Disclosure :: Lafayette Mom has had a wonderful working relationship with Newman-Dailey Resort Properties for years and this trip was comp’ed. That stated, we know that local moms are always looking to plan their next beach vacation and we just love to share wonderful trip ideas like this that are worth the drive!
Discover the Ultimate Family Getaway: Emerald Dunes Resort
As summer approaches, moms everywhere are on the hunt for that ideal getaway where family memories are made to last. If you’re dreaming of a destination that offers peaceful relaxation for you and endless excitement for the kids, Emerald Dunes Resort checks all the boxes. Located in Florida’s scenic panhandle and right off the stunning Gulf Coast, Emerald Dunes Resort unit 502, with its private beach access, is the perfect mix of serenity and family-friendly fun. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy crystal clear water at the beach!
What makes Emerald Dunes Resort an easy, stress-free beach vacation?
Located directly off the shoreline, Emerald Dunes Resort is a gated, private community with an outdoor pool and hot tub. Your toes will be in the sand in just a few quick steps as your walk the short dune walk to the beach. When booking your Emerald Dunes condo with Newman-Dailey, your vacation includes more than just a place to stay — it’s a gateway to unforgettable family experiences. When it’s time to relax, you’ll have two beach chairs and an umbrella provided by Barefoot Beach Service, waiting for you on the sand — perfect for soaking up the sun and sea breeze.
No need to fight for space along this private beach front, we had prime seating no matter the time of day! Searching for more adventure? With a selection of discounted and free activities available each day of your stay, you can experience countless new adventures to create the best beach vacation! Dive into the action at Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park (seasonal), explore sea life at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, or set sail on a thrilling journey with the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise or a thrilling adventure parasailing. For something a bit more serene, the dolphin cruise offers a magical glimpse of dolphins in their natural habitat and has glass-bottom viewing! My kids are 6, 4 and 2 years old so we opted for adventures that would best suit their age.
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
First, we visited the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park! Located along the beach, the Gulfarium includes animals chats, dolphin and sea lion shows and even additional opportunities for animal encounters. I confirmed show times that morning to ensure we didn’t miss them and even got to see the penguins eat dinner. The dolphin show was impressive, filled with tricks and animal facts. If you want to be splashed by a dolphin, be sure to sit in the front rows! The Gulfarium was the perfect outing to see and learn about marine life up close while also learning about the importance of conservation.
Buccaneer Pirate Cruise
On our second day, we set sail on the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise and became honorary pirates. My kids absolutely LOVED how interactive this cruise was. From water gun fights, sword fights, swabbing the deck, pirate face painting and finding real treasure at sea, they were immersed in the storyline the entire cruise. You’ll have the chance to take home a few treasured souvenirs. This cruise was easily the highlight of the trip for my 6 year old. The theming of the ship and pirate performers was impeccable. Enjoy a few libations (like real pirates would) and get ready to laugh as you lose track of time on this entertaining swashbuckling pirate cruise!
Dine at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill
Enjoy some food, fun and alligators at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill! The menu has a large selection of fresh seafood and classics like burgers and taco. I was blown away by how quickly everyone got their food and the huge portions! We devoured the perfectly crisp fried pickles before the entrees. The fish tacos were bursting with flavor and piled high with fresh veggies and the popcorn shrimp was delicious. Our kids opted for the macaroni and cheeseburger kids meals but were pleasantly surprised by the fun alligator figure hiding in their meals. After we ate, we watched the gator show, followed by a tour of the adjoining Gator Beach where we fed the alligators. As a souvenir of our bravery, we took a picture holding a baby gator! We easily spent over 2 hours here exploring all the different attractions. A tip for dining: the outdoor seating is the perfect spot to sit back and relax while your kids play on the included playground. My kids are also still drinking out of their gator head cups and asking if we can go back to eat at Fudpucker’s again.
Tips To Plan Your Perfect Beach Vacation
We stopped at Buc-ee’s right off of I-10 in Alabama for a one stop trip to Emerald Dunes. It’s the perfect place to stop for clean bathrooms, well lit parking lot and food options. I love to splurge on the coffee with the flavored coffee creamers. If you’ve forgotten any beach essentials from your beach packing list, this is the perfect place to grab them before you arrive.
Since check-in started at 4pm, we stopped at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park that morning to maximize our vacation time. The state park entry fee is $6 per vehicle. They offer a tram service from the state park parking lot to the beach, so no lugging your beach bag! There are also a number of hiking trails and bike trails for a bit more outdoor fun. Don’t want to bring your bike to the beach? Rent one instead!
Also be sure to check the activities planned at the The Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island, located directly next to the Gulfarium. There is a splash pad under shaded covers, beach volleyball, live music, fishing pier, weekly fireworks and even a movie night on the beach!
In summary, I highly recommend Emerald Dunes Resort unit 502, where you can create lasting family memories via stress-free planning with Newman-Dailey Resort Properties. Core memories included cooking dinner in our condo near the beach, amazing balcony views, daily family outings and a place large enough for all the beach accessories. From building sandcastles, to watching the sunset, this is the kind of place that makes family time even better!
Ready to experience the ultimate family getaway? Emerald Dunes Resort awaits to welcome you and your loved ones for a vacation filled with laughter, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and step into a world where family fun meets absolute serenity.
