Destin Vacation Rental cottage

This was a very cute, exceptionally clean and well-equipped unit that is every bit as nice as described/pictured. The washer was broken when we arrived, but I didn't realize that until I went to start a load of towels on our last day (owner requests that renters put in a load of towels and start the dishwasher as they leave---bring detergent for both!). The owner probably was unaware that it was not working.

The resort in general (pools, hot tub, grills, etc.) is also as pictured...it's a beautiful place. The only permanent exception to the listed amenities was that there is no longer a "lakeside grill." I was looking forward to having lunch by the lake, but apparently this amenity has been removed and there are only a couple of drink machines.The fountains were also drained for maintenance, which was disappointing as the water features are a MAJOR part of the landscaping, and there is a fountain right below the condo porch! This was not under the owner's control and was simply bad timing for us.

The biggest problem that I had was finding beach access for my 81-year-old godmother. Because I had called the owner (and read the reviews) I was aware of the spiral staircase and knew that we could work around this problem. BUT...the beach at the resort is definitely NOT available to anyone with a problem walking or climbing stairs. I think that MANY elderly people would have trouble with the number of steps down to the beach (over 30), so I do not agree that the resort/condo is "suitable for elderly.". Apparently at one time there was a ramp around one end of the "high rise" building, but it is gone. Add to this the fact that through no fault of the owner we had to walk to the beach, and using the resort beach became an impossibility for my family. Luckily there was a public beach several miles up the road that had only a few shallow steps...it was a beautiful beach, but not very convenient.

Definitely this is a a wonderful, SAFE place for families with kids, especially independent teens/young adults. The grounds are absolutely BEAUTIFUL and must be stunning when the fountains and "streams" are running...

We arrived in the heat of the afternoon and were tired from our travels. Were pleased to have the air conditioning already running (nice and cool) and the cottage was cleaner than expected. We have never been in a rental property that was so clean and well maintained! The cottage had the master on the bottom floor with a spiral staircase going up to the loft bedroom. The kids thought that was so neat! The porch overlooked the pool but was also screened from the trees for shade and privacy. The cottage was a short walk to the beach but we used the open aired tram frequently. The tram operator (Bill) was so friendly, we hated to say goodbye!
The property is at Miramar Beach and is not as crowded (covered in people) as the destin area. It is close to starbucks, the outlet mall and grocery store. You feel secluded inside the resort but if you step outside you close to all the attractions.
The people that used the property were great! There were a lot of families and people that were very respectful! We were spoiled! There was not a "party atmosphere". This was a great enviroment for all ages!
We used the beach service while we were there (7nights). It was nice to have our chairs and umbrella already set up when we went down to the beach! We didnt have to carry the chairs and we could got back to the cottage for lunch (or nap) then could return to the same spot. There were no worries at all!
We bought a lot of groceries and only ate at a couple of restaurants. The cottage had the necessary utensils and cookware, but keep in mind that they only have the bare essentials. If you think you may need something, I would go ahead and buy/bring it.
The washer and dryer in the kitchen were great! I was able to keep up on the laundry and not have to do a ton when I got home. This also allowed me to bring limited beach towels because I was able to wash. I have never stayed anywhere with a washer and dryer available! That was great!
I would recommend this place to mostly anyone. They only thing I would keep in mind is that it is on the 2nd floor and there is spiral stairs to the loft. If you cannot climb stairsa, this isn't the place for you.