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5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community

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Sink into plush leather sofas as ocean breezes flow through your expansive living space, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning sea views.
Gather around your elegant glass dining table under warm ceiling fan lighting, with open-concept living flowing seamlessly throughout your coastal retreat.
Elegant beachfront villa with multiple balconies and private pool, surrounded by palm trees in a pristine coastal neighborhood.
Soak in your private hot tub while gazing at endless turquoise waters and pristine white sand—pure beachfront bliss awaits.
Your private balcony offers front-row seats to endless ocean views, where morning coffee tastes better with sea breezes and waves.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
5 bedrooms5+ bathroomsSleeps 16

Popular amenities

  • On beach
  • Private pool
  • Spa pool on site
  • Garage parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine

Explore the area

View map
Destin, FL
  • Place, Miramar Beach
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, James Lee Park
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, James Lee Beach
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Airport, Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
    ‪35 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 16)

Guest Bedroom #2

1 King Bed

Guest Bedroom #3

1 King Bed

Guest Bedroom #4 - Bunkroom

2 Single Bunk Beds

Guest Bedroom #5

1 King Bed

Living Room with Sleeper Sofa

1 Double Sofa Bed

Primary Bedroom

1 King Bed

5 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

First Floor Full Bathroom

Guest Bdrm#2 Full Bath

Guest Bdrm#3 Full Bathroom

Guest Bdrm#5 Full Bathroom

Primary Full Bathroom

Second Floor Half Bathroom

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community

* Gulf front
* Hot tub on deck overlooking the beach!
* Gulf views!
* Balconies!
* Walking distance to the community pool and hot tub
* Elevator
* Fully stocked kitchen
* Outdoor grill
* Spacious common area with ample seating
* Gated community in Destiny by the Sea
* Free wifi
* Four parking spaces
* Four backpack beach chairs
* Close to dining, shopping, activities, and entertainment
* Home is stocked with Starbucks coffee pack, creamer, sugar, bottles of water, and a starter amenity package with a roll of paper towels, dish soap, sponge, kitchen wipes, dishwasher soap, laundry detergent pods, pillow spray, shampoo, conditioner, aloe, lotion, bathroom soaps, and a roll of toilet paper in each bathroom.

Please note: The indoor fireplace is decorative only and intended for visual enjoyment.
How appropriate the name—Dolphin Watch—for this Emerald Coast beachfront house rental. This three-story Destin, Florida, home is perfect for large groups in the upscale “Destiny by the Sea” community off Scenic Highway 98.

An elevator is a considerate convenience to traverse from floor to floor. All levels of this truly extraordinary house provide Gulf vistas, so no one has an excuse to miss the amazing sunrises, and truly astonishing sunsets, in perfect God-designed hues.

The first floor gives guests access to an oversized deck with ample seating, rocking chairs, loungers, and a hot tub—all while enjoying beach views! With attention to detail in the landscaping, this secluded property has its own private beach access just steps away from the house. The floor-to-ceiling sliders allow everyone access to the beautiful panoramas.

The massive deck can be accessed from the first floor, from all three bedrooms. The first king bedroom has an ensuite shower, soaking tub, and extra-large double sinks. The second king bedroom has an ensuite bath with a tub/shower combo. The third bedroom has two sets of bunk sleeping six. There’s a full bath with a tub/shower combo, plus a kitchenette with a sink, icemaker, and microwave, so this level would be excellent for families with young children. There’s also an in-unit laundry room for the heaps of towels and bathing suits required for life by the sandy shore.

The second floor has wall-to-wall windows in the living area, allowing an extraordinary view of the Gulf. The cozy seating area offers ample seating and includes a sleeper sofa. The beautiful indoor fireplace is meant for visual enjoyment only and is not intended for guest use. There’s a half bath on this level. An intimate dining area and adjacent bar stools at the counter are one option for meals, but there’s outdoor dining too with a grill for barbecues. The kitchen has adequate counter space for several cooks to work simultaneously, yet with the open concept design no one will feel left out. All the culinary necessities of home are provided. Also, the second level has a fourth king bedroom with an ensuite bath and a lovely walk-in shower.

All guest rooms are comfortable, but the showstopper of suites is on the third floor. The primary bedroom features a king bed, a large spa-inspired ensuite with Jacuzzi tub, and a separate shower. There’s also an enclosed balcony with Adirondack seating to watch the dolphin play.

We can’t imagine why you’d leave this lovely property; however, as part of the Destiny by the Sea, there’s a community pool, hot tub, and lounging area nearby.

Sleeping Arrangements (Sleeps 16):

First Floor:
- Guest Bedroom: One King Bed
- Guest Bedroom: One King Bed
- Guest Bedroom: Bunkbeds: One Full over Full and One Twin over Twin

Second Floor:
- Guest Bedroom: One King Bed
- Living Area: One Sleeper Sofa

Third Floor:
- Primary Suite: One King Bed

About the Community:

Located along Scenic Highway 98 on the Emerald Coast in Destin, Florida, this premier, Gulf-front, gated community has 24-hour security as well as a pristine, private beach. This private community association has contracted with Sun, Sand and Sea for beach service rentals, which includes beach chairs and beach umbrellas. Personal tents, umbrellas, baby tents, tarps, and canopy setups are not allowed per the association rules. Outside golf cart rentals are not allowed per the association rules. Wide walking and bike paths add to the ambiance of touring the area. Enjoy a lavish community pool and hot tub.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 3326719vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Destin

Located in Destin, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the beach. While the natural beauty of Miramar Beach and Destin Beaches can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Sandestin Golf Resort - Raven, Burnt Pine, Baytowne, The Links. Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park and Fat Daddy's Arcade are also worth visiting. Enjoy the area's slopes with skiing, and don't miss out on the ice skating.
Map
Destin, FL

What's nearby

  • Miramar Beach - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • James Lee Park - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • James Lee Beach - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Shore at Crystal Beach Park - 2 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Destin Commons - 3 min drive - 2.5 km

Getting around

  • Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Circle K - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Pompano Joe's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪El Jalisco Destin - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Crab Trap Destin - ‬12 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community?

As of 9 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community on 29 July 2026 start from AU$4,378, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community located?

Nestled on the beach, this Destin holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of James Lee Park and Miramar Beach. James Lee Beach and Shore at Crystal Beach Park are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 27 out of 31 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 31 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 31 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 31 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Dolphin Watch is amazing! Access to the private beach right out of the back door and being close to all that Destin has to offer made for a perfect vacation.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laci B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing view! We had such a great time and really enjoyed the privacy on the beach.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Mar 2026
Thank you for your kind review! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the amazing view and had a great time during your stay at Dolphin Watch. Providing our guests with a private and relaxing beach experience is something we take pride in, and it’s wonderful to know it made your visit special. We hope to welcome you back for another memorable getaway in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Miriam O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hot tub had not been cleaned when we arrived. After it was reported, lady came and cleaned it the next day. Granddaughters enjoyed hot tub. Beautiful ocean view.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Mar 2026
We sincerely apologize for the oversight regarding the hot tub's cleanliness upon your arrival. We're glad to hear that the issue was promptly addressed and resolved the following day. It's wonderful to know that your granddaughters enjoyed the hot tub and that you appreciated the beautiful ocean view. Your comments help us improve, and we hope to provide an even better experience during your next visit. Thank you for staying with us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was wonderful. The house was beautiful and well supplied. We would definitely stay there again. We had a fantastic family vacation.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kaitlynd P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The location and views were even better than expected! The beds were very comfortable and everything was very clean. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Nov 2025
Thank you for your wonderful review of Dolphin Watch! We’re thrilled to hear that the location and views exceeded your expectations. It’s great to know that you found the beds comfortable and the home spotless. Providing a clean and relaxing environment is our top priority, and we’re so glad you enjoyed your stay. We hope to welcome you back again in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ruth P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice getaway!!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Easy communication with host, beautiful property, everything we needed for a memory filled weekend.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept 2025
We're thrilled Dolphin Watch made waves in your weekend plans. Easy communication, a beautiful property, and everything you needed? Sounds like a recipe for an unforgettable getaway! Here's hoping you left with memories as big as the ocean and smiles as bright as the sun. Come back anytime—your next adventure is just a splash away!"
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

great location, really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 June 2024
Hi Angie, it is so good to hear you enjoyed your stay! Dolphin Watch is in a great location, and I am sure you had some amazing views and sunsets. Thanks for staying with FunVacay, we hope to see you again soon.
Verified

8/10 Good

Katie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved the beach front view. We saw dolphins everydag
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Sept 2025
"Thank you for your fin-tastic review! We're thrilled you enjoyed the beachfront view—sounds like the dolphins put on quite the daily show for you. They must have heard you were visiting and decided to make some waves! Come back anytime; the dolphins love repeat audiences!"
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dale W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful house, fantastic location on a private beach. Gated community, very secure. Minutes from shopping, grocery stores, and restaurants.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug 2025
We're thrilled to hear you loved the house and enjoyed the private beach—it really is a special spot. Knowing you felt secure in the gated community and appreciated the convenience of nearby shopping and dining makes us so happy. We hope to host you again soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diana R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great family home

Was a great place for 11 adults with plenty of room for all. Plenty of bathrooms and plenty of sleeping arrangements. Great place for a. Adaption with the whole family.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location - great community - perfect sized house for our family - easy check-in and check-out process. Will be back - thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 July 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words about Dolphin Watch! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the location, the community, and that the house was a perfect fit for your family. It’s wonderful to know the check-in and check-out process was smooth for you as well. We can’t wait to welcome you back in the future—thank you for choosing us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family vacation

Enjoyed very much. Loved the private beach.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 May 2025
We're so happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay and loved the private beach! It's truly a unique feature. We'd love to have you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location on a private beach in a gated neighborhood.

