Florida: Surf, Sand and
Steals in the Sunshine State
Florida consistently ranks in the top three states in which to locate, and for good reason. ‘The Sunshine State’ is situated (August) and a Greek Festival (September). Destin has several times been voted the ‘Best Beach in the South,’ and within close
on a large peninsula at the southern extreme of the east coast of proximity are a wide selection of restaurants, shopping, art gal-
the United States. It has a warm and humid subtropical climate, leries, antique malls and the nation’s largest designer outlet mall.
diverse culture and landscape, and something for everyone.
There are 13 golf courses within Destin, and another 12 within 15
With hundreds of theme parks and attractions, over 1,200 miles miles. Destin Harbor caters to the water sports enthusiast, with
of sand beaches, year-round activities and one of the lowest tax watercraft rentals and fishing, snorkeling and diving charters. Enjoy
burdens in the country, it’s easy to see why Florida is a prime desti- fine or casual dining while watching the sun set over the jetties at
nation for both vacationing and relocating. Winters are mild, with a number of waterfront restaurants.
average temperatures ranging from 53˚F in the northern region to
If you travel due east from Destin across the panhandle to the
a balmy 68˚F in the south. In the summers, afternoon rain showers eastern coast, you’ll end up in enchanting St. Augustine. Founded
cool down inland areas nearly every day, while the coastal areas by the Spanish in 1565, it has been remarkably well preserved, and
enjoy ocean breezes.
many of the original buildings and fortifications still survive. Stroll
down the cobblestone streets of the historic downtown area, and
Places to Go and Things to Do
explore the bounty of cafés, bed-and-breakfasts and specialty shops.
NORTH FLORIDA
The local art scene is particularly dynamic, and you can find every-
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The ‘Emerald Coast’ of Florida is aptly named. In Destin, thing from watercolors of the St. Augustine beaches to beaten copper
COURTESY
the waters are clear and emerald-green, and the sand is sugar- sculptures. In the heart of downtown, the Columbia restaurant has
VISIT
white. The year-round activities in Destin are endless: parasailing, served delectable Spanish-influenced cuisine to locals since 1905.
snorkeling, deep-see fishing, dolphin excursions, light tackle fishing,
CENTRAL FLORIDA
FLORIDA
sunbathing and golf. There are even annual activities such as
Thirty-five miles of silken beachfront wrap around Sarasota,
