As you drive to Destin, before you hit the sky rises and touristy spots you will stumble onto the beautiful Henderson Beach Resort, nestled right next to the Henderson Beach State Park Nature Reserve. This tucked away luxury seaside resort will have you never wanting to leave and booking your next trip on the way out. 

Henderson Beach Resort is a vacation destination, which means that its purpose is to activate relaxation mode and take a step away from the day to day grind. With so much to enjoy at your fingertips, you don’t have to worry about even leaving the resort if you don’t want to. The exquisite emerald waters and white sand beaches are in your backyard as well as many dining options on property, multiple pools and the spa. 

The rooms capture the coastal vibe while maintaining the elegance that Henderson Beach Resort models throughout the whole resort. 

 The DESTINation 

 There are so many ways to spend your time at the resort. Included in the resort fee are a variety of amenities such as the private beach access, daily fitness classes, water sports, beach cruisers, and complimentary access to the state park. 

At least one full day at the beach is a must and you might as well add on some YOLO paddle boarding while you are at it, which is included in the water sports offered. I was shocked at how easy and relaxing it was to paddle board in the ocean. If you hit it at the right time, you can experience smooth lake-like waters in the Gulf. 

 The pool is another Henderson Beach Resort staple that you will want to carve out time for. There is an adult’s pool and a children’s pool, which the lazy river is attached to. While you are enjoying your pool day you can order from Sea Level, the poolside bar and grill (seasonal). 

If you are traveling with a group, the activity that you must experience is the artist in residence. This can be set up by the hotel and they create an experience that you can’t have anywhere else. Imagine this, you walk out onto the terrace and are met with a mimosa bar, canvases filling each table, and an artist ready to teach you how to paint a beach scene. So fun!

The Henderson Beach Resort spa continues to greet you with creativity and an experience like no other. Sip on pomegranate champagne as you wait for your services inspired by nature. This luxurious spa is where mind, body, and spirit meet. After you experience your treatment, enjoy their many amenities such as the jacuzzi, the experiential shower and steam room. 

 Flavors of the Coast 

Chef Tyler Simmons hits the ball out of the park with his think-out-of-the-box mindset and intentionality when it comes to each guest. 

Primrose, named after Destin’s first commercial fishing boat, captures the essence of gulf-to-table cuisine through Chef Tyler Simmons’ carefully cultivated menus. 

 Side note: On Wednesdays you can experience uncorked, which is 25% off on wine purchases throughout your meal. 

Enjoy drinks and small bites with a side of sweeping panoramic views at Horizon. This is a great lunch option where you can choose from many options such as pizza, handhelds, and seafood. Make sure to stop by the octagon shaped bar for a creative handcrafted cocktail. 

 Sprinkles Cafe is the spot for people on the go, you can grab a freshly made pastry and Starbucks coffee as you get ready to embark on your adventure! It’s also a great place to stop in for an afternoon ice cream treat! 

The rooftop bar is the perfect place to experience the sunsets over the state park while sipping on the drink of your choice. Every Friday night you can enjoy live music here, even better!

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Cover Photo courtesy Henderson Beach Resort.

A lover of all things travel, pretty running trails and good coffee, Analise Flatt is newly graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University and is now pursuing a position as a FOCUS Missionary. Check out her Instagram to stay updated on her latest travel adventures.