Posted on 1/12/2021

"Vacations mean a change of pace, a gentleness with ourselves, a time for rest and renewal, and a time to stretch ourselves and encounter new people, new lands, new ways, and new options." —Anne Wilson Schaef

The beauty of a beach vacation is that it means something different to all of us! Maybe you'd love a huge hurrah with all of your immediate and extended family. Or perhaps you're hoping for a beach bash party with your long-time friends. Or, you might be someone who enjoys the quiet, peaceful relaxation of a vacation with your partner-in-crime or your closest family and friends. Whatever the case, we offer a variety of Destin vacation rental homes that will fit your specific needs.

Here is a list of ten small vacation homes in Destin. These are perfect for small family vacations or a romantic getaway with your significant other. They may be small in guest numbers, but they are large in charm for sure! Each offers cozy accommodations in the beautiful Emerald Coast environment, convenient beach access, and a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxing.

1. Shepherd Cottage 

1 Bedroom / 1 Bathroom / 2 Guests

Although not technically in Destin, Shepherd Cottage is one of the only one-bedroom homes on the coast. It is located just a short way down the road in Scenic Highway 30A's Grayton Beach. As one of the first early cabins built in Old Grayton Beach in the 1880s, this rustic home sits nestled among local fauna and radiates old-world charm. The home's secluded location and cozy interior offer an intimate escape for you and your honey. It features a full front porch with rocking chairs and a hanging bench, perfect for spending pleasant vacation evenings together. Or, head to the raised deck in the back, which has outdoor furniture for al fresco dining. Inside, the living area is brightly lit by multiple windows and includes a comfortable seating ensemble and a flatscreen TV. Snuggle up here with your love before venturing out to explore the nearby nature trails, beach, and coastal towns. The dining area and kitchen are perfect for cooking up a romantic dinner. The bedroom has a queen-size bed and windows that look out over the natural setting. When you're not cuddling up on the couch, relaxing hand-in-hand on the porch, be sure to check out the restaurants, shops, and coastal activities available on 30A.

2. Lemon Drop

2 Bedrooms / 2.5 Bathrooms / 6 Guests

Tucked in Destin's Miramar Beach, Lemon Drop is a two-bedroom vacation home that can host six vacationers. Located only a two-minute walk from the beach, it is a prime rental for those that want to spend lots of their time at the beach - but still have convenient access to their cozy accommodations. The cottage-style home boasts white exteriors with coastal blue trim on the windows and doors. Inside, pale yellow walls are reminiscent of sunshine, which creates a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. The living room features a queen-size sleeper sofa and matching loveseat. A glass-topped table sits in the dining area, while the open kitchen provides plenty of cabinets and counter space. The bedrooms are located upstairs, one of which has a king-size bed, while the other has a queen-size bed. Both bedrooms have full baths and access to the second-level breezy balcony that overlooks the private pool. As one of the only two-bedroom homes with a private pool on the Emerald Coast, guests will love the privacy offered by the pool, sundeck, lounge chairs, and poolside grill. A community pool is also located nearby, and it boasts a front-row seat to the crystalline sand and smooth waves of the coast.

3. Sand Wishes

2 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms / 8 Guests

When you wish upon the sand, get ready for a grand vacation! Sand Wishes is a two-bedroom, two-bath beach home that can accommodate up to eight guests. The home features a vibrant, blue exterior with white trim, expansive decks (covered and uncovered), and a sunny interior. Inside, shiplap paneling adds to the nautical feel. The living room has a couch, coffee table, and wall-mounted TV. Sliding glass doors lead onto a balcony with pretty views. Tile flooring flows into the dining area with a table and chairs, then moves to the kitchen with green and white cabinetry. In the master suite, you will find a queen-size bed, coastal décor, a TV, and a sunny window. The guest bedroom has twin beds with coastal-inspired bedding. Downstairs, a bonus den includes a king-size bed and access to a covered patio.

4. All About the View

2 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms / 6 Guests

This quaint beach rental is literally all about the view—and we mean all the views! All About the View is a two-bedroom rental uniquely situated in Destin's Destiny Villas neighborhood, right between a rare coastal dune lake and the Gulf. This means you get shimmering water views from almost every direction! Taking advantage of its awesome location, the home boasts multiple large windows throughout. This ensures you don't miss out on the views and also creates a sunny and inviting environment. Sleeping quarters are located on the first floor of this two-level vacation home. Both bedrooms feature king-sized beds, sunny windows, wall-mounted TVs, and private baths. The master bedroom overlooks the Gulf, while the guest bedroom overlooks Four Prong Lake. The second level is dedicated to the open great room that includes a nautical-inspired living area, casual dining area, and a chef's kitchen. Breezy balconies expand across the home's front and back, perfect for sipping a cocktail and taking in the view.