Great house for several families. We had 6 adults and 5 kids. Perfect bedroom arrangements.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 June 2025
Thank you so much for your kind review! We're thrilled to hear that Dolphin Watch was a perfect fit for your group. It’s wonderful that the bedroom arrangements worked well for both the adults and kids. We hope you all made some amazing memories during your stay. If you ever plan another trip, we’d love to welcome you back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

50th birthday girls trip

Absolutely stunning views, clean property, comfortable beds, very responsive to all questions and concerns. Loved this property!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Jan 2025
Hi Stephanie, Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so happy to hear that you had an amazing 50th birthday girls' trip and enjoyed the stunning views, comfortable beds, and our team's responsiveness. We’d love to host you again for another unforgettable getaway!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Britt M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Great house with beautiful views. Located close to everything.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jan 2024
Hi Britt! Thank you for your kind words about this wonderful home. The views and location are about perfect! We look forward to your next stay with us.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leisel T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our first time at a rental property. They did not disappoint. We arrived a few hours earlier and they allowed us an early check in. Communication with host was prompt. The location was great, absolutely loved the direct access to the beach and the hot tub. Our group consisted mainly of teenagers and they had the best time. The house was super clean with all amenities. Interior needs a little upgrade and TLC. Overall great experience. Would definitely recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2025
Thank you for your thoughtful review! We’re delighted to hear that your first rental property experience was enjoyable and that you appreciated the early check-in, prompt communication, and direct beach access. It’s wonderful to know the hot tub and amenities contributed to a memorable stay for your group. We’re especially glad the teenagers had a great time! Your feedback regarding the interior upgrades is valuable, and we’ll take it into consideration as we strive to enhance our property further. Cleanliness and comfort are top priorities for us, and we’re pleased to see these aspects met your expectations. Thank you for recommending us, and we hope to welcome you back for another fantastic stay in the future!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Regan D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Vacation Home

The house was exactly as advertised. Perfect for our group. Will definitely book again.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Apr 2024
Hi Regan, Thank you for taking the time to write a review. We take great pride in our rentals and are happy that you enjoyed your stay. We look forward to hosting you again in the future.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful experience in Destin!

Great location close to everything, perfect for two families with kids, beautiful private beach with umbrella and chair setup, and nice house with plenty of supplies. Hot tub was a nice touch. Recommended for other families and would stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2024
Hi Ashley, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the great location, the private beach setup, and the house amenities. It's fantastic that the hot tub was a nice addition to your stay. We would love to host you and your family again in the future. Safe travels and see you next time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location, location, location!

Overall this was a great property in a very good location. Look forward to going back soon. Manager was very attentive to our needs and very helpful.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2023
Hi Jon! Thank you for your kind words and review. It was a pleasure having you as our guest. It's so good to hear you enjoyed the property and we look forward to your next stay. Thanks again, FunVacay
Verified

8/10 Good

Julie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

family vacation

we loved the neighborhood and what a great view of the beach! The house could used some updating and needed some minor repairs, but it was clean and the access to the beach was simply amazing. We had to leave early because of the hurricane but the time we were there was wonderful.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Oct 2024
Hi Julie, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review! We're so glad to hear that you loved the neighborhood and enjoyed the beautiful beach views. It's great that you found the beach access convenient, and we're happy that your time with us, though cut short, was still wonderful. We hope you’ll have the chance to return for a longer visit in the future—hopefully without any weather interruptions!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deanna B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous

Beautiful home steps from the sand!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Aug 2024
Location, Location!! Being so close to the sand is the best! We are glad to hear you enjoyed the home. Hope to see you again soon.
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Linda F.

Best vacation home!

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: The house was amazing! Steps away from the beach!If you get the chance to rent this house, do it!!
Response from VrboOwner on 14 July 2023
Hi Linda, Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It is so great to hear you enjoyed your stay in a FunVacay rental. We look forward to welcoming you back and wish you safe travels!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dolphin Watch

My children and grandchildren had the best time. All of them agreed it was the best vacation we have been on as a family. We have been on cruises and resorts. They were nice but nothing compared to the convenience of being on the beach! Thank you!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 July 2024
Hi Jan, Thank you for your wonderful 5 star review! We're delighted to hear that your family had such a memorable time at Dolphin Watch. It's especially gratifying to know that our beach location provided the perfect setting for your best family vacation yet. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable moments!
Verified

6/10 Okay

Robin S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful view

This VRBO was very nice for the view and location. We had a few things not work like the hot tub and the dishwasher and the floor tiles were cracked. We had a couple windy days and a storm shutter kept us up as it was broken. The house needs some TLC for sure due to the age. The manager did what they could.
Stayed 11 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Feb 2025
This VRBO was very nice for the view and location. We had a few things not work like the hot tub and the dishwasher and the floor tiles were cracked. We had a couple windy days and a storm shutter kept us up as it was broken. The house needs some TLC for sure due to the age. The manager did what they could.

About the host

Hosted by FunVacay, LLC

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