Tesla finally opened a new supercharger after a 6 year long wait. Tesla owners can use the superchargers between WinnDixie and Mimmos.
News from 2018 below
Good and long time awaited news. Today we have checked Tesla’s Supercharger growth map and happily saw that Destin Florida is now in their plans for 2020 (update: it keeps getting delayed and not open as of 01/2022). As a Tesla owner, it will save me from using the other slow charger locations in Destin
We always get the questions about ‘craft coffee shops’, ‘best coffee in Destin’ and of course where is the nearest Starbucks. Best coffee can be subjective, and Starbucks is an easy Google search. Hence we will tell you about the crafted coffee in Destin.
Maas Coffee Roasters Destin: A bespoke beach town coffee shop and artisanal roaster. The Gulf Coast’s premiere small batch roaster. They have a location in Fort Walton Beach and opened one in Destin, complementing the original location opened by Jim Maas in Fort Walton Beach. The new Destin coffee shop is located behind Walmart.
East Pass Coffee Company: Providing a menu inspired by traditional items with a creative twist, East Pass offers craft coffee, breakfast, lunch, local beer, and wine. East Pass’ mission is to create beautiful memories with customers who feel like family, grow with the community and brighten their patrons’ days, one delicious cup of coffee at a time.
Camille’s Café & Coffee Shop: One of their locations is on Crystal Beach – a small cafe- near the beach (no beach view). The menu includes wraps, grilled Paninis, deli-style sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, soups, salads, smoothies, desserts, and a selection of coffees and teas. Camille’s morning menu also features a large variety of breakfast wraps, daily fresh-squeezed orange juice, and other delicious breakfast items.
Destin Coffee Co: Serving coffee between 8am-noon, Destin Coffee is a locally owned and operated coffee company producing some of the freshest coffee on the Emerald Coast. They specialize in craft coffee; roasting small batches and single origin coffees.
The Patch Coffee Cafe: Located in Miramar Beach, their baristas are passionate about coffee and dedicated to providing exceptional service. They’ll gladly guide you through our menu, helping you find the perfect beverage to suit your preferences. From a classic espresso to a decadent flavored latte, every sip is crafted with care.
Capriccio Cafe: Capriccio Cafe specializes in gourmet coffee, pastries, crepes, sandwiches, and salads. Their coffee, meats, and cheeses are imported from Italy. They are a locally owned Italian Café in the heart of Destin, offering healthy gourmet sandwiches with specialty meats and cheeses.
2 Birds Coffee + Café: is a locally owned, casual stop for coffee aficionados and anyone interested in a simple, yet refined bite to eat located in Miramar Beach. Their coffee-forward café serves classic espresso drinks, breakfast & lunch. Homemade pastries and fried PB&J sandwiches top the menu for those looking for a delectable treat. A selection of breakfast toasts (think sourdough, avocado, olive oil and sea salt) along with sandwiches and grain bowls round out the menu for the healthy-ish visitor.
Destin and Fort Falton Beach Webcams are great ways to watch the weather and crowds before you begin your travel. Weather forecast may not always give the best idea, it may show rain but actual rain may be just an hour. So it is always fun to check different points from below links. The Destin Webcams links may change from time to time but we try to keep them updated for our vacation rental guests.
With the personal touch of our Boutique Management
What you see is what you get, no surprises like you had with big management companies.
You can check the Destin Beach Webcams, Okaloosa Island, Miramar Beach and Fort Walton Beach Webcams below (some of them may be disabled from time to time):
See the live beaches from beach webcams
Pelican Beach Resort Destin Webcam
Pelican Beach Resort is one of the best resorts known for its amenities and proximity to Destin. Crystal clear waters and a white sand beach is waiting for you.
Waterscape Resort Okaloosa Webcam
Waterscape Condominiums are tucked on the white-sand shores of Okaloosa Island, just under three miles from downtown Fort Walton Beach
Destin Bridge Webcam
Destin Bridge offers the best views and hosts Crap Island next to hit with a lot of water activities
Henderson ParkWebcam
Enjoy a majestic shoreline anchored by 30-foot, snow-white sand dunes where basking in the Florida sun or wading into warm gulf waters is the order of each and every day.
HarborWalk Village is Destin, Florida’s lively entertainment center and the perfect waterfront place to be for guests and residents looking for endless fun.
AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar is always serving the best oysters, serving the best food, serving the best drinks and playing the best live music in the Destin
Destin, Florida, known for its pristine white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters, is a paradise for beach lovers. While not everyone can visit Destin in person, technology allows us to experience the breathtaking beauty of this coastal gem through Destin Beach webcams. These live-streaming cameras provide a virtual window into the stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere that make Destin a sought-after destination.
