Ocean Reef Resorts features a wide range of distinctive vacation rental properties in Destin and along the Emerald Coast.  Although Destin itself is relatively small there are a number of individual beach areas that offer a unique experience to visitors.  Yesterday we took a generalized look at Destin Beaches.  Today we will take a closer look at one of the long time favorites of travelers, Holiday Isle.

Holiday Isle Destin

The peninsula that runs parallel to Destin's harbor and juts out into the gulf is appropriately named Holiday Isle. The Gulf Shore Drive entrance to this special enclave on Highway 98 was marked by Destin's first traffic signal after the city was officially incorporated in 1987. This is Destin's version of island living since it is surrounded on almost all sides by jewel toned waters. The views from the beaches and many vacation rentals on Holiday Isle are indeed dazzling since pure white sand dunes shimmer in the sun, the gorgeous gulf extends all the way to the southern horizon, the Destin Harbor sits to the north and East Pass borders it towards the west. In Destin Pointe, a gated community on Holiday Isle, the beach wraps all the way around the neighborhood which has two natural coastal dune lakes named Caroline and Christina. The views across the two little lakes bordered by dunes topped with golden colored sea oats and the gulf beyond are quite stunning. Outside the gates of Destin Pointe, the east Pass is the only opening between the gulf and the bay so all day long from early morning till dusk you can watch boats come and go. Rock jetties on each side of East Pass attract an abundance of colorful tropical fish and snorkeling off of Holiday Isle is a popular pursuit. Many people also enjoy fishing off the jetties when they are not swimming in the gulf, sunbathing on the beach or walking around this pedestrian Destin community.

Even though you feel far away from everything on this "isle" you are just minutes away from Destin itself including Harborwalk Village and the marina. Big Kahuna's Water Park is also close by for refreshing adventure and fun amidst waterfalls, water slides, "Lazy River" rides, and tubing. They also have thrill rides and a lushly landscaped miniature golf course. Ocean Reef Resort guests also receive a complimentary special discount at Big Kahuna's for a fabulous day of frolic. In addition, fireworks are shot off over East Pass on a weekly basis during the summer season which can easily be seen from Holiday Isle's Beaches. 

If you want to experience this Destin beach location visit our list of Holiday Isle Vacation Rentals.  Tomorrow our tour of Destin Beaches will continue as we take a look at Crystal Beach.