Navigating Group Travel in Northwest Florida

January 11, 2024

When it comes to navigating group travel, choosing a destination that can accommodate the needs of your whole crew should be right at the top of your checklist. You’ll want a central location near scheduled functions and restaurants that can cater to larger parties. Prioritizing accommodations to keep your entire group under one roof is also essential. Having everyone together isn’t just fun; it simplifies logistics when coordinating transportation and group activities. Of course, given the miles of sandy shoreline, a place near the beach would be nice, too!

Whether arranging a spiritual retreat for a church group, planning a wedding, or celebrating an anniversary, finding the right location will take your trip to the next level. Northwest Florida is an ideal destination for any group travel, and here’s why!

Family Reunions

Celebrating a family reunion in Northwest Florida is more than just a gathering—think stunning beaches, loads of activities, and beautiful landscapes! The whole family will have a great time hanging out at the beach, grilling burgers, and enjoying the sun and the sand while playing beach volleyball, frisbee, or building sandcastles. And nothing compares to sharing new experiences like snorkeling and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico! 

You can also book excursions for your group, including dolphin cruises and deep-sea fishing. Treat everyone to a day at a water park like Big Kahuna’s in Destin, or learn about local marine life at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach! To make your family reunion more magical, stay at a beachfront resort like The Crescent, where the whole family can relax and indulge in luxurious amenities. With two pools, a hot tub, an outdoor barbecue area, and a game room, there’s no need to look further to spend quality time with the ones you love!

Special Anniversaries

Visitors return annually to Northwest Florida to celebrate special anniversaries, often staying in the same vacation rental each time! With countless recreational opportunities, exceptional accommodations, and fantastic restaurants, it’s also an ideal destination for corporate retreats. Whether sampling the local brews, exploring Crab Island, embarking on a dinner cruise, or a fishing excursion, your group is guaranteed a fun time during their stay! 

Many restaurants will happily host your celebratory or corporate dinner, offering diverse cuisine and catering to small and large parties alike! Consider celebrating at Seagars in Sandestin, The Ocean Club in Destin, or Down Island Gulf and Cafe Thirty-A on 30A, all featuring delicious Gulf-to-table menus and delightful atmospheres. 

Church Groups

Combining fellowship and worship with the beach in your backyard is easy, and the calm waters provide a serene environment for deep reflection and meditation. Explore the pristine beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy the soothing sound of the waves. Beyond the beach, you can visit beautiful state parks, including Grayton Beach State Park and St. Andrews State Park, to connect with nature and experience diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and wildlife. There’s no better way to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings and enjoy the starry sky away from city lights. 

You’ll also find many opportunities for quiet group activities, like kayaking and paddleboarding—both excellent ways to spend a peaceful afternoon. End each day with gratitude, watching a spectacular sunset, embracing fellowship, and sharing personal testimonies and uplifting messages of hope and inspiration!

Sports Teams

Although known for its beautiful beaches, Northwest Florida hosts a variety of sports teams throughout the year. With top-notch facilities and competitive venues, like Frank Brown Park in Panama City Beach, the area boasts everything from tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts to baseball, soccer, and football fields.  After the game, team bonding takes on new meaning with trips to the beach, pit stops at local ice cream shops, and shopping for souvenirs to commemorate the trip!

If you’re traveling with your sports team, SunDestin is a great option the whole crew will love. This Gulf-front beach resort can comfortably accommodate the entire team and offers plenty of amenities for relaxation and recreation, including indoor and outdoor pools, an on-site restaurant, and more. It’s also conveniently located near main attractions, shopping districts, restaurants, and sports venues!

Business Travelers

Whether working remotely, taking a few extra personal days after a business trip, or bringing the family to play while you conduct business, it’s easy to mix work and play in Northwest Florida! You’ll find plenty of waterfront cafes and upscale restaurants suited for casual business meetings, featuring everything from local seafood to international cuisine. Take advantage of any downtime and visit the powdery white sand beaches, enjoy a round of golf, or take a nature hike at one of the many state parks!

There’s no need to choose between pristine beaches and proximity to downtown when booking accommodations. You get the best of both worlds at Emerald Towers in Destin. This beachfront resort features plenty of family-friendly amenities, including an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center. Take a dip in the Gulf anytime, as it’s an easy walk to the white sand beaches, with quick and easy access to shopping and dining, too!

When it comes down to it, the best part about group travel is spending time together and creating lasting memories. Consider booking a vacation home or condo with Scenic Stays for your group travel experience to enjoy even more time together! Our vacation rentals cater to many different group sizes and preferences and feature generous living and sleeping areas, well-equipped kitchens, and thoughtful amenities, sure to elevate any stay! 

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