Destin Florida Magazine - Spring 2023

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12 Crab Island Cruises

Experience ultimate Crab Island fun with fully captained charter boats.

16 Activities

Abound

Check off those bucket-list items with these premier Destin excursions.

20 Family Photos

Sutton B Photography shares her secrets in capturing vacation memories with the perfect family photos.

FEATURES

26 Bobby Wagner Destin’s new mayor may be the youngest yet, but he’s never been more ready for this role.

30 Free Diving

Joe D’Agostino and Fred Cardet share their passion for free diving.

DINING

34 Top Restaurants

The votes are in — here are the people’s favorite restaurants in Destin.

38 Foodie Review

Local foodie Sutton Godar shares her experience at The Harbor Tavern.

BUYING THE BEACH

40 Kris Laidlaw

Kris Laidlaw of Realty One Group discusses unique, stand-out rental opportunities on the Emerald Coast.

44 Ask Jacqui! Realty One Group’s Jacqui Luberto answers your burning real estate questions.

RENTING THE BEACH

46 Breathe Easy Rentals

In starting her own business, Brittany Blackman became a leading voice for others in the rental industry.

SPRING 2023

48 Shipwatch Palazzo

A beautifully unique coastal retreat offers the perfect place to unwind near the water along Miramar Beach.

50 Rental Listings

Check out some of the hottest featured listings for your next trip to the beach.

CONTENT MANAGER

Cory Godar

PRESIDENT

Joe Godar

SALES

Mike Godar

PHOTOGRAPHER

Sutton Godar

WRITERS

Steve Bornhoft, Nick Corey, Katie Garrison, Sutton Godar

Spring Arrives with No Delay in the Sunshine State

LIVING IN DESTIN, FLORIDA, YOU MAY think it is always bright, sunny and warm. And much of the time it is. While the weather is generally very nice, we also have seasons here and the temperature can fluctuate. We experienced some freezing temperatures this past winter, making it one of the coldest winters in a long time.

Being from Cincinnati, Ohio, and moving to Destin a few years ago, I have had plenty of experience dealing with long, cold, dreary winters. Having some snow for the holidays was typically welcomed. But after the holidays, in the Ohio River valley, we had months of cold, gray, wet days that seemed to never end. It was all I could do to make it through those months in hopes of some sun and warmer temps. It was not uncommon to get some snow in April just to torment you, delaying any joy you crave from warm spring days.

Destin may give you a few weeks of cold weather. But as you get into March and April, the weather gives way to sunshine and warmer temps. The excitement of being outside and enjoying the beaches, going fishing,

sitting by the pool or enjoying dinner outside, arrives much sooner here than in Ohio. And having had a few cooler weeks only elevates the appreciation for the days spent on the water!

A timely spring welcomes months of warmth and relaxation in the outdoors. The never-ending gray skies don’t torment here, and 75-degree days and cool evenings in the spring make Destin living one of life’s blessings.

We hope you can come visit Destin soon and enjoy all the beautiful weather this area has to offer. Get outside whenever possible! Go fishing, ride a bike, take a walk, sit on the beach, play golf — the list is endless!

Don’t let cold, dreary weather keep you down!

See you on the beach!

JOE GODAR DestinFlorida.com & Destin Florida Magazine

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

Brian E. Rowland

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

McKenzie Burleigh

VICE PRESIDENT/PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY

Daniel Vitter

CUSTOM PUBLISHING MANAGER

Sara Goldfarb

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jennifer Ekrut

PUBLICATION DESIGNER

Scott Schiller

PRODUCTION EDITOR

Paige Aigret

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE/

Sarah Coven

is your destination for all things Destin. We have everything you need to plan your trip to the Emerald Coast, from rentals and real estate to events and activities. Keep reading ahead in our latest platform for exclusive visitor information, Destin Florida Magazine, and visit our website for more!

BY THE NUMBERS

Decoding Destin’s Beach Flags

The DestinFlorida.com team is all about having fun at the beach. And understanding the flag system is the first key to a happy and safe beach experience. Knowing the meanings ahead of time will allow you to know what course of action to take depending on the flag. Visit Facebook.com/destinbeachsafety for daily beach-flag updates or text “BEACH” to 44144 to receive water-condition updates. You can also visit CityOfDestin.com/590/View-Rip-Current-Information for more information on beach flags and safety.

The Destin area

Destin, Florida, is home to some of the world’s greatest fishing, beaches, shopping, golf courses and so much more. Here are some of the area’s notable landmarks and beach-access points.

Sail Away with Crab Island Cruises

Locally owned company offers chartered pontoons for a seamless, stress-free day on the water

BY KATIE GARRISON

AT CRAB ISLAND CRUISES, SAFETY AND FUN ARE EQUALLY OF HIGHEST importance. With a team of 10 experienced captains, the premier charter company leads cruises out into the glistening emerald waters, relieving driver ownership from their guests for the ultimate boat-day experience.

The start of Crab Island Cruises was a serendipitous endeavor for owner and Captain Walt Forster.

In 2013, Forster headed South from Indiana with plans to purchase a pizza company in Panama City. But along his travels, he stumbled across the beautiful Destin area and discovered the famously known Crab Island sandbar, a portion of the inlet beside the Marler Bridge that connects Choctawhatchee Bay to the Gulf of Mexico. Over the past few decades, the sandbar has become a boaters’ hot spot for locals and tourists to anchor down for a day on the aquamarine water.

"Let the captain do the driving while you have all the fun!"

— Captain Walt Forster, Crab Island Cruises

Forster was astonished by the numerous vessels floating in the water. So much so that he decided to change his course of action. Ultimately, he sold his Indiana FedEx franchise and decided to put down roots in Destin, after officially purchasing Crab Island Cruises that same year.

Since then, the company has been making waves in Destin.

As a fully captained charter business, Crab Island Cruises allows you to enjoy your day on the water without the stress or hassle of boater responsibilities. Think of it as the Uber for the ocean, but they stick around to ensure safety and fun.

