Tons and Tons Of Attractions Near Our Destin Beach Resort Hotel

The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is the perfect vacation destination or Florida weekend getaway. Just relax. Take a load off. Get some sun. Splash around. And if your idea of a perfect getaway involves taking in the local culture and attractions, you'll find everything you need to keep you busy - all within minutes of our Destin beach resort hotel. Start your visit to The Village of Baytowne Wharf in the shops and galleries, where you'll find unique gifts for those envious friends back home. Then watch a little candy making, try a Cajun cooking lesson, and begin salivating for dinner. Will you choose barbecue, or a cozy bistro? A mellow waterfront bar, or a late-night at a live-music dance club? Why not try it all? Tomorrow, you can nap the day away at the beach. Think of our luxurious Florida beach resort as your connection to tons of brilliant area attractions, including:

• Destin History & Fishing Museum (12 miles)

• Big Kahuna Water Park (9 miles)
  
  
• Village of Baytowne Wharf (1.4 miles)
  
  
• Destin Fishing Docks (8 miles)
  
  
• Eden State Gardens & Mansion (13 miles)
  
  
• Gulfarium (15 miles)
  
  
• Seaside (14 miles)
  
  
• U.S. Air Force Armament Museum (25 miles)
  
  
• Ebro Dog Track (35 miles)
  
  
• Pensacola Historic District (60 miles)
  
  
• Destin Commons (6 miles)
  
  
• The Track (9 miles)
  
  
• Silver Sands Factory Outlet Stores (2 miles)
  
  
• The Market Shops at Sandestin (1 mile)


• Grand Boulevard (6 miles)
  
  

You'll find quite an eclectic mix of events near our gulf-side resort in Destin, Florida. Art, music, food and wine festivals take place almost year-round, and the area is full of holiday cheer - regardless of the season. Bring the whole family to the Easter Carnival at the Village in the spring, or take in the All That Jazz, Wine & Art Festival in the fall. Take your pick from the full calendar of events near our Destin Florida beach resort, including:

No matter what time of year you visit the Emerald Coast, there is always a local festival or event taking place within the community. Many of the most significant festivals of the year are actually held within a few short steps of your room. From the Hilton Sandestin's Spectacular 4th of July Fireworks Show to the Mardi Gras celebrations in The Village in February, something special is just around the corner...

JANUARY

Senior and Snowbird Expo
Welcome winter guests! This showcase event, held annually at the Emerald Coast Conference Center, displays goods and services available to senior visitors and residents in the area. Door prizes and continental breakfast are provided to all. Call 850-244-8191 for more information.


FEBRUARY

Just the Two of Us...A Valentine Interlude at the Hilton Sandestin
Saturday, February 16, 2008, 7-10 p.m.

This Valentine's Day, there's no need for Cupid: the Hilton Sandestin has taken care of it all by pairing a romantic evening with several additional options. Bring your sweetheart to join us for a Valentine Celebration that includes romantic music, dancing and intimate tables for two, including a filet and shrimp entrée served with wine tableside. Choose from five special packages, customized to include overnight accommodations at the Hilton Sandestin, brunch or spa services and much more. For package details or to make reservations, call Carolyn at 850-267-9600 or click here.

Mardi Paws Pooch Celebration*
Don't miss our newest addition to the Mardi Gras weekend at Baytowne Wharf! This doggie expo will feature live music, dog-friendly vendors, and the canine royalty for the Krewe of Arfeous Dog Parade, as well as numerous local rescue shelters. And stick around to meet the artist who will be signing this year's artwork with the theme, "Wasted Away in Dogaritaville," New Orleans native Jim Tweedy! For more information on this event, call (850) 267-9400.

"Krewe of Arfeous" Dog Parade*
Even our four-legged friends don't miss a chance to party at the Village. Check out our 4 th annual Pooch parade through the streets of Sandestin. For information on this event and to inquire about participating, please contact Bark Avenue by calling (850) 267-9400 or visit the event online at: www.kreweofarfeous.com.

Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade*
Prepare to let your hair down on what many call the most festive day of the year, Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. "Laissez les bon temps rouler" (let the good times roll) with the 5th annual Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade rolling through Sandestin. Yell "throw me something mister" as unique and colorful floats, golf carts, and pick-up trucks roll down the streets and marchers dressed up in all their Mardi Gras best shower parade-goers with a barrage of beads, moon pies, and other trinkets. The post-parade celebration continues into the night with street performers, "throws" tossed from balconies on Main St, and parties at various Village establishments. The Village is looking for Krewes to join in the Mardi Gras festivities. To participate in this exciting event, or to volunteer, please contact Baytowne Wharf at 850/267.8180.

MARCH

St. Patty's Day Delight*
The Village of Baytowne Wharf invites everyone to celebrate St. Patrick's Day as we welcome back the Irish sounds of Henri's Notions, in the Events Plaza. Enjoy the traditional sounds of Irish/Celtic music and jubilant entertainment Village-style. To accompany the live music will be The Drake Irish Dancers of Fort Walton Beach who will be performing a variety of dances. Also, we'll have a bagpipe and drum corp strolling throughout the Village all evening long.

The Sandestin Wine Festival at Baytowne Wharf brings an opportunity for discovery. Four days of unique events open up a wide range of experiences from attending private dinners, participating in auctions for rare and distinctive wines, and taking part in wine tastings showcasing more than 600 domestic and international wines.

Wine novices are able to learn more about wines and sample from a comprehensive selection including the finest appellations from all major producing countries in all varieties, styles and price ranges. Wine aficionados enjoy meeting winemakers, asking detailed questions and acquiring hard-to-get selections.

An added bonus is the opportunity to immediately purchase your favorite selections. All wines are available at special event pricing at the Retail Wine Tent on Saturday and Sunday.

Don't miss the opportunity to toast to your share of the excitement. For more information, visit www.sandestinwinefestival.com or e-mail info@sandestinwinefestival.com.


MAY

ArtsQuest 2007*
This amazing Art show is the largest in Northwest Florida and can attract thousands of spectators each day. Enjoy incredible artwork from around the country, as well as wonderful food and music both days. Admission is $3.00 per day. Visit the CAA's website and learn more about this event - www.culturalartsassociation.org.

JUNE

Mini Gras™*
Bring the kids for this annual summer event every child will enjoy! It's an evening of fun and merriment at Baytowne Wharf. With special children's activities sprinkled throughout the Events Plaza, Mini Gras promises to be a weekly favorite for the kids. To participate, a wristband will be required which can be purchased at the event for a minimal fee, offering guests unlimited fun throughout the event!

Ballet @ Baytowne: An Evening of Dance*
A romantic blend of classical and contemporary ballet performed under the stars by the Northwest Florida Ballet. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy the evening while viewing a spectacular ballet performance.


JULY

Hilton Sandestin's July 4th Celebration
Do you consider red, white and blue your primary colors? Then be sure to check out the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa "Spectacular Fireworks Show," located poolside from 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Featuring a huge barbeque buffet at Barefoots Beachside Bar & Grill, as well as live entertainment this incredible fireworks show kicks off at 8:00 p.m. Please call 850-267-9500 for more information.

Boomin Tuesdays at Baytowne*
Tuesday, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 9:30 PM
Join the Village of Baytowne Wharf this summer as we brighten up Tuesday nights as the Village hosts a fireworks show beginning at 9:30PM. The show will take place over the lagoon in the Village's Events Plaza. Bring your blankets and chairs and view this explosive event from the lawn in the Events Plaza! For more information, call (850)267-8117. Admission is free. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Mini Gras*
Tuesday, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 7-10PM
Bring the kids for this annual summer event every child will enjoy! It's an evening of fun and merriment at Baytowne Wharf. With special children's activities sprinkled throughout the Events Plaza, Mini Gras promises to be a weekly favorite for the kids. To participate, a wristband will be required which can be purchased at the event for a minimal fee, offering guests unlimited fun throughout the event!

Wednesday Night Concert Series at Baytowne*
Wednesday, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 7-9PM
Music fills the streets of Baytowne Wharf throughout the month of July with the Wednesday Night Concert Series in the Events Plaza. This hip series features local, regional, and even national touring bands performing everything from acoustic mixes to jazz to good old-fashioned down home blues. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Baytowne Wharf Art Expo*
Friday - Saturday, August 29 - 31, 5-10PM
The Village of Baytowne Wharf welcomes the fresh fall season under the moonlight with a weekend good for the art and soul with world-class art and live music in the Village Events Plaza. Exceptional artists featured in the area's leading galleries from across the Southeast will gather for this three-day festival featuring the best of the best in the world of art.

Sandestin Triathlon
Saturday, August 23, 6:30 AM
In August, the 22nd annual Sandestin Triathlon (formerly the Elephant Walk Triathlon) will lure 700 participants for a half-mile gulf of Mexico swim, a 20-mile bike along the coast, and a 40-mile run throughout the Sandestin's beach and bayside community. The race starts on the beach behind FINZ Restaurant (formerly Elephant Walk Restaurant). Proceeds benefit Sacred Heart Hospital of the Emerald Coast. Click here for more information. Online registration will be available for participants in early summer 2008 at www.altavistasports.com.

