Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
34 min drive
Room options
About the neighborhood
Destin
Located in Holiday Isle within a 5-minute walk of Destin Beaches, this vacation home is within 2 miles (3 km) of other popular sights like Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park. The vacation home includes a private pool, a kitchen, and a fireplace.
Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park - 3 min drive - 1.6 miles
Destin Harbor Boardwalk - 4 min drive - 1.6 miles
HarborWalk Village - 4 min drive - 2.0 miles
Getting around
Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) - 29 min drive
Restaurants
Margaritaville Restaurant Destin - 3 min drive
McDonald's - 3 min drive
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House - 5 min drive
Donut Hole Bakery Cafe - 4 min drive
Harbor Docks - 4 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Harborside by AvantStay | Expansive Destin Retreat
Harborside puts you right on the edge of Destin Harbor, with enough space and entertainment to show your group an unbeatable Sunshine State escape! Spend your days relaxing by the large pool, conveniently surrounded by a fence, making it perfect for families. There are plenty of loungers near the water, with upper and lower patios providing even more space for relaxing and al fresco dining. Inside, Harborside boasts a bright, contemporary design and seven bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom. Spread out between two living rooms, one on each floor, with the bottom boasting a ping pong table for friendly competitions. The modern kitchen is easy to keep stocked, with convenient grocery shopping just five minutes away. You'll be close to all of Destin's beaches, family-friendly entertainment, and natural beauty! We can't wait to welcome you!
AvantStay provides an upscale experience with services that elevate your stay and save time so you can enjoy every moment. Guests have access to a 24/7 support team and a tech-enabled concierge to book services, such as fridge stocking, mid-stay cleanings, and private chefs. For anything you need (or never knew you needed), we’re at your service!
Located in Northwest Florida, Destin is dubbed the “world's luckiest fishing village.” This Emerald Coast city is known for its sparkling white beaches, numerous golf courses, and world-famous fishing. Nearby zipline courses, dolphin cruises, and amusement parks make it a perfect destination for families. Adults and large groups also come here for beach parties during the day and live music at night.
Local Attractions: Destin Commons, Silversands Outlets, Crab Island, Dolphin Tours, Charter Offshore Fishing, Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park, Crackings, Louisiana Lagniappe, Jackacuda’s Seafood + Sushi.
*Home Truths:* - Please note that active commercial and residential construction is currently underway in the city of Destin. - Pool heat is available for an additional fee, but must be requested at least 48 hours before your stay. - Please note: Pool heat will not be available during the summer months (April 1 - October 31). - This home allows pets for a fee. If undisclosed pets are brought into the home without AvantStay's approval there is a fine of $500 per pet. - A golf cart is available to rent for 100/day ($150/day during high season/May-September) fee but must be rented for the entirety of your stay. - Please note that the boat lift is not available for guest use.
Parking Details: - Driveway accommodates 8 cars.
---
The room configuration is as follows:
Primary Bedroom / King bed and twin daybed w/ En-suite Bedroom 2 / King bed w/ En-suite Bedroom 3 / King bed w/ En-suite Bedroom 4 / King bed w/ En-suite Bedroom 5 / Queen bed w/ En-suite Bedroom 6 / 1 King bed, 1 Queen bed w/En-suite Bedroom 7 / Queen bed w/ En-suite + 2 twin size tri-fold sleeping mats
---
Accidental Damage Protection: A non-refundable accidental damage protection plan has been included in the price of your reservation. Under this plan, you will not be held responsible to pay for accidental damage or loss to the rental property resulting from you or others in your party up to $2000. This plan does not cover intentional acts of a guest, gross negligence, or willful and wanton conduct, and/or damages caused by pets. This plan is not available for reservations 28 days or longer or reservations that require a security deposit.
This is a smoke-free property. Violation of the no-smoking policy will result in forfeiture of the security deposit, a $300 smoking fee, and liability for any fire or property damage costs.
As part of our commitment to being good neighbors, occupancy limits and quiet hours (9pm-8am) are strictly enforced. No speakers or sound systems will be provided for use in our properties. Violation of any noise ordinances will be subject to fines that can reach up to $10,000 per violation.
