a bit of family-friendly entertainment on land, the Bart Rockett Magic Theater is a must-see! Bart Rockett is a global phenomenon, an amazing variety performer who has appeared on CBS, ABC, NBC, and FOX, to name just a few of his media appearances. Offering a magic experience for all age groups, tickets for upcoming shows can be purchased online. Bart Rockett also offers magic and ventriloquism workshops for all ages. The theater has a magic shop as well, where one-of-a-kind show souvenirs and magic tricks/illusions can be purchased by those looking to test their skills.

As far as dining is concerned, Harborwalk Village has you covered, and then some! If you want to dine like a local, try Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, the sister eatery to Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi restaurant, which is also worth a trip. Brotula’s has a local fishing hole history similar to Jackacuda’s, but even more legendary. The Brotula is actually commonly known to the area’s local fisherman as the Cusk Eel, a rare Gulf fish that’s found in waters that are 300 or more feet deep. It is because of this fact that local fishing captains are some of the only people familiar with status of this rare fish. The restaurant was created to share the history and rich local tradition of the Brotula to the common public, and has create a mouthwatering menu to achieve that end. This fine restaurant offers a range of dishes to ensure good times and great taste! Try the Southern Poutine Fries with pulled pork and BBQ gravy, the Bro’s Shrimp Po’boy sandwich or the Conecuh & Potato Crusted Red Snapper, a fan favorite. There’s also a daily lunch menu. Brotula’s and Jackacuda’s are both AKA Mom favorites!

With Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi, the same thrill and expectation of fishing at one of Destin’s famous fishing holes is now available for all those who “charter” a trip to the Destin, and then to this restaurant for seafood and setting. Try the Fried Avocado, the Pulled Pork Nachos, the Southern Style Mac & Cheese with Bacon, Shrimp and Smoked Gouda, and the Flourless Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Bean Crème Anglaise. The restaurant also has an impressive drink menu, including international beer, wine and sake.

Away from the harbor, there are plenty of places to wine, dine and unwind! For starters, be sure to check out Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. The eatery is mere steps away from Henderson Beach State Park, making it the perfect place to stop after enjoying Henderson’s white sands and emerald waves. Bubba Gump’s has a Kids Menu, as well gluten-free options, so you won’t have to worry about allergies and “making do” with your dining choice. For kids, try the Ribs or Popcorn Shrimp. There’s also pizza, healthy sides and Build Your Own Sundaes. Adults will get a kick out of the Shrimper’s Net Catch with peel ‘n’ eat shrimp steamed in beer, the Seafood Hush Pups, the Shrimp Po’ Boy or the Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp! There’s just so much here to choose from, you’ll want to eat until you drop or set aside multiple meal times just to try it all! One of the other noteworthy things about Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is its amazing grass roots organization known as the Shrimpossibles. This dedicated group is comprised of restaurant employees who support their local communities through volunteer work and fundraising, including fighting hunger, illiteracy and supporting the Special Olympics!

Another favorite is Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill. This place is truly an event in itself! There are eight different dining rooms, with enough space to host a family dinner or a family reunion! And during the spring and summer months, this crowd-favorite stopover provides ample outdoor dining so that guests can enjoy not only the scenery but the talent of local musicians. There’s also an on-site gift shop for souvenirs, such as t-shirts, not to mention the eatery even has its own app! For the kids and fun-seekers alike, Fudpucker’s has its own famous attraction as well, called Gator Beach, a free alligator exhibit featuring “Pearl,” one of the few albino alligators in the entire world. And families, take heart—there’s even a large playground and game room, not to mention the fact that the kids can get their picture taken holding a live alligator! With all of the fun right at your fingertips, Fudpucker’s is a must-see site indeed! Of course dining is the main draw, so be sure to try the Stuffed Shrimp Parmesan, the Fried Pickles or Gator Tail a la Fud. Don’t forget there’s a bevy of famous burgers, plus mouthwatering deserts, such as the Key Lime Creation. So grab your gear, visit the app and head on down to Fudpucker’s for food and fun!