“It is always safer to have a certified captain if you do not understand ocean waters,” Forster said. “For example, there are tide changes and weather conditions that may need guidance, or this could pose a number of challenges. A certified captain deals with these changes much easier than a novice boater.”

And boat captains are trained to distinguish drowning and provide first aid or CPR if necessary.

Trained in boating safety and

exclusively providing pontoon boats, Crab Island Cruises has perfected its craft.

“A boat is more enjoyable with ample space for friends and family to have a good time,” Forster noted.

Coast Guard regulations allow six passengers per vessel or 10 passengers per vessel for captains with a 25-ton-or-higher license. Crab Island Cruises captains can accommodate for both group sizes. Also, customers can book multiple boats for larger parties, and captains will anchor down with your group.

And this Destin charter company undeniably caters to your needs, with four-hour cruises setting out twice daily and sunset and fireworks cruises hitting the water in the evenings. As a significant bonus, they stock the boats with everything you need for a day out on the water — including everything from life jackets and bottled water to lily pad floats and a bluetooth speaker.

Hours can slip away just floating about the bustling sandbar, but the fun isn’t isolated to the

island. Your captain can take you to the best snorkeling spots or cruise the waters in search of the inevitable dolphin encounter. No matter your interests, Crab Island Cruises has you covered.

“Most people get one vacation a year, and it is our pleasure to ensure you remember it,” said Forster. “Our customers are our most important asset, and we know this. Without them, we have nothing. So it is our solemn guarantee — whether it is a cloudy day or the sun is shining brighter than we deserve, they will always be our No. 1. And we will make it a cruise they will remember.”

Over the years, Crab Island

TOP BOAT SAFETY TIPS

» Never sit on the bow of a boat with legs hanging over the boat while someone is driving.

» When the boat is hitting a dock, do not put any body part between the boat and

Cruises has chartered a range of group types, such as company celebrations, birthdays, bachelorette and bachelor parties, family gatherings and wedding parties. But Forster said his favorite groups to take out are returning customers, knowing they came back because they had a great first experience.

“Our customers need to know that nothing works without them, and they deserve the best. We aim to go above and beyond to make this happen for everyone. In doing so, we will provide you with topnotch customer service, the history of our beautiful island and your absolute favorite day while on vacation.”

dock to push off. The captain will use the engine or rope to help.

» Do not drink and drive a boat. This is why it’s so helpful to use Crab Island Cruises’ chartered pontoons.

BOAT DAY 101: Packing List

THE BASICS

Towels, nonslip shoes (sandals or water shoes), cell phone and waterproof case.

SAFETY

Sunscreen is a must, even on overcast days. Hats, visors, sunglasses and a T-shirt will be helpful, too, in protecting from intense UV rays.

EXTRAS

Snacks and additional beverages if desired (the sale of alcohol is prohibited on Crab Island). Opt for plastic bottles or cans as per Crab Island Cruises’ preference.

JUST FOR FUN

Goggles and snorkel gear, extra floaties and a prepared playlist of your favorite music.

CRAB ISLAND CRUISES PROVIDES IT ALL!

THE BASICS

Boat, captain and fuel.

SAFETY

Trained captains, life jackets and first aid kit.

EXTRAS

A 500-watt Bluetooth speaker, coolers with ice and bottled water.

JUST FOR FUN

» Never go after a float that gets swept away by a current.

» Do not jump into a body of water you don’t know the depth of. Especially, no diving!

Lily pad float, beer pong, volleyball, frisbees, footballs and skip balls. Paddle boards are available upon request.

To book with Crab Island Cruises, visit CrabIslandCruises.com

Destin

Excursions Worth Splurging On

Plan your next Destin vacation with these exciting local adventures

BY KATIE GARRISON

IT’S NO SECRET THAT DESTIN IS THE CROWN JEWEL for family vacations. Aside from the area’s beauty, there’s so much fun to be had. Our favorite and highly recommended excursions include dolphin cruises, fishing charters and parasailing. So take your pick — the Emerald Coast is your oyster!

◀ Smile N’Wave Sailing Adventures

Located right on the Destin Harbor, Smile N’ Wave Sailing Adventures offers patrons the chance to hop aboard a private 39-foot trimaran sailing boat! Each trip is personalized for your group, and the crew can take you to highly populated dolphin spots. This is the perfect way to immerse yourself in an authentic experience along the emerald waters. SailingInDestin.com

▲ Wet-N-Wild Watersports

As one of the closest spots to Crab Island, within 300 feet to be exact, Wet-N-Wild Watersports offers many different excursion options for the whole family. With several other tours, including dolphin tours, Jet Skis, pontoons and trips to Crab Island — they do it all! They also offer parasailing tours which are a blast! Wet-N-Wild Watersports is an all-in-one spot and is a must when visiting Destin. DestinFlBoatRentals.com

Gilligan’s Watersports WaveRunners, pontoon rentals, parasailing — Gilligan’s Watersports has what you’re looking for! For an exciting evening experience, check out their Thursday night chartered pontoon cruise, including unobstructed sunset views and a fireworks display. GilligansOfDestin.com

◀ Destin Inshore Guides

Destin Inshore Guides offers four- to six-hour inshore Gulf, bay and specialized kids fishing trips. The abundance of fish in the Destin area makes an inshore trip just as thrilling as a deep-sea excursion. Their affordable charter fishing trips include inshore Gulf fishing, bay fishing, shark fishing and even fishing at night. DestinInshoreGuides.com

Olin Marler’s Charters

Offering everything from dolphin tours to fishing charters, Olin Marler's Charters is a one-stop shop for excursions. They also have options for private and semi-private fishing charters and experiences. OlinMarlerCharterBoats.com

Screaming Eagle Sports

Screaming Eagle Sports is an exciting way to experience excursions in Destin. They have several different types of cruises, including private cruises, sunset cruises and Crab Island charters. Thursday nights offer a unique experience aboard the patriotic Screaming Eagle, with an exciting fireworks display. ScreamingEagle-Sports.business.site

Swoop II Party Boat Fishing

▶ Destin Pontoon Charters

This family-owned business has enjoyed Destin for over 20 years, leading them to create Destin Pontoon Charters in 2018. From their years of vacationing in Destin, they know exactly what to offer their customers. Their charters are perfect for a day on the water and a trip to Crab Island. DestinPontoonCharters.com

Guests looking to catch a large variety of local fish should consider a fishing adventure aboard one of Swoop's party boats. Go beyond your comfort zone and hit the water for a truly unique and rewarding fishing experience! Swoop's deep sea fishing excursions have experienced captains who know the right spots to hit. SwoopPartyBoat.com

▲ Destin Elite Carts

Golf carts offer a seamless commute from beach to bay and everything in between. This premier golf-cart rental spot, Destin Elite Carts, prides itself on exceptional customer service and convenience.