The Allure of Destin Beach:
Destin Beach has long been a favorite among vacationers for its unparalleled beauty and recreational opportunities. With its powdery white sands stretching along the Gulf of Mexico, the beach offers a perfect setting for relaxation, water activities, and memorable moments with family and friends. Whether you’re a sunbather, a water sports enthusiast, or someone seeking tranquility by the sea, Destin Beach has something for everyone.
Webcams: Bringing Destin to You:
Destin’s webcams act as a portal for those who wish to experience the beach’s charm remotely. These live-streaming cameras are strategically placed to capture different perspectives of Destin Beach, allowing viewers to witness the ebb and flow of the tides, the play of sunlight on the waves, and the comings and goings of beachgoers.
Benefits of Destin Beach Webcams:
Real-Time Views: Destin Beach webcams provide real-time footage, allowing viewers to stay connected with the beach at any time. Whether it’s sunrise, sunset, or a busy day at the shore, these webcams offer a live glimpse into the dynamic beauty of Destin.
Weather Monitoring: The webcams also serve as valuable tools for monitoring weather conditions. Visitors and locals alike can check the live feed to gauge the current weather, helping them plan their outdoor activities accordingly.
Virtual Exploration: For those unable to visit Destin in person, the webcams offer a virtual way to explore the beach and its surroundings. It’s a fantastic opportunity to plan future vacations, share the beauty of Destin with friends and family, or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility from afar.
Event Watching: Destin hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. With the help of webcams, people can witness these events remotely, whether it’s a beach party, a fireworks display, or a sandcastle competition.
Harborwalk village (a.k.a Destin Boardwalk) is in the heart of Destin, with a lot of attractions, restaurants and shopping. It stretches over the shore with its boardwalk, so it is a good venue to walk around. It also hosts the marina to all fishing boats and fishing shows.
In 2008, Del Sol was the first retail space to open in Legendary Inc.’s $250 million mixed use project that already included the Emerald Grande. It was soon followed by Sawyer Art Gallery, Harry T’s, KittyHawk Kites, Commander’s Palace and other food and retail stores. HarborWalk Village actually began over 40 years ago in 1972.
With so many things to do in Destin; here you can find waterfront shopping, paddle board and kayak rentals, pontoon and jet ski rentals, parasailing, glass bottom boats, world class fishing, pirate ship excursions, dolphin cruises, concerts and live music, weekly fireworks, weekly Fat Tuesday parades, live entertainment, and an array of restaurants, including Jimmy Buffets Margaritaville and Harry Ts, to satisfy all tastes.
There are many activities for kids in peak season, including a long zip line, ice cream vendors, bouncing. Parking is also convenient, but $10. Years ago, the city of Destin began charging to park in city parking lots. People then began parking at the Harborwalk to avoid the fee. Store sales went down dramatically after this so they decided to implement a parking fee. Zerbe Street Parking Lot (corner of Zerbe and Silbert Avenue) is located across the street from Harborwalk Village, behind McGuire’s Irish Pub. It is open weekdays and weekends and is free to park.
The Harborwalk Theater is a performing arts theater at the Harborwalk Village. They host magic, comedy, and hypnosis shows. It is owned and operated by Heather and Noah Wells, two award-winning illusionists. They even have a magic school for children!
Located in Harborwalk Village, the zip line tower is around 500’ distance from the top to the end of the line and is held between two 80’+ 100′ foot steel towers. It is fitted with LED lights to maximize your experience at night. Because it has two towers, it is capable of allowing two people to ride, simultaneously. This is great if you want to enjoy the experience with friends or family.
Fireworks are scheduled for every Thursday evening during the summer. Also, many holidays and events will get a fireworks show.
Fat Tuesdays are in summer. There are themed floats, beads, and anyone can get in on the action. The festivities begin at 7 PM and the parade starts at 8:30 PM. It’s a crazy experience so you better get there early!
You can check the Harborwalk Village webcam from our webcams list.