Destin, Florida is a nonstop center of award-wining memories! This family favorite destination is a veritable one-stop shop of fun and feel-good times for the entire family, no matter what time of the year, but especially memorable in the spring and summer months. So don’t delay. Many of the above-mentioned destinations make use of social media, like Twitter, Instagram or Facebook—some even have their own apps! Additionally, each place has its own website and representatives standing by, so be sure to inquire and get in on this award-winning DESTINation—be sure to book your family vacation in Destin, Florida today!

The post Award-winning Family Vacations in Destin, Florida appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

It’s official! The summer months are upon us! With rising temperatures and vacationing kids, what better way to beat the monotonous heat than with a getaway for the entire family? For a destination with style, class and bucket loads of fun, try booking the ultimate family vacation in Destin, Florida! At the Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village, you’ll find everything your family needs to both enjoy the summer and soak in the fun!

With white sandy beaches and beautiful Gulf waters, Destin’s popularity is unmistakable. It has the honor of being named the “Best Family Beach” in The Travel Channel’s Best Beach Awards for 2013. In addition, it was named one of the top 25 destinations in the United States by Trip Advisor, and received the Travelers’ Choice Award in 2011! With accolades like these, it’s no wonder that families are frantic to experience the tranquility and beauty of Destin, Florida.

Your ultimate family vacation should ultimately begin with resort-style accommodations at the Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village. The resort itself has received a Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor, highlighting the fact that families simply can’t get enough of this place. The Emerald Grande does offer airport shuttle service from both Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) and Destin Airport as well, but be sure to contact the resort at least 48 hours in advance to arrange for pickup.

The harbor-front setting of this sought-after sanctuary, and the fact that this Wyndham Vacation Resort is ideally situated at the foot of Marler Bridge, just four short miles west of the Mid-Bay Bridge in Destin, means that your family can explore the entertainment center of Destin with ease. The resort itself offers free shuttles to nearby beaches, and resort activities are within walking distance, allowing every member of the family to experience the very best of the Florida panhandle at this exclusive Emerald Coast location.

To highlight the breathtaking beauty surrounding the resort, all of the rooms at the Emerald Grande have spacious balconies and panoramic views. Indeed, this attention to detail places you and your family right in the heart of the Emerald Coast even from the comfort of your own room!

One of the features that situates the Emerald Grande in a category all its own is the resort’s dedication to families of all sizes. The resort welcomes family-friendly vacationing by providing multiple-style accommodations, offering four different resort residence categories to ensure optimal space and luxury. All luxury accommodations include custom-designed furnishings and plush beds, as well as gourmet kitchens, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies, plus concierge services and spacious floor plans. You can view sample room photos and take a virtual tour of all accommodation types on the hotel’s website: http://www.emeraldgrande.com/accommodations.aspx

The resort’s amenities include a full service European spa and fitness center, indoor and outdoor heated pools – the outdoor pool is actually a beach entry pool and the indoor pool is both heated and cooled – and a family-oriented water playground, all of which happen to overlook the stunning Gulf of Mexico!

The Emerald Grande Spa, located on the second floor of the resort, offers everything from complete spa packages to spa parties, wraps, facials, massages, and body treatments. Packages are available for men, women and teens. The Spa Day Custom Package is a great choice, allowing you to combine any three services of $50 or more and receive a 10% discount, as well as a complimentary glass of wine or champagne. You can call 1-850-337-8150 to speak with a spa representative. There’s also the East Pass Fitness Center, which allows guests the opportunity to both work out in the hotel’s specialized fitness center and make use of group fitness options. The spa offers an onsite juice/smoothie bar as well.

In addition to spa packages, the Emerald Grande provides a variety of booking packages for couples and families. For reservations or a full list of packages, call (800) 676-0091 or (850) 337-8100.

The resort has an amazing array of onsite activities as well, including a seasonal – and supervised – kid’s club, and a soft toy play area for little kids. The Emerald Grande even provides an arcade for teens. For beach fun, the resort offers a complimentary beach chair and boat shuttle service, allowing guests access to a secluded beach for hours of fun in the sun!

