Sun, sand, and serious shopping—Destin has it all. While Ocean Reef Resorts guests flock here year-round for the iconic white-sand beaches and sparkling Gulf waters, there’s more to this coastal paradise than meets the eye. Between lazy beach days, poolside lounging, and unforgettable dining, Destin offers one more irresistible perk: a shopping scene that rivals big-city boulevards—without ever leaving vacation mode. From designer deals to unique local finds, it’s the perfect place to mix leisure with a little Back to School prep.

Back to School Shopping and Savings

This time of year, our guests enjoy savings on Destin vacation rentals while also diving into exciting Back to School shopping adventures. A major bonus? Florida’s annual Back to School Sales Tax Holiday now spans the entire month of August, giving families more time than ever to stock up and save. The tax break includes clothing and footwear priced under $100, school supplies under $50, and personal computers or tablets priced at $1,500 or less. It’s the perfect excuse to mix a little retail therapy into your beach retreat. Here’s a quick look at some of the top shopping destinations in the area that combine big savings with serious style.

Silver Sands Premium Outlets

Just east of Destin in Miramar Beach lies one of the largest and most beloved outlet destinations in the country—Silver Sands Premium Outlets. With more than 100 designer and brand-name stores, this open-air center draws shoppers from across the Southeast, offering major markdowns on some of the world’s top brands—all just minutes from the beach.

It’s almost surreal that quiet, coastal Miramar Beach offers access to the same luxury labels found on Fifth Avenue and Rodeo Drive, but with savings of up to 70% off. Back-to-school season is a prime time to shop, with current deals that include:

• Up to 60% off at J.Crew Factory
• Up to 70% off at Michael Kors Outlet
• BOGO 50% off at New Balance
• Buy two, get two free on clearance at Crocs
• 50% off your second pair at Skechers
• Up to 70% off at Columbia and Nautica
• 20% off $100+ at Adidas
• $30 off backpacks at TUMI
• Up to 50% off at Tory Burch

While Back-to-School season brings some of the biggest markdowns of the year, Silver Sands Premium Outlets is known for offering year-round savings of 25% to 65% off regular prices. Whether you're visiting in spring, fall, or mid-winter, you’ll always find designer deals worth the detour.

Many of our guests make outlet shopping a vacation tradition—it’s easy to see why. Whether you're grabbing new kicks for the kids, upgrading your fall wardrobe, or just indulging in a little retail therapy, Silver Sands delivers serious value.

Need a break between bags? Refuel with a salty pretzel from Auntie Anne’s, a scoop from Haagen-Dazs, or some hand-crafted fudge at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. For a heartier option, Waldo’s Chicken & Beer offers fire-roasted goodness and Southern sides, while Carrabba’s Italian Grill serves up pasta, wine, and daily Happy Hour from 4–7 PM.

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Destin Commons

Another fantastic shopping destination awaits at Destin Commons, a vibrant open-air retail village that blends fashion, food, and family fun. Just a short drive from the beach, it’s a favorite day-trip stop for Ocean Reef Resorts guests looking to shop, snack, and explore.

Wander palm-lined streets beneath colorful flags and enjoy the charm of musical sidewalks, a central fountain, and splash-friendly mini geysers where kids can cool off in the Florida sun. The immersive Lucky Climber playground and classic Build-A-Bear Workshop keep little ones entertained while you explore the shops.

Destin Commons features 85+ stores, including name-brand fashion boutiques, jewelers, specialty shops, a Belk department store, and the massive Bass Pro Shops. When hunger strikes, the newly opened Graffiti Pizza delivers bold pies and a full bar—perfect for an adult shopping break or a quick family bite.

Many of the shops participate in Back to School sales, especially those catering to kids and teens, including:

• The Children's Place Outlet
• Coastal Outfitters
• Coconut Kids
• H&M
• Janie and Jack Outlet
• La Luna Children's Boutique
• OshKosh B’Gosh
• Pink n Blue Avenue

And of course, sweet rewards await at Destin Little Donuts, It’s Sugar, Kilwins, and Snowbiz by Ray—guaranteed to keep every age happy.

