A Timeworn Treasure on the Emerald Coast :: The Perfect Beach Vacation
When you’re planning a beach trip with kids, you want simple. You want convenient. And if you’re like me, you want to park once, unpack the wagon, and walk straight to the water.
That’s exactly what we got at the Four Points by Sheraton in Destin – Fort Walton Beach — a timeworn and totally lovable hotel that delivered on every front that mattered.
It’s not the newest spot on the coast — but the inside? Clean, comfortable, and surprisingly spacious. I even brought out my wipes to check the cabinets and counters—and they were already spotless.
The room was updated and cozy, and we were thrilled to be upgraded to a suite at check-in. We had a full fridge, two TVs, a sitting area, and a full-size balcony where we could enjoy the breeze and watch the waves roll in. It was such a peaceful way to start and end each day.
Why We Loved It as a Family:
- Direct beach access — we rolled our wagon straight from the room to the sand
- Gulf-view rooms include access to the parking garage (a total lifesaver with kids + gear)
- Full-size balcony to enjoy the ocean breeze and morning coffee
- $25/day credit to use at 3 on-site restaurants — one overlooks the beach
- Two pools, a hot tub, and gorgeous palm trees throughout the property
- A restroom just steps from the beach — huge for toddler potty breaks
- Walking distance to The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island for food, ice cream, and little shops
What We Packed (and Actually Used):
If you’re heading to Destin with little ones, here’s what made our beach days smoother:
- A wagon (our 4-year-old loved riding in it, and it hauled everything else too)
- Tent to keep little ones shaded from the sun and protected when a quick shower rolls in
- A big beach blanket to spread out and relax
- Beach chairs (especially nice to have under the tent!)
- Cooler packed with drinks, snacks, and sandwiches so we could spend the whole day out there
- Speaker for music and good vibes
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and swimsuits for the whole crew
- Beach toys to keep our toddler entertained
- Small beach towels to dry off after a swim
- A new trick I just learned: travel-size baby powder—it magically removes sand from skin, especially around faces and little toes!
