by Gigi Bors-Koefoed
Get Acquainted
Florida’s Emerald Coast along the Panhandle is one of the state’s most sought-after destinations, and it is easy to see why; with miles of pristine coastline, sugar-white beaches, dune lakes, nature preserves, and upscale seaside towns, the region is vibrant with breathtaking natural beauty and relaxed, small-town charm. Nestled along the sparkling shores of Miramar Beach, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa offers an unforgettable setting for a seaside celebration.
The sunlit lobby welcomes guests with panoramic ocean views, an inviting indoor pool, and the Sandcastles Restaurant, highly enjoyed for its indulgent morning buffet. Originally designed as a timeshare, the property features spacious guest rooms with cozy bunk bed nooks, perfect for wedding guests traveling with children. For the bridal party, the Deluxe Lanai Rooms offer a more private retreat, complete with direct access to the pool or beach.
The Big Day
Serenity by the Sea
The bridal party can choose between a relaxing or an active start to the wedding day with morning yoga on the Sunset Deck followed by pampering at the full-service award-winning Serenity Spa led by Spa Manager Shanell Lucas. With the spa’s signature offerings such as HydraFacial™, Serenity O2 Facial, and Hydrogen Wave Table- a 25-minute water-jet massage with red light therapy, it is the ideal space to unwind and prepare.
In addition to numerous luxurious treatment options, the spa offers a private ladies’ lounge room for a break in-between sessions with a light spa lunch and, of course, champagne while relaxing in a zero-gravity chair. Planning the right bridal spa indulgence should be done well in advance; consultations for a pre-wedding skin care regimen are recommended 6-9 months prior to the wedding date. Guests traveling with teens can indulge in Mommy and Me nail service, perfect for a little pre-wedding pampering together.
The groomsmen are presented with equal measure of activity and relaxation. The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, named by Condé Nast Traveler magazine as one of its “Top 20 Florida golf resorts”, provides access to four award-winning championship golf courses. After completing a round, the party can recover at the spa with a Moroccan body treatment, geared toward golfers and athletes, followed by a cold plunge shower. For the bride and groom who wish to share the spa experience, the hotel generously offers 30 bonus minutes post-massage with champagne and chocolate in the couple’s treatment room. C’est si bon!
Wedding Ceremony Options
The Panhandle exhibits some of the most idyllic beach settings for ocean front vows with glistening emerald waters as the backdrop. Couples have the option to say ‘I do’ with their toes in the sand or on the Sunset Deck, perfect for an intimate seaside ceremony of up to 200 guests. Rain or shine, as a comforting perk, beach weddings include a dedicated backup indoor space ensuring no day is ruined by the elements.
For a grander affair, the hotel provides three ballrooms of varying capacities, with the largest Emerald Ballroom hosting lavish receptions for as many as 500 guests. Destination wedding planning at the Hilton Sandestin Golf Resort & Spa is a breeze with in-house catering, a preferred vendor list with exclusive discounts, and a complimentary ocean-view king room for the wedding night.
The Dining
Hilton Sandestin Golf Resort & Spa hosts a sophisticated AAA Four Diamond steakhouse indulging the senses beyond culinary experience. Dining at Seagar’s evokes the aura of the classy 1950s with rich wooden paneling, deep brown leather armchairs and a nautical nod of navy blue textiles. Time is of no essence here, as the journey through the four courses is meticulously executed, consisting of locally sourced ocean delicacies, tender USDA Prime Steaks, and succulent seasonal vegetables. Complimenting the meal is the impressive 600-label wine list, though in an establishment such as Seagar’s, it is fitting to sip on Sazerac, one of many luscious cocktail offerings.
For daily eats and casual moments, Sandcastles Restaurant serves wood-fired pizza, delicious sandwiches and a much-loved omelet station. For a little more excitement on the palate, Hadashi Sushi dazzles with traditional Japanese fare, most notably the Chef’s speciality: Tuna Tataki – sesame covered seared tuna with sake ponzu and scallion cucumber salad.
Out and About
Leisure and activity are the cornerstones of Hilton Sandestin Golf Resort & Spa. Its prime location provides guests with easy access to the nearby Village of Baytowne Wharf, a historic marina setting featuring delightful shopping, restaurants, and a rich performance calendar. The Adventure Play Area allows parents to enjoy time on the patio while the children safely climb and play over the lagoon. Not to be missed is the aerial fun of Baytowne Zipline.
Nautical adventures and water sports are plentiful in the Destin area, offering activities such as paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing, with something for everyone. And of course, the world-class top-notch golf.