Mini Gras*
Tuesday, August 7, 7-10PM
Bring the kids for this annual summer event every child will enjoy! It's an evening of fun and merriment at Baytowne Wharf. With special children's activities sprinkled throughout the Events Plaza, Mini Gras promises to be a weekly favorite for the kids. To participate, a wristband will be required which can be purchased at the event for a minimal fee, offering guests unlimited fun throughout the event!

Wednesday Night Concert Series at Baytowne*
Wednesday, August 6, 13, 20, 27, 7-9PM
Music fills the streets of Baytowne Wharf throughout the month of July with the Wednesday Night Concert Series in the Events Plaza. This hip series features local, regional, and even national touring bands performing everything from acoustic mixes to jazz to good old-fashioned down home blues. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Ultimate Airdog Southern Championships
Saturday & Sunday, September 20-21, 9-5PM
Ultimate Air Dogs is one of the premier dock jumping organizations in the country that showcases a variety of jumps and demonstrations. Watch as dogs run down the dock and splash into the lagoon while performing a number of jumps. Long distance jumping is the main feature of the event. It is showcased in different rounds called "Splashes" that culminate at the end of the event with our Divisional Finals. Village Lagoon. For more information visit ultimateairdogs.net

Wednesday Night Concert Series at Baytowne*
Wednesday, September 3, 10, 17, 24, 7-9PM
Music fills the streets of Baytowne Wharf throughout the month of July with the Wednesday Night Concert Series in the Events Plaza. This hip series features local, regional, and even national touring bands performing everything from acoustic mixes to jazz to good old-fashioned down home blues. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Hilton Sandestin's 2nd Annual Monster Mash Bash
Friday, October 31, 8 PM - 1 AM
Calling all witches, ghouls and devils…the Halloween event of the year is at the Hilton Sandestin Beach! The event includes full open bars, great food & music from the hottest DJ on the Emerald Coast. Fabulous prizes will be given away at our costume contest judged by the audience. Special "Take the Elevator Home" rates available for hotel accommodations. For tickets or more information, please call Carolyn at 850-267-????.

Destin Seafood Festival
Friday-Sunday, October 3-5
More than 25,000 visitors and locals will pack HarborWalk Village alongside Destin's docks to enjoy fresh local seafood, live entertainment, arts and crafts booths, children's activities, and more at the 30th Annual Destin Seafood Festival. Sample the catches of The World's Luckiest Fishing Village, enjoy free concerts, and shop the arts and crafts vendors at this annual event held on the grounds behind City Hall. Tadpole town will keep the kiddies busy with NASCAR racetrack, live animals, balloon animals, Rock Wall, obstacle course, puppet and magic shows, face painting, and fly-fishing casting contests. For more information, please contact the Destin Chamber at 850-837-6241. www.destinchamber.com

Destin Fishing Rodeo
Celebrating Destin's rich fishing heritage, the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo is the ultimate fishing tournament for anglers of all kinds. More than 30,000 anglers compete throughout the month of October for over $100,000 in prizes ranging from trophies and merchandise to bonds. Whether you're trolling inshore for King Mackerel, offshore for Marlin and Sailfish, or fishing the deep bottoms for Red Snapper and Grouper, you'll be in the running for daily, weekly and overall prizes in men's, women's and junior anglers' categories. Virtually every game fish is recognized with awards during the Rodeo. Call 850-837-6734 for more information. www.destinfishingrodeo.org.

Best of the Emerald Coast (Benefiting Destin Family YMCA)*
Saturday, October 18, 6:30-9:30pm
Sample the "créme de la créme" of the Emerald Coast's food, fashion, music, sports and more as chosen by Emerald Coast Magazine readers. Held at the Destin Commons. Tickets benefit the new Destin Family YMCA. For more information, please call the Destin Family YMCA at 850-837-8440