Events or parties are not allowed without prior written approval and an additional fee. Any unauthorized parties or events will be shut down and a fine will be assessed. Please inquire for more information about our event policies and fees.
There is nothing more important to us at AvantStay than the health, safety, and experience of our guests & staff. We've enhanced our cleaning and sanitation protocols and are taking extra care to disinfect all surfaces between reservations with hospital-grade disinfecting solutions.
As a reminder, we do work with 3rd party vendors to maintain the property, and although we adhere to the strictest CDC guidelines and advise all contractors to wear PPE equipment, we can not always enforce. We strongly advise guests to please deny access if any vendors fail to meet and adhere to these standards.
IDs will be requested for verification after booking. All bookings over 30 days require a security deposit.
We report and prosecute all Credit Card Fraud.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 8 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 7 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a washing machine, and a fireplace.
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Unit size: 4,704 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Property is also known as
b7af4c74-76aa-11ed-aaa9-f33bbcaf53e1
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do within easy reach of this vacation home?
This vacation home is situated in Holiday Isle, just steps from Destin Harbor and Choctawhatchee Bay, and within a short walk of Destin Beaches. You'll also find Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park and Destin Harbor Boardwalk within a short drive.
Will I be able to park at this vacation home?
No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.
Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home; however, the accommodation features a private pool.
Is Harborside by AvantStay | Expansive Destin Retreat a good place to stay for couples?
This waterfront vacation home offers many amenities for couples, including a private pool and a fireplace in each accommodation with some featuring private pools.
Does Harborside by AvantStay | Expansive Destin Retreat have a hot tub?
No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this vacation home provide breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?
No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How far is the airport from this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS), which is 17.6 mi away (29 minutes by car).
Are there rooms with balconies at Harborside by AvantStay | Expansive Destin Retreat?
Yes, every accommodation at Harborside by AvantStay | Expansive Destin Retreat comes with a deck.
Harborside by AvantStay | Expansive Destin Retreat Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 63 out of 70 reviews
10 - Excellent
63
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 70 reviews
8 - Good
6
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 70 reviews
6 - Okay
1
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 70 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 70 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
joshua b.
Jun 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
joshua b.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
adrian f.
Apr 20, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great home
Nice big home for our family to enjoy plenty of room and even let me park/ dock my boat at thr property though out out stay easy access to crab isalnd
adrian f.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
ADILIO M., METHUEN - MA, US
Aug 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Place
We love to stay here.
I hope we can return next year.
ADILIO M.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Chad D.
Aug 13, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Holiday
Great stay at a beautiful home! We had a large group of adults and children of various ages (17 total). Plenty of room for all, and we never felt crowded. The pool and boat dock were a nice touch, and very convenient as we brought three 26 foot fishing boats. The kitchen appliances were old and in need of replacement, but this is really my only criticism. Beautiful home, perfect location, and a fantastic stay! Would definitely return!
Chad D.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
8/10 Good
Shani B., Southaven, MS
Aug 10, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice home, Nice location
Pro’s - Great space for a large gathering. Location is nice and convenient for all the Destin attractions. Spacious rooms with nice furnishings and well stocked Kitchen.
Con’s - Upon entering the house there was a strong musty smell. There was visible mildew on and around most ceiling vents. Pool and lower patio were a disappointment, due
to a significant pool leak. The water was dropping at least 2 inches every day. A hose is there set on a timer to continually add water.
Mold and mildew on the lower patio furniture made it unusable. As noted by other reviews Bugs were more than an “normal” problem, primarily on the lower level. Overall we had a great time in Destin. Would consider staying here again if the mentioned issues were resolved.
Shani B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
6/10 Okay
Steven C., HOMOSASSA
May 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Pool unusable for first 3 days
When we arrived, pool water was so low pump was sucking air. Mold all over walls and floor of pool. Toilet handle was broken and would not flush. Floors appeared clean but in fact we had to wear socks (which were filthy after wearing) or shoes, slippers, etc. Our feet were black from inside house. Boat hoist was off limits, not conveyed in listing. This was a main reason for booking this home. Even 120 dock power wasnt on to charge trolling batteries. 2x12 wood plank laying on dock, tripped and lost my new iphone in the water. That cost me $800 to pay off and $1200 for a new phone.