The Emerald Grande also offers full-time concierge service, garage parking and 24-hour security. Child care is also available, so if you’d like to have a romantic afternoon and make use of the resort’s in-room dining, you can! Otherwise, the Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village offers a variety of restaurants to choose from.

The resort ensures optimal enjoyment for the family with its ideal location at Harborwalk Village, where all sorts of fun, and at all levels, can be found around the clock! In addition to multi-level shopping right on the waterfront, guests get a thrill from the variety of aqua adventures offered, such as boat, Jet Ski and pontoon rentals, as well as fishing, and Harborwalk Village’s celebrated dolphin cruises! There are also weekly fireworks and live entertainment.

Destin Snorkel offers an exciting array of interactive tours for the entire family. Tours include a 2-stop snorkeling adventure where guests spend 3 hours throughout the day in search of crabs, shells, small schools of fish and other underwater delights. Guests are also treated to a dolphin tour as part of the adventure. Another fun tour from Destin Snorkel is Snuba, which combines the best of scuba and snorkeling into one amazing tour. The tour allows guests to breathe underwater by means of a 20-foot air line that is connected to a scuba tank. Sights include marine life not visible when snorkeling, such as toadfish, spadefish, sea anemones, and flounder. Shelling tours allow small children to get in on the fun. They can search for shells, learn about marine life and look for dolphins! Destin Snorkel also offers a variety of sunset, dolphin and firework cruises. Book yours today!

The dolphin cruises, run by Olin Marler Charter Boats, will provide your family with enough memories to last a lifetime! Booking a fishing charter with Olin Marler Charters means that your family is in the capable hands of the oldest and longest running recreational fishing fleet in Destin, with over 45 years in the business of charter fishing! The Destin Dolphin Cruises are popular for both the recreational and educational aspect of the cruises. Your family will embark on a daily dolphin watching tour and learn about the history of Destin itself! This family friendly approach to dolphin cruises and charter fishing is what has made Olin Marler Charter’s Destin’s favorite charter service since 1967!

Another cruise that will have everyone in the family laughing and joining in the fun is the interactive Buccaneer Pirate Cruise. The Buccaneer Pirate Ship departs from the Harborwalk Village Marina, where visitors will sail the high seas of the beautiful Emerald Coast. Passengers will be entertained with sword fights, storytelling, water gun battles, singing, dancing, and treasure hunts! The great thing about the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is that parents can participate in the fun with their children or simply sit back and relax while watching their children have the time of their lives. As well as providing the Scurvy Dogs’ Club cruises for adults, the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise also offers birthday cruises for children, which include a private area on the quarter deck, decorations, a complimentary group photo, flag raising ceremony, and a souvenir flag! The birthday child even gets to steer the ship!

For a bit of family-friendly entertainment on land, visit the Bart Rockett Magic Theater. Bart Rockett is a global phenomenon, an amazing variety performer who has appeared on CBS, ABC, NBC, and FOX, to name just a few. Offering a magic experience for all age groups, tickets for upcoming shows can be purchased online. Bart Rockett also offers magic and ventriloquism workshops for all ages. The theater has a magic shop as well, where one-of-a-kind show souvenirs and magic tricks/illusions can be purchased.

As far as dining is concerned, Harborwalk Village truly has you covered! For a mouthwatering experience, visit Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi, the epitome of a good living while in Destin. The restaurant is named after legendary Destin Charter Boat Captain Dale Beebe, who took a charter to the “local’s fishing area” in search of the famed amberjacks the area had been known for. On the trip, however, Beebe managed to catch only barracuda. When he jokingly referred to the fish as Jackacuda, a legend was born! All the other captains began taking charters to the area in search of Jackacuda. With Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi, the same thrill and expectation of fishing at one of Destin’s famous fishing holes is now available for all those who “charter” a trip to the restaurant for seafood and setting. The ambience of Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi is rightly styled after the inviting manner in which locals brought friends, family and tourists to their secret fishing spots. With its relaxed environment, the restaurant beckons customers to enjoy the familial comforts of friends and food, as well as award-winning flavors.

