Big Kahuna’s, Destin, FL

One Million Gallons of Family Fun

by Zandra Wolfgram | July 25, 2010

If you want to end summer with a splash, treat your family to a day at Big Kahuna’s. Located at 1007 Highway 98 in the heart of Destin, this fun-filled water world is packed with more than 40 rides that offer summer fun for all ages.

Be adventurous with cool rides like the brand new Honolulu Half Pipe, Cobra Twister and Raging Rhino River or chill out and simply float down the Lady …

Fat Daddy’s Pizza, Destin, FL

Arcade, Ice Cream and the Best Pizza on the Beach!

by Zandra Wolfgram | July 25, 2010

I am a pizza princess. I am not shy when it comes to expectations of a perfect pie. Imagine how thrilled I was to discover pizza, fun, games, prizes and ice cream all in one place – you can find it all at Fat Daddy’s Pizza at 20009 Emerald Coast Pkwy (Highway 98) in Destin. Yes, it’s a slice of heaven for any kid or kid at heart.  

Fat Daddy’s is located in …

Emerald Coast Science Center, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Why Experiment? This Children's Museum is Proven Fun

by Zandra Wolfgram | July 18, 2010

You don’t have to be an Einstein to have fun at the Emerald Coast Science Center in Fort Walton Beach. This children’s museum says that they “have fun down to a science.” And if my 6 year old is any proof to that theory, it’s true.

Imagine … a place where kids are encouraged to touch things! Located just steps from the Fort Walton Beach Landing nature park, the Science Center is …

Just Chute Me, Destin, FL

Fly High in the Sky on a Magical Parasail Ride

by Zandra Wolfgram | July 13, 2010

Ever feel like just floating up to the sky and rising above it all? It’s easy to do with the magic of parasailing – one of the most popular water sports on the beach in Destin.

Just Chute Me is one of the best outfits in the area. They operate out of the Destin Harbor. With 17 years experience and 100,000 flights banked, they are quite experienced. Just Chute Me is …

Graffiti and the Funky Blues Shack, Destin, FL

The Best Place to See Cool Art, Eat Delicious Food and Hear Live Music

by Zandra Wolfgram | July 12, 2010

Chuck Stiles knows how to get funky. For the past 16 years he and his artist-wife, Carmen, have been owners of Graffiti and the Funky Blues Shack at 707 Harbor Blvd in Destin. The eclectic restaurant and blues club become so popular with locals and visitors, he opened a second location in 2006 at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin.

This restaurant-club combo is the perfect solution for those …

Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli, Destin, FL

Lucky for Us, the Fish are Always Biting Here

by Zandra Wolfgram | July 07, 2010

Destin may be the “world’s luckiest fishing village,” but if you don’t have what it takes to lure dinner onto your line, don’t worry. Destin Ice Seafood Market & Deli is the sure cure for the unlucky lot, and those simply fishing for a fresh, tasty seafood meal.

Located in the heart of Destin at 663 Highway 98 East, Destin Ice Seafood is open daily; summer hours are 7:30a.m. to 8 p.m.  A …

Coastal Dune Lakes, Destin, FL

Unique Natural Treasures

by Zandra Wolfgram | July 05, 2010

A day at a lake is made even more special when it’s one of the only places that exist in the entire world. Coastal dune lakes – shallow freshwater lakes formed by wind and waves near the coastline – are natural phenomenon believed to have formed somewhere between 2,000 and 10,000 years ago. They are found in only a few places on the entire globe – 15 are located along the stunning shores of the …

Adonna’s Bakery, Fort Walton Beach, FL

A Sweet Treat on Birthdays or Any Day

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 30, 2010

Let them eat cake!

Thank goodness our nation is celebrating our Independence, and most of us eat too much of whatever we want – especially the sweet stuff. My daughter shares her birthday with the nation, so the July 4 holiday is always an extra festive affair for our family. We think cake helps to make any day extra special, but on July 4, we love to have birthday cake for our little firecracker.

The Best Places to Watch Movies, Destin, FL

Sensational Cinemas Offer Film Fanatics Charm and Style

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 28, 2010

Summer is the perfect time to take in a feature on the Silver Screen. Destin and Fort Walton Beach both have unique cinemas that make a night out at the movies a real treat.  Try them all and create your own fabulous film festival experience.