Vettes at the Village*
Saturday, October 18, 10-5PM
Area Corvette Clubs bring "America's Sports Car" to the Village Events Plaza. Over 250 Corvettes old and new will be shined to the max and wanting your vote for the best Classic and Contemporary entries! Come check out these automotive icons, vote for your favorites and enter a drawing for some really great prizes! Admission is free. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Baytowne Trick or Treat Street & Spooky Fireworks*
Halloween, Wednesday, October 31, 6-8PM
Let your children "spook" the Village merchants as they go door-to-door collecting candy to feed their sugary appetites. Then stick around for a frightening-ly good time with a special fireworks display over the Lagoon, the perfect way to end a horrifying holiday! Admission is free. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Wednesday Night Concert Series at Baytowne*
Wednesday, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 7-9PM
Music fills the streets of Baytowne Wharf throughout the month of July with the Wednesday Night Concert Series in the Events Plaza. This hip series features local, regional, and even national touring bands performing everything from acoustic mixes to jazz to good old-fashioned down home blues. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Taste of THE Beach
Thursday-Sunday, November 6-9
An unparalleled four-day celebration of THE Beach. Visit www.tasteofthebeachfla.com or call 850-267-0683 for more information.

Hilton Sandestin's Thanksgiving Celebration
Thursday, November 27, 11-4:30PM
Bring the family to our house this Thanksgiving and leave the cooking to us! Enjoy a bountiful spread of signature favorites the whole family will appreciate at our fabulous Thanksgiving Buffet including Chef Carved Tom Turkey, Country Ham, Roast Duck, Grouper, traditional side and desserts prepared by our award-winning pastry chef. To make reservations, call 850-267-9500, x44.

7th Annual Beaujolais Nouveau Holiday Kick-off at Sandestin Market Shops
Friday, November 21, 6-9PM
Live holiday music, decorations and French Country Cuisine walkabout dinner & wine tasting. Special promotions held in all merchant shops, extended shopping hours until 9PM. For more information call (850) 267-8092. To purchase tickets, visit www.marketshops.net and click on the 'special events' link. Net proceeds benefit Covenant Hospice - A United Way Agency. Open to the public.

Nautical Christmas: Holiday Movie Night*
Friday, November 21, 7-11PM
Bring your blankets and hot cocoa and enjoy this holiday favorite for all ages under the stars. Located at the Village of Baytowne Wharf. Admission is free. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Nautical Christmas: Santa Claus & Dickens Carolers
Friday, November 28, 6-8PM
Don't miss your chance to sit with Santa and give him your wish list of presents that he'll leave for you under the tree! Bring your cameras to capture the family moment forever. Enjoy traditional Christmas carols throughout the Village as we re-create the days of Holidays past. Located at the Village of Baytowne Wharf. Admission is free. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Nautical Christmas: Village Tree Lighting*
Saturday, November 29, 6-8PM
After Santa's magical arrival to Baytowne Wharf, join Mr. Claus and friends for the lighting of the Village Christmas Tree! Enjoy live music and other fun, holiday activities, including a special holiday fireworks display over the lagoon in the Village's Events Plaza.

Wednesday Night Concert Series at Baytowne*
Wednesday, November 5,12,19,26, 7-9 PM
Music fills the streets of Baytowne Wharf throughout the month of November with the Wednesday Night Concert Series in the Events Plaza. This hip series features local, regional, and even national touring bands performing everything from acoustic mixes to jazz to good old-fashioned down home blues. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Hilton Sandestin's New Year's Eve Gala
Wednesday, December 31
Ring in the New Year at the Hilton Sandestin and take the elevator home! Dance the last night of the year away to live entertainment, indulge in an elaborate gourmet buffet before those New Year's resolutions kick in, and enjoy complimentary alcoholic beverages, party favors and much more at our grand celebration! Please call 850-267-9500 for more information.

Nautical Christmas: Santa Claus & Dickens Carolers*
Friday & Saturday, December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20, 6-8PM
Don't miss your chance to sit with Santa and give him your wish list of presents that he'll leave for you under the tree! Bring your cameras to capture the family moment forever. Enjoy traditional Christmas carols throughout the Village of Baytowne Wharf as we re-create the days of Holidays past. Admission is free. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Wednesday Night Concert Series at Baytowne*
Wednesday, December 3, 10, 17, 7-9 PM
Music fills the streets of Baytowne Wharf throughout the month of December with the Wednesday Night Concert Series in the Events Plaza. This hip series features local, regional, and even national touring bands performing everything from acoustic mixes to jazz to good old-fashioned down home blues. Open to public. Subject to change based on weather.

Hilton Sandestin's 5th Annual Little/Big Holiday Party
Friday, December 12
Join others from various companies around town for one BIG party at the Hilton Sandestin, featuring live entertainment, door prizes, dancing, cash bar, fabulous food and a special room rate. Please call 850-267-9600 for more information.