The menu at Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi is both eclectic and impressive. The restaurant’s sous chef, James Cooke, will delight your palette with wonderfully decadent creations, such as the Fried Avocado, T’s Mac N Cheese with Bacon and Smoked Gouda, the Chorizo Crusted Snapper, the Blackened Fresh Seasonal Fish with Caramelized Pineapple Butter and the House made Cheesecake with seasonal topping. As far as the sushi is concerned, executive sushi chef Efrain Tirado combines global culinary traditions with West Coast influence to produce unique, mouthwatering works of art for the palette. The restaurant also has an impressive drink menu, including international beer, wine and sake. If you’re lucky, you might be waited on by Ryan, an all-around swell guy who knows the entire menu at Jackacudas.

If you want to dine like a local, also try Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, Jackacuda’s sister restaurant. Brotula’s has a local fishing hole history similar to Jackacuda’s, and offers a range of dishes to ensure good times and great taste. Try the Bro’s Clam Bake or the Conecuh Potato Crusted Red Snapper, a fan favorite.

Also be sure to check out Margaritaville Destin. With wonderful island-inspired food, a volcano flowing with margaritas and four unique bars to choose from, guests of all ages are sure to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this establishment, which includes nightly dancing and live music. Try the Beach Tacos or the tasty Surf & Turf. For the little ones, the Friend Shrimp Dinner is a favorite. Be sure to order the Chocolate Hurricane to reward yourself and the rest of your table as well. Margaritaville Destin also offers guests gluten-free and vegetarian menus, so families who have children with food allergies can rest assured that their child’s needs are being met! With such care and carefully crafted food, it’s no wonder that this restaurant is a crowd favorite. Dine with ease and enjoy the good life at Margaritaville Destin!

Your visit to Destin, Florida will not be complete unless you make plans to visit the Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club. This stunning golf course, designed by the lead architect for Arnold Palmer, has been named one of Golf Digest’s “Top Places to Play in North America!” It offers on-course circulating beverage carts, a state-of-the-art Parview GPS system on its golf carts, a clubhouse with a golf shop, chilled apples on the 1st and 10th tees, and mango-scented iced towels. There are also a variety of specials and packages, so be sure to inquire before you go! Another wonderful amenity is a full-service restaurant! Overlooking Lake Regatta, the Regatta Bay Clubhouse offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a daily happy hour with 2-for-1 drinks.

With all of the activities available at the Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village, Destin, Florida is indeed the place to be this summer. So be sure to inquire and make your next vacation a DESTINation!

The post A Summer DESTINation in Destin, Florida! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Summer has officially arrived! And what better way to celebrate than to book a seamless summer getaway for your family; but don’t just celebrate the summer with any destination – book the ultimate family “Destin-nation” in Destin, Florida today!

Destin has the honor of being named one of the top 25 destinations in the United States by Trip Advisor, as well as receiving the Travers’ Choice Award in 2011! With accolades like these, it’s no wonder that families are frantic to experience the tranquility and beauty of Destin, Florida.

Your ultimate family vacation should ultimately begin with resort-style accommodations at the Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village! The resort does offer airport shuttle service from both Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) and Destin Airport as well, but be sure to contact the resort at least 48 hours in advance to arrange the pickup!

The Emerald Grande’s harbor-front setting, and the fact that this Wyndham Vacation Resort is ideally situated at the foot of Marler Bridge, just four short miles west of the Mid-Bay Bridge in Destin, will ensure that your family experiences the very best of coastal Florida at this Emerald Coast location! Additionally, the exceptional fact that all of the rooms at the Emerald Grande have spacious balconies and panoramic views will indeed place you and your family right in the heart of the Emerald Coast!

