DESTIN, FL, April 13 /PRNewswire/ - Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort on Florida's Emerald Coast will be the backdrop for The Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour May 13-15 as hundreds of cyclists venture through Northwest Florida. The weekend bicycle event is designed for all road cyclists. Participants will get an opportunity to soak in a scenic bike ride alongside pristine beaches including a rest stop in charming Seaside and also enjoy post-ride activities and mechanical support.

"Road cycling is the most widespread form of cycling and May is the perfect month for cyclists to soak in the amazing weather that the Emerald Coast has to offer," said Shawna Meisner, Events Director for Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.  "With so many cycling enthusiasts in Northwest Florida and surrounding areas, we are expecting a great turnout for the bicycle tour this year."

On Saturday, 30 and 60 mile rides will begin at Baytowne Marina at Sandestin and head East to Scenic Hwy 30A. The 30 mile ride will stop at Seaside then return back to the Sandestin. The 60 mile ride will continue down 30A and turn around at Rosemary Beach. On Sunday, the 15 mile loop will begin at Baytowne Marina and head West to Scenic Hwy Old 98. The ride follows this road to the end where cyclists will turn back to Sandestin. All routes are very flat and include gulf views. Participants and their families will be able to enjoy activities at the Marina throughout the weekend. All rides start at 8:00 a.m. at Baytowne Marina with pre-tour instructions at 7:30 a.m.

The Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour will benefit Alaqua Animal Refuge, an independent, non-profit organization located on Florida's Emerald Coast that advocates the general welfare and humane treatment of animals by providing shelter, prevention of pet overpopulation and adoption services. Finz Beachside Grille will be participating in Dine for The Dogs on Saturday, May 14 with a portion of the proceeds going to help animals in need.

Receive a discount on your tour entry as well as special room rates when you book a package at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort by mentioning code BIKE11. For more information call (855) 348-1894 or visit www.sandestinbicycletour.com.

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers the most complete resort experience in North America and was voted the #1 resort by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine.  Sandestin is a 2,400-acre destination for all seasons and for all ages, located on Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast, an area recognized as one of the top 2010 destinations in the world by Frommer's. The resort invites guests to enter a world with a 98-slip Marina plus 30 charming neighborhoods featuring 1,500 condominiums, villas, town homes and a wide variety of hotel accommodations. A member of Beaches of South Walton, Sandestin features more than seven miles of sugar-white sand beaches and pristine bay front, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 19 swimming pools, a fitness center and spa, 65,000 square feet of meeting space and The Village of Baytowne Wharf, a pedestrian village featuring boutique shops, casual and fine dining restaurants and nightlife.

SOURCE Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort