I’m excited to tell you about some great pet friendly hotels in Destin Florida where you and your furry friend can stay. Destin’s got beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue water which are perfect for a fun trip with your pet!
I’ve checked out seven Destin hotels that allow pets. These places range from fancy resorts to budget-friendly spots but they all have one thing in common – they love pets! I’ll tell you about each one so you can find the perfect place for you and your four-legged buddy.
Here’s a quick look at all the hotels to help you decide:
| Hotel Name | Starting Price | Star Rating | Key Feature | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Henderson Beach Resort | $449 | 4.5/5 | Luxury amenities | 00 1 888-874-4107 |
| Hyatt Place Sandestin | $246 | 4.5/5 | Shopping access | 00 1 850-204-5261 |
| SummerPlace Inn | $312 | 4/5 | Budget-friendly | 00 1 850-650-8003 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Destin | $277 | 4.5/5 | Beach proximity | 00 1 855-605-0317 |
| Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin | $347 | 4/5 | Extended stay suites | 00 1 855-618-4702 |
| Hotel Effie Sandestin | $332 | 4.5/5 | Rooftop pool and bar | 00 1 844-631-0595 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach | $273 | 4.5/5 | Beach shuttle service | 00 1 855-618-4697 |
1. Henderson Beach Resort – Best for Luxury Pet Stays
- Room Rate: Starting from $449
- Address: 200 Henderson Resort Way, FL 32541-3471
- Contact Number: 00 1 888-874-4107
- Guest Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
When I first saw Henderson Beach Resort, I was blown away. It’s a fancy place, but don’t worry – they love pets too! This resort is like stepping back in time to a grand seaside manor, but with all the modern comforts you could want.
The Henderson Beach Resort is a beautiful mix of old-time charm and new-age luxury. It’s right next to the Gulf of Mexico and 200 acres of nature preserve.
The hotel looks like a big, elegant beach house from long ago, but it has all the latest amenities. They’ve done a great job of capturing the feel of Destin’s history as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” while still giving guests a top-notch hotel experience.
Resort Overview and Pet Policy
This place is huge! It’s a four-story hotel with 170 rooms. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, perfect for you and your pet to relax after a day of beach fun.
They allow pets, but you have to pay extra. I think it’s worth it though, because they make your pet feel at home.
One thing that really stands out is how they treat pets here. They don’t just allow them – they welcome them! You can even let your pet sit on the lobby furniture.
Just be careful if your pet gets nervous or has accidents. It’s a nice touch that makes you feel like your furry friend is as important as any other guest.
Room Rates and Amenities
I’ll be honest – it’s not cheap. Rooms start at $449 a night. But for that money, you get some really amazing things:
- Several pools (including an adult-only pool and a lazy river)
- A spa where you can get massages and other treatments
- Lots of places to eat, from fancy restaurants to casual cafes
- A private beach
- Free high-speed internet
- A fitness center with yoga classes
- Bicycle rentals
- A kids’ club
The rooms are super comfy with things like coffee makers, mini-fridges, and private balconies. You also get a desk, a flat-screen TV, and a safe for your valuable stuff. Some rooms even have ocean views!
Pet-Friendly Amenities
They have some great things for pets:
- A place to walk your dog
- Pet-sitting services (for when you want to go somewhere without your pet)
- Special treats for pets
Nearby Attractions and Restaurants
The resort is close to some great spots:
- Beach Walk at Henderson Park Inn (3 minutes away) – They have yummy seafood
- Pazzo Italiano (6-minute walk) – If you like Italian food
- LongHorn Steakhouse (6-minute walk) – For steak lovers
- Crystal Sands Beach (5-minute walk) – For beach fun!
- Hurricane Lanes (5-minute walk) – If you like bowling
- Destin Raceway Dune Buggy’s (6-minute walk) – For some exciting rides
Getting There
It’s pretty easy to get to Henderson Beach Resort. The closest airport is Destin Airport, just 4.1 miles away.