Electric vehicles (EV) are becoming more and more popular. in 2022, 1% of the light vehicles driven are EVs in the US. With the sales projections, this number is expected to reach 45% by 2050. Thanks to their ranges getting extended, vacationers can now drive there to their destinations. The main constraint is that a decent size battery needs to be charged for 8-9 hours if a Level 2 charge is used. This creates a demand for condominiums and vacation rental homes to install EV chargers so that the guests can charge during their overnight stay. That also means that a property with an EV charger may be targeted by a search made by the guest. Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com all introduced these as amenities in their systems, while it was not there a few years ago
EV chargers have different cost components. Initial investment or lease, annual subscription or maintenance costs and finally the utility bills. The last component, the utility bill is very easily transferred to the guest if an EV Charger with billing system is used. In many states, EV chargers are exempt from electric resale regulations hence even a profit is possible to add on top.
All of these companies share the revenue with you; you getting around 80% to 96% of the revenue. Per kWh rate can be set from the system, as well as any possible idle fees to make sure user does not leave the EV parked there after charging is completed.
We have been researching Level 2 (40-50 amperes@240VAC) EV Chargers for Pelican Beach Resort, and I wanted to share the options there along with pros and cons. This is not a comprehensive list but a few companies for comparison and decision making purposes. There are zillion alternatives there, and when you read this blog; it may well be two zillion by then.
So here we go:
OK2Charge targets hotels, apartment communities, resorts, SFR communities and BnBs in their marketing. They have partnered with several property management platforms such as Ownerrez. This enables host to add their guests info into the system so they can initiate charging.
OK2Charge Level 2 charging stations are built on Enel Way’s Juicebox charger hardware. They implement their own software on them, and put a unique QR code on each charger. The user can scan this QR code and can initiate charging by putting in his payment details. This is an advantage for me as I prefer not to use ten different apps to charge my car. It works with Wifi, so there is no sim-card in it. Hence you need to have a good coverage.
You pay for charger itself, a pedestal if you need one and also annual subscription fee.
Very similar to OK2Charge, EV Passport has their own Ezra hardware which is more square in shape. You pay for the charger, annual subscription; find an installer and have it installed. It also works with QR code without a need for any app. The difference between O2Charge and EV Passport besides their hardware and software is that EV Passport comes with 2 years warranty. EV Passport hardware also comes with a simcard in them so you are not restricted to Wi-Fi. In case of failure, you again need to send the unit in for repair. Pricing is also similar to OK2Charge. It is not integrated to any PMS (Property Management System)
ChargePoint is probably the most common commercial EV charger in the US. They have a wide network of commercial and private chargers. You need to use their app to begin charging and top money to the account. Their model is also different compared to others. You lease the chargers from ChargePoint with a commitment of 5 years. The monthly payments cover the initial equipment installation, subscription payments and also on site warranty and maintenance. You still need to do the electric work by yourself. In this model, cost of first year ownership is similar to others but 5 year total cost of ownership becomes much more. But that includes the convenience of on site maintenance. You also never own the equipment. Once your lease ends and if you decide to extend it; they will likely install newer technology equipment.
EVConnect was the only company which offered both purchase and lease of their equipment. The lease cost is similar to ChargePoint, and in case of ownership, the equipment comes with 2 years warranty buy you can pay for extended warranty and onsite maintenance with commitments of 3 and 5 years. If you buy the chargers, their chargers are more expensive compared to OK2Charge and EVPassport. EV Connect uses an app to start the charging and we saw very good reviews of their app in App Store. These are the highest paying folks when it comes to revenue sharing, at 96%.
We also researched SemaConnect, unfortunately their app was very low rated at App Store. Eoslinx is another company building advertisement panels together with their chargers and said that they plan to roll out the residential integration program Q1 of 2023.
We never got any response from EnviroSpark, Evgo and Wallbox.
Destin, Florida, is a coastal paradise known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culinary scene. Here are some of the restaurants we enjoyed in Destin, offering a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences:
McGuire’s Irish Pub: A local favorite, McGuire’s Irish Pub is not only known for its hearty Irish fare but also for its fun and festive atmosphere. Enjoy traditional Irish dishes, handcrafted beers, and the unique décor that includes thousands of signed dollar bills adorning the walls.
Louisiana Lagniappe: Specializing in Gulf Coast cuisine with a Louisiana twist, Louisiana Lagniappe is a waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and steaks. The intimate setting and attentive service make it a popular choice for a memorable dining experience.
Harbor Docks: A Destin institution, Harbor Docks has been serving fresh seafood since 1979. Located on the harbor, this casual restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with an extensive menu featuring a variety of seafood dishes, sushi, and daily specials.
The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House: Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, The Back Porch is a beachside restaurant with a focus on fresh seafood. Known for its Gulf-to-Table philosophy, this family-friendly spot offers a relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunset views. Long wait lines.
Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House: With a prime location on the Destin Harbor, Boshamps combines Southern hospitality with Gulf-inspired cuisine. Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, including oysters, shrimp, and freshly caught fish, while taking in the scenic harbor views. Somehow long wait lines.
Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant: A local seafood institution, Dewey Destin’s offers a laid-back atmosphere with a menu highlighting the bounty of the Gulf. Dine on the outdoor deck overlooking the harbor for a true coastal experience.
Camille’s at Crystal Beach: Known for its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere, Camille’s at Crystal Beach is a popular choice for those seeking a diverse selection of dishes. From sushi to creative small plates, the menu caters to a variety of tastes. Small cafe.
AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar: Situated on the Destin Harbor, AJs Seafood & Oyster Bar is a lively spot with a menu featuring fresh seafood, oysters, and Southern-inspired dishes. The outdoor deck is perfect for enjoying live music and harbor views.
Vue on 30a: For an upscale dining experience with panoramic views of the Gulf, Vue on 30a is a top choice. Known for its elegant ambiance and contemporary coastal cuisine, this restaurant offers a sophisticated setting for special occasions.
Cuvee Kitchen + Wine Bar: Cuvee Kitchen + Wine Bar combines a chic atmosphere with a diverse menu featuring creative dishes and an extensive wine list. The restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and offers a refined culinary experience.
Crab Trap: The Crab Trap Destin is the original Gulf front seafood restaurant. Located at James Lee Park, this busy beach side establishment is perfect for any occasion. Long wait lines.
Pompano Joe: Vibrant eatery offering Caribbean-style seafood & tropical cocktails in laid-back space. Long wait lines.
Brotulas: Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer is a locally-owned & operated, casual, family friendly seafood restaurant on the Destin Harbor.
Bayou Bill’s Crab House: At Bayou Bills Crab House you’ll find the most delicious locally sourced fish, shrimp, oysters, the Choctawhatchee Blue Crab, all locally sourced from our coastal waters right here, along with first choice cold water crabs and lobster tails sourced in the USA!
Stinky’s Fish Camp
The Whale’s Tail Beach Bar
Mitchell’s Fish Market
Buster’s Oyster Bar
Ocean Club Restaurant (live entertainment on select nights)
Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood
Fat Clemenza’s
Kenny D’s Beach Bar
Bijoux
Aegean (Greek)
Pazzo Italiano
LaFamiglia
These restaurants in Destin showcase the rich culinary diversity of the area, from fresh seafood and Gulf-inspired dishes to international flavors. Whether you’re looking for a casual beachside spot or an upscale dining experience, Destin has something to satisfy every palate.
Since I established my business Destin Condo Rentals by Owner to rent our Pelican Beach Resort Condos, I have listed it with several channels. Here is a comparison with my experience. I need to remind you that all channels will incur 3% credit card fees and also will not properly protect you against chargebacks.
Channel
Cost
PROs
CONs
Booking.com group
15% of booking
High exposure Customer support Promotions and boosters Dispute commissions Gap filler
Self collection of funds Declining CCs 24 wait to cancel declined cards Content by their writers
Expedia group
15% of booking
Customer support Promotions and boosters Easy to cancel bookings Dispute commissions Gap filler
Lower exposure Fees to guest are not transparent
VRBO/Homeaway
$699/yr or 5%
Popular for longer trips Very flexible in content Deposit can be adjusted Immediate payments Guest details upon booking
Cost going up every year Exposure going down Available cancellation policies
Airbnb
None
Very flexible content Superhost program Guest details upon booking
Payments after check-in 48h grace period Available cancellation policies Free cancellations during state emergencies
Flipkey/Tripadvisor
None
Deposit can be adjusted Longer rentals Request review from anyone
Guest details upon final payment Payments after check-in 24h grace period
Tripz.com and ECBYO.com
$300+ listing fees
Request review from anyone
No bookings came so far Cannot quote for whole booking
Houfy.com
Began charging listing fees
New site with different mindset Can quote whole booking Import VRBO/Airbnb listings and reviews
Destin, Florida, renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and emerald green waters, is not just a coastal paradise for sun-seekers. This charming city along the Gulf of Mexico offers an equally appealing array of shopping opportunities. From upscale boutiques and brand-name outlets to charming local shops, Destin’s shopping scene has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a delightful journey through the retail treasures that make shopping in Destin an unforgettable experience.