DestinEliteCarts.com

Miss

Nautica Destin

Charters Located at the Destin Harbor, the beautiful Miss Nautica charter vessel and its captain will take you to the best fishing spots in the area. With over 25 years of experience, the captain is familiar with the best secret fishing spots. You and your crew will have the ultimate fishing experience! DestinPrivateFishingCharters.com

Trip Tips

Treat the Family!

Still looking for a reason to splurge on an excursion? Most families only vacation once a year or every few years. This is the time to make unforgettable memories. So make the most of your trip with a unique day of parasailing, dolphin viewing or even deep-sea fishing.

Local Love

With so many great things to do in the Destin area, why not support local vendors? These activities are all locally owned and locally loved businesses. When you book an excursion with one of these premier businesses, you support a dream!

▲

Just

Chute Me Parasail

Soar 400 feet above the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico with Just Chute Me Parasail! Voted Parasail Operator of the Year by the Water Sports Industry Association, Just Shoot Me takes pride in their knowledge and safety. They’ll have you and your crew in safe hands, even while you’re flying above the emerald waters. SunshineDestin.com/ parasailing-in-destin

Save Stress and Plan in Advance!

Most excursions can fill up weeks in advance, so it’s smart to schedule your excursions as you plan your trip. Depending what time of year you visit, there may be day-of openings while you’re in town. But it’s best to play it safe by scheduling ahead of time. Plus, this leaves you time to enjoy your vacation without the added stress of searching for a vendor with availability for your dream excursions.

◄ Destin Queen The Destin Queen offers the whole package as a 74-by-16-foot beam Lakeview Yacht. Featuring four queen bedrooms with two full bathrooms, a full-service kitchen and a living room with front and back porches, you’ll feel like a queen aboard this luxury yacht. The Destin Queen’s captain and crew are eager to take you and your family on the journey of a lifetime. DestinQueen.com

Make Your Vacation Last a Lifetime!

Sutton B Photography shares her expertise on capturing the perfect family photos

BY KATIE GARRISON

FAMILY PHOTOS PROVE THEIR VALUE as the years pass fleetingly. And family vacations offer some of the happiest memories. Most families only get one vacation a year or every few years. Why not freeze this special moment in time with a photo session on the beach?

DestinFlorida.com’s go-to photographer, Sutton Godar of Sutton B Photography, shared with us her insider knowledge, recommendations and suggestions for capturing perfect moments to last a lifetime.

▶ Beach family photos make for a unique shoot. We’re not kidding — the scenery alone makes for the ideal backdrop. And you can get creative with themes and props. Godar offers a children’s mermaid package that makes for a unique photo opportunity along the Destin shoreline.

There are so many options beyond the ocean as the background. The dunes, parks and piers make for stunning photos. Godar recommends Henderson Beach State Park, Eden Gardens State Park and Norriego Point for photo shoots immersed in natural beauty.

Her favorite spot to photograph is Eden Gardens with its 163 acres of beautiful land and the historic Wesley House. The park offers tall moss-draped oak trees amid a lush greenscape, a fountain complementing the elegant estate home and camellia and azalea gardens, all looking out over Tucker Bayou.

▶ Let’s talk about Destin’s breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Destin is known for its sugar-white sand and emerald waters, but the sky is equally

stunning. You get the picture — it’s the whole package! Godar recommends beginning your shoot at sunrise or in the afternoon, 45 minutes before sunset, to capture your golden-hour moment.

And she said that an off-season trip is perfect for photo shoots.

“The fall is the absolute best time of the year for sunsets,” said Godar. “If you plan a trip down to the emerald coast for the fall, give me a call.”

The mix of orange and pastelpink skies, calm waters and lessened crowds make for a magical beach backdrop.

▶ Rounding up the kids for a perfect shot can be tough. Let’s be honest — when you’re busy chasing little ones, sometimes a family photoshoot seems more like a chore than a fun vacation activity. But the long stretches of

Emerald Coast beaches offer plenty of room for the little ones to burn off steam in between shots and sometimes even during.

“Organic photos make for some of my client’s favorite photos, and mine!” Godar said.

To make it fun for the kids, Godar shared some of her go-to distractions that encourage an organic family shoot. She said that playing in the water, messing around in the sand, parents tickling kids and simply allowing the kids to run around can offer some of the best results.

Making It Memorable

Add Some Zest to your Photoshoot

Props can add creativity to your shoot and engage kids in the moment. Balloons, umbrellas and kites are a great way to garner your child’s attention and bring a smile to their face for the perfect photo. Just get creative and bring your personality to the shoot with your own twist on prop ideas.

Sutton B Photography Packages

▶ Vacation brings the family together, making for the perfect opportunity for a family shoot. And professional photos taken at the beach allow vacation memories to live forever. Godar has commonly received feedback from clients expressing appreciation of the moments captured.

“These are some of the most cherished photos we have forever,” one client said. And “We are so thrilled we booked a family vacation photoshoot. We reflect on one of our favorite vacations every time we look at these photos,” said another.

Clients can choose from a number of family package options. Godar may offer a mini shoot option upon request, too, for a smaller budget or for those who don’t need as many photos. Godar also offers commercial packages for real estate and business branding. Bring your A game to your career with the perfect headshot or group photo of your team.

Dress to Impress

It can be fun to color coordinate with your family or group. Or make a fashion statement with your best attire. Too, you can lean into the coastal vibe with lightweight cotton and linen shirts, offering that natural beach look. Put your personalized style in the mix!