If you’re coming from further away, Fort Walton Beach Airport is 9.2 miles from the resort. You can rent a car for about $104 a day if you need one.
The area around the resort is somewhat walkable, with a grade of 69 out of 100. This means you can walk to some places, but you might want a car for others.
2. Hyatt Place Sandestin – Best for Shopping and Dining Access
- Room Rate: Starting from $246
- Address: 325 Grand Blvd, Sandestin, Miramar Beach, FL 32550-1856
- Contact Number: 00 1 850-204-5261
- Guest Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Next up is Hyatt Place Sandestin. This place is great if you want to be near shops and top restaurants. It’s a bit different from the Henderson Beach Resort, but it has its own special charm.
Hyatt Place Sandestin is a modern hotel that’s all about making your stay easy and comfortable. It’s not right on the beach, but it’s close to a lot of great shopping and dining options.
The Hyatt Place Sandestin Hotel is designed to be a home away from home, especially if you’re staying for a while or if you need to get some work done during your trip.
Hotel Features and Pet-Friendly Rooms
The Hyatt Place Sandestin is clean and modern-looking, and the rooms are big enough for you and your pet to move around comfortably.
They’re okay with pets, but make sure to ask about their rules when you book. Some guests have mentioned that the staff is very welcoming to pets, which is always nice to hear.
The rooms at Hyatt Place Sandestin are designed to be flexible. They have separate spaces for sleeping, working, and relaxing. This is great if you’re traveling with a pet because it gives you both some space to spread out.
Location Benefits: Grand Boulevard and Beach Proximity
One of the best things about this pet-friendly hotel in Destin is where it is. It’s right on Grand Boulevard, which is a big, fancy shopping area.
There are lots of stores and restaurants right outside your door. And even though it’s not right on the beach, you’re still pretty close. Some guests have said it’s about a 15-minute walk to the beach, which isn’t too bad.
Room Rates and Amenities
Rooms here start at $246 a night, which isn’t too bad for the area. For that price, you get some nice things:
- Free parking (which can save you money in a busy place like Destin)
- Free high-speed internet
- A pool
- Free breakfast (and it’s supposed to be pretty good!)
- A fitness center
- A 24/7 market for snacks and necessities
- Meeting rooms if you need to do some work
Local Art and Cultural Experience
Something I thought was really neat was how they show off art made by local people. It made me feel like I was getting to know the area better, even inside the hotel. This is part of how Hyatt Place Sandestin reflects the arts culture of South Walton.
Nearby Attractions and Restaurants
There are some great places to eat and fun things to do nearby:
- Vin’Tij Food & Wine (5-minute walk) – They have American food
- Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar (5-minute walk) – For Caribbean food
- Another Broken Egg Cafe (10-minute walk) – Great for breakfast
- Grand Boulevard at Sandestin (5-minute walk) – A big shopping area
- Carmike Grand Boulevard Cinema 10 (4-minute walk) – If you want to see a movie
Getting There
Hyatt Place Sandestin is about 10.9 miles from Destin Airport. If you’re coming from further away, Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is about 31.2 miles from the hotel.
The area around the hotel is somewhat walkable, with a grade of 61 out of 100. This means you can walk to quite a few places, but you might want a car for some trips.
3. SummerPlace Inn – Best Budget-Friendly Option
- Room Rate: Starting from $312
- Address: 14047 Emerald Coast Pkwy, FL 32541-3337
- Contact Number: 00 1 850-650-8003
- Guest Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
If you want to save some money but still have a nice place for you and your pet, check out SummerPlace Inn. It’s a great choice if you’re traveling on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice comfort or location.
SummerPlace Inn is a charming hotel that’s designed to look like a British Colonial building. It’s not as fancy as some of the other Destin lodging options for pet owners we’ve talked about, but it has its own special character. The hotel aims to provide a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that makes you feel at home.