One of the features that situates the Emerald Grande in a category all its own is the resort’s dedication to families of all sizes. The resort welcomes family-friendly vacationing by providing multiple-style accommodations, offering four different resort residence categories to ensure optimal space and luxury. All luxury condos include: large, plush beds, gourmet kitchen, free Wi-Fi, in room safes, flat screen TV’s, private balconies, and spacious floor plans.  You can view sample room photos and take a virtual tour of all rooms on the hotel’s website: http://www.emeraldgrande.com/accommodations.aspx 

The resort’s amenities include a full service European spa and fitness center, indoor and outdoor heated pools – the outdoor pool is actually a beach entry pool and the indoor pool is both heated and cooled – and a family-oriented water playground, all of which happen to overlook the stunning Gulf of Mexico from 4 stories high!

The Emerald Grande Spa, located on the second floor of the resort, also has views which look out onto the Gulf of Mexico! The spa offers everything from complete spa packages to spa parties, wraps, facials, massages, and body treatments. Services are also available for both men and women. If you would like to include services before you stay, you can book, for instance, the ‘Ahh to the Spa’ package and receive two 30 minute massages and a take-home spa gift with your stay. You can call 1-850-337-8150 to speak with a spa representative!

The hotel also offers the East Pass Fitness or Extension, which allows guests the opportunity to both work out in the hotel’s specialized fitness center and make use of group fitness options. There is also a smoothie and juice bar onsite.   

In addition to spa packages, the Emerald Grande also offers a variety of packages for couples and families, such as golfing, deep sea fishing and honeymoon packages! For reservations or information, call (800) 676-0091 or (850) 337-8100.

There is also the use of the seasonal – and supervised – kid’s club and a soft toy play area for little kids. The Emerald Grande even provides an arcade for teens. For beach fun, the resort offers a complimentary shuttle boat that takes guests to a secluded beach for hours of fun in the sun! 

The Emerald Grande also offers full-time concierge service, garage parking and 24-hour security. Child care is also available, so if you’d like to have a romantic afternoon and make use of the resort’s in-room dining, you can! Otherwise, the Emerald Grande at Harborwalk Village offers a variety of restaurants to choose from.

The resort ensures optimal enjoyment for the family with its ideal location at Harborwalk Village, where all sorts of fun, and at all levels, can be found around the clock!

Harborwalk Village itself offers multi-level shopping right on the waterfront. If you’re looking for a unique gift, be sure to stop by Hove’ Parfumeur, located on 34 Harbor Blvd at Suite 150. The owner, Amy van Calsem Wendel, has created a wholly expressive statement of beauty and refinement by offering perfumes, colognes, massage oils, and body oils that are available for both men and women. The fragrances have been produced with the finest of essential oils and ingredients from all over the world and are sold from the Harborwalk Destin location and one other shop in New Orleans! With Hove’ Parfumeur, you know that you’re buying a truly unique and expressive gift, one that a friend or loved one, or even yourself, will truly cherish! http://www.hoveparfumeur.com/

Harborwalk Village also provides a variety of aqua adventures, such as boat, Jet Ski and pontoon rentals, fishing, and the Harborwalk Village’s celebrated dolphin cruises! There are also weekly fireworks and live entertainment.

The dolphin cruises, run by Olin Marler Charter Boats, will provide your family with enough memories to last a lifetime! Booking a fishing charter with Olin Marler Charters means that your family is in the capable hands of the oldest and longest running recreational fishing fleet in Destin, with over 45 years in the business of charter fishing! The Destin Dolphin Cruises are popular for both the recreational and educational aspect of the cruises. Your family will embark on a daily dolphin watching tour and learn about the history of Destin itself! This family friendly approach to dolphin cruises and charter fishing is what has made Olin Marler Charter’s Destin’s favorite charter service since 1967! www.olinmarlercharterboats.com

Another cruise that will have everyone in the family laughing and joining in the fun is the interactive Buccaneer Pirate Cruise. The Buccaneer Pirate Ship departs from the Harborwalk Village Marina, where visitors will sail the high seas of the beautiful Emerald Coast. Passengers will be entertained with sword fights, storytelling, water gun battles, singing, dancing, and treasure hunts! The great thing about the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is that parents can participate in the fun with their children or simply sit back and relax while watching their children have the time of their lives. As well as providing the Scurvy Dogs’ Club cruises for adults, the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise also offers birthday cruises for children, which include a private area on the quarter deck, decorations, a complimentary group photo, flag raising ceremony, and a souvenir flag! The birthday child even gets to steer the ship! www.destinpirateship.com  