“

Life is Worth Capturing”

Sutton B Photography offers various services and packages, including family portraits, real estate and business branding. Godar is quickly growing as a well-known name in the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area. With reasonable pricing, flexible hours and a creative mind, she will help bring your vision to life. Visit SuttonBPhotography.com for more information on packages and pricing.

“Most people forget how difficult it is to gather their entire family for a photoshoot,” Godar added. “Between sports, school, traveling, jobs, etc. — it becomes challenging to find the time for the entire family to get a photo together.”

But your vacation is already on the calendar, so she suggests taking advantage of the timing and gathering.

▶ Beach photoshoots don’t have to be just for families. Some of Godar’s favorite shoots have been proposals, maternity shoots and reunions. She has photographed many groups beyond that, including bachelorettes and gender reveals.

No matter the occasion, Godar said, “If you’re planning something special for your favorite people, document it!” She added, “Make it your own! If you want me to join you for a day on the water boating, let’s do it.”

Happenings

APR.-JULY 2023

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

Father’s Day Super Dad 5K Noon

Fort Walton Beach

JUNE 21–25

Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic

9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Miramar Beach

JULY

TUESDAY, JULY 4

Independence Day

6–9 p.m.

The Gulf on Okaloosa Island

1284 Marler Ave.

Fort Walton Beach

SATURDAY, JULY 8

Emerald Coast Cars & Coffee

APRIL

APRIL 13–16

Sandestin Grand Wine Tasting

2 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf

9300 Baytowne Wharf Blvd. Miramar Beach

APRIL 20–23 Moon Crush: Pink Moon

4 p.m.–midnight

Seascape Golf, Beach and Tennis Resort

556 Seascape Drive

Miramar Beach

MAY

THURSDAYS, MAY 4–JUNE 22

Concerts in the Village

7 p.m.

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation

SPRING / 2023

Cultural Arts Village 4323 Commons Drive West Destin

THURSDAY, MAY 4 Burning Up The Beaches

1–4 p.m. Destin Commons 4100 Legendary Drive Destin

SATURDAY, MAY 12–13

The Destin Open 2023

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center

1250 Miracle Strip Parkway SE Fort Walton Beach

SATURDAY, MAY 13

10th Annual Tequila & Taco Fest

1–5 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf

9300 Baytowne Wharf Blvd. Miramar Beach

SATURDAY, MAY 20 Grand Boulevard Farmers Market

11 a.m.–1 p.m. 600 Grand Blvd.

Miramar Beach

8–11 a.m.

Santa Rosa Mall

300 Mary Esther Blvd.

Mary Esther

SATURDAY, JULY 15

Show N’ Shine Car Show

9 a.m. Hooters

15015 Emerald Coast Parkway Destin

SUNDAY, JULY 30

Destin Commons

Artisan Market

11 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

4100 Legendary Drive Destin

JULY 30–AUGUST 2

Annual

JUNE

JUNE 6–11

World Series

Morgan Sports Center 4200 Indian Bayou Trail Destin

Southeastern Gatherin’

11:30 a.m.

Henderson Beach Resort

200 Henderson Resort Way Destin

PHOTOS BY PURE

STUDIOS

RPI FILE PHOTO (FARMERS MARKET), GIVAGA (WINE) AND MAX IMPACT PHOTOGRAPHY (ECBMC)

Meeting Bobby Wagner

Introducing Destin’s newest — and youngest — mayor

BY NICK COREY

Despite comparative youth, 28-yearold Bobby Wagner has launched, overseen and been actively involved in a number of businesses and philanthropic projects. At 19, along with a partner, he opened his first business, Beachfront Productions, before going onto his other business ventures to include 30A Wedding Videography and Land Air Sea Productions.

He’d eventually take on environmental efforts, too, becoming executive director of Trees on the Coast, a nonprofit organization involved in enhancing and preserving Destin’s natural, environmental beauty. And, along with two other friends, Wagner led the Divers Down Pollution Project, dedicated to removing man-made debris from Destin’s waters. One excursion hauled in over 200 pounds of fishing line, lures and hooks off the Okaloosa Island Pier.

Once quipped by Benjamin Franklin, “If you want something done, ask a busy person,” Wagner defines this truism in spades.

And if he wasn’t busy enough, Wagner decided to run in Destin’s recent mayoral election, winning with 60% of the votes.

Wagner said he’s been fortunate. Originally from upstate New York, his family moved from the Northeast to Destin when he was 11.

Wagner described his childhood as “amazing.”

“My parents provided great examples to me throughout my childhood,” Wagner said. “When I joined the school band, Mom became one of the band moms. Dad was president of the little league. Growing up, volunteering and being involved in something bigger than yourself was modeled for me.”

Previously serving a year on Destin’s city council, Wagner became engaged in local government while working on environmental projects, planting trees throughout Destin or cleaning out harbors. He observed the connection between politics and local government — and the possibilities of making true, actual strides in protecting Destin’s natural resources, its environment and improving quality of life for residents.

After his first year on council, Wagner felt he could most

productively tap into his talents by being directly involved in deciding factors.

“The role council serves is necessary, but most often, our only impact is on what’s brought before us, voting on which projects are presented to us,” he said. “We’re the back-end votes necessary to decide if something moves forward or not.”

Call it a heightened sense of duty, altruism or simply a nagging feeling he could do more — Wagner felt compelled to run for mayor.

“We had a grassroots campaign,” Wagner said. “I think I was elected because of the ground game we had. Important to us was making it clear that, even though we are a traveldestination paradise — something we’re obviously proud of — putting locals first needs to be a priority.”

It doesn’t take much time to perceive the belief in taking care of Destin and its residents to be ventures compatible with Wagner’s nature. He steadfastly feels that decisions regarding Destin’s vacation industry should always have full-time residents in mind.

Then, becoming a deciding factor on what comes before council appealed to him. As mayor, Wagner imagines projects with Destin residents as a priority becoming a reality.

