Florida's Emerald Coast Offers Families a Summer Vacation Destination

DESTIN, Fla., FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. and OKALOOSA ISLAND, Fla., April 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida's Emerald Coast invites families to indulge in the perfect summer vacation Destination, as the laid-back beach towns of Destin - Fort Walton Beach - Okaloosa Island present affordable accommodations options and attractions for all ages. From building sandcastles on the sugar-white shore and watching dolphins dance at Florida's Gulfarium, to casting lines off the Okaloosa Pier and splashing around Big Kahuna's Water Park, Florida's Emerald Coast -- voted the "Best Beach Town in the South" for 14 consecutive years by the readers of Southern Living -- remains one of the South's best values (www.emeraldcoastfl.com).

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Florida's Emerald Coast promises plenty of wallet-friendly adventures for the entire family this summer. The 24 miles of emerald-green water present the perfect backdrop for lasting memories at local attractions under $20, including:

The Emerald Coast encourages visitors to experience the culture of the coast with affordable fun. From boats lighting up the waters and kites soaring overhead, to pirates invading the beaches and summertime serenading, vacationers indulge in simple seaside charm while giving purses a break.

April

• 15th Annual HarborWalk Marina Destin Cobia Tournament – April 1-30
• 7th Annual Beach Kite Festival – April 3-5

May

• Poker Run – May 14
• 6th Annual Helen Back Golf Classic – May 20

June

• 56th annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival – June 2-6
• North Light Swordfish and Tuna Challenge – June 16-19

July

• July 4th Extravaganza – July 2-3
• Rock the Docks – Live music every Saturday

Along with a wide range of attractions and events, Florida's Emerald Coast offers year-round affordable accommodations options, from beachfront hotels and a bed and breakfast, to condominiums and vacation homes.

A sampling of high-value accommodations includes:

For more information on a summer vacation along Florida's Emerald Coast, visit www.emeraldcoastfl.com or contact the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. at 800-322-3319.

SOURCE Florida's Emerald Coast