There are a number of multi-plex cinemas in the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area, Rave Motion Pictures is the gold standard with stadium seating, unobstructed views afforded by seats on …

Rock the Beach Concert, Fort Walton Beach, FL

The Doobie Brothers and Kenny Loggins Play FREE Concert

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 22, 2010

The Fort Walton Beach Boardwalk will soon rock.

The Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council and Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau are partnering to present ROCK THE BEACH, a free concert on Sunday, June 27at 5 p.m featuring the multi-award winning rock group Doobie Brothers and celebrated soft rock singer Kenny Loggins.

The concert will be held on the beach in front of The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton …

Johnny Rockets, Destin, FL

Nostalgia Never Tasted So Good

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 21, 2010

What is more all American than a tasty meal in an old-fashioned diner? Johnny Rockets, home of the original hamburger, is nostalgia at its best. You can enjoy this popular eatery in two fantastic Destin locations – Grand Boulevard Town Center (next to Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort) and Destin Commons (next to the Rave Movie Theater).

Lately, I’ve been enjoying Johnny Rockets at Grand Boulevard …

Red, White and Blue Celebration, Destin, FL

HarborWalk Village Explodes with Festive Family Fun

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 21, 2010

What do dancing iguanas, crazy lobster and lucky snapper have in common? They are all popular eateries at HarborWalk Village located in Destin on Highway 98 at the foot of the Destin Pass bridge next to the Emerald Grande resort. And every Saturday throughout June and July they will be the hopping during Red, White and Blue Celebration.

The celebration continues on July 4^th, too. The extravaganza will include live …

Bass Pro Shop, Destin, FL

The Daddy of All Outdoor Stores

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 14, 2010

If there is a Mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, it must be Bass Pro Shop.

Destin’s store, located on Highway 98 in the Destin Commons retail center, boasts 50,000 square feet of sporting gear, equipment and apparel. A virtual playground for outdoor types big and small, Bass Pro will outfit you for whatever adventure you are planning from fishing and hunting to hiking and camping, not to mention boating – it’s …

The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, Destin, FL

Catch the Fishing Fever in Destin

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 09, 2010

Whether you choose to cast your line from the shore, off a pier or from the back of boat, in Destin there are as many options as there are fish in the sea. There should be, this is in fact, The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.

There are only a few locations in the deep gulf currently closed for fishing due to the Oil Spill. Fishing license fees are waived for locals.

Getting a …

Regatta Bay Golf Club, Kelly Plantation, and more, Destin & Ft. Walton, FL

The Destin Area Boasts 1,000 Holes of Golf

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 07, 2010

The only attraction that could even think of rivaling the beautiful beaches of the Destin area is golf.

The area boasts more than 1,000 golf holes along the Emerald coast. The beauty of Destin is that there are more than a dozen great, public access golf courses to choose from. You might choose to play Regatta Bay, a public, 18-hole championship course designed by Robert Walker, Arnold Palmer’s chief architect; or the …

Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, Navarre, FL

The Longest Fishing Pier in the Gulf of Mexico Is Open for the Season

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 06, 2010

The longest fishing pier in the Gulf of Mexico juts out from the pristine sugar-white sands of lovely Navarre, Florida.  As of yesterday (Saturday, June 5), the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier is now open for business. The 1,500-foot pier that stands about 30 feet above the water, welcomes serious or recreational anglers and sightseers looking to take in the amazing view.

A daily fishing pass is just $7. An annual fishing pass …

Billy Bowlegs Festival, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Calling All Pirates for Festive Fun

by Zandra Wolfgram | June 04, 2010

The charms of Captain Jack Sparrow have nothing on Fort Walton Beach. Pirates have figured into local history as long anyone can remember. Legend has it that in 1779, an adventurer, wanderer, scoundrel, pirate extraordinaire, and notorious bad boy, William Augustus Bowles, affectionately known as Billy Bowlegs, burst on the scene. A charismatic leader of men used his egotistical ambition and superior strength of will for self gain. Unseemly crews in the area were a …

Emerald Grande Weddings, Destin, FL

Fairytales Do Come True...in Destin

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 31, 2010

Weddings should be fairytales. This is the moment when dreams come true for many princess brides. A wedding at the beach allows the happy couple to have the most special day of their lives in one of the most beautiful places imaginable – Destin, Florida.

