We recently took a long weekend getaway down to the Hilton Sandestin. In the middle of a crazy pandemic, while trying to get adjusted to the kids new school routine, and with one homeschooling, a few days a way to reset was just what we needed. I can remember visiting here every summer as a kid with my parents, so it’s always fun to bring my kids back, and even more fun to go back with my parents.
Depending on where you are coming from it’s the perfect place for few nights away. We flew Southwest airlines from Nashville on a quick 1 hour flight into Panama City. We opted to rent a car with Hertz but there are plenty of shuttle options as well for the 45 minute drive over to the Hilton Sandestin.
A few people may be thinking we are crazy for traveling and getting on a plane during this time, so I just want to say do what makes you comfortable. When we flew the Southwest was operating at 50% capacity, so an empty seat on every isle. I also bring all the wipes with me, of course I did this pre-pandemic as well. But I always wipe down the seats and tray table before every flight. Yes everyone has to wear a mask the entire flight. I also bring my wipes into the hotel room and wipe down handles, knobs, remotes, and anything else my kids may be touching just to be safe.
The great thing about staying at the Hilton Sandestin with kids are the family suites! I mean every kid loves bunk beds right? My kids also loved how they had their own TV next to the bunk beds. And it’s nice to have a little space between you and the kids.
It’s hard not to enjoy the beach or pool but if you end up with a rainy day like us, the kids still had fun at the indoor pool. We also enjoyed the cupcake decorating kit for some afternoon downtime! And if you are able to slip away be sure to check out the spa!
Hilton Sandestin is always making it easy for parents who are homeschooling during this time. With wifi in all the rooms including around the pool it’s easy for the kids to complete some school work before having some fun!
There are plenty of places to go nearby, from Baytown Wharf with restaurants and shops to the outlet mall a mile away! If you don’t want to leave the resort, you can enjoy breakfast from the all you can eat buffet, tuna dip and a grouper sandwich sitting pool side, and sushi for dinner!
If you are looking to head out for dinner here are a couple of my favorite spots!
- Harbor Docks
- The Red Bar
- Vin’tij Wine Bar
- Emeril’s Coastal
- The Back Porch
- Pompano Joe’s
- Stinky’s Fish Camp
- Boshamps
- The Donut Hole
You may be like us and just not want to leave once you arrive. The kids had fun from chasing waves during the day to catching crabs on the beach at night. In my opinion these are the prettiest beaches in the US. I was just glad they had beach chairs available to avoid carrying stuff down everyday! If you forget something, they also offer a great gift shop with all the swimwear and toys!
Hope you have as much fun as we did!
