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Looking for recommendations on the best Airbnbs in Destin, Florida? You’re in the right place. We’ll show you our top 15 picks, why we love each one, and the must-see sights when staying at each.
Whether you’re planning a trip with family and friends, your significant other, or solo, Destin, Florida, is a fantastic location for a fun and memorable beach vacation.
But where should you stay? There are over 300 Airbnb stays in Destin, Florida, and even more nearby. Let’s take a look at 15 of the best Airbnbs in Destin, Florida.
Why Stay at a Destin, Florida Airbnb
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Destin sits on the Emerald Coast and provides access to the gorgeous, white-sand beaches and glistening waters that vacationers dream about. You can find numerous activists and attractions in and around Destin, including golf courses, dolphin cruises, fishing trips, and more.
And while there are plenty of decent hotel options, staying in an Airbnb is a high-value accommodation choice for vacationers.
With Airbnb, you can stay in a place that is cozier, more convenient, and even sometimes more accessible to the beach. You’ll also be able to cook some of your own meals, have private living spaces to gather with your group, and ultimately feel like you’re in a home away from home.
The 15 Best Airbnbs in Destin, Florida in 2023
Without further ado, here are the most unique Airbnbs in Destin, Florida.
1. Gulf View Condo
- Location: South Destin, near Destin Beach
- Average Cost Per Night: $141
This chic, modern, newly renovated Gulf View condo is bright and inviting with comfortable furniture and soft, blue colors all around. The kitchen is fully stocked, which allows guests to make their own meals during their stay.
Plus, there is a 55″ TV which is nice for families to relax at the end of a more adventurous day, and a hot tub for even more unwinding opportunities. Staying in this condo gives guests access to a large shared pool, a spacious outdoor dining area, and even a couple of tennis courts.
2. “Old Veneto” Italian Villa
- Location: Miramar Beach
- Average Cost Per Night: $708
This Italian-styled villa in Destin is the perfect vacation home for big families or large groups of friends, as it can sleep up to 12 people between six cozy bedrooms and three spacious floors.
It’s located in Miramar Beach, which is only about a 15-minute drive away from the main Destin area. The decor is antique, but the amenities are modern, including a large pool, a hot tub, a fully stocked kitchen, five smart TVs, and broadband wifi.
Plus, staying here grants you private beach access, and the villa provides umbrellas, beach chairs, and wagons that your crew can take along with you to enjoy a relaxing day under the sun.
3. Sandpiper Cove
- Location: South Destin, near Destin Beach
- Average Cost Per Night: $89
Sandpiper Cove is a 1-bedroom, well-priced, bang-for-your-buck Airbnb with a lot of charm and even more perks. The beach is only a brief, seven-minute walk away, and the condo’s property is entertaining in and of itself.
It has not one, not two, but five separate pools, and one of them has three hot tubs, while two others are heated during the cooler months. The best part about staying at this Airbnb is that it comes with a complimentary beach setup that includes an umbrella and two chairs.
This is an excellent choice for couples flying in because they don’t have to worry about bringing, buying, or even renting these items when they get to the beach.
4. Waterside Dreams Beachfront Condo
- Location: Miramar Beach
- Average Cost Per Night: $518
If going on a beach vacation doesn’t feel right unless you’re staying right on the beach, then you’ll love the Waterside Dreams Beachfront Condo.
You and your group — which can be sizable given this spacious four-bedroom condo — would be steps away from the glowing white sand of Miramar Beach and have private beach access.
However, you’d still be in the center of many attractions and have convenient access to plenty of eateries, like the world-famous Pompano Joe’s Restaurant, which serves Caribbean-style seafood.
The villa’s amenities include a hammock, a grill, and over 200 free movies on the TV. Plus, you can bring one or two dogs with you on your vacation for a respectable fee.
5. Pelican Beach Oceanview Condo
- Location: South Destin, near The Harbour Walk
- Average Cost Per Night: $128
Some people like being almost right on the water, such as in the Airbnb mentioned above, but others believe that their views are limited in that case.
Since you’d be sitting on the 19th floor of the building, you’d get spectacular, wide views of the ocean from this condo. And if you’re lucky, you may even see a dolphin or two!
This Airbnb is just one bedroom but can feasibly fit up to six people given the sofa bed and bunk bed located in the living area.
You’ll get comfortable furniture, clean rooms, and helpful assistance with anything you need. But the best part will still likely be the views and marine life sightings.
6. Top Floor Beachfront Condo
- Location: South Destin, near The Harbour Walk
- Average Cost Per Night: $172
If you liked the sound of the Pelican Beach Condo above due to the stunning ocean views, but want a few more perks and amenities to go along with the scenery, then this Airbnb might be a top choice.
It’s on the top floor of a two-story building, meaning a more expansive view than the bottom floor but easier and more convenient beach access than a taller building would allow.
Plus, guests who choose this Airbnb are thereby choosing to stay at a gated resort where they can enjoy the resort’s pool, golf course, and tennis courts — all at no additional cost.
