Area and vacation rental

Question

Hello, our April vacation plans fell through so we are looking for a new place to spend a week in April. We usually go to Captiva or Sanibel but are looking at the Panhandle. I have never been but have been reading all the posts ( including the beaches are beautiful )and it seems everyone recommends “30A” which appears to be the area from Destin to PCB. I also see a lot of rentals on Cape San Blas. We are an extended family of 11 ranging from age 2 to 62. Very easy access to a good swimming beach is important as we have a couple who just want to hang at the beach , with the two year old. Some of us, as in me, would like things to do like , fish, bike, kayak so access to that , even as an excursion, is key. We don’t care about shopping and try to avoid having to drive as much as possible. And finally, either biking or walking to at least restaurant is a plus , but not mandatory. Any suggestions on specific areas or rental companies ? Thanks so much !

Answer

The Florida Panhandle is a wonderful alternative to Captiva or Sanibel, especially in April when the weather is warm but not too hot. For an extended family of 11, you’ll want a rental that combines easy beach access with options for activities and some nearby dining.

Here’s an overview of areas that may fit your needs:

30A Communities (Seaside, Rosemary Beach, WaterSound, Grayton Beach): These towns are well-known for their charming walkable streets, pastel-colored homes, and easy beach access. Many rentals are right on or just steps from the beach. Biking is very popular here, and there are bike trails connecting several of the communities. Restaurants and small cafes are usually within biking or short driving distance. Activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing excursions are easy to book.
Cape San Blas: A quieter, more secluded area with a wide, natural beach. Great for families who want to relax without crowds. Some larger rentals offer direct beach access, making it convenient for a two-year-old. You may need to drive a bit for restaurants, but fishing, kayaking, and nature exploration are readily available.
Destin and Miramar Beach: These areas have a mix of high-end vacation rentals and family-friendly houses. Beaches are excellent, and there are more options for organized activities such as fishing charters or kayak rentals. Some properties may be a short walk or bike ride from casual dining spots.

For your family, 30A may strike the best balance between beach access, walkability, and activities. If total seclusion is preferred, Cape San Blas is quieter but with fewer nearby dining options.

Recommended vacation rental strategies:

Look for vacation rental companies that specialize in large homes for extended families, such as 30A Escapes, Luxury Coastal Vacations, Panhandle Getaways, or Vacation Rentals of South Walton.
Search for homes with at least 5-6 bedrooms to accommodate your group comfortably, ideally with direct beach access or a short walk.
Check amenities carefully: a large kitchen for cooking, multiple bathrooms, and outdoor spaces for family gatherings.
Consider rentals near bike trails or community centers where equipment can be rented, to make activities easy for everyone.

For activities:

Fishing: charter boats in Destin or Santa Rosa Beach; inshore trips are great for families.
Kayaking/paddleboarding: many rentals on 30A offer easy access to coastal dune lakes or bays.
Biking: 30A has over 20 miles of scenic bike trails connecting beach towns, perfect for multi-generational groups.
Beaches: all three areas have pristine white sand beaches with gentle surf, but Cape San Blas is particularly tranquil.

In summary, for a mix of relaxation, easy beach access, and activity options without driving too much, 30A communities like Seaside, Rosemary Beach, or WaterSound are highly recommended. Cape San Blas is ideal if your priority is a quieter, secluded beach experience, while Destin offers more organized excursions and services. Booking through specialized vacation rental companies will help ensure a property that meets your family’s needs.

Area and vacation rental

More Florida Panhandle Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions