Hello, again, dear readers. It’s just about that time of year again. Like the Grinch creeping up into Whoville, most of you will be on the hunt for those presents very soon. We’ve compiled a list of places to check out if you’re in search for that perfect gift.

1. The Destin Commons: This is one of the most, well, common places to visit when looking to spend some dough and acquire some swag. This is due, in part, to its large size and outdoor stores. It’s also the closest shopping center to the hotel. Here you’ll find a large fish themed bowling alley and an AMC movie theatre that features films in IMAX. This will help you warm up if you get a bit chilled while Holiday shopping. As will the nearby Starbucks. During the season, the Commons feature a giant Christmas tree that stands centrally located amidst the stores and restaurants. It makes for beautiful photographs; as do the ribbons, garlands, and lights that are hung throughout the streets in celebration. Lastly, the Commons are home to over 80 different stores and restaurants. From jewelry to apparel to electronics to books, and even exotic coffee/spices, you’re likely to find enough here to at least put a dent in your shopping list. For a more complete list of the different shops located here, visit https://destincommons.com/shop/ .

2. Silver Sands Premium Outlets: This option is the likeliest on the list to have any designer items you’re wanting to purchase. Here you’ll find the likes of Fossil, Kate Spade, Banana Republic, Saks Fifth Avenue, Disney, Michael Kors and more. Like the Commons, it’s home to a plethora of stores. Over 100 at last count and is an attractive open-air shopping center. There are several restaurants at which to replenish your energy so you can keep searching for the perfect Holiday gift, like Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Panera Bread. And they are located a convenient 15-minute drive away from the Summer Place Inn. For a more in-depth look at what’s typically on offer, visit their website at https://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/silver-sands/stores .

3. Harbor Walk Village: This is going to be the most unique store among the big ones. Like the others, it’s a collection of stores and restaurants located outdoors. Unlike the others, it rests along the Destin Harbor. This is where the majority of the nearby dolphin cruises, parasailing, boat rentals, and other water activities occur. In addition, the Harbor Walk has various activities to do when you need a break from shopping. You can zip line, get your face painted, try an escape room, or even catch an outdoor movie or firework display. The stores located here are a mixture of merchants that may already be familiar to you and also include local vendors in the Destin area. You can get personalized painted signs with oceanic life or other designs. You can get surf related tools and equipment. You can purchase clothing and apparel made by local businesses. There’s a lot to look through here, and it might just have that “something different” for a final gift with which to surprise a loved one. To take a look for yourselves visit https://www.emeraldgrande.com/harborwalk-village/all-shopping/ to look at the shops and https://www.emeraldgrande.com/harborwalk-village/all-activities/ to check out the activities.

4. Downtown Fort Walton Beach: I always tell our guests to try to spend some time in the area just past Brooke’s Bridge and in Fort Walton. Here you’ll find rows of surf shops, coffee spots, hole-in-the-wall eateries, tattoo parlors, and more. And the majority of them are distinct to the area. There’s even a little place dedicated to Coca-Cola merchandise and second hand treasures. There’s also the “Indian Temple Mound Museum”, which provides insights into the history of the Pensacola culture. If you’d like to know more visit http://www.downtownfwb.com/ .

We hope you come and see us this holiday season. As ever, check the blog and newsletter for upcoming promotions and deals. Happy Holidays ?

By: Rachael Turner