Destin Commons is a shopping and entertainment hub that combines retail therapy with family-friendly attractions. This open-air lifestyle center boasts a wide variety of stores, including national brands like H&M, Sephora, and Lush, alongside unique boutiques. Visitors can stroll through the beautifully landscaped area and discover fashion, accessories, home décor, and more. The complex also features a range of dining options and entertainment choices, making it an ideal destination for a full day of fun.
For those seeking the best deals and discounts on designer brands, Silver Sands Premium Outlets is a shopping haven. With over 100 designer and name-brand outlet stores, you can find everything from high-end fashion to housewares at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re a fashionista or a bargain hunter, this shopping destination is sure to fulfill your retail desires. Brands like Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, and Coach often offer significant discounts that make shopping here a must for savvy shoppers.
Nestled in the picturesque Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, The Market Shops is a quaint shopping destination with a unique selection of stores. This charming center features local boutiques that showcase artisanal crafts, jewelry, and fashion. It’s also a great spot for enjoying a leisurely meal, as it houses several dining options with both indoor and outdoor seating. The Market Shops offer a more intimate shopping experience, perfect for those looking to explore a variety of local and niche products.
Not only is HarborWalk Village a bustling entertainment and dining complex, but it’s also a great place for shopping. Perched on the scenic Destin Harbor, this vibrant destination features a mix of retail shops with a coastal flair. You can find everything from swimwear and beach accessories to souvenirs and local artwork. It’s a great spot to pick up some coastal mementos to remember your visit to Destin.
Local Boutiques
Destin is teeming with charming local boutiques that showcase the unique character of this coastal community. Stores like Duckies Shop of Fun, Island Clothiers, and Beach Bums offer a distinct blend of beach-inspired clothing, accessories, and home décor. These boutiques often carry one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else, making them perfect for finding that special souvenir or gift.
Destin, Florida, isn’t just a beach lover’s paradise; it’s also a shopper’s dream. With a diverse array of shopping experiences, from upscale outlets to local boutiques, this coastal city offers retail therapy for every taste and budget. Whether you’re hunting for designer deals or seeking out coastal keepsakes, Destin’s shopping scene is sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience. So, while you’re enjoying the sun and surf, don’t forget to indulge in a little retail adventure to make your Destin vacation complete.
Imagine sinking your toes into the soft, warm sand, listening to the gentle rhythm of ocean waves, and sipping on a perfectly crafted cocktail in a tropical oasis. Welcome to Pelican Beach Resort beachfront Tiki Bar, where relaxation meets paradise, and every sip is an escape. Nestled along the pristine shores of our beach, our Tiki Bar is a vibrant, open-air haven where you can unwind, socialize, and indulge in the ultimate beachfront experience.
Tropical Ambiance
As you step into our Tiki Bar, you’ll be transported to a world of casual elegance and island-inspired charm. Our thatched roof, adorned with tiki torches, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a faraway Polynesian paradise. The rhythmic melodies of live island music fill the air, setting the perfect backdrop for your beachside retreat.
Cocktails to Savor
Our talented mixologists take pride in crafting a tantalizing array of signature cocktails that capture the essence of the tropics. From classic piña coladas and mai tais to innovative creations that infuse local flavors, our drink menu offers a taste of the Caribbean right on the beach. Savor the refreshing tang of a freshly muddled mojito or indulge in the smooth sophistication of a rum punch while soaking up the sun.
Delightful Beach Bites
Pair your tropical libations with delectable beachside bites from our Tiki Bar’s menu. For those seeking a heartier option, our menu features delicious beach burgers, island-inspired sandwiches, and savory shareable pizzas that will satisfy any appetite.
Sunsets and Stargazing
As the day transitions into evening, our Tiki Bar becomes the perfect vantage point to witness breathtaking sunsets over the horizon. There’s nothing quite like watching the sun dip below the sea while enjoying a handcrafted cocktail in the company of friends and loved ones. After the sun goes down, stay a little longer and gaze at the stars above while sipping on an after-dinner drink.
Beachfront Bliss
Our beachfront Tiki Bar offers more than just drinks and food; it’s a place where you can relax, socialize, and embrace the laid-back beach lifestyle. Lounge in tables and chairs and let the gentle sea breeze caress your skin as you immerse yourself in the coastal ambiance.
At our beachfront Tiki Bar, we invite you to escape from the everyday and embrace the magic of the beach. Whether you’re seeking a place to unwind after a day of sun-soaked adventures or a spot to gather with friends and family, our Tiki Bar is the ultimate destination. With handcrafted cocktails, delicious cuisine, live music, it’s an experience that captures the essence of tropical paradise. Come join us at our Tiki Bar and let the beach become your favorite escape.