As far as dining is concerned, the nearby area truly has you covered! Be sure to check out Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., where waitress AmberLynn will greet you with a smile and an impressive menu of seafood. The restaurant is located just a short walk from Destin Beach itself, and should you need a place to walk off that seafood, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is also located mere seconds away from the Henderson Beach State Park. The menu serves up some mouthwatering favorites, with such appetizers as Mama Gump’s Garlic Bread Basket and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. For the main course, try the Dixie Style Baby Back Ribs or the Shrimper’s Heaven, voted the #1 guest favorite! It includes chilly shrimp, hand breaded coconut shrimp, fried shrimp, tempura shrimp and fries. The kids menu allows children to select from chicken strips, burgers, pepperoni pizza, and popcorn shrimp, among other items. All kid’s items also include French fries, fruit and a special treat. http://www.bubbagump.com/locations/destin/  

Harry T’s Lighthouse – located right under Destin’s iconic lighthouse on Destin Harbor –is a true Destin dining legend that every visitor should try and visit. With its amazing waterfront views, you’ll be sure to see the East Pass, Crab Island and Norriega Pointe while either listening to live music or waiting until sunset for the “Canon Blast” and bell ringing from passing boats. Enjoy the Diablo Fish Tacos or a sandwich made with the local catch of the day! If you’d like a vacation in a glass, try Harry T’s Jetty Juice, which is the restaurant’s take on a blue margarita. They also offer both domestic and premium beers, as well as wine and fountain drinks for the children. Harry T’s Lighthouse is also known for its support of local musicians with its local musician live entertainment on weekends! http://www.harryts.com/   

One of the intriguing things about Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill is that there are only two locations in the entire world, one of which is at Harborwalk Village! Be sure to at least visit the Destin location, as front house manager Christine Rodriguez will be sure to take good care of you! Why not try their Chargrilled Chicken a la Fud or the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp! For the kids, Fudpucker’s offers a Junior Fudburger, Fuducini Alfredo, Grilled Cheese, and Corn Puppies, among other menu items. They even have Kiddie Cocktails, such as a Florida Sunset (orange juice with grenadine), Shirley Temple, Hawaiian Sunset (pineapple juice and grenadine), and a Roy Rogers. So whether it’s the live alligator shows, teen night or their famous t-shirts, Fudpucker’s has something for everyone! And to ensure that there definitely is something for the entire family, Fudpucker’s has added two new ventures: FudPuckeroni’s, a family friendly sports bar offering pizza and wings, and FudShucker’s, their family friendly Steam Shack and Raw Bar. http://www.fudpucker.com/  

In addition to the purely unique dining experience at Fudpucker’s, there is also the entertainment aspect of the restaurant. To this end, Fudpucker’s has also created Fudpucker’s Water Sports, where visitors can rent jet skis, paddle boards, kayaks, and pontoon boats. You can also go parasailing on the “Pucker Up.” http://www.fudpucker.com/fudpucker-watersports

Fudpucker’s has also created Gator Island, where visitors can take photos holding a live gator, as well as viewing smaller gators in tanks that are set out front. There are also plenty of gator related toys and souvenirs: http://www.fudpucker.com/gator-island

If you need to wet your whistle or relax from all the adventures at Harborwalk Village, the Crab Island Cantina is the place to stop for a breather! Crab Island Cantina offers Latin inspired Mexican cuisine, fresh Gulf seafood and Black Angus steaks all in a warm and casual environment offering the best view of Destin Harbor. This is what waterfront dining is all about! The Chile Poblano Crab Enchiladas are out of this world, and the cantina’s Mexican Street Tacos will have you singing! The owner, Judy, will make sure that your experience at Crab Island Cantina is top notch, just like the libations, as Crab Island Cantina has the largest selection of tequilas, margaritas, and imported Latin beer. And of course, all of your favorite tropical drinks are available at the cantina as well! http://crabislandcantina.com/index.html