British Colonial Theme and Atmosphere
The hotel looks like an old British beach town. It was fun and different! They call it a “boutique style hotel,” which means it’s smaller and has its own special look. This theme gives the hotel a unique feel that sets it apart from the big chain hotels you might find along the main road in Destin.
The British Colonial style usually means lots of dark wood, ceiling fans, and a mix of tropical and English designs. It’s like stepping into a little piece of history but with all the modern comforts you need.
Room Types and Pet Policies
They have different kinds of rooms, and they’re all okay for pets. Always ask about their pet rules when you book.
Some places have limits on how big your pet can be or charge extra. The rooms are decorated to fit the British Colonial theme, which gives them a cozy, old-world feel.
Location Advantages: Beaches and Local Attractions
SummerPlace Inn is right on the main road through Destin, so it’s easy to get to a lot of travel destinations. The beach is super close – just a quick drive away. And there’s lots of fun stuff nearby like Big Kahuna’s Water Park.
Being on the main road (Emerald Coast Parkway) means you’re close to everything Destin has to offer. You’re near beaches, restaurants, shopping, and attractions. It’s a great central location for exploring the area.
Amenities: Indoor and Outdoor Pools, Hot Tub
For a place that costs $312, they have some nice extras:
- A pool inside and outside
- A hot tub
- Free breakfast
- Free high-speed internet
- A fitness center
- A business center if you need to do work
Having both an indoor and outdoor pool is great because it means you can swim no matter what the weather is like. The hot tub is perfect for relaxing after a long day of beach activities or sightseeing.
Guest Experiences and Feedback
A lot of people who stayed here say the workers are really nice and helpful. The rooms are clean and comfy, and people like how close it is to everything.
Guests often mention the friendly staff and the hotel’s good location. Many people also appreciate the value for money – you get a lot for what you pay here.
Nearby Attractions and Restaurants
There are some fun places to eat and visit nearby:
- The Back Porch Destin (4-minute walk) – They have good seafood
- Merlin’s Pizza (6-minute walk) – If you’re in the mood for pizza
- The Track (3-minute walk) – It’s an amusement park with go-karts
- Destin Dog Park (6-minute walk) – A great place to take your pet!
Getting There
SummerPlace Inn is easy to get to. It’s about 2.4 miles from Destin Airport and 8.2 miles from Fort Walton Beach Airport.
The area around the hotel is somewhat walkable, with a grade of 58 out of 100. This means you can walk to some places nearby, but you might want a car to explore further.
4. Hampton Inn & Suites Destin – Best for Beach Proximity
- Room Rate: Starting from $277
- Address: 1625 Scenic Hwy 98 East, FL 32541
- Contact Number: 00 1 855-605-0317
- Guest Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
If being close to the beach is what you want most, Hampton Inn & Suites Destin might be perfect for you. This hotel is all about location, location, location!
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin is part of the well-known Hampton chain, so you know you’re getting a certain level of quality and service.
What makes this one special is how close it is to the beautiful beaches in Destin. It’s a great choice if you want to spend most of your time on the sand or in the water.
Location: Across from Gulf of Mexico
This place is right across the street from the beach. You can’t get much closer than that! It’s great if you want to take your dog for walks on the beach (just make sure to check if it’s okay to bring dogs to that specific beach in Destin).
Being so close to the Gulf of Mexico means you get easy access to those famous white sand beaches and emerald waters that Destin is known for.
The hotel is also close to many Destin attractions, so you’re not just limited to the beach. You’re within walking distance of places like The Track Family Recreation Center and a short drive from Destin Harbor.
Pet-Friendly Room Options and Policies
They’re happy to have pets, but like always, check their specific rules when you book. Some rooms might be just for people with pets, which can be nice. It means you don’t have to worry about bothering non-pet owners, and your room might have special features to make your pet more comfortable.
Amenities: Free Hot Breakfast, WiFi, and Pool
For $277 a night, you get some nice things like:
- Free hot breakfast (I always love that!)