If you are thinking of exchanging vows in Destin, it’s hard to not consider the place make put Destin on the map – the beautiful beaches.

There are …

The Neighborhood Cafe, Fort Walton Beach, FL

The Best Place for Breakfast Lovers Like Me

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 30, 2010

One of the great things about the Fort Walton Beach area is its small town feel. No small town worth its (sea) salt would have less than stellar joints for breakfast. And, thank goodness, Fort Walton Beach is no exception. 

Breakfast happens to be my favorite meal of the day. I’m fond of eating and so perhaps the first meal is particularly endeared itself to me. And because I could eat breakfast food any …

Florida’s Gulfarium, Fort Walton Beach, FL

This Gulf Front Attraction Explores the Magic of the Sea

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 24, 2010

Admiring sea life is a way of life on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast. A visit to Fort Walton Beach isn’t complete without a trip to Florida’s Gulfarium. The state’s oldest marine park dates back to 1955 and features three live animal shows daily featuring darling and daring Bottlenose Dolphins and sassy California Sea Lions.

The park also features huge salt water aquarium called the Living Sea and various viewing pools with the …

Memorial Day Weekend at HarborWalk Village, Destin, FL

Memorial weekend is fun for the entire family at HarborWalk

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 17, 2010

The HaborWalk Village is a must-do in Destin. Bring the kids to the foot of the Destin bridge right next to the Emerald Grande resort and kick off Memorial Day Weekend with festive fun.

Kids' activities, shopping, dining and, of course, a spectacular fireworks display will make it a weekend to remember. Plus, HarborWalk is free and open to the public. The fun starts at 6 p.m. and goes to 9 p.m.

There are …

Le Grand Cirque, Destin, FL

A Good Kind of Drama Hits Destin Memorial Weekend

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 17, 2010

Memorial Day at the beach marks the official beginning of the summer season. Swimming season starts, restaurant tables are set, hotels roll out the red carpet, and shopping bags and beach bags begin to fill. This summer along the Emerald Coast there is a brand new level of excitement for Memorial Day Weekend.

For the first time ever Destin is home to a world-class theater attraction is being staged right here for the entire …

Commander’s Palace, Destin, FL

All Hail the Chef -- A Restaurant That 'Commands' Attention

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 15, 2010

There are many things I miss about not living in New Orleans and food is top on the list. Having a Commander’s Palace to the HarborWalk Village next to the Emerald Grande resort brings the Big Easy to Destin’s doorstep. All hail Chef David Cunningham. His modern Creole cuisine with southern influences command's attention.

On a visit with my family, we felt like royalty. (Well, I certainly did, because it happened …

Camping on the Gulf, Destin, FL

Camping Right on the Gulf? Naturally!

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 11, 2010

If thoughts of campfires, S'mores and sing-a-longs have you longing for the great outdoors, imagine all of that on the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico. Camping of the Gulf brings camping to the beach in Destin, Florida.

Located at 10005 Emerald Coast Pkwy (Highway 98), it’s just a quarter mile east of Silver Sands Factory Stores and less than one mile west of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.

With daily summer rates …

Serenity by the sea, the spa at the Hilton, Destin, FL

Mama Mia! The Month of May is All About Mom

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 09, 2010

It’s Mother’s Day. And we’re thrilled that Serenity by the sea, the spa at the Hilton Sandestin Beach, is providing us moms with a little extra pampering during the entire month of May.