“Having the ability to be involved at the local level, its impact on residents, the parks, the waterways — that’s important to me,” Wagner said. “As mayor, I’ll be keeping in mind the primary reasons my past projects were successful: The people of Destin and local agencies stepped up, their collaborative willingness was incredible.”

To Wagner, the people of Destin are its greatest resource.

“Local residents and small business owners offered their time and resources to many of our projects, whether with Trees on the Coast or Divers Down.

“I think I was elected because of the ground game we had. Even though we are a traveldestination paradise — something we’re obviously proud of — putting locals first needs to be a priority.”

Whatever I needed, locals and local agencies were amazing. And volunteers for our projects came from all walks of life. Whether they were successful business people or those with little means, they all wanted to help their community. It’s heartwarming.

“The Destin Fire Department assisted us on dives, using their boat to set up a safety perimeter. The sheriff’s department worked with us. Emerald Coast Scuba supplied us with air and people.”

Just one, snapshot-example of local benevolence?

“Divers Down started with around nine to 10 people on our clean-up dives; we’re now up to over 100 diver-volunteers willing to assist,” Wagner said.

“The investment and willingness of Destin locals — that’s the reason

HELP KEEP DESTIN CLEAN

KEEP A CLEANUP BAG HANDY

Regular, simple efforts can help reduce litter in our community. Pick some up along your morning walk or on your way out from a day at the beach.

ORGANIZE AN EVENT

The more the merrier! Invite friends, family and community members to spend some time on a beach cleanup. You’ll get more done with more hands to contribute.

PAINT THE TOWN

Identify areas in the community that could use some sprucing up. Reach out to local officials for permission and gather some friends, paint and supplies to beautify your city.

THE THREE R’S

we’ve been able to accomplish what we have.”

Highlighting his greatest challenge in his campaign, Wagner referenced his party affiliation.

“People like to know if you’re a Democrat or Republican, and most Destin residents lean strongly Republican,” he said. “It’s (tempting) to go with what you know will be favorable in the eyes of most voters, but I’m a registered nonparty affiliate. I’m not here for politics. I’m here for people. That’s where my heart truly is, and party doesn’t matter as much at the city level as it does in larger elections.”

Wagner remaining true to his political roots in turn proved to be a strength, as Destin residents voted in favor of a mayor who sticks to their ideals.

Find small areas in your life where you can cut back on waste and usage. Repurpose old sauce jars for storage or create a fun DIY project. Regular and intentional recycling can help reduce waste. Make sure your recycling practices are in line with city regulations. Check the lid of your recycling bin for details on what is and isn’t accepted or visit CityOfDestin.com for more information.

GET INVOLVED

Hop on board community-led organized efforts. Get planting with Trees on the Coast, TreesOnTheCoast.com, or dive to the depths of pollution with the Divers Down Pollution Project, join their Facebook group for more information

At One with the Water

Free divers explore depths unencumbered by tanks

BY STEVE BORNHOFT

Free diving with a partner, Joe D’Agostino spied a large triggerfish. Ordinarily, he would have pulled back the bands on his spear gun and drawn a bead on the “suitcase,” as the thick-skinned fish are sometimes called.

But his partner, Fred Cardet, a retired orthopedic surgeon, took over by way of an agreement the two men had reached topside. D’Agostino was coming off rotator cuff surgery, and rather than allow him to risk setting back his recovery, Cardet helped out by preparing the gun for firing.

D’Agostino’s shot was true. The fish, placed on certified scales, topped 10 pounds, a world spearfishing record weight. But D’Agostino could not legitimately claim that distinction.

Doing so would have required that he had harvested the fish unassisted.

D’Agostino, however, readily puts things in perspective.

“People care about records, they do,” said D’Agostino who, in particular, has been chasing the world record for red snapper taken with a pole spear for years, coming within a pound three times. “But I would rather have good friends who look out for my best interests than to have a record few people would ever know about.”

Such reasonable restraint characterizes generally D’Agostino’s approach to the sport of free diving, which, he said, “can be one of the easiest things you will ever do and also one of the most dangerous.”

PHOTOS BY SEAN MURPHY / RPI FILE PHOTOS

D’Agostino is an instructor, certified by Freediving Instructors International, at Benthic Ocean Sports in Destin. And recently, he has become an instructor trainor, too. Free diving has been his passion for 26 years. He was 20 when he took a job as a lifeguard in his home state of New Jersey, and his supervisor, a man named Jeff Carpenter, introduced him to the activity.

“My very first day in the chair, I watched him go out and swim back and forth along a jetty with the Manhattan skyline in the background,” D’Agostino recalled. “He’s got a pole spear, fins and a catch bag. When he gets out, his bag is full of fish and I start peppering him with questions.”

Carpenter invited D’Agostino to join him, in part because he was looking for someone to provide him surface support as a safety

consideration. Soon, D’Agostino had gained his first experience as a breath-hold spearfisherman.

“I remember going down 12 feet, and it felt like what 112 feet feels like now,” he said. “I pulled back on the spear and shot a tautog.”

The fish was two inches short of legal size, a rookie mistake.

“But I knew in that moment that free diving was going to be a part of me for the rest of my life. I could go right back to the very rock where I shot that fish. I can tell you what the water clarity and temperature were that day. That experience is frozen in my mind.”

Free diving, according to D’Agostino, is the fastest-growing segment in water sports. Almost all of that growth relates to spearfishing, he said, although there are, he conceded,

a few sightseeing free divers who frequent freshwater springs and lakes.

D’Agostino has made spearfishing trips to Australia, Fiji, Tahiti and Mexico. But he especially loves the northern Gulf of Mexico, from the Big Bend of Florida to Texas.

“We have one of the best fisheries in the world right now,” he enthused, “from shallow-water species to bluewater species.”

The Level I class that D’Agostino teaches takes place in the course of a weekend.

“I have people come in here on a Saturday morning, and by Sunday at lunch they are 66-foot divers,” he said, adding that a student need only have basic swimming skills.

On day one, students receive a half-day of classroom instruction covering topics including the history

PHOTOS BY SEAN MURPHY / RPI FILE PHOTOS

of the sport, equipment, physics and physiology.

