9 Best Family Friendly Resorts in Destin Florida
Planning a beach getaway with the kids? You’re probably searching for that sweet spot — the kind of vacation where the whole family can unplug, unwind, and actually enjoy themselves. Well, you’re in luck! In this guide, we’re diving into the best family friendly resorts in Destin Florida — the kind that make travel with kids feel less like work and more like fun.
I’ve been there — scrolling through endless websites late at night, trying to find a spot that checks all the boxes: fun for the kids, relaxing for the adults, and preferably not a logistical nightmare. If you’re dreaming of sugar-white sand, emerald waters, and a place where everyone from toddlers to teens (and yes, parents too) can unwind and have a blast, you’re in the right place. Destin, Florida is a hidden gem on the Emerald Coast and it’s loaded with fun, sun, and some seriously awesome places to stay. It’s beachfront, beautiful, and super family-friendly — basically a stress-free zone.
What Makes a Resort Truly Family-Friendly?
We didn’t just randomly pick resorts off a map — each one made this list based on the stuff that really matters to families. Here’s what we looked for:
- Safety and Convenience: Proximity to the beach, kid-safe pools, and secure environments.
- Kid-Centric Amenities: Splash pads, kids’ clubs, game rooms, and family pools.
- Room to Breathe: Spacious suites, condo-style setups, or bunk-bed options.
- Fun On-Site Activities: Things to do without needing to leave the resort.
- Parent Perks: Dining options, spas, and even babysitting for a little adult time.
- Great Reviews: Resorts that are consistently loved by real families, not just travel magazines.
- Value for Money: We’ve marked approximate price ranges using $ symbols ($ = budget, $$$$ = luxury).
Alright, let’s break down the best of the best — and trust me, you’re going to want to keep scrolling for the hidden gems toward the end!
Henderson Beach Resort & Spa
Price range: $$$$
Let’s kick things off with a resort that perfectly blends sophistication with seaside fun.
Want a vacation that feels like a five-star escape but still welcomes bare feet and beach toys? Henderson Beach Resort balances elegance with approachability in the best way. This resort is steps away from Henderson Beach State Park, so you get miles of untouched beach and breathtaking sunsets.
Family Highlights:
- Beautiful, quiet stretch of beach
- Zero-entry family pool and splash pad
- Complimentary bikes (perfect for family rides)
- On-site dining and ice cream shop (yes, please!)
- Kid-centric activities and seasonal events
This place feels a little more upscale, but still super welcoming for kids. It’s the kind of resort where you can sip wine on the balcony while your kids crash out after a full day of fun.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Price range: $$$$
Hilton Sandestin is one of those fan-favorite resorts where you check in and instantly feel at ease — everything you need is right at your fingertips. It’s like a resort cruise on land. From award-winning dining to the luxurious Serenity by the Sea Spa, this place caters to parents and kids alike. The sprawling beachfront makes it easy to build sandcastles all day or lounge while the little ones splash in the waves.
Why Families Love It:
- Kid-friendly indoor and outdoor pools
- On-site kids club (great if mom and dad want a spa day)
- Babysitting services
- Multiple dining options, including kid-approved menus
- Lazy River
- Easy access to beach activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling
The rooms are spacious, and if you can snag a suite with a bunk bed area, you’ll be a hero in your kids’ eyes.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Price range: $$$
Despite the similarity in their names, this resort is entirely different from the first one on our list — offering a unique experience with its own distinct charm and amenities.
Think of this as an entire beach village designed for families. It’s not just a resort — it’s practically a whole coastal town full of activities, lodging options, and things to explore. The diversity of options here is huge: you can stay in a beachfront condo, a lakeside villa, or even a full house within the resort.
What Makes It Great for Families:
- Multiple accommodation options (from hotel rooms to full condos)
- Four golf courses, tennis courts, and a marina
- Club KZ, the resort’s kids’ program
- Lots of biking paths and space to explore
- Tram service to take you all over the property
There’s even a little village on-site — Baytowne Wharf — filled with shops, restaurants, a playground, zip line, and arcade. Honestly, you may never need to leave the resort.
Pelican Beach Resort
Price range: $$
Not looking for frills but still want that “ahhh, we’re finally on vacation” feeling? Pelican Beach delivers with big comfort, prime location, and wallet-friendly convenience. These are condo-style units with homey amenities that make family travel a lot easier.
Why It Works for Families:
- Full kitchens (hello, easy breakfasts and snacks!)
- Large pool and kiddie pool
- Steps from the beach
- Close to Big Kahuna’s Water Park (walkable!)
- Plenty of space for families to spread out
If your idea of a good vacation includes some home-cooked meals and beachfront balcony sunsets, this one’s worth a look.
Waterscape Resort (Okaloosa Island)
Price range: $$
Imagine a waterpark and a resort had a baby — that’s Waterscape. Though technically on Okaloosa Island, it’s minutes from Destin and tailor-made for families with kids. The main draw is the massive pool complex that will keep your little ones entertained for hours.