- Free high-speed internet
- An outdoor pool
- A fitness center
- A business center if you need to do work
- Free tea and coffee in the lobby
The free breakfast is a big plus—it saves you money and time in the mornings. Having free WiFi is great for planning your day or staying in touch with folks back home.
Nearby Attractions: The Track, Destin Harbor
There’s lots to do nearby:
- The Track Family Recreation Center (3 minutes away) – It’s got go-karts and other fun stuff
- Destin Harbor (a short drive) – You can go fishing or try some water sports
- The Back Porch Destin (4-minute walk) – They have good seafood
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (5-minute walk) – Another great place for seafood
Being close to Destin Harbor is great because it’s the center of many activities in Destin. You can find boat tours, fishing charters, and lots of restaurants there.
Outstanding Customer Service Experiences
So many people talk about how nice the workers are here. People say they felt really welcome and taken care of. That’s why they give it 4.5 out of 5 stars. Good customer service can really make a difference in your vacation, especially when you’re traveling with a pet.
Getting There
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin is about 2.4 miles from Destin Airport and 8.2 miles from Fort Walton Beach Airport. You can rent a car for about $104 a day if you need one.
The area around the hotel is somewhat walkable, with a grade of 57 out of 100. This means you can walk to some nearby attractions and restaurants, but you might want a car for exploring further or for trips with lots of beach gear.
5. Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin – Best for Extended Stays
- Room Rate: Starting from $347
- Address: 14060 Emerald Coast Parkway, FL 32541
- Contact Number: 00 1 855-618-4702
- Guest Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
If you’re planning a longer trip with your pet, Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin might be just what you need. This hotel is designed for people (and pets!) who are staying for more than just a few days.
Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin is part of the Hilton family of hotels, but it’s a bit different from your typical hotel. It’s what they call an “extended stay” hotel, which means the rooms are more like small apartments. This can be great when you’re traveling with a pet because you have more space and more of the comforts of home.
Suite Features: Moveable Furniture and Full Kitchens
What’s special about Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin is that the rooms are more like little apartments. You can move the furniture around to make it comfy for you and your pet. This is great because you can set up the room in a way that works best for you and your furry friend.
Plus, you get a whole kitchen in your room. This is super handy for longer stays because you can cook your own meals (and your pet’s meals too!).
The kitchen has a full-size fridge, a microwave, a dishwasher, and even a sink with a garbage disposal. They also give you dishes and cooking tools.
Each suite has a queen-sized bed and a sofa bed, so there’s plenty of space for you and your pet to sleep comfortably.
Pet-Friendly Policies for Longer Visits
They’re set up for pets staying a while. Again, check their specific rules, but they seem to understand what pet owners need for longer trips. This might include things like having pet-friendly areas in the hotel or being able to recommend local vets or pet stores.
Amenities: Pool, Fitness Center, and Laundry
For $347 a night, you get some great stuff for a longer stay:
- An outdoor pool that’s heated (great for swimming even if it’s a bit cool outside)
- A fitness center (they call it Spin2 Cycle, and it’s a combo fitness center and laundry room – you can work out while your clothes wash!)
- Free breakfast
- Free high-speed internet
- A business center
- A 24-hour market for snacks and necessities
Having laundry facilities right in the hotel is super convenient for longer stays. You don’t have to pack as many clothes, and you can always have clean outfits for you (and maybe even your pet!).
Breakfast Options and Dining Area
People really like the breakfast here. There’s lots to choose from, and the place where you eat is clean and well-organized.
They have a special “Inspired Table” breakfast, which includes hot breakfast items and grab-and-go options. This is great because you can sit and enjoy your breakfast or take it back to your room if you’re in a hurry.
Proximity to Beaches and Local Attractions
The beach is just a short walk away, and you’re close to places like:
- The Track (8 minutes away) – For go-karts and games
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (2 minutes away) – For yummy seafood
- The Back Porch Destin (5-minute walk) – Another good seafood place
- Destin Dog Park (6-minute walk) – A great place to take your pet!
