Gulf Coast Blog

Southern Resorts in Seaside, Florida

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010

Seaside is a world renowned beach location constructed with a foundation and focus on family.  Uniquely and masterfully planned, Seaside combines the feel of a quaint coastal community with lovely specialty shops and world class dining.  Many of the shops are centered around the Seaside Green, a location for festivals, blanket on the grass movie nights, celebrations, concerts and more. 

Seaside was founded in 1979 and has been offering peaceful bliss ever since.  Known as a pioneer in the New Urbanist development, Seaside was constructed before zoning ordinances were in place by Walton County.  This gave the developers a wide open pallet to create the masterpiece known as Seaside.

Seaside has been so popular that Hollywood even caught on to its charming touch.  Much of Jim Carrey’s 1998 film, The Truman Show was filmed at Seaside after the director’s wife happened across pictures of the area while thumbing through an architectural magazine. 

Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals continues to grow and expand into new areas.  Our focus remains as strong as ever to offer the best vacation rentals along the Beaches of Northwest Florida and we are proud to now represent our first Seaside vacation rental, “Bit O’ Heaven.”  Our cozy vacation home is the perfect place for a small family looking for an unforgettable vacation to the beach.

When you’re planning your next trip to our shores, be sure to check out Seaside along with all of your favorite places at the beach.  The weather is starting to heat up and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Seabreeze Jazz Festival

Monday, March 1st, 2010
April 15, 2010
April 16, 2010
April 17, 2010
April 18, 2010

Do you love the sound of Jazz? Listening to the soul moving tones around our soothing emerald water seems to be the perfect combination for a weekend away from all of the stresses of everyday life.  Book a trip down to the Beaches of Northwest Florida and stay in Panama City Beach during the Seabreeze Jazz Festival.   

Celebrating the 12th year along the Gulf Coast, the 2010 Jazz Fest is a perfect chance to enjoy yourself at the beach. Featuring performers such as Brian Simpson, Kim Waters, Jackiem Joyner, Oli Silk and many more, this musical celebration is sure to be a treat for all who come.  Nick Colione will be the festival host and you will love his rhythmic jazz guitar performances.   

In celebration of the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, Southern Resorts is offering 15% off any new reservation for April 15-18th at these selected Panama City Beach vacation complexes: Sterling Breeze, Grand Panama, Majestic Beach Towers and Tidewater Beach Resort.

Pier Park Ampitheater (Aaron Bessant Park)  is hosting the event which is just west of The Grand Theater at Pier Park.  There are plenty of shops, restaurants and entertainment to keep you and your family busy for days and days.

Make your plans to visit our beautiful beaches for some sun, jazz and sand. Your ears, body and mind will love all of the experiences during  your trip to a Panama City Beach vacation rental with Southern Resorts.

*15% not combineable with other special offers.  Not Valid on existng reservations.  Subject to availability.

Destin Fish Fry Fundraiser

Friday, February 26th, 2010
February 27, 2010
11:00 amto3:00 pm

Join the fun for an evening of great food and entertainment with an Old Fashioned Fish Fry along The Beaches of Northwest Florida.  The Destin History and Fishing Museum will hold this tasty event on Saturday, February 27, from 11:00am to 3:00pm.  Fried grouper, hush puppies, cole slaw, baked beans and a drink will fill your stomach right.Live music by Cadillac Willy and raffles will add to the fun mood.  Advance tickets are $10 each while tickets at the door are $12.

The Destin History and Fishing Museum preserves the area’s treasured past with great displays of the area’s fish, antique fishing rods and reels and the ability to catch glimpses of what Destin life was like in the 1930’s before electricity arrived. Vintage photographs of Destin’s earliest settlers, fishermen, boat captains, businesses and more reveal that Destin’s treasures easily transcend generations.
The museum is open from Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm.  Admission costs are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and Military, $3 for Children and children under 6 are free.

Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals is proud to represent some of the best aspects of Destin and encourages you to visit the Destin History and Fishing Museum during your visit to our beautiful beaches.

