The Emerald Coast, aptly named for the brilliant blue-green waters that lap its shores, is home to Destin, Florida. One of the best Gulf Coast beaches to vacation, this destination beckons millions of visitors each year to stay in the plethora of Destin vacation rentals available on and around its beautiful beaches. It is the perfect place for those interested in pure, white-sand beaches without the distraction of over-the-top tourist attractions.

Destin has so much pristine coastline to enjoy, but Henderson Beach State Park in the eastern part of the city is one of the best Gulf Coast beaches here to visit. Admission to the park is on a per car basis and the small entry fee is worth it to relax amongst swaying dunes and sand pines. Boardwalks give visitors access to excellent swimming, sunbathing and fishing spots, and there are pavilions for picnicking and grilling spread out around the grounds. Henderson Beach even has air conditioned and heated bathhouse facilities open to vacationers year-round. Although there are no lifeguards on duty at this beach, colored flags are posted along the shoreline and indicate the swimming conditions at that time.

The area got its start as a small fishing village, and it has not lost its appeal for vacationers that look forward to spending enjoyable days fishing at one of the top beaches on the Gulf Coast. The city’s underwater population is vast, and the surrounding waters teem with trout, grouper, and flounder, among many other types of fish. Choose between casting a line from a spot in the sand or venture out to the deep seas off shore to reel in fresh catch during one of your vacation days.