And this year, there’s even more reason to swing by:

Back to School Bash – Give, Shop & Celebrate
Saturday, August 9, 2025

Celebrate the end of summer at Destin Commons with live music, stilt walkers, face painting, and festive photo ops. Explore your favorite shops, enjoy local bites, and take advantage of tax-free shopping during Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday.

Grand Boulevard at Sandestin

For a more refined shopping experience, head to Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, a lush, palm-lined town center located on the edge of the prestigious Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort. This beautifully landscaped boulevard is conveniently located near many of our resort vacation rentals and stretches from the Gulf to the bay, making it as scenic as it is stylish.

Towering Royal Palms line both the main strip and the bordering Emerald Coast Parkway, while seasonal plantings—like Birds of Paradise, Crepe Myrtles, and vibrant flower beds—add to the tropical elegance.

Grand Boulevard features a curated mix of upscale retailers, fashion boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. Some local favorites include:

• Anthropologie
• Krewe Eyewear
• La Luna Children’s Boutique
• Lilly Pulitzer
• Lululemon
• Orvis
• Pottery Barn
• Rustler Hat Co.
• Sunglass Hut
• Sunset Shoes
• The Jewel
• Vineyard Vines
• Zoo Gallery

When it’s time to take a break, Grand Boulevard shines with exceptional dining. Tommy Bahama Restaurant, attached to their retail store, serves up Caribbean-style cuisine on a bright, garden-view veranda. Nearby, Cantina Laredo offers gourmet Mexican fare and top-tier margaritas—plus a lively Happy Hour and open-air seating.

Other dining highlights include:

• Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar – USDA Prime steaks, an extensive wine list, and a clubby atmosphere
• P.F. Chang’s – Classic Chinese dishes with sleek, modern ambiance
• The Craft Bar – A relaxed gastropub with regional chef-driven dishes and creative cocktails
• BrickTop’s – A Nashville favorite serving prime rib, seafood, and a Champagne Happy Hour from 4–7 PM
• Emeril’s Coastal – Upscale Gulf-to-table cuisine with an Italian twist
• Another Broken Egg Café – A brunch favorite just steps from Publix
• Vintij – A local wine bar and bistro known for fresh, artistic cuisine and thoughtfully curated wines
• The Wine Bar – A cozy spot offering charcuterie, small plates, and a fantastic selection of wines by the glass or bottle

Looking for entertainment? Grand Boulevard is also home to the Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC), which stages professional musicals and live performances. Or catch a movie in style at the AMC Classic Boulevard 10, featuring jumbo 3D screens and a full lineup of new releases.

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Local Beach Specialty Stores

Destin is also home to local beach specialty stores, including the iconic Alvin's Island, with multiple convenient locations offering value-priced T-shirts, tank tops, swimsuits, hats, and coastal accessories. Fudpucker's Trading Company is next to their fun seafood restaurant, which features fascinating alligator shows on the premises and offers a wide array of beach attire and accessories. Banana Bart's is a captivating Key West-type novelty shop in an old cottage on the bluff in Destin overlooking the harbor. The well-established Footprints Gift Shop in Miramar Beach offers a wide variety of beach souvenirs, including seashells.

Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals

There’s still time to enjoy the best of summer—and the best of savings. Explore our available Destin vacation rentals for August and take advantage of lower seasonal rates, fewer crowds, and Florida’s tax-free Back to School holiday, running through the end of the month.

Whether you're soaking up the sun, scoring deals on designer brands, or just savoring one last beach break before the school year begins, our acclaimed website makes it easy to find your perfect coastal escape. With detailed property descriptions, vivid images, and real-time availability, planning your stay is as breezy as the Gulf air.

Happy trails—and happy shopping—from all of us at Ocean Reef Resorts. Here's to creating another unforgettable memory on the shores of our tropical paradise.