Steven C.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Stephanie S.
May 28, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Big Home for the Beach
We had such a wonderful time staying at this vacation home. Every few years, our group of friends goes on vacation together with our kiddos too. It’s always challenging to meet the moms’ requirements in a beach house (big pool, big rooms, private bath for each family, not too far from the beach, playroom for kids, and a nice beach feel). This home checked ALL the boxes for sure. Everyone was comfortable and happy. We never felt cramped because the main living areas are enormous! There were two sets of laundry machines and two big fridges which was great. The kids had so much fun downstairs playing ping pong and outside at the pool. We brought a couple fishing rods and tried out fishing off the dock too (although the crabs are crafty bait snatchers!!).
The beach is a comfortable walking distance away, however we did rent golf carts. There’s a small parking area for golf carts at the beach entrance. The ability to haul all our beach gear using the rented golf cart was priceless as the little kids require sooo much!! We were also able to drive the golf carts on most backroads to dinners. You just can’t drive on the main Destin road.
There was plenty of parking space in the driveway and the neighborhood is very quiet. If anyone enjoys morning walks/runs, this is a great location for that. There’s a big wide sidewalk on the main neighborhood road that I think is about 2 miles long from end to end.
We would definitely rent this home again!
Stephanie S.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2024
8/10 Good
Briana T.
May 3, 2024
Beautiful Home, not the cleanest
The house and neighborhood are both beautiful. We had plenty of room to accommodate our group of 13. The pool was great but dirty, even after they came to clean it, which was only done once. We had to wash so many utensils and dishes prior to using them because there was food on them. The lower level had lots of bugs appear, more so than would be deemed as "normal" for the area. One of the toilets upstairs had to be adjusted after flushing each time. Some of the bathroom walls seem to have mold from moisture. Overall, we are so blessed to stay somewhere so beautiful, but for the cost, i don't want to wash dishes before using them. I'd totally stay here again, but i know that those few things might be a dealbreaker for others.
Briana T.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Juan R.
Oct 20, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Great house and location
Great house and location, we would like to stay there again soon.
Juan R.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jacobo F.
Sep 19, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome place
Great place we will be back
Jacobo F.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Thomas H., Wilmington
Jan 3, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Everything You Could Want
We rang in the New Year with a family vacation and stayed here. It was a fantastic location. Property has all the amenities you could want. It was very clean and the check in/out process was easy. I would totally recommend this home for all ages.
Thomas H.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Nicole S.
Dec 27, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely Fabulous house for our vacation!
The house was perfect for our large family to spend Christmas. The house is exactly like the pictures and description with perfect views. The host is amazing and very responsive. We will definitely rent this house again! Thank you!
Nicole S.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Stacey T.
Oct 17, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent Location and Home
This home is perfect for a large group and the view of the bay is beautiful, with just a short walk to the beach. The home is stocked very well.
Stacey T.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022
8/10 Good
Thomas C.
Oct 2, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Overall Enjoyed It
A lot of space if you have a lot of people! There were 11 of us, and we never felt on top of each other! Pool is nice. View is fantastic! A/c in one of the masters had it’s own thermostat that froze so the room stayed hot. And there needs to be someone spraying for insects. Deck and covered porch were nice. Overall enjoyed. Just needs a little TLC.
Thomas C.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Tina W., Albertville AL
Sep 27, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Home away from home....
Loved MacKenzies property! Has all of the features of home on vacation. This home has enough room for the entire family. 7 bedrooms, heated pool, updated kitchen, 2 washers/dryers (which is awesome when you have everyone wanting to wash clothes often) The beach is just down the road. We were a little worried about this aspect because we always stay on the beach but seriously it is 3 min down the road. Definitely will be looking at this home again the next time the whole family is vacationing.
Tina W.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Karen S.
Aug 6, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Family vacation
Perfect house for our party of 18 - mom and dad, 3 sons with their wives and children. Close to the beach with private beach access, private pool and beautiful bay views.