Whether you are a local or lucky enough to be visiting the area for Mother’s Day weekend. The Mama Mia package, available through May 31, includes a 30-minute Refresher Facial, a 30-minute Customized Massage, a Regular Manicure, a Spa Essential …

Serenity by the Sea, Destin, FL

Get Spoiled at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Spa

by Zandra Wolfgram | May 03, 2010

Anytime you can use the words lavish, luxurious, and pampered in the same sentence, you have my full attention. Serenity by the Sea is an award-winning spa, salon, and fitness center located in the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa in Destin. Voted the“Best Place to Splurge" (2002) and “Best Spa" (2003, 2005, 2006 and 2007) by readers of Emerald Coast magazine, it is considered the place to be …

Locals Come Together over Oil Spill, Destin, FL

Public Forum Held to Share Information

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 30, 2010

Our most up-to-date coverage on the oil spill with links to how you can help >>

Coastal communiities don't need to be told that their waterways and beaches are their most precious natural resource. It's no surprise that the Walton County Sheriff's Office is acting quickly to engage the local Destin community regarding the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Today, representatives from the health department, tourism industry, law …

Silver Sands Factory Stores, Destin, FL

The First Juicy Couture Opens in NW Florida

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 30, 2010

A “juicy” scoop on Destin shopping: On May 4, Juicy Couture will open its first store in Northwest Florida at Silver Sands Factory Stores in Destin. This chic designer store will offer women’s and kid’s apparel, women’s accessories to include handbags and small goods, intimates, iconic jewelry, and fragrances.

And…it’s all at a discount!

Celebrities rock Juicy Couture’s LA-inspired fashion tracksuits, handbags, jewelry, so why not the …

Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, Destin, FL

The Best Barbecue on the Emerald Coast

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 26, 2010

When it comes to barbecue, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q is the boss of the sauce. Voted “Best Barbecue” in the “Best of the Emerald Coast” for five years in a row, Jim ‘N Nick’s moved to a new location 14073 Emerald Coast Pkwy. (Highway 98) in Destin, near to a number of vacation condominiums and hotels.

I’ve been going to Jim ‘N Nick’s for years for both birthday lunches and business meetings. …

Billy Bowlegs Poker Run, Shalimar, FL

Poker Games on Pirate Ships, Ahoy Mateys!

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 18, 2010

When you round up a motley crew of pirates for a rousing hand of poker, what can you expect? In the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area it’s called the Billy Bowlegs Boat Poker Run—and it’s one of the most popular events of the summer season.

Pirates figure into local history in a big way: Legend has it that in 1779, an adventurer, wanderer, scoundrel, pirate extraordinaire, and notorious bad boy, William Augustus Bowles, …

Beach Olympics, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Hospitality Industry Serves Up Fun-Filled Day

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 18, 2010

Tug-of-war, kayak relays, waiter races, bucket brigades, laundry cart races /bed making, keg tossing, volleyball and more.

Are these Olympic sports? For the high-energy hospitality industry types, they certainly are.

Teams from your favorite hotels, restaurants, retail shops and rental management companies in the area will compete at The 2nd Annual Beach Olympics at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach on May 11 beginning at 11 …

Le Grand Cirque, Destin, FL

The Most Amazing Family Show on Earth Comes to Destin

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 11, 2010

Death defying feats, high flyers, balancing acts, pole climbers, contortionists, dancers, acrobats and outrageous performers will have audiences on the edge of their seat when Le Grand Cirque performs at Grand Boulevard this summer.

This sensational production, which will showcase highly-skilled performers from Brazil, Canada, Russia, Mongolia, Europe and China, has the Emerald Coast abuzz—and for good reason. There is nothing quite like it anywhere along the Gulf Coast.

Air Force Armament Museum, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Where Your American Pride Will Fly High

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 11, 2010

Eglin Air Force Base celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. In fact, this weekend the Air Show is welcoming 75,000 locals and visitors each day to tour aircraft and watch exciting aerial feats at the base. You can still come out today and join me and my family to catch the show, which is free and open to the public.

Another fascinating attraction is The Air Force Armament …

Fort Walton Landing, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Park it at the Landing and Make a Day of It

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 05, 2010

One of my family’s favorite things to do is play at the Fort Walton Landing. It is a scenic six-acre park located right on the Santa Rosa Sound and features a children’s park, walking paths, soccer fields, a boat ramp, fishing pier, boardwalk, gazebo, picnic tables and lots of open space. Dogs are welcome if on a leash.

