Living on the Gulf: Your Guide to Luxury Coastal Living on the Emerald Coast

The market for Sandestin real estate is hot right now. Many people are enamored by the thought of purchasing luxury property along the beach and living on the Emerald Coast. Perhaps the thought has crossed your mind, and you’re wondering what it could be like to live in the area. This article will give you an introduction to life on the Gulf Coast as you think about taking the next step and shopping for Sandestin condos.

First of all, it’s helpful to define what the Emerald Coast actually is. The Emerald Coast stretches around 100 miles through five counties along the coast of the Florida Panhandle. Escambia, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, and Santa Rosa are all considered part of the Emerald Coast. This area includes cities such as Pensacola, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City Beach, Sandestin, and Navarre. The region received its name for the emerald-colored water that you can see from the area’s beaches. Now that it’s clear what cities and regions make up the Emerald Coast, here are a few things to know about what life on the Emerald Coast is like.

You’ll find beaches throughout the entire state of Florida, but there’s something different about the beaches along the Emerald Coast. These areas aren’t quite as developed as beaches in other parts of the state. You won’t find as many condos or businesses near the coast, which gives you more room to stretch out and enjoy a relaxing day splashing in the waves or soaking up the sun. With miles of coastline in the area, you can always find a space when the beach isn’t very crowded, even on weekends and holidays. Many of the area’s best beaches are free to access. Because the climate is pleasant throughout the majority of the year, most Emerald Coast residents find that they can continue to enjoy the beach throughout the year, with the exception of two or three months during the coldest part of winter. The white sand provides the perfect contrast to the emerald-colored waters to create one of the most beautiful coastlines you’ll see anywhere in the world.

In some large cities, it can seem like the population is always feeling rushed or stressed. This isn’t the case on the Emerald Coast, where you’ll see more people wearing swimsuits and flip-flops and fewer people wearing suits and ties. The area seems to acclimate itself to a pace of life suitable for beach living. Time often moves a little slower on the Emerald Coast, and most residents prefer this slower pace.

Yacht excursions are a favorite activity among many Emerald Coast residents. You’re guaranteed to have a tremendous experience regardless of where you choose to store your boat or which company you choose to rent from. Legendary Marina is one of the area’s most popular choices. Members of Legendary Marina’s yacht club enjoy unlimited in-and-out privileges along with the largest dry storage facility in the entire country. Golfers can purchase a membership from Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club to take advantage of unlimited rounds at the tremendous Par-72 course in addition to privileges at Legendary Marina. Other top local options include Marbella Yacht Club, Sunshine Yacht Cruises, and Emerald Coast Yacht Club. Sunshine and Emerald Coast each offer yacht rentals for anyone who doesn’t own a boat but wants to experience an afternoon or evening on a yacht.

Emerald Beach has plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from. Most of the top restaurants are in Destin and Fort Walton Beach, but you can find something new and delicious to enjoy regardless of where on the coast you find yourself. AJ’s Oyster Shanty in Fort Walton Beach is a top choice among seafood fans for its crab claws and smoked tuna dip. If you’re looking for a brunch spot, consider trying Asiago Skillet. The local favorite has locations in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach. Try the Steak Skillet with potatoes, peppers, and onions if you have a strong appetite. If you prefer a sweet breakfast, they have excellent pancakes as well.

As much as you love the idea of spending all day at the beach, there comes a time when you need to check out some of the best shops and boutiques in town. Start your Emerald Coast shopping excursion at Destin Commons. Here you’ll find an open-air mall with over 40 stores and a 14-screen movie theater. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also a miniature train and a nautical-themed amusement park onsite. The two-story Bass Pro Shop has all of the outdoor gear that you’ll need for your next adventure, and there’s also a massive aquarium inside that your kids will want to see. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin Town Center is also a must-see. Located nearby the Sandestin Resort, the Sandestin Town Center is home to several well-known national brands like Chicos and Tommy Bahama. They also have several unique local shops as well as multiple restaurants, and a 10-screen movie theater. You’ll want to check out the Ovation Dining Club for an especially unique and memorable dining experience.

Brad Hilderbrand is an expert when it comes to the Emerald Coast. He has spent the past ten years helping people buy and sell Sandestin real estate. He takes pride in providing the highest levels of customer service to each of his clients. He wants each buyer and seller to accomplish their real estate goals and experience luxury coastal living. Reach out to Brad when you’re ready to start shopping for Sandestin condos.