Karen S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Theron K.
Jul 24, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Family vacation
Everything was great. The second time we have stayed at Sunset Cove. Will stay here again
Theron K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
10/10 Excellent
Lisa M.
Jul 8, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing vacation
The listing on this property is 100% accurate! Everything is beautiful and amazing. We had 18 family members, wide range of ages, and this home worked perfectly. The pool was fenced in which worked out great for our 4-year-old and 20-month-old. The bedrooms are so well laid out that everyone was very comfortable. The view was splendid, and the private beach was never crowded. Finally, the owners went above and beyond answering questions and helping every step of the way.
If you are looking for a beach get-a-way for a large group, you cannot go wrong with this property.
Lisa M.
Stayed 10 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Joe R.
Jun 29, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful stay on Holiday Isle
Our extended family had plenty of room at this house. 1st time renting a home instead of condo's and we didn't regret it. We have been to Destin many times and even though this house wasn't located directly on the beach the views of the bay we very nice and relaxing. We rented a golf cart to make toting all of our gear and people to the beach a breeze. It was a very short drive but we also walked it many times. The owner was extremely responsive to a few issues we had. We do wish there would have been some umbrella's on the upper deck to provide some shade from the intense sun but we managed fine without. We all had a wonderful time and will definitely consider renting this house again in the future. I would highly recommend this house.
Joe R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Connie G., Iowa
Jun 13, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary
We chose this house based on location, size and the fact it had a nice pool. The property did not disappoint!! We had our whole family with us, 12 people in all, and were not crowded. Plenty of room for us to spread out, plenty of bathrooms as well. The house was nicely furnished and the kitchen was well supplied with pots and pans, utensils and plenty of dishes. The only thing we couldn’t find was a griddle for cooking pancakes. The pool was wonderful—big enough for all of us—with plenty of pool toys available. There was also plenty of beach equipment to use. The ping pong table was a hit with the teens and used a lot! The manager was quick to respond to an issue with the refrigerator ice maker and had it working the next day. It was really nice to have two fridges—almost a necessity for a large group. The private access to the beach was a definite plus—the beach was much less crowded than in other areas. We enjoyed our stay immensely and highly recommend this property to everyone. This was a great way to spend a week with our family celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary.
Connie G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Rebecca D.
May 24, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Property
We had a group that included adults and college age kids. We were celebrating a 60th birthday and a college graduation. This property was great for both age groups. The downstairs game room and sleeping quarters was awesome for the college kids while the adults could enjoy the beautiful great room and deck. We would certainly rent this house again.
Rebecca D.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
10/10 Excellent
Pina B.
Apr 15, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Spring Break Beach Trip
The house was clean, spacious and had all the amenities! Very close to the beach with a great pool, and plenty of room to relax.
Pina B.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022
10/10 Excellent
Veronica R., Woodstock
Apr 8, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Great family vacation!
My family loved this property. Beautiful home with plenty of space, comfortable and clean, well-equipped kitchen, beach chairs and umbrellas, sand toys, bikes.......... we used and enjoyed it all. Perfect location on Destin Harbor, and just a short walk to the private beach. The private pool is huge and very nice. Mackenzie was helpful and quick to reply to any questions.
Veronica R.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Sarah G.
Nov 1, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Best Vacation Ever
We couldn't have been happier with our experience at Holiday Isle, in Destin, and with this host. We had a full house with every age range and everyone enjoyed themselves thoroughly. We are usually loyal to OBX, but tried Destin out. This property was head and shoulders above any property we have every rented in OBX. Destin was a lot of fun and this home is near everything but also in a private, quiet neighborhood. Mackenzie was a fantastic host; extremely attentive and responsive. We would rent from him again in a heartbeat. This property was impeccably maintained and had everything we needed for a fun family vacation. I couldn't recommend Holiday Isle or Mackenzie any more highly.
Sarah G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Nancy H.
Oct 6, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful!!!!
We spent (4) days at this beautiful property and it was fantastic. The house was incredibly spacious and beautifully decorated. The location was great for watching the boats and just a short walk to the beach. We highly recommend and hope to return for another stay.