Many festivals are held here throughout the year, including Musical Echoes. The …

Eden Gardens State Park, Point Washington, FL

Welcome to Eden.

by Zandra Wolfgram | April 05, 2010

A visit to Eden Gardens State Park is a must for all history buffs and romantics. Tucked away on the shore of Tucker Bayou is a beautiful turn-of-the-century mansion. The beautifully renovated two-story house features elegant white columns and wrap-around porch. Surrounded by ornamental gardens and moss-draped live oaks more than 600 years old, the Wesley house inspires visions of hoop skirts and landed gentry. The park is part of the estate owned …

The Destin History and Fishing Museum, Destin, FL

Who Built the First Church in Destin...Undertaker? Postmaster? Fisherman? -- All Three!

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 28, 2010

Destin has a colorful history. One of its brightest characters who shaped the early days of Destin was William T. Marler.

Marler was born in 1866 and moved to the area in 1879. His first job was as a fisherman for the Destin family. He was a boat builder and sailed groceries from Pensacola to Destin. He also built coffins and volunteered as the undertaker. He sailed to Fort Walton Beach to get mail …

St. Simons on the Sound, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Spend Easter Sunday at this Stunning Church

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 28, 2010

During the early 1940s, local Episcopalians traveled to Destin by boat to attend church services. As the number of parishioners increased they met in the home of W.C. Harbeson in Fort Walton Beach. Growth continued and the parish moved again, to a nearby schoolroom. And then they built St. Simons.

The church was completed in its current location in 1949. An arsonist set fire to the church in 1965, which completely destroyed …

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Destin, FL

The Arts are Alive in Destin

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 22, 2010

My kids' elementary school is hosting its first ever Art Show tomorrow. Installing the art on the school walls was a joy. Being around such beautiful works of art made me so happy. I started to think about the arts in the area and the organizations that support the arts. I want to live in a town with a thriving arts community. What could I do to help? I came home and became a member …

Kitchenique, Destin FL

Vicki McCain is Cooking Up a Class Act

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 22, 2010

Vicki McCain is one woman who doesn’t mind spending all her time in the kitchen. Vicki is owner of Kitchenique, a gourmet market and cooking school located at 36150 Emerald Coast Pkwy in a center called City Market at Destiny, one mile east of Destin Commons and conveniently located in the heart of Destin near to hotels, resorts and vacation beach rentals.

The cooking classes are popular with locals and visitors alike. …

The 14th Annual Destin Cobia Fishing Tournament, Destin, FL

Lure the Likes of Crafty Cobia to Your Line Now through April 30

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 15, 2010

If you are lucky enough to catch a Cobia you deserve the bragging rights of a very large and salty fish tale. Anglers from all around will do their best to lure the likes of crafty Cobia to their lines during The 14th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament at the HarborWalk Marina

Destin is known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village;” the only thing more famous here than fishing is the emerald waters …

Musical Echoes Festival, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Flute Music, Art, and Dance Celebrate Native American Cultural Heritage April 23-25

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 15, 2010

Musical Echoes, a Native American flute, art, and cultural event honoring Northwest Florida’s rich heritage, returns to Fort Walton Landing April 23-25, 2010

Now in its 10th year, the festival has earned a reputation as the premier Native American flute festival in the country. Admission is free, and the event includes activities of interest to all ages.

The opening ceremony led by the Thunderbird Honor Guard begins at noon on Friday. …

McGuire’s Irish Pub, Destin, FL

Go Green at McGuire's Irish Pub

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 08, 2010

They say everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, but you don’t have to wait for the top of another day to enjoy the shenanigans of McGuire’s Irish Pub in Destin.

Going “green” never tasted so good. In addition to serving up all of our traditional Irish pub favorites such as Corned Beef and Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, Authentic Lamb Stew and their famous Senate Bean Soup for just 18 cents a bowl. …

Northwest Florida Ballet, Fort Walton Beach, FL

There's No Tip Toeing Around It ... "Dr. Coppelius' Magic Toy Shoppe" is Delightful

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 08, 2010

Northwest Florida Ballet ushers in spring with a delightful tale of magical toys. What a treat.

“Dr. Coppelius’ Magic Toy Shoppe” is a charming ballet full of humor and ballet mime. Based on a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann entitled "Der Sandmann,” which was published in 1815, the ballet is about a girl named Coppelia who sits alone on her balcony all day, speaking to no one. A boy named Franz falls deeply …

NAACP4Haiti Concert in the Park, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Let’s Hear it for Haiti – NAACP Holds a Concert in the Park Sunday, March 14

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 01, 2010

Here is a great way for locals and visitors alike to support an important cause and have a great time with family and friends.