In the afternoon, instruction moves to a pool where students work on entering the water and moving from a horizontal to a vertical, headfirst posture. D’Agostino discusses safety issues and problems that may affect divers such as loss of motor control or blackouts. He teaches people how to “diaphragm breathe” versus breathing from the chest, and students then attempt breath holds.

Within three attempts, D’Agostino’s students manage to hold their breath for an average of two minutes and 45 seconds.

“Infants breathe from their bellies,” D’Agostino said. “It’s natural and more relaxing. Then we get jobs and spouses and mortgages and other stressors, and we start to breathe through our chest, more stress. If you breathe from your diaphragm, purse your lips and control your exhale, basically you are holding your alveolar spaces in your lungs open longer.”

On day two, the class takes place in open water, usually from a boat or at Vortex Springs in the event of rough water.

Students invert themselves and pull themselves down a rope, working on equalizing the pressure in their ears as they proceed. Later, they practice kicking themselves down through the water.

“We weight ourselves to be neutral at 33 feet,” D’Agostino explained. “We kick hard with big fins until you get to 33 feet and then ease our kicks as we become negative and the weight belt begins to carry us to the bottom.”

D’Agostino has students from preteens to people in their 60s. His regular dive partners include retired orthopedic surgeon Dr. Fred Cardet, age 71.

For years, Cardet, who grew up in Miami, was a self-taught free diver. He started spearfishing at age 17. Over time, as he visited increasingly deeper waters, he thought about and then decided, in 2004, to take a certification

class. His most memorable spearfishing triumphs have been a 131-pound amberjack, taken during a trip that left out of Destin in 2018, and a 150-pound yellowfin tuna, harvested near an oil rig off of Venice, Louisiana.

The big amberjack, Cardet said, “was probably the easiest fish I ever shot. It swam up to me and I was looking to my left, and when I looked to the right, he was right there. I didn’t have to move the gun or anything. I just pulled the trigger, the spear went through his head, and he rolled over.

“He never wiggled.”

Cardet’s favorite spearfishing target is the muscular, hard-fighting cobia,

which he sometimes encounters just off the beach during its westerly spring migrations and at other times at depth.

He attributes his longevity as a free diver to good genes, staying in shape and refraining from risk-taking.

“There are old divers and bold divers, but there are no old, bold divers,” D’Agostino likes to say.

“That’s about right,” Cardet agreed.

Cardet just once experienced a loss of motor control while free diving. He was surfacing when he encountered and shot an amberjack. As a result, he stayed down longer than he intended and developed a problem while fighting the fish. Never has he blacked out, but his brother once did.

“During our class, my brother went to 120 feet and came back only 110 before he blacked out,” Cardet explained. “The last 10 feet, the instructor had to assist him. One minute, he looked dead — all the color was gone from his face and his eyes were rolled back — and within a few seconds of taking a breath at the surface, he was wide awake again. That was incredible.”

D’Agostino said the most frequently occurring safety rules violations are diving alone and improper weighting. Some divers will load their belts up to the point where the weight carries them all the way down from the surface, eliminating the need for kicking.

“But if they black out and don’t make it all the way back to the surface, they sink and they may never be found,” D’Agostino said.

Cardet praised D’Agostino’s work as an instructor.

“When I took the class in 2004 with my wife and my brother, our instructors were two world-class free divers and their coach,” he said. “Years later, we took another class with Joe as a refresher, and he helped my wife far more than the world-class divers did.

“He is really a top-notch instructor.”

“Free diving is the fastestgrowing segment in water sports. Almost all of that growth relates to spearfishing.”

Destin’s Top 10

The best spots to eat in town, as voted by DestinFlorida.com followers

BY KATIE GARRISON

THE VOTES ARE IN, AND WE HAVE YOUR TOP 10 RESTAURANTS IN DESTIN!

We compiled a list of 50-plus restaurants from the area, and thousands of Destinflorida.com followers submitted their votes. From the 10th to first place, here are the voted favorites in the Destin area.

◀ The Crab Trap Destin

Coming in at No. 10, we have The Crab Trap! We have to admit, the view alone takes the (crab) cake. When dining in at the Crab Trap Destin, Located on Scenic Highway 98, you’ll enjoy beautiful Gulf-front views and access to the beach. The food is top notch, with their delicious hot crab dip, mouthwatering chargrilled ribeye and signature snow crab legs. CrabTrapFlorida.com/destin

▲ LuLu’s Destin

You’re in for a treat at LuLu’s Destin! This vibrant spot is known for its food, fun and music. Most nights out of the week, you’ll find live music at the restaurant. And they occasionally host events. When you decide to try this local favorite, we recommend LuLu’s Famous Seafood Gumbo and their best seller, the crab melt. We promise this spot will not disappoint!

LulusFunFoodMusic.com/ location/destin

6

Louisiana Lagniappe  Louisiana Lagniappe brings the Creole flair! The delicious and casual, yet upscale waterfront dining experience is the perfect spot for the entire family. Located on Gulf Shore Drive, they have all the fresh seafood and steak. They also have amazing specials, including their “Two Can Dine with Wine for $59” special. Take advantage of this place on your next visit to town — there’s a reason foodies and restaurant awards consistently rank it. TheLouisianaLagniappe.com 5

▲ Capt. Dave’s on the Gulf

There’s a reason Capt. Dave’s is on our Top 10 Restaurant List — they’ve been serving Emerald Coast locals and tourists for five decades. They are most known for their traditional seafood dishes and beautiful view of Miramar Beach. We recommend the Mahi Parmesan and their fried seafood sampler. Everything is delicious, and the view is a chef’s kiss! CaptDavesOntheGulf.com

▲ Kenny D’s

You’ll discover the party at Kenny D’s — a fun, energetic, Cajun-inspired beach bar on Scenic Gulf Drive. Locals have said, “Kenny D’s has the best cajun-style seafood this side of New Orleans.” They are most known for their award-winning gumbo — seriously, you must try it yourself. Kenny D’s keeps the party going with live music throughout the week and karaoke every Wednesday at 7 p.m. This is an excellent spot for your crew to end your beach day.

KennyDs.net

◀ Dewey Destin’s Part of Destin’s history, it’s only fitting that Dewey Destin’s made the list. The Destin family and the city of Destin have been intertwined since Dewey’s great great grandfather, Leonard Destin, founded the town in 1835. The Destin family now honors Leonard’s love of the water by serving fresh, sustainable seafood at their family owned restaurants across three locations along the Gulf Coast. Some of our favorite dishes are the pecan-crusted grouper and the Jack Scallops. With a taste of history and some of the best food on the Emerald Coast, make Dewey Destin’s the top of your list the next time you dine out. DestinSeafood.com

Dining

◀ Boshamps Oyster House

▲ Pompano Joe’s Seafood House

Pompano Joe’s Seafood House makes our list at No. 4, and with good reason!

Positioned directly on the Gulf, this delicious vacationer’s favorite is perfect during or after a beach day. And they are always cooking up some of the best Caribbean-flavored cuisines. Our favorites include Joe’s Crab Cakes and their beef and shrimp kabob. And the Funky-Monkey is among our favorite signature drinks to try. Remember to take a sunset walk on the beach afterward! Pompano-Joes.com

▶ McGuire’s Irish Pub Destin It’s the luck of the Irish, because coming in at our No. 1 restaurant is McGuire’s Irish Pub! In 1996, McGuires expanded its local chain to the Destin area. Choosing the perfect spot, Mcguire’s Irish Pub Destin is located directly across the street from the HarborWalk. This New York-Irish saloon always has a spot for you with a capacity of up to 500 hundred. As you head upstairs to the deck, you’ll find an additional 150 seats with a beautiful view of the Destin Harbor. With six different types of menus — lunch, lunch specials, dinner, night owl, brunch and kids menu — you’ll discover at least one item you’ll enjoy. McGuiresIrishPub.com

Discover Waterfront dining at its finest at Boshamps Oyster House — a Destin staple for nearly 30 years. The name derived from the owner’s three Labs, thus making it “Boshamps.” In honor of their name, Boshamps is pet friendly, offering your dog food and water throughout the dining experience. We recommend the fried green tomatoes with jumbo lump crab and the oysters Rockefeller. Grab the family, and don’t forget the dog, and head to Boshamps for a night of delicious cuisine. Boshamps.com

◀ The Back Porch

Seafood & Oyster House

The Back Porch is our runner-up for Destin’s Top 10 Favorite Restaurants. This delectable dining spot has been a Gulf Coast favorite for over 40 years. What sets the Back Porch aside from the rest? They have some of the best oysters in the area. We recommend their golden fried oysters. The Back Porch’s food will lead you in to dine, but the view alone will keep you there. Enjoy! TheBack-Porch.com

Thank you to the people of Destin for voting for our 2023 Top 10 Restaurants in Destin! Tell them we sent you if you plan to visit one of these dining locations. Keep an eye out on our social media pages for our 2024 voting in the fall of 2023. Will your favorite restaurant make the list? Bon appetit!

PHOTO BY MATT BURKE / RPI FILE PHOTO

Holiday Isle Properties

We offer condos sitting on the white sandy beaches or the calm Destin Harbor. Come view all our properties at www.holidayisle.net. Not sure exactly what condo would be perfect? Give us a call and let our reservation agents find a condo or home for you at your price point or the requirements you need.

Foodie Review: The Harbor Tavern

Get the inside scoop on the best dining in Destin from the locals themselves

BY SUTTON GODAR

▶ A stroll along the iconic Destin, Florida, HarborWalk, features a number of dining options. But situated on the edge of a series of popular bars and restaurants frequented by locals and tourists alike, you’ll find The Harbor Tavern. Sporting an ideal location, openair dining, couch-style seating in the back and a food truck to offer local flavor, The Harbor Tavern has a spot for everybody.

appetizers did their job — we couldn’t wait for the main course.

At the bottom right of the menu, you’ll find their Mediterranean bowls with a variety of protein options. We ended up going with the grilled chicken. The bowl is filled with a Mediterranean cucumber salad, light brown rice, grilled chicken and pickled onions, all covered by tahini sauce. This menu item provides a substantial amount of high-quality food, leaving you satisfied and feeling good about what you ordered.

Greetings! John and I are both locals, dog lovers and foodies at heart. While we’re not professional chefs we do love to eat! We like looking for the off-thebeaten-path type of places, and trying their unique and signature offerings. I’m a local photographer and John serves in the military. He often accompanies me on my photography shoots. This puts us all over the coast at any given time of day. And when we are out, we love to eat. We hope to share with you our experiences of these hidden-gem restaurants along the Emerald Coast. Come along for the ride, and enjoy some of the secret food stops in Destin!

The bar has a mixture of local beers on draft and classic brew favorites. Behind the bar there are more options to include seltzers and liquor. A friendly staff is always there to greet you.

To start our meal we had to order a couple appetizers. Friends of ours had highly recommended the cheese curds, so that was a must. A lightly breaded garlic fry surrounds warm, soft mozzarella cheese, with ranch on the side for dipping. And we ordered the smoked tuna dip, a classic Florida appetizer. It was served with housemade chips, flaky and light with a slight, but noticeable, seasoning. Overall, both

Also pictured is The Southern, a burger with a familiar formula for those who live in the South — Pimento cheese, bacon onion jam and a fried green tomato, all atop a quarter-pound beef patty. The pimento cheese and jam provided a heavy, bold flavor that made this burger one to remember, and my order of a medium rare patty came out perfectly.

Overall, The Harbor Tavern is an excellent location to settle in and watch the game or grab your first beers of the night and some food before venturing out on the HarborWalk bar crawl. To say with ease, we truly enjoyed all the food we tried here.

We give these dishes a thumbs up!

Me and my boyfriend, John

Pompano Pals

BY NICK COREY

From selling breathtaking properties to reeling in Gulf Coast pompanos, this friend duo makes for an ideal team

Location is key for realtors Kris Laidlaw and Chris Bent, and homes along the Emerald Coast never disappoint.