7. Lanai Luxury Villa
- Location: Southeast Destin, centered between Destin and Miramar
- Average Cost Per Night: $1,229
Lanai is a massive, highly versatile 8-bedroom villa that is fantastic for special events and exciting group gatherings. It’s light and cheerful, making it a wonderful family-style vacation Airbnb, but it is also modern and luxurious, which is suitable for weddings, reunions, and other memorable gatherings.
There is an expansive private pool area with swim-up bar stools, a tanning area, lounge chairs, and a hot tub on the side so everyone can enjoy the outdoor space exactly how they want to.
This villa also has a fireplace, a grill, three viewing decks, and a game room with a pool table and foosball, which is great for kids and adults alike.
8. Rendezvous Villa
- Location: Miramar Beach
- Average Cost Per Night: $561
Another large group villa in the area is called Rendezvous Villa. Rendezvous provides one of the most stylish, upscale options in the Destin area with large windows, chic and soft design, and highly modern finishings.
This Airbnb is an excellent choice for special events or celebrations, especially for a more mature crowd. It is also much bigger in person than it appears in the photos. However, if kids come along, they can stay in the bunk bedroom.
They’ll also enjoy the foosball table, pool table, hot tub, and glimmering outdoor pool.
This is also a great location for groups who don’t need or want to stay right by the beach but do enjoy viewing a lovely sunset, as you can catch the sunset and enjoy a gorgeous fireplace from the rooftop area.
9. Seas the Day Houseboat
- Location: Fort Walton Beach
- Average Cost Per Night: $138
Seas the Day is a houseboat in Destin that provides a unique and exciting way to stay in the area. The boat is parked right at the waterfront on Ft. Walton Beach and allows guests to conveniently play in the water with paddleboards and kayaks, which are provided.
You can also go fishing, go swimming, enjoy the outdoor fire pit, or walk to the nearby brewery for a drink. The two potential downsides with this Airbnb are that you will need a car to visit Destin’s beaches, and it is not suitable for people with physical disabilities.
10. Diamond Condo
- Location: South Destin, one mile from The Black Porch
- Average Cost Per Night: $167
This condo is perfect for vacationers who enjoy the finer things in life and appreciate luxury additions that can take a seemingly standard condo to a whole new level.
The rooms themselves are 50 years old, but some of the “Diamond” upgrades include a 65″ TV, a high-tech neon shower, and a smart, heated mirror with a Bluetooth-operated music player.
You’ll have access to the pools and tennis courts in the vicinity. But the shower, specifically, is what guests rave about the most. Even with all of these upgraded gadgets and luxury details, the price isn’t as upscale as you’d think.
It might be because it isn’t the newest condo on the block, or perhaps because it isn’t walking distance from the beach. Either way, you can expect to get a lot of bang for your buck — and an impressively good shower — from this Airbnb.
11. Gulf Resort Condo
- Location: East Destin
- Average Cost Per Night: $1000
This condo is located within a large resort and is perfect for families who want access to a wide variety of attractions and activities.
This Airbnb has two bedrooms with balconies and gives you access to the largest lagoon pool in Destin, as well as waterfalls, a hot tub, a poolside bar, a sports lounge, a restaurant, a coffee shop, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a gym.
Plus, younger kids can enjoy pickleball, a playground area just for kids, and, of course, easy access to the beach! There’s a free shuttle to beaches, boardwalks, restaurants, and more.
Ultimately, this is an excellent Airbnb choice for families who love the convenience and excitement of a resort, but the homely amenities of an Airbnb, such as a spacious living area and a fully-stocked kitchen.
12. The Carriage House
- Location: East Destin
- Average Cost Per Night: $138
The Carriage House is a private, intimate stay that provides a high-value option, especially for couples. You’d get a deck overlooking the pool, a full kitchen to make your own meals, a large TV, free wifi, and walking access to several restaurants, bars, and shops.
If you’re looking to stay in a safe neighborhood and a cozy environment at a relatively affordable price, this could be the perfect Airbnb for your needs.
13. Bogey’s Beach House
- Location: Miramar
- Average Cost Per Night: $337
This 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom, 2-balcony townhome is right on the gulf, providing quick access to the beach and plenty of opportunities to look out at the lovely ocean views.
This home provides a kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a grill, a 10-foot shade umbrella, lounge chairs, a large flat-screen TV in the comfortable living area, and a washer and dryer in-unit, making it perfect for a long family vacation.
The best part is all you’ll have to do is walk outside, and you’ll be right on the beach! And the only downside is that there is currently construction taking place next door, which means it might not be as quiet as some families prefer.
14. Cozy Beach Chalet Driftwood Oasis – A Tiny House
- Location: East Destin
- Average Cost Per Night: $125
Tiny houses are becoming increasingly popular as people decide that efficiency and comfort may be more important than space. And this Airbnb is a simplistic yet cozy, well-decorated, and welcoming option for couples, small families, or intimate friend groups.
It has everything you need for a great experience, including a TV, a community pool, a community laundry service, and a kitchen.
Plus, you’ll just be two blocks away from the beach, and the host provides beach chairs, towels, and beach buckets to take with you free of charge.
15. Sandestin Bungalow
- Location: Sandestin, near Miramar Beach
- Average Cost Per Night: $229
This bungalow is spacious, clean, homey, and sleeps up to six people. It’s fully renovated and well-decorated to give visitors complete beach vibes.