The NAACP4Haiti Concert in the Park, organized by the Okaloosa County Branch of the NAACP, will be on Sunday, March 14, from Noon to 6 p.m. at the Landing in Fort Walton Beach.  The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the effort, and is helping …

Spring Break 2010, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, FL

Make a Break for It Along the Emerald Coast

by Zandra Wolfgram | March 01, 2010

Springtime means taking a break from our daily routine and making tracks to the famous sugar-white sands along the Emerald Coast.

Beyond the amazing white-sand beaches, there is fabulous shopping, delicious dining, and tons of things to do, making Spring Break 2010 in the Destin/Fort Walton Beach area more fun than ever for all ages. So, get ready to put that spring back in your step.

Spring Break along the Emerald Coast is …

Art & Design Society, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Channel Your Inner Picasso On Your Next Vacation

by Zandra Wolfgram | February 22, 2010

Don't you think the soul of a town can be seen through the creative expression of its artists? I do. For eons artists have flocked to the seashore to indulge their muses, and Fort Walton Beach is no different. When artists venture to this area, they often find a welcoming home at Art & Design Society (ADSO), one of the best kept creative secrets in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

ADSO is just one block …

The Zoo of Northwest Florida, Gulf Breeze, FL

The Zoo is Open for (Monkey) Business

by Zandra Wolfgram | February 22, 2010

Sometimes, don't you just want to let it all go and … go wild?

Now you can.

The former Gulf Breeze Zoo has reopened!

We went on Sunday and were delighted to see a long line of families itching to see their favorite friends furry and otherwise howl, coo, baa, moo or hiss a hello to them.

Originally opened in 1984, the 50-acre zoo which was home to 900 animals fell on tough economic …

Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Pucker Up to Tasty Fud's

by Zandra Wolfgram | February 15, 2010

Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill has only two locations in the whole world, and they’re both in Northwest Florida.  Locally owned and operated since its inception in 1982, Fudpucker’s is dedicated to its owners’ three favorite “F” words:  Food, Fun and Friends.  

Don’t let the name scare you, Fud’s is a one-of-a-kind experience fun for all ages. In fact, Fudpucker’s is one of the most popular places in the area for families …

Travel Guide to Destin, FL

Why You Should Visit Destin

by Zandra Wolfgram | February 15, 2010

The romantic history of Destin sweeps you in. It all started when a man named Leonard Destin settled in the area in 1850. He began to put anglers to work and now we are known as “the luckiest fishing village in the world.” One of the most colorful characters to shape Destin was “Uncle Billy” Marler. He moved to the East Pass in 1879 to fish alongside Captain Destin. He soon became one of the best …

Louisiana Lagniappe Restaurant, Destin, FL

A Taste of New Orleans Makes Destin Even More Delicious

by Zandra Wolfgram | February 08, 2010

Mardi Gras is coming, what better way to celebrate than to bring a taste of New Orleans to the beach?

Louisiana Lagniappe restaurant, located in Sandpiper Cove condominiums on Gulf Shore Dr. in Destin, opened in 1984 and has grown a loyal following, due in no small part to the quality of the food and the attention to detail of the service.

The waterside restaurant celebrates the Crescent City with a large …

Mardi Gras Parade on the Harbor at Harbor Walk, Destin, FL

Bless my beignets, it’s time for a Mardi Gras parade!

by Zandra Wolfgram | February 08, 2010

Life at the beach is good, but life at the beach during Mardi Gras is the absolute best. The pageantry, the revelry, the tradition of carnival is alive and well in Destin, Florida. So, second line it to the second annual “Mardi Gras Parade on the Harbor” at the the Emerald Grande on Saturday, Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. 

The festivities begin when the parade make its way down the Destin harbor …

Anglers Beachside Bar and Grill, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Anglers Reels in Sports Enthusiasts with its Unbeatable Location and Tasty Menu

by Zandra Wolfgram | February 01, 2010

With a breach front location, delicious menu, comfy atmosphere, frosty cold beverages and more than 100 TVs, Anglers Beachside Bar and Grill hits it out of the park.

