Henderson Beach

A favorite destination of LEGENDS magazine editors and contributors – and most of the Gulf South – is the resort locale of Destin, Florida.

The seaside town lures long-weekenders from New Orleans, families from nearby states of Mississippi and Alabama, and even beach-goers from across the country – and occasionally the world – who have heard tell of the area’s pristine sugar white beaches, natural dunes and a myriad of vacation accommodations.

The newest luxury option on the Emerald Coast is Destin’s 170-room Henderson Beach Resort, which has just opened its doors. Adjacent to Henderson Beach State Park, the upscale property offering sweeping Gulf views is among the few full-scale luxury resorts to open in Destin in many years. The Henderson Beach Resort is owned by Salamander Hotels and Resorts, known for properties such as the golf resort Innisbrook, near Tampa; Orlando’s Reunion Resort; and other vacation options.

Billed as “reminiscent of a luxurious grand seaside manor of yesteryear,” the family-friendly home-away-from-home offers guest rooms and suites, panoramic views of the green surf of the Florida Gulf Coast with private beach access, a nature-themed spa, Gulf-to-table cuisine, swimming pools, children’s activities, 30,000-square-feet of indoor/outdoor event space, and more.

Guests are offered special complimentary amenities, with just a few examples being valet parking, entrance passes for Henderson Beach State Park, beach cruiser bicycles, fitness center access, golf bag storage and shuttle and concierge services.

“We are thrilled to open our doors to our thoughtfully designed hotel,” said General Manager Douglas Hustard, “and welcome guests to experience our warm hospitality and comfortable luxury in such a vibrant and storied coastal city.”

And that, it is: Vibrant. Storied. Destin, formerly a small fishing village that sprouted up along the white sands, is still an excellent spot for fishing, boating and water recreation of all sorts. It has blossomed over the years into a premier upscale travel destination of the Gulf South. Every summer – and throughout all seasons of the year – families enjoy days on the sand, and couples indulge in romantic luxury getaways.

The Henderson Beach Resort aims to capture the “romance” of traditional coast architecture with “striking shingles, steep gabled roof lines and a reference to Florida’s nautical history.”

The property offers a special Bed and Breakfast package for new bookings for stays between December 7 and March 9. This introduction to Destin’s newest luxury site will include a room with private balcony and a full breakfast for $199 per night.

Want to go?

Regular rates for guest rooms

range from $225 to $450

and from $595 to $1,250

for luxury suites.

For more information

or room reservations,

call (888) 338-6661 or

visit HendersonBeachResort.com.