This Airbnb provides beach toys, umbrellas, and chairs, so you don’t have to worry about buying or renting those items.
And the most standout aspect of this bungalow is that it also provides a six-person golf cart! This golf cart makes it easy to explore the surrounding resort area and visit nearby restaurants and attractions.
Staying at an Airbnb in Destin, Florida
To help you choose the best Airbnb in Destin, Florida, for your particular needs and preferences, review this buying guide for additional information and insights.
The Check-In Process for Airbnb
The check-in process for an Airbnb can vary. It depends on the type of Airbnb as well as what the Airbnb host has arranged. Brief information about the check-in process is typically included in each Airbnb listing description.
However, you’ll get more comprehensive information regarding the exact location and check-in process once you have booked the accommodation. After booking, you can quickly review the check-in process on Airbnb with three simple steps:
- Visit Airbnb.com or open the Airbnb app
- Click on “Trips” to view your upcoming Trips (on the bottom of the screen on the app or under the upper-right hand menu on the web page)
- Hit “Show More Trip Plans” and scroll to view the “Checking in & out” section
Most Airbnbs in Destin operate using the self-check-in process, which makes it effortless for both the host and the guests. Self-check-in is when the guest is able to check themselves in using a keypad code, a lockbox with a passcode, or a smart lock system.
Specific instructions and codes are sent after booking, and sometimes hosts wait to provide that information 24-48 hours before the check-in date for security reasons.
Some Airbnbs might alternatively have an in-person check-in, which means guests meet the hosts in person. This is not as convenient, but some vacationers prefer the personal approach that Airbnb was once well-known for.
With in-person check-in, communication over Airbnb messaging is crucial so that both the guests and the hosts can confirm a meetup time and contact each other if there are changes or updates.
If you would like early check-in or late checkout, messaging your host is typically fine as well, unless they have indicated that those options are not possible. Of course, your host can always say no, but it’s worth asking if you need it!
Average Prices Vs. Hotels
The average price of an Airbnb in Destin is $287. This accounts for small, 1-bedroom Airbnbs as well as massive, 8-bedroom Airbnbs that can hold up to 20 people.
Alternatively, the average prices of hotels in the area range from $100-$200 per night, but that is just for one room. The room usually will not include a large living area, kitchen families, or other homely features.
For the quality, the number of rooms, and additional amenities you receive from Airbnbs such as fully-stocked kitchens, private living areas, and even sometimes private beach access and swimming pools, there is much more value to an Airbnb overall.
Where to Stay in Destin, Florida
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Because of the number of Airbnbs in Destin, it might be hard to decide which one to stay in, even when you know what type of accommodation you’re looking for and which amenities you’d like.
That is why narrowing the decision down to a specific location is often helpful in the vacation planning process. The two main areas to stay in are Destin (around James Lee Beach) and Miramar Beach.
Staying in the center of Destin gives you more access to a wide range of attractions, tours, activities, resorts, and parks. It is the main tourist area, so there is a lot more to do and see, but it will also be a little more crowded and hectic.
On the other hand, Miramar Beach is a better option for a quieter stay primarily focused on relaxation, rejuvenation, and luxurious accommodations.
If you are hosting a significant event such as a wedding, a reunion, a party, or else, it’s easier to find a private, large, modern, and well-equipped space in the Miramar area. These Airbnbs might seem pricier at first.
But once split between parties of six, seven, eight, or more, they may provide more bang for your buck. Finally, if you’re looking to stay at an Airbnb on a resort, you will likely end up in Southwest or West, which is closer to the Boardwalk and where a lot of tours take off from.
Major Attractions in Destin, Florida
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There are many attractions and activities in Destin, which is why it’s a popular beach vacation for families, friend groups, couples, and solo travelers. Watersport lovers can have fun paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, or jet skiing.
You can also go on several boat tours, and dolphin watching cruises like the Southern Star Dolphin Cruise are top-rated in this area. As a fishing village, fishing is another popular activity to do by the water.
But many people simply visit Destin to hang out on the beach, relax on lounge chairs, or play in the sand with their young ones. You can learn to surf or book a professional photo shoot on the beach as well.
Destin is not all about beach and water activities, though. Here are some other major attractions and things to do in Destin, Florida:
- Ziplining at HarbourWalk Adventures
- Go-karts, mini-golf, bumper rides, arcades, and boats at The Track
- Alligator exhibits at Gator Beach
- Eating at restaurants, bar hopping, or listening to live music throughout the Destin Boardwalk.
Over to You — Book Your Trip Today!
The best Airbnb in Destin, Florida, will depend on the size of your group, your style preferences, how close you want to be to the beach.
It’s also important to decide whether private amenities like private pools, hot tubs, fully-stocked kitchens, balconies, and game rooms are of importance to you. You can find many options for these amenities in Destin, but they come at a higher cost.
There are amazing Airbnbs in Destin for a wide range of preferences and budgets, and as long as there is enough space for your party to comfortably stay, we know you’ll have a great time hanging out and exploring the Emerald Coast!