George Jones in Panama City Beach

Thursday, February 25th, 2010
February 26, 2010
8:00 pmto10:00 pm

If you’re a fan of country music, then you are in for a treat tomorrow night, February 26th, in Panama City.  Known for his long list of hit records, George Jones is an American country music singer known for his distinctive voice and phrasing. Over the past 20 years, Mr. Jones has been commonly referred to as “the greatest living country singer.” Having clocked up to more than 150 hits during his career, George has done so both as a solo artist and in duets.  George is not the only performer entertaining at this event.  He will be accompanied by Joe Diffie. 

Joe Diffie topped the charts for the first time in 1990 with his hit, Home.  Since then, Joe has remained on a steady path, staying close to his roots and producing hit after hit with a grand total of twelve #1’s and twenty top 10’s along with four gold and platinum albums. When you’re at a Joe Diffie concert, every one of his hits feel like your own.  Whether it’s Ships That Don’t Come In, Pickup Man, John Deere Green, or If the Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets), Joe’s artistry always makes you remember the first time you heard it.

Take some time away from your Southern Resorts Panama City Beach vacation rental and come enjoy this fun concert located at the Marina Civic Center.  Tickets are on sale now for $25, $35, $40, $50.

Pensacola Ice Flyers

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010

In the spirit of the upcoming ice hockey games tonight in the 2010 Winter Olympics, I felt now would be a good time to bring a little local attention to the Pensacola Ice Flyers.  As a team in the Southern Professional Hockey League, the Ice Flyers are a young, highly competitive and upcoming squad. 

It may seem a little akward that a ice hockey team is located so close to Pensacola Beach, but the following has been fantastic and the games are really exciting.  The players themselves come from around the continent, with many from Canada.  (They haven’t been too happy after Team USA’s recent victory over Canada.)

The Ice Flyers are entering the final quarter of their season.  Playoff spots are on the line which makes this the most competitive part of the season.  Now is a perfect time to gather your friends and family to catch a game.   

Locals and visitors each have a wonderful time watching the speed, skill and collisions that occur in these intense games.  The next time you’re down in your Pensacola Beach vacation rental with Southern Resorts, take some time to check out the Pensacola Ice Flyers for a little break from the sun and sand.

Ride On Surfing School in Destin, Florida

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010
 

Through the years many of our areas visitors love to come stay in their Destin Vacation Rentals and keep the same routine of the beach, shopping and restaurants.  This year, try something new with Ride On Surfing School

Whether you’re a kid or grown up, Ride On will teach you how to ride the emerald waves of the Gulf.  With Billabong sponsored Surf Camps at different times of the year, Ride On has strong sponsorship due to their seasoned instructors that have seen some of the world’s best waves.  One instructor, Austin Magee, is also a Billabong Team Rider that has been in competitions in Costa Rica, California and more.

For a little bit more action on the ground, Ride On also offers Meyer Skimboard Lessons.  If surfing and skimboarding seems a little intense, you can also take Stand Up Paddle Board lessons.  Private lessons, group lessons and surf parties are also available with Ride On Surf School.  If you already know the ropes and don’t need lessons, rental boards are also available. 

The truth is that we all love these beautiful waves along the Beaches of Northwest Florida and I speak from experience that it can be a little difficult to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.  But surfing is something that can be enjoyed by all and Destin provides some of the best beaches for a new student of the sport. 

Check out Ride On Surfing School and open your eyes to a more exciting view of the beach.

Ride On Surf School offers a Southern Perk to guests of Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals.  Checkout their exclusive special and all of the exlusive specials Southern Resorts has lined up for your next visit to the beach.

4th Annual St. Joseph Bay Bridal Fair

Monday, February 22nd, 2010
February 27, 2010
6:00 pmto9:00 pm

As spring approaches and the flowers begin to bloom, love fills the salty air breezing in from the ocean.  This time of year is fabulous for weddings, especially if you’re planning any festivities on the beach.  The crisp cool air is a refreshing sensation as the sun begins to shape into summer form.  As you prepare for your upcoming wedding, take some time to visit Port St. Joe for a bridal fair. 

You’re  invited to the 4th Annual St. Joseph Bay Bridal Fair in Port St. Joe. Some of the region’s leading wedding and event professionals will host a showcase, exhibition and reception. They will also be on hand to answer questions, discuss plans, and share samples of their craft.

Save the date for February 27th, 2010 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm at the Centennial Building in Port St. Joe. This is one evening you won’t want to miss, especially if you have a wedding on the way.

Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals provides wonderful locations for Gulf Coast Weddings.  We encourage you to visit at this beautiful time of year and make your plans with us for the most special day of your life.

To learn more about upcoming events, exclusive specials, businesses, accommodations and more become our fan at www.thefacebook.com/SouthernResorts.

Free Fishing February in Pensacola

Friday, February 19th, 2010

When you take a trip to one of Southern Resorts Pensacola Beach Vacation Rentals, be sure to explore some of the great fishing options in the area.  Whether you’re going to deep sea fish or if you’d like to find a nice pier, Pensacola Beach is a great place for fishing. 

The “Three Mile Bridge” has connected Downtown Pensacola and Gulf Breeze over Pensacola Bay since 1960.  It’s predecessor was a narrow two lane bridge that became two 1.5 mile fishing piers once it was replaced.  In 2004, Hurricane Ivan damaged much of the old piers and by 2007 even more storms had demolished them. 

But, today is a new day and following much hard work, the Pensacola Bay Fishing Bridge re-opened recently.  To celebrate the grand opening, the county is waiving all fees for locals and vacationers through the month of February.  Whether you’re more  comfortable walking or driving to your spot on the pier, it is open 24 hours per day for fantastic saltwater fishing. 
Redfish may still be available along with sheepshead and trout.  If  you like to work with cast nets, try to catch some mullet. The weather is nice and cool this time of year with temperatures in the mid 60’s.  You probably won’t even break a sweat as you enjoy the breeze sweeping off of the gorgeous water.  For more information contact (850) 475-5220.

To hear about more events, exclusive specials, businesses, accommodations and more, become our fan at www.TheFaceBook.com/SouthernResorts.

Sea Screamer Dolphin Cruises in Panama City Beach

Thursday, February 18th, 2010

Before my family made the decision to move to Florida about 21 years ago, we took a vacation to the Emerald Coast.  We tried many of the things that are still popular today.  Big Kahuna’s Water Park, The Track Family Recreation Center and of course, the beach.  But the one thing that my brother, sister and myself could not stop talking about was the Dolphin Cruise.  We desperately wanted to see dolphins and once we did, it was Flipper Fever in our house. 

All along the Beaches of Northwest Florida, enjoying a dolphin cruise has become an annual vacation event.  The Sea Screamer in Panama City Beach has definitely had a large part in that.  This large speed boat offers an exhilarating ride with the ability to slow down and enjoy the playful dolphins.  If you haven’t experienced wild dolphins, it is definitely something special.  They’re pure and fun loving animals that love to jump, splash and even speed through the water as they chase the boat.  It’s really a magnificent sight.   

So when you are planning your next vacation to Panama City Beach, remember that Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals offers you (1) Free Pass for a Dolphin Cruise aboard the Sea Screamer through our “Southern Perks” program.

To find out more information about exclusive specials, events, businesses and accommodations, become our fan at www.thefacebook.com/SouthernResorts.

Sunset Coastal Grill in Port St. Joe

Wednesday, February 17th, 2010

The next time you are staying with Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals in the Forgotten Coast, be sure to stop by Sunset Coastal Grill in Port St. Joe.  Their premier bayside location offers fantastic views of the beautiful sunsets every evening.  

The dinner menu focuses on fresh seafood caught in the local waters, delicious appetizers, steaks, rich pastas, salads and long standing recipes round.  The lunch menu includes burgers, paninis and other sandwiches that will fill your stomach perfectly.

I savored every bite when I had the opportunity to eat at Sunset Coastal Grill.  I ordered a bowl of broccoli and cheese soup along with my cheeseburger and it was delicious.  I know a cheeseburger and soup may not be the most unique order, but Sunset Coastal made it perfectly. 

On top of normal meals, Sunset Coastal Grill is also available for holiday parties, bridal luncheons, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions and more.  Exceptional service always accompanies any of their functions. 

Sunset Coastal Grill is also a Southern Perks partner with Southern Resorts.  What this means is that our guests can stop by the Southern Resorts office to obtain a voucher for a free draft beer or glass of house wine.  Southern Perks offers far more to our guests and we encourage you to click on the link and check out even more of our specials. 

To obtain more information on events, local business, exclusive specials and accommodations become our fan at www.TheFaceBook.com/SouthernResorts.