Being on Emerald Coast Parkway means you’re on the main road through Destin. This makes it easy to get to all the major attractions in the Destin area.
Guest Experiences and Feedback
People who stay here really like it, so they gave it 4 out of 5 stars. They say the rooms are clean and comfy, and they love having a kitchen in their room. Many guests mention how great it is for longer stays, especially with pets.
Some guests have mentioned that the staff is very friendly and helpful, which can make a big difference when you’re staying somewhere for a while.
Getting There
Home2 Suites By Hilton Destin is about 2.6 miles from Destin Airport and 8.3 miles from Fort Walton Beach Airport. You can rent a car for about $104 a day if you need one.
The area around the hotel is somewhat walkable, with a grade of 62 out of 100. This means you can walk to some nearby places, but you might want a car for bigger trips or carrying lots of beach stuff.
6. Hotel Effie Sandestin – Best for Beachfront Luxury
- Room Rate: Starting from $332
- Address: 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd Baytowne Conf. Center, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
- Contact Number: 00 1 844-631-0595
- Guest Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
If you want to treat yourself and your pet to something really nice, Hotel Effie Sandestin is the place to do it. This hotel is all about luxury and style, but they still welcome pets!
Hotel Effie Sandestin is a new addition to the Destin area, opening its doors in 2021. It’s part of the larger Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, which means you get access to lots of great amenities.
The hotel aims to blend Southern hospitality with modern luxury, creating a unique and upscale experience for guests and their pets.
Southern Elegance and Modern Design
This place is fancy but in a new, cool way. It’s got that southern charm mixed with modern style. They call it “southern elegance with thoughtful design.” The hotel takes inspiration from the local area, so you’ll see touches of coastal Florida throughout the decor.
The rooms and public spaces are designed to be stylish and comfortable. You’ll find lots of light colors, elegant furnishings, and artwork that reflects the local culture and environment.
Pet-Friendly Policies and Amenities
They welcome pets but do check their specific rules. Some people who stayed here said there were extra fees, but also that the hotel gives special things for pets. This might include things like pet beds, food and water bowls, or even special treats.
The hotel is surrounded by the larger Sandestin resort, which has lots of open spaces and walking trails. This can be great for taking your pet out for exercise and bathroom breaks.
Unique Features: Rooftop Pool, Bar, and Dining
For $332 a night, you get some really amazing features:
- A rooftop pool with stunning views of the area
- A rooftop bar where you can enjoy drinks with a view
- Ovide, a fine-dining restaurant by celebrity chef Hugh Acheson
- A spa for relaxing treatments
- A fitness center with Peloton bikes
- Free transportation to the beach
The rooftop pool and bar are definitely highlights. Imagine relaxing by the pool or sipping a drink while looking out over the beautiful Destin area!
Room Types and In-Room Amenities
The rooms are super nice, with things like:
- Comfy robes
- Coffee makers
- Fancy toiletries
- Some rooms have great views
- TVs with lots of channels
- Free high-speed internet
Guest Experiences and Staff Interactions
People really like the workers here. Guests say they felt really well taken care of, from when they arrived to when they left. Many reviews mention the friendly and attentive staff, which can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your stay.
Nearby Attractions and Restaurants
There are some great places to eat and fun things to do nearby:
- Slick Lips Seafood & Oyster House (3-minute walk)
- Ovide (1-minute walk) – It’s right in the hotel!
- Village of Baytowne Wharf (3-minute walk) – A fun place to visit with shops, restaurants, and events
Being part of the Sandestin resort means you’re close to golf courses, tennis courts, and other resort amenities too.
Getting There
Hotel Effie Sandestin is about 8.8 miles from Destin Airport and 13.1 miles from Fort Walton Beach Airport. This hotel offers shuttle services within the Sandestin resort area, which can be really handy for getting around.
7. Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach – Best for All-Round Comfort
- Room Rate: Starting from $273
- Address: 220 Scenic Gulf Drive, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
- Contact Number: 00 1 855-618-4697
- Guest Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Last but not least, we have the Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach. It offers a bit of everything, making it a great all-around choice for pet owners.
Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach is part of the well-known Hilton chain, so you know you’re getting a certain level of quality and service. What makes this one special is its location near the beach and its balance of comfort, convenience, and value.
Location and Beach Access
You can walk to the beach from here, which is awesome. Even better, this hotel offers a free shuttle to the beach from March to October.
That’s really helpful if you’re carrying a lot of beach stuff (and pet things!). Being on Scenic Gulf Drive means you’re close to the beautiful beaches that make Destin famous.
Pet-Friendly Policies and Room Options
They’re happy to have pets, but as always, check their specific rules when you book. Some people who stayed here said the hotel was very nice to their pets. They might have special pet-friendly rooms or floors, which can be great for pet owners.
Amenities: Pool, Fitness Center, and Dining
For $273 a night, you get:
- An outdoor pool
- A fitness center
- A restaurant and bar
- Free high-speed internet
- A business center if you need to do work
- A 24-hour market for snacks and essentials
Having a restaurant and bar right in Destin beach hotels for travelers with pets can be really convenient, especially after a long day at the beach. And the 24-hour market is great for those late-night snack cravings or if you forget to pack something.
Nearby Shopping and Dining Options
You’re really close to Silver Sands Premium Outlets if you like shopping. There are also lots of restaurants nearby:
- Buffalo Jack’s Legendary Wings & Pizza (14-minute walk)
- Aegean Greek Restaurant (13-minute walk)
- The Surf Hut (8-minute walk) – I tried this one, and it was great! They let pets sit outside with you.
Being close to shopping and lots of restaurants gives you plenty of options for things to do, even on days when you don’t feel like going to the beach.
Guest Feedback on Pet-Friendly Experience
People with pets seem to really like staying here. They say the workers are super friendly to their pets and the hotel has good places for pet walks. Many hotel guests mention how clean and comfortable the rooms are, which is always important when traveling with pets.
Getting There
Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach is about 8.8 miles from Destin Airport and 13.1 miles from Fort Walton Beach Airport.
The area around the hotel is pretty walkable, with a grade of 72 out of 100. This means you can easily walk to quite a few places nearby, which is great for taking your pet out for exercise.
Wrapping It Up
I hope it helps you find the perfect animal-friendly hotels in Destin area for you and your pet. Remember, always double-check pet rules when you book, as they can change.
No matter which one you pick, I’m sure you and your pet will have a great time in Destin. The beaches are beautiful, the people are friendly, and there’s so much to do.
Remember to always be a responsible pet owner—clean up after your pet, follow leash laws, and be considerate of other guests.
Is the Destin Boardwalk Pet Friendly?
Yes, the Destin Boardwalk is pet-friendly! You can walk your dog on a leash along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and enjoy the scenic views together. Many open-air bars and restaurants along the HarborWalk Village welcome pets, and some even offer water bowls and treats for your furry friend.
Is Crab Island in Destin Florida Pet Friendly?
Yes, Crab Island in Destin, Florida is pet-friendly! You can bring your furry friend along as long as they are on a leash. The island is only accessible by boat, so you’ll need to rent a pet-friendly pontoon or join a dog-friendly tour. While on the island, your dog can enjoy the shallow waters and the overall fun atmosphere.
Can I Take My Dog to the Beach in Destin?
No, you can’t take your dog to the beach in Destin due to health concerns from pet waste. However, you can visit the Destin Dog Park, walk nature trails at Henderson Beach State Park, or stroll around the Village of Baytowne Wharf. For beach-like fun, visit Liza Jackson Dog Park in nearby Fort Walton Beach.