A mainstay on the popular Fort Walton Beach boardwalk, Anglers stands at the entrance of one of the most iconic landmarks—the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier.

Co-owner Dan Empson creates …

Mardi Gras on the Island, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Hey Mister! March this Way to the Mardi Gras Parade on February 6

by Zandra Wolfgram | February 01, 2010

It’s time to “Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler” Okaloosa Island style.  Sponsored by the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce and its annual sponsors, “Mardi Gras on the Island” is a full day of activities, starting with the Mardi Gras Parade on Okaloosa Island on Feb. 6 at 11 a.m.

There will be throws, treats and plenty of beads as the colorful floats make their way down Santa Rosa Blvd.  Raise your hands and call “throw …

Aunt Martha’s Bed & Breakfast, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Aunt Martha's Serves Up Heaping Helpings of High Romance

by Zandra Wolfgram | January 25, 2010

Aunt Martha's Bed and Breakfast is a fresh take on old-world charm.

Completed in 2001, the romantic, Old Florida-style B&B welcomes guests into a library warmed by a cozy fireplace. Adjoining the library is a living room and sunroom with generous floor-to-ceiling windows that invite in the Florida sunshine. French doors open onto the sweeping verandah that overlooks the Santa Rosa sound. Pocket doors in the dining room enclose it creating an intimate dinner space. A …

Henderson Park Inn, Destin, FL

Romance is Back Inn at Henderson Beach in Destin

by Zandra Wolfgram | January 25, 2010

Just when you thought a Destin beach getaway could not get any more romantic. Enter Henderson Park Inn. Located adjacent to the stunning, 208-acre Henderson Beach State Park and directly on a mile-long stretch of quiet beach, this New-England-styled bed and breakfast features Victorian-inspired furnishings and a large veranda with sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico.

The pretty guest rooms feature private baths and terraces …

Maas Coffee Roasters, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Go Ahead, Spill the Beans: Maas Coffee Roasters in Fort Walton Beach Rules the Cup

by Zandra Wolfgram | January 22, 2010

Fort Walton Beach, Florida is buzzing about Jim Maas. The fedora-adorned coffee roaster has warmed up downtown with delicious, homemade coffee.

Located in downtown Fort Walton Beach on Miracle Strip Pkwy across from the Indian Temple Mound Museum, Maas is a small coffee shop featuring their own line of 25 blends of hand-roasted Arabica coffee beans from a dozen different countries. Most coffees at Maas range from a full city roast (the …

Florida’s Gulfarium, Fort Walton Beach, FL

This Gulf front Gulfarium gives us a glimpse into the magic of the sea

by Zandra Wolfgram | January 17, 2010

Admiring sea life is a way of life on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast. A visit to Fort Walton Beach isn’t complete without a trip to Florida’s Gulfarium. The state’s oldest marine park dates back to 1955 and features three live animal shows daily featuring darling and daring bottlenose dolphins and sassy California sea lions.

The park also features huge salt water aquarium called the Living Sea and various viewing pools with the likes …

Chan’s Wine World, Fort Walton Beach, FL

Who wants to live in a world without wine? Thanks to Chan, Fort Walton Beach doesn't have to!

by Zandra Wolfgram | January 15, 2010

Cheers to Chan Cox!

The Destin-based wine guru has just poured on even more of a good thing by opening fabulous new stores in Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola and soon in WaterColor on 30-A. We lost count, but we think that is eight wine retail shops throughout the state of Florida. Here, here.

The 5,000 square-foot Fort Walton Beach store on Eglin Parkway boasts hundreds of wines from all over the world hand selected …

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Destin, FL

Get Ready to Gumbo! 24th Annual Great Southern Gumbo and Wing Ding Championship is January 16

by Zandra Wolfgram | January 13, 2010

You may argue that you prefer gumbo with a Creole tomato base or a traditional brown roux. You might love yours with seafood, Andouille sausage or chicken, or all three. To me, the only thing better than a hot bowl of spicy gumbo is an order of hot wings on the side!

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort heats up the 24^th annual event (set for Jan. 16 at 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Market …