Entire home

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

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Property grounds - 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community (Destin)
Outdoor spa tub - 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community (Destin)
5 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi - 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community (Destin)
Property grounds - 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community (Destin)
Dining - 5-Star Reviews - On the Beach - Hot Tub - Destiny by the Sea Gated Community (Destin)
At Dolphin Watch, a beachfront home in Destin's upscale Destiny by the Sea community, relish Gulf views from multiple balconies and rooms. Unwind on the hot tub overlooking the beach or enjoy outdoor dining with an oversized grill.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

5 bedrooms6 bathroomsSleeps 16295 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

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.
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

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Pool/Spa

  • Communal pool
  • Heated pool
  • Hot tub
  • Private pool
  • Sauna

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 5 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 5.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill

Laundry

  • Laundry detergent
  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Lift
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Limited housekeeping
  • Meal delivery service

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near an outlet shopping centre
  • Near the marina
  • Near the ocean

Things to do

  • Heated pool
  • Water park
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Spelunking nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Unit size: 3,176 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

Property is also known as

8

About the area

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 Destin Yarn Shop are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching. Visit our Destin travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Destin
Map
Destin, FL

What's nearby

  • Miramar Beach
    Miramar Beach
    3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Emerald Bay Golf Club which includes a river or creek and tranquil scenes
    Emerald Bay Golf Club
    19 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Destin Commons
    Destin Commons
    3 min drive - 2.5 km
  • James Lee Park
    3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • James Lee Beach
    11 min walk - 1.0 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • Circle K
    4 min drive
  • McDonald's
    5 min drive
  • Pompano Joe's
    3 min drive
  • Crab Trap Destin
    12 min walk
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill
    5 min drive

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 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 a 15-minute walk of Miramar Beach and James Lee Park. James Lee Beach and Shore at Crystal Beach Park are also within 2 miles (3 km).

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

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 24 out of 27 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 27 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 27 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 27 reviews

9.4

Cleanliness

10

Location

Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

Kate P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We went on this trip with my family, my sister’s family, and my parents. So 12 people, including 6 kids ages 1-9. Pros: the view is incredible as is the beach itself. We saw dolphins, walked the beach, swam in the ocean, and enjoyed the views, sunsets, and hot tub every day. The house was clean and for the most part as advertised. They provided some lovely toiletries and plenty of beach chairs, boogie boards, etc. which was very helpful. The kitchen was well stocked. Also the communication was usually pretty responsive. Cons: the neighborhood pool was closed for most of our stay and when it finally opened the last day it was not heated so basically unusable. We asked the host to help us find another pool but evidently were unable. In general the house was just a little run down, broken/loose kitchen tiles, stained fabric on kitchen chairs, the bunk beds were VERY loose and made me pretty nervous, etc. No beach towels which feels like a pretty big miss when you’re staying on the beach. We come back to Destin every year and will definitely consider coming back to this house, but there are some pretty easy improvements I hope they make in the meantime.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Beyond M.

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

Perfection

We were looking for a place to escape for a while. Ideally, just the two of us on a beach with only the sound of the waves. This place delivered exactly that. We fell asleep to the sound of the waves every night. And each morning I woke up in the master bed and just sat up to look out at those emerald waves rolling in and counted my blessings to be in such a beautiful place. Perfection.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Juan T.

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

Amazing trip to Destin!

We had an amazing trip to Destin! This house is beautiful! It's looks just like the pictures describe it. Located directly on the beach, with 5 very nice size bedrooms. We didn't have a need for the bunk bed room as our trip was all adults. Which is one of the other things that I loved. A lot of places have multiple bunk bed rooms, and no adult wants to sleep on a bunk bed. The hot tub was also a plus. We had fun in that after leaving the beautiful beach a couple of times, which was so quiet and peaceful. I loved this place. I'm not going to lie, it's pricey, but it was a perfect stay. If I can afford it, I'll definitely be back!!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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
This review is from a guest who booked and stayed through a partner site and can't be verified.

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!!

10/10 Excellent

Myressa T.

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

Almost Perfect Beach Home!

We loved it! The only downfall was the “palmetto bugs” which were actually roaches. There were a few dead ones in the floor upon our arrival and the property management immediately came to clean them up for us. However there were a few more in the kitchen throughout our stay. That was truly the only downfall!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
This review is from a guest who booked and stayed through a partner site and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Sharon S.

Great Experience!

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: Dolphin Watch is gorgeous!! We had a great experience without being on top of each other! If we had an issue, it was resolved quickly and efficiently. A suggestion-maybe more mixing bowls, baking sheets, kitchen utensils. We made it work! Would highly recommend, and have already planned for next year!