The Henderson in Destin, Florida
By Chad H. Vorbrich
Located on the “Emerald Coast” in Destin, a stunning new resort is nestled on property that offers sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, pristine beaches, dunes, a nature preserve, as well as a thoughtful and respectful design. The Henderson, A Salamander Beach & Spa Resort, is just steps from 200 acres of rare coastal preserve and one of America’s highest rated beaches, stretching nearly two miles of white sugar-sand coastline and emerald hued waters.
The Grand Courtyard entrance to the 170 room resort hotel
Reminiscent of a luxurious grand seaside manner of yesteryear, The Henderson seamlessly blends modern resort conveniences with the nostalgia of Old Florida. Guests arrive in a Grand Courtyard, which leads to an Expansive Living Room with high ceilings and a wall of windows, that faces the Henderson Beach State Park & Preserve and beach. Specifically designed to connect guests to the environment, the resort is infused with several quaint gathering areas.
The expansive Living Room with high ceilings and a wall of windows that face the beach & preserve
Every aspect of The Henderson has been meticulously planned and the art displayed throughout the property is no exception. Thirteen local Destin artists were chosen to create custom pieces, specifically for The Henderson. Each piece has been thoughtfully placed throughout the resort – the result is a stunning coastal resort with an inspired sense of place.
The beautiful guest rooms and suites include stylish furnishings, yet remain authentic to the local, cultural surroundings. Larger than typical luxury resort guestrooms, they feature custom furnishings, luxurious bedding, elegant bathrooms, and gracious balconies or terraces.
A destination spa experience worth the trip, awaits guests. Drawing on its natural surroundings, The Henderson’s spa features 11 spacious treatment rooms, extensive water treatments and amenities, and a women’s locker room which opens onto a private relaxation terrace overlooking the preserve.
The Salamander Spa features an exquisite glass art centerpiece
The Henderson celebrates Destin’s Gulf-to-Table seafood traditions, while also serving a fine selection of steaks and chops and creatively healthy fare. The resort offers a signature restaurant, Primrose, with a display kitchen and a dedicated experience with freshly prepared sushi. It also features a striking octagonal shaped bar, Horizons, a poolside grill called Sea Level, an old-fashioned ice cream shop named Sprinkles, and intimate dining on the beach.
Freshly prepared sushi at Primrose
For those wanting a more active setting, The Henderson features a sun-lit fitness room and a variety of other water experiences, including a family-oriented pool with a lazy river and a quiet adult zone. There are numerous family activities, including a dedicated children’s program — Poppy’s Kids Club. Guests can easily stroll or bike to the beach, the adjacent nature preserve and its nature trails and dunes. Or, they can utilize the resort’s fleet of luxury cars or concierge shuttle to visit nearby attractions. Neighboring activities include two championship golf courses, incredible shopping at the Destin Commons or Silver Sands Premium Outlet Center, and a variety of water-sports, amusement and equestrian activities.
The resort features two swimming pools, including a family-oriented pool with a lazy river, hot tub, cabanas and a poolside bar and grill.
A great off-site dining experience is Dewey Destin’s Harborside Restaurant, a local seafood haven overlooking the shores of Destin Harbor. The owner, Dewey Destin, his family and Destin, Florida have been intertwined since Dewey’s great, great grandfather, Leonard Destin, founded the town in 1835. Dewey uses original family and Gulf Coast recipes, and is immensely proud to serve seafood and other local dishes.
Fresh Catch of the Day at Dewey Destin’s Harborside Restaurant
Guests of The Henderson also enjoy a beach experience that features sunset cocktail hours, a wide pristine beach, waterfront dining, umbrella and chair service, as well as a base for activities like sailing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and volleyball.
Rent a YOLO® paddleboard at the beach
Tampa Bay residents can reach The Henderson and Destin by car — a seven to eight hour drive north or by air — flights from Tampa into nearby airports, include: Fort Walton Beach-Destin Regional Airport (VPS), Pensacola International Airport (PNS), and Destin Executive Airport (DTS). M
200 Henderson Resort Way
www.hendersonbeachresort.com
855-741-2777
www.cityofdestin.com
www.yoloboard.com
www.destinseafood.com
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