Kid-Friendly Features:
- Massive pool area with a lazy river, splash pad, and waterfall features
- Direct beach access
- Grills and picnic areas for beachside dinners
- Fully equipped condos
- Included beach chair service
Families rave about this place. It’s colorful, fun, and super practical if you’re traveling with little kids. Plus, there are always other families around — instant playmates for the kids.
The Island Resort by Hotel RL (Okaloosa Island)
Price range: $$
Looking for that fun, tropical vibe with family-ready perks? The Island Resort blends energetic atmosphere with a laid-back feel your whole crew will love. The design is bright, modern, and full of playful elements that kids will enjoy.
What You’ll Love:
- Grotto-style pool with waterfall and swim-up bar (for parents!)
- Dive-in movie nights
- Mermaid and pirate shows
- Direct beach access and beach games
- On-site dining that’s casual and kid-friendly
It’s lively, it’s playful, and the location puts you close to both Destin and Fort Walton attractions.
Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa
Price range: $$$$
If you’re after a place that feels like a luxury retreat but still has room for beach toys and juice boxes, Silver Shells strikes the perfect balance. The resort offers huge condos with all the comforts of home, plus a few dreamy extras.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Massive lagoon pool and kiddie area
- Spacious condos with kitchens
- Indoor/outdoor pools, spa, and fitness center
- Tennis and basketball courts
- On-site dining including Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and beachside bar
Right next to Henderson Beach State Park, this upscale resort offers privacy, comfort, and an easygoing atmosphere.
Surfside Resort
Price range: $$
Surfside keeps things simple and sweet. It’s a condo-style resort perfect for families who want easy access to the beach and practical amenities that make life on vacation easier. The units are privately owned, giving you a variety of styles and sizes to choose from.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Condo units with kitchens and washers/dryers
- Heated pool, kiddie pool, hot tubs
- Private beach access via skywalk
- Tennis, basketball, volleyball, and shuffleboard courts
- On-site dining and easy parking
It’s perfect for families who want a mix of affordability, space, and beach proximity.
Seascape Resort (Miramar Beach)
Price range: $$ – $$$
Seascape Resort in Miramar Beach is one of Destin’s most dynamic and family-ready resort communities. This expansive property spans over 300 acres and gives families a lot of flexibility in how they vacation.
Why Families Enjoy It:
- Multiple pools and beach access
- Condo-style units with kitchens and living space
- Golf course, tennis, biking trails
- Dining and shopping on site
Within Seascape, you’ll find options like Ariel Dunes, Tennis Village, and Lakefront Villas — each catering to different family sizes, travel styles, and budgets.
- Ariel Dunes: High-rise condos with sweeping Gulf views, ideal for families who want modern amenities and quick beach access. Ariel Dunes is comparable to Majestic Sun in terms of layout and location, but with a sleeker, more contemporary design and slightly newer interiors., ideal for families who want modern amenities and quick beach access.
- Tennis Village: Great for active families who want to be close to the courts and enjoy a quieter, laid-back atmosphere.
- Lakefront Villas: These offer a more serene, nature-inspired stay with peaceful views and easy access to both the lake and resort amenities.
One of the standout buildings here is Majestic Sun.
Spotlight: Majestic Sun at Seascape
Majestic Sun is a fan-favorite condo building within the Seascape Resort, known for its stunning views and resort-style amenities. Many families choose Majestic Sun for its ideal blend of comfort and convenience.
Iconic twin-tower building with beach views
Indoor/outdoor heated pool and hot tubs
Private balconies with Gulf views
Seascape is a versatile, spread-out property perfect for families who want room to roam and options to explore.
Which Resort Should You Choose in Destin?
A Quick Summary Based on Priorities
Still not sure which one’s for you? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you pick:
- For a full-service, everything-you-need resort: Go with Hilton Sandestin.
- For luxury and serenity: Henderson Beach Resort is upscale but still kid-friendly.
- For lots of variety and space to explore: Choose Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort or Seascape.
- For waterpark-style fun and younger kids: Waterscape Resort wins big.
- For convenience and kitchens on a budget: Pelican Beach and Surfside offer family-friendly value.
- For a lively, tropical, entertainment-heavy vibe: Pick The Island Resort.
- For a luxurious condo-style experience: Silver Shells combines space and style beautifully.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to family friendly resorts in Destin Florida, you really can’t go wrong. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back condo with a beach view or a full-blown resort with every amenity under the sun, there’s something here for every family.
My advice? Think about what matters most for your vacation — whether that’s peace and quiet, endless kid activities, or being able to walk to the beach in under two minutes. Then pick your resort accordingly.
Destin is calling. Grab the sunscreen, load up the minivan, and get ready to make some beachy memories your kids will never forget.
Happy vacationing!