No guide to the beach would be complete without some tips on where to do what! We don't get paid to put anyone on this list - we just like these places!  The list is subject to modification and expansion without notice, so check back from time to time. Where there's a logo or picture, you should be able to click on it for a link to the company's web site.

HIGH CLASS TAKE-OUT FOOD

Located in the Shoppes at Paradise Isle across Hwy 98 from Destin Common, Sarah K's is famous for their all-crab crabcakes. Almost half a pound of lump crabmeat each for less than $9.00! We quit making our own after we tried these. Lots of other items as well. Everything that needs it can be heated quickly in a 450 degree oven. No preparation required. Great place for last minute meals when you don't feel like going out.

ROYAL ORCHID THAI RESTAURANT The consensus choice of locals for Thai and Chinese food. Admittedly, the competition in this area for oriental takeout is not great, but this place is really good. No web site, unfortunately. Located on Hwy 98 near Seascape in Miramar Beach. Call 850-650-2555.

CIAO BELLA PIZZA DA GUGLIELMO Best pizza around. Located in the Silver Sands Outlet Mall near Sandestin. Call 850-654-3040.

MODICA MARKET   Charlie Modica and his family have been around as long as Seaside, where they're located, and are still going strong. Offering a little bit of everything, with prepared take-out dishes that change frequently. They'll even stock your Seaside cottage from their website. Whatever you need to complete that gourmet meal but forgot to bring from Atlanta (or Nashville, Dallas, or wherever), chances are they'll have something that'll serve well. Call 850-231-1214.

SHOPPING

SILVER SANDS is the nation's largest designer store outlet center. Over 100 stores and everything from Aeropostale (men's clothing) to Zale's (jewelry). All the top brands at prices that are way below what you'd usually pay. Located just west of Sandestin on Hwy 98. Very helpful website (click the photo) with up to date postings on sales events for all stores.

DESTIN COMMONS. Opened in 2003, Destin Commons has quickly become the area's destination of choice for a combination of shopping (dozens of stores with products ranging from the Bass Pro Shop to women's wear boutiques like Chico's), movies (12-screen RAVE Theater), and eateries of all kinds. Locals like to meet and greet at the Blue Point Fish Club). Features seasonal live entertainment. Water fountain/playground for the kids in summer (shown). Located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Hwy 98 and Hwy 293 (Mid-Bay bridge road/Danny Wurfel Blvd). Helpful web site (click the photo), but events were not up to date when last checked.

GOLF

Set in the upscale Destin residential neighborhood of the same name, Regatta Bay offers a 6900 yard, par 72 course that appeals to golfers of all abilities. Named one of Golf Digest's "Top Places to Play in North America," Regatta Bay is rarely crowded and is always superbly maintained. A full clubhouse with a first rate restaurant is part of the experience. On-course circulating beverage carts help relieve the heat. Book on-line at their web site (click logo) or by phone at 850-650-7800.

SEASCAPE Just off the beach in Miramar and designed by famed course architect Joe Lee, Seascape’s par 71, 6,100-yard championship course poses a unique challenge to players of every skill level as its green placement and hazards require singular precision to maneuver the course. The sheer beauty of the terrain, with its tall pines, shimmering waters and softly rolling hills has been known to distract even the most ardent golfers. If time is an issue, Seascape offers the option of playing nine holes in the afternoon. Call for tee times at 800.874.9106.

SANDESTIN. This huge resort complex offers 4 distinct golf courses with appeals to differing styles and abilities. 3 of the courses are open to the public and can be booked online (click the photo). As a convention-oriented resort, some courses can be booked pretty heavily. Best to call ahead at    850.267.8211

SANTA ROSA GOLF & BEACH CLUB. Located just west of Gulf Place and Santa Rosa Beach on the north side of scenic Hwy 30-A. The area's only gulf-front holes are part of this 18 hole, 6600 yard, par 72 layout. Breezes off the Gulf tend to take the edge off the heat even in summer. Enjoy post-round drinks and snacks at the clubhouse or at the Beach Club on the south side of 30-A. Call for tee times at (850) 267-2229