Snow? Yes. In Destin? Yes!! Known for warm, balmy emerald breezes, Mother Nature decided to throw the emerald coast a curve ball on January 21, 2025. Transforming the white sandy beaches into a snow covered winter wonderland, the snow event shattered snowfall records including the 130 year record set in February, 1895. Schools closed and the town came to a halt as residents enjoyed their time off building snowmen, drinking hot cocoa by their fireplaces, and enjoying the rare event. Being “snowed in” definitely has its perks!

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Whether it be a traditional Thanksgiving day shared with family, or a holiday spent amongst friends, we have much to be thankful for. Sharing special moments with loved ones defines it all. Why do I love spending Thanksgiving on Holiday Isle? It’s a quieter time of year for sure, and that is part of its charm. You won’t see quite as many boats sailing in and out of the harbor as you would in the summer. Highway 98 won’t be nearly as full of cars, but what you will enjoy is the crisp, clean sea air as it sweeps along the sandy beaches. You’ll love the power walks or sometimes leisurely strolls taken along Gulfshore Drive. I love sweatshirt weather and will always cherish these special memories.

If you’re visiting from a northern state you may enjoy the more moderate 60-70 degree weather. I remember as a teenager visiting Florida from Pennsylvania in the fall and winter and identifying other northerners because we’d be the only ones at the beach!! Too cold for the natives! Now that I live in south Florida, I still love the welcome change of the cooler air in North Florida. South Florida stays pretty warm all year round. So wherever you’re visiting from, I want to wish you a very special and memorable Thanksgiving in Destin. Especially Holiday Isle. So sit back, relax, and enjoy all that Destin has to offer. Enjoy a Thanksgiving holiday filled with the warmth of shared moments amongst family and friends, the joy of laughter, and a deep sense of gratitude for the blessings in our lives.

What brings you to the Emerald Coast? For me, it’s always been about the beautiful beaches! The peace and tranquility found there on warm sunny days defines your holiday retreat. Growing up in northeast Pennsylvania, beach vacations were always a special time. Even as a child, I remember loving the family retreats that would take us south to one of Florida’s many beaches, but we never found one quite as special as the Destin beaches. The soft, powdery sand and crystal clear water rivals the worlds most stunning shorelines. Because it is composed almost entirely of finely ground quartz crystals, the Destin sand is a breathtakingly beautiful brilliant white. It’s smooth, rounded grains contribute to the “squeak” sound the sand makes when you walk on it. Be sure to listen for the “squeak” beneath your flip flops as you step outside the Emerald Breeze condo and onto Norriego Point Beach Park, just outside the front door. With your sunscreen and beach chair in tow, you’re ready to enjoy Destin’s clear water and brilliant sand. Remember to grab your favorite beverage, and sunglasses too, and enjoy a beautiful beach day!