Your visit to Destin, Florida will not be complete unless you make plans to visit the Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club. This stunning golf course, designed by the lead architect for Arnold Palmer, has been named one of Golf Digest’s “Top Places to Play in North America!” It offers on-course circulating beverage carts, a state-of-the-art Parview GPS system on its golf carts, a clubhouse with a golf shop, chilled apples on the 1st and 10th tees, and mango-scented iced towels. There are also a variety of specials and packages, so be sure to inquire before you go! Another wonderful amenity that general manager, Dan Shelton, offers to players at the Regatta Bay Golf & Country Club is a full-service restaurant! Overlooking Lake Regatta, the Regatta Bay Clubhouse offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a daily happy hour with 2-for-1 drinks. Brad, the restaurant manager, will ensure that your dining experience at the multi-level facility will be on par with all the amazing experiences Destin, Florida will provide for you and your family during your wonderful “Destin-nation” vacation! www.regattabay.com

The post The Ultimate Family “Destin-nation”! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Think beach vacations are only for summer fun?! Wrong! AKA Mom discovered a few hidden treasures that will have you pulling out your calendar and planning your next fall weekend getaway!

Let’s start with where to stay…

I couldn’t have been happier when I came across this amazing new boutique hotel while perusing a “special deals” travel site on the Internet. The reviews were exceptional, the pictures were beautiful and the price was right. The Lotus Inn and Suites was a breath of fresh air… clean, modern and the customer service was an A+. Neal, the property manager, stays on site and is ready to help you with any need you may have. They have a beautiful heated pool, which illuminates in turquoise color at night, a hot tub and fire pit to relax around on a cool fall evening. Pack your marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers and the kids can enjoy S’mores after a swim! Sleek, contemporary and family friendly… this is definitely my new go-to in Daytona!

Now for things to do…

For the Nascar fans in your family, the Daytona International Speedway “All Access Track Tour” is a definite must! The shuttled tour takes around 90 minutes and you get a behind-the-scene look at what makes Daytona International Speedway the World Center of Racing. You’ll get the chance to explore areas such as the Drivers Meeting Room, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Garages, Gatorade Victory Lane and the Houston Lawing Press Box seven stories above the Speedway. Trust me ladies, even if racing isn’t your thing, you will really enjoy learning about it. Just be sure to put the family in comfortable shoes, some walking is involved.

Photo Credits: Daytona International Speedway

They also have several other great opportunities for families from now through Budweiser Speedweeks and the Daytona 500.

• Scout Days at the Roar Before the 24
• Rolex 24 – kids 12 and under are free with adult
• Budweiser Speedweeks 2013: (from Daytona Shootout through the DRIVE4COPD 300 Nationwide Series race) – Kids 12 & under are FREE in general admission grandstands and Sprint FANZONE when accompanied by a paid adult. http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/Tickets-Events/Events/2013/Budweiser-Speedweeks/DRIVE4COPD-300.aspx
• Daytona 500: Kids 12 & under are half price in Superstretch grandstands and FREE in Sprint FANZONE when accompanied by a paid adult.

After dreaming about high speeds at Nascar, take a trip over to Daytona Lagoon and check out the drier side of their park. Strap in and hold on tight and see who’s fastest in the family on the Grand Prix Go-Kart Raceway or score a hole-in-one playing 18 rounds of miniature golf. Just keep an eye on dad if he’s taking score (wink, wink). There is also a huge arcade, a rock wall, laser tag and even a new indoor ride called the Island Hopper. Any place that will keep your kids busy and smiling for hours on end gets two thumbs up from AKA Mom!

Finally, get back to nature and see the “real” side of Florida with Blue Heron River Tours in Deland, Florida. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Daytona Beach but worth every minute! Tucked away on the St. John’s River at Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina, this place is a hidden paradise with a perfect mix of ecology, nature and history.

