The blissfully quiet, low-rise escape Crystal Sands Condominiums by Wyndham Vacation Rentals has a walk-to-town location right on Crystal Beach in Destin, so it’s easy to sneak away for some shopping, where you can check out the dining options too. That said, the beach is why you’re here, and the beach is where you’ll be. All. Day. Long. (With the exception of a stop at the seasonally heated pool). Grab the buckets, shovels and sunblock and take the on-site boardwalk that leads tot he beach. The complimentary beach service ensures that you won’t have to worry about hunting for a beach chair or umbrella. Set up camp and keep an eye on the kids in the water, without losing sight of the younger ones on a mission to pick up every shell they see. When shoulders start looking a little lobster-like, pack up your paddleball and rafts and head back to your condo.

One- to two-bedroom condos sleep six to eight guests. Full kitchens have everything you need to make and serve meals. Bring the kids along to Publix to stock up on groceries. Declare it Taco Night and let the kids assist with taco assembly. Cook the meat, lay out the tortillas, taco shells, cheese, and avocado and let the kids go wild. Thanks to the in-suite washer/dryer, post-taco cleanup will be a breeze. While the laundry is going, catch a sitcom rerun on the Cable TV. DVD players are perfect for family movie night. Have everyone get changed into their PJs, pop some popcorn and gather the family on the couch. Once the kids are tucked in, the balcony is yours, all yours. Grab the touristy brochures you picked up earlier and plan the next day’s outings.

Gather all the shopaholics in your crew and head to Destin Commons Shopping Center. Get some new jeans at American Eagle, Lucky or Express. Let the little ones build a special stuffed animal at Build a Bear. Treat yourself to some new jewelry at Pandora or makeup at Sephora. Find your next great beach read at Books-A-Million. Need an afternoon pick-me-up? Order a latte or frappuccino at Starbucks. When you get hungry, there’s Johnny Rockets, Red Brick Pizza or Smashburger. Visit Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park for a day of underwater excitement. There are over forty rides and attractions. Ride the Kowabunga Racer. It’s a five-story long slide that features four lanes. The Money River waterslide has twists and three-hundred and sixty degree turns. The little ones will love the water play area. It features fountains, a waterfall, children’s pools and slides.