5. A Suite Life

2 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms / 6 Guests

Enjoy the sweet life while on your Emerald Coast vacation when you stay at A Suite Life. This two-bedroom home is located a few miles east of Destin, in Dune Allen Beach on Scenic Highway 30A. When you stay at this beachfront home, you are as close to the water as you can be without getting wet! This means undisturbed views and the ability to spend time on the sand or in the water whenever you want. In total, the home can sleep up to six vacationers. The large living area features a couch that doubles as a queen-size sleeper sofa, a matching love seat, patterned accent chairs, a wall-mounted TV, sunny windows, and access to the Gulf-front balcony with outdoor seating. In the dining area, a hardwood table and six chairs provide a comfortable setting for vacation meals. A kitchen bar has additional stool seating for six, and it's a great spot to serve up tasty appetizers or drinks. The master bedroom has a king-size bed and Gulf views, while the guest bedroom has a queen-size bed.

6. Edens Estate

3 Bedrooms / 2.5 Bathrooms / 10 Guests

Suppose an intimate, Old Florida styled home is your idea of the perfect vacation home. In that case, Edens Estate is the perfect place for you. The three-bedroom home is located in Miramar Beach, and it can host up to ten vacationers. While the outside is acutely nostalgic of Old Florida architecture, the interior has been updated with vibrant, modern décor. The contrast radiates both an old-world charm and an energetic vibe. On the first floor, you will find the open living area, kitchen, and dining room. The living room boasts a bright blue sleeper sofa, matching couch, and two matching chairs. Other wood furnishings and coastal décor complement the seating ensemble. The dining area includes a gleaming table surrounded by modern chairs, and the kitchen has stainless steel appliances and ample counter and cabinet space. Upstairs, the master suite features a king-size bed, floral-patterned couch, TV, private bath, and access to a romantic balcony. One guest bedroom has a queen-size bed, and the other has a twin/queen bunk.

7. Destiny's Ship

3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms / 9 Guests

Plan a date with Destiny on Destiny's Ship in Destin. This two-level vacation home has three bedrooms, three baths, and spacious living accommodations. It can entertain up to nine visitors. Palms and local fauna greet guests upon arrival, and the interior welcomes them inside with open arms. Parchment-toned tile extends throughout the space, creating a sophisticated yet relaxing atmosphere. The living room's seating ensemble includes a couch, loveseat, and plush armchair that face an elegant armoire that houses the TV. If you're an aspiring chef, or even just someone who enjoys cooking, you'll love the large kitchen. It has plenty of cabinet storage, spacious countertops, and an angled tile bar that is great for serving up your culinary creations and drink concoctions. One guest bedroom is located on the first floor, and it has a king-size bed and access to a cute patio. Upstairs, the master bedroom has a king-size bed, luxury bath, and private balcony. The other guest bedroom is a kid's paradise, featuring a full-bunk and a wall-mounted TV. Guests of the home will also enjoy the awesome amenities provided by the Destiny West community.

8. Panorama

3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms / 10 Guests

With a name like Panorama, you'd expect this vacation rental to have some good views. And you'd be correct. A third-floor observation deck ensures you and your fellow guests can bask in the beautiful weather of the coast while also enjoying views of the lush neighborhood and beach in the distance. This three-bedroom rental home is located in Miramar Beach, and it can entertain up to ten vacationers. The sunny great room is accentuated with vibrant furnishings and beachy décor. Sand-colored walls make sure you never forget you're in paradise! The bedrooms include a master suite with a king-size bed and full trundle, as well as two guest bedrooms that each feature queen-size beds. One awesome perk about this home is the private pool. Nothing better than taking full advantage of the coastal air in your own pool! When you're not swimming, take a breather and relax in one of the many lounge chairs on the large, paver sundeck. And don't forget, the beach is just a hop, skip, and a short stroll away!

9. Pet Sand

3 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms / 8 Guests

Hello, paradise! Pet Sand is located in Destin's charming Frangista Beach community. As the name suggests, this small home is pet-friendly. You don't have to leave your furry friend behind for this vacation! Besides your four-legged pal, this three-level home can accommodate eight human visitors. The stately home is located right on the beach, with balconies on every level, so you can catch the Emerald Coast views no matter which floor you're on. In addition to the balconies, the home features two living areas. The main living room is on the second floor, while a bonus den with comfortable furnishings and a wet bar is on the first level. In the third-floor master suite, you will find a king-size bed, balcony access, and a private bath with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate shower room. Both guest rooms include queen-size beds and flatscreen TVs.

10. Ocean Blue Oasis

3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms / 10 Guests

Last, but most certainly not least, is Ocean Blue Oasis a quiet beach home located in Miramar Beach. The three-level home is uniquely designed with vibrant blue roofing, creating a distinctly nautical feel. With three bedrooms and two baths, the rental can host up to ten beachgoers. The main floor is dedicated to the casual living space, which features contemporary furnishings and neutral accents. The décor offers peaceful relaxation in line with expectations for a beach vacation. A large kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, custom white cabinetry, and a formal dining table. The great room shares this level with a guest bedroom, which includes a queen-size bed. On the top level, the master suite has a king-size bed and balcony access with distant beach views. The third bedroom has two twin bunks.

Related article: 10 Small Vacation Homes with Big Pools

If a smaller, intimate vacation is more your speed, you're sure to love any one of these charming Destin vacation homes. Book your stay online, or give us a call so we can ensure your vacation is the best it can be!