Our river tour guide, Captain Gary, was super friendly and made the tour informative but also fun with lots of open discussion on the boat. The boat we rode in, called “Great Blue”, was extremely spacious and comfortable– refreshments and binoculars are also available for a small cost. My kids had a great time laughing with Captain Gary (a former school teacher) and are still talking about everything they saw- manatees, a 14 foot alligator, a baby alligator, tons of turtles, blue herons, Anhinga’s, white ibis’s and even an American Bittern. Not to mention all the lush and beautiful landscape and cypress trees we experienced while traveling on an old 1800’s logging canal into the Hontoon Dead River. I have to share that my 9-year-old daughter decided the theme song for the trip was “On the Hontoon… making waves and seeing gators on the logs”. (in the tune of “Pontoon” by Little Big Town) (giggle)

For folks that want to enjoy this beauty for more than a day, Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina offers lodging and accommodations in 18 Riverside Resort Rooms and Suites. Besides the river tour, the resort also offers boat rentals, fishing, kayaking and lots of opportunity for bird watching. This place is truly a “must see”.

As you can see, Daytona has a lot to offer and something everyone will enjoy. AKA Mom gives Daytona an A+ in family fun for fall!

The post Do Daytona… in fall! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Imagine sitting poolside in your own private cabana… a refreshing glass of blueberry lemonade at your side, AKA Mom on your Kindle and your kiddos enjoying water basketball in front of you while you relax and unwind. Sound amazing? It is! And best of all, this piece of paradise is nestled right next to the most magical place on earth! At the Hilton Orlando you are not only able to enjoy a luxurious and family friendly stay but you are surrounded by several of the major attractions that Orlando has to offer – Sea World, Universal Studios Orlando and you guessed it, Walt Disney World.

Hilton Orlando is rated as a AAA Four Diamond hotel, two time Connie Award winner, and has consistently ranked within the top three Orlando-area hotels on TripAdvisor.com rankings and it’s easy to see why. Upon walking into the gorgeous and inviting lobby you can tell right away that this hotel was designed to provide a memorable experience.

Mornings are a delight at The Bistro, Hilton Orlando’s own modern American bistro featuring simple, fresh, and natural food in a comfortable and casual setting. The menu showcases dishes with farm-to-table ingredients, in season, from Florida’s coastal areas. Kids will love the malted waffles in warm maples syrup and parents will love making a trip to the omelet station where the choices are endless! The Bistro is also open for lunch and offers affordable and delicious fare for you and your family!

Stop by The Spa on your way past The Bistro and make an appointment for later for a ReFresh Manicure, Swedish Massage or a “Me Time” Facial. The fitness center is also open to those guests who want to take advantage of their state-of-the-art Precor Cardio equipment, strength training and free weights. All the Precor stations are outfitted with individual flat screen LCD cardio theater units for personal viewing so working out still feels like a vacation.

Start your evening off right with a divine dinner at Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops. With a wide variety of handcrafted dishes you’ll have trouble deciding between the Kansas City Strip and the Lobster Two Ways. But not to worry, Spencer’s also has plenty of choices to accommodate the little tummies at your table! Chef Kevin Spencer makes sure all his customers are taken care of… big or small! When it comes to wonderful service, ask for Che! Che is a server at Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops and he will make you feel on top of the world with his Class A service and welcoming smile.

After a good nights sleep in one of Hilton’s Serenity Beds which includes an exclusive Suite Dreams mattress and box spring, Super Topper mattress pad, down-filled comforters, Touch of Down pillows and 250 thread-count sheets and duvet covers, you’ll all be ready to head down to the pool for the day. Enjoy a mojito or citrus sangria from Tropics Pool Bar & Grill or grab a snow cone for the kiddos. There’s something for everyone to do with a lazy river, loopy waterslide, frog fountain and recreation courts. Later that night, move over by the fire and eat some S’mores! Yummy!!

Family vacations are all about making memories and building relationships. And if couture comfort and a family focused atmosphere is what you are looking for, AKA Mom thinks Hilton Orlando is the perfect destination!

Make your reservation today at www.thehiltonorlando.com!

The post Family Friendly Luxury in Orlando appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.