KRIS LAIDLAW EXPLAINS THE VALUE OF having rental properties in prime locations quite simply.

“There’s one thing they’re not making any more of, and that’s sand and dirt,” he said. Location wins the day when it comes to sought-after vacation homes.

Fortunately for Laidlaw, a realtor for Realty One Group, and his longtime friend turned business partner, Chris Bent, many of their properties have no problem when it comes to locale. Whether it’s a home in the heart of Miramar Beach, 30A or Destin, Laidlaw understands that location is frequently his best selling point.

“The places Chris and I have been involved with are all a little different,” Laidlaw said of the eclectic menu of homes they’ve sold throughout the Emerald Coast. “Some are newer; some a little older. None are exactly the same … We’ve sold completely contemporary homes, and others have had a certain unique charm, with almost a New Orleans feel — beautiful but different and classic in their own way.

“The one thing they all have in common is that they’re all close to the things people enjoy most about this area — walking distance of the water, the local attractions and activities.”

Laidlaw, born in Dallas and raised in Nashville, ended up selling real estate along the Emerald Coast somewhat by chance, somewhat by design.

After high school, he played football for Coastal Carolina University in South Carolina while working at Jimmy Buffet’s restaurant chain, Margaritaville. Post graduation, Laidlaw and a friend received an offer from Margaritaville that was too good to refuse — to open new Margaritaville locations in idyllic international locales. They worked and lived in the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos and Cozumel.

“It was a great experience.”

But memories of childhood vacations along the clear, blue-green waters of Florida’s Panhandle wooed him back to the region.

“I’d always always loved it here,” he said. “I remember being 18 and thinking ‘I wanna live down here someday.’ ”

Destin Real Estate

Keep tabs on updated real estate information, new listings and investment opportunities by visiting DestinFlorida.com/ real-estate.

Buying the Beach

Laidlaw saw the success his fishing friend was enjoying in real estate and decided to take the plunge. Now, his recorded voicemail greeting dubs him as the “Property Prince of the Panhandle.”

“Triple P — fitting perfectly with my other, self-proclaimed fishing nickname, the ‘Pompano Prince of the Panhandle,’” he laughed. While the beach may sell itself, Laidlaw said constant communication with clients is key in this industry.

Laidlaw and the Dirty Dozen

Kris Laidlaw’s father, Scott Laidlaw, was a member of the Cowboys’ Dirty Dozen — the moniker given to the rookies who made the team in 1975. It became a group largely credited for helping advance the team to Super Bowl X.

In addition to Laidlaw, the group included iconic Cowboy players such as Hallof-Famer Randy White, threetime Pro-Bowler Bob Breunig and Pro-Bowler Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson.

The opportunity to open a Margaritaville in Panama City put Laidlaw back in close proximity with his childhood retreat. But his path changed as he began working for his family’s cabinet and countertop business.

“In that industry, you’re rubbing shoulders with builders, having conversations,” Laidlaw said. “Pretty soon, I started thinking, ‘Why don’t I just start selling houses?’”

That’s when fishing pal Bent entered the conversation.

“We met through our wives about 10 years ago,” Laidlaw said. “Chris got into real estate about a year and a half before me. We’d already become pretty tight, hanging out and pompano fishing quite a bit.”

“Communication through every aspect, throughout the entire process is paramount,” he said. “Keeping those you are working for completely updated and educated on the numbers so that their expectations are realistic is critical.”

Laidlaw’s three years of experience in the industry have treated him well.

“I had a year in which I sold 76 houses, and last year I sold 86 houses,” he said.

And his partnership with Bent has proven successful, too, their differences aiding their business.

“There are a lot of different nuances that go into why Chris and I work so well together,” he said. “Things like contracts, addendums, things that need to get signed, all the necessary paperwork, Chris is excellent in staying on top of all that.

And each has complementary knowledge of Florida’s panhandle.

“Chris is an expert in his area,” Laidlaw said. “He’s not just about paperwork. He knows Miramar Beach inside and out.

“We definitely have the yin and yang thing working for us. His strengths aren’t mine, and mine aren’t his. Combined, we work pretty awesomely together.”

With the natural beauty of Miramar Beach, Destin and 30A, location only adds to strengths for this real estate duo.

“Name five beaches more beautiful than those we have here. As far as investing goes, I think this area will be like Malibu someday. I really do.”

Sounds like Laidlaw is encouraging buyers to get in while the getting is good.

Never been to Margaritaville? Lucky for you, we have one right here in Destin! Come see why so many have fallen in love with Jimmy Buffet’s restaurant chain inspired by the island lifestyle he sings of in his songs. Who knows? They might even help you find your lost shaker of salt!

Margaritaville Destin is located in the HarborWalk Village at 76 Harbor Blvd. Check out some of the great events offered in the Destin area at DestinFlorida.com/events.

For a unique, small party experience, try

Our tiki boats are great for an intimate, small group-oriented excursion around Destin Harbor. Specialty Tours are available upon request. We can take you on one of our suggested routes, or we can float about for your allotted time. With its ability to hold 16 passengers plus 2 crew members, it’s time for an exquisite aquatic excursion on our CRAB ISLAND TIKI BOAT!

For an unforgettable sailing experience, try

The only 40-foot boat available for half-day or full-day rental for your fun-filled, safe day on Crab Island. Floats and coolers available on board the boat. Discounts at the World Famous Reef Burger. Book your unforgettable trip on THE ISLAND PEARL today!

Buying the Beach

Jacqui! Ask

Jacqui Luberto of Realty One Group Emerald Coast has all the real estate answers

▲ About Jacqui Come find your coastal-charmed life with me! Born and raised with my toes deep in the sugar-white sands of the Emerald Coast and with a Bachelor of Science in business administration and more than 20 years experience in business and marketing, I’ve gained valuable insight when it comes to representing both buyers and sellers in the area. As a military wife, I am familiar with the lifestyle and nuances faced by our military men and women. My firsthand knowledge of military moves will help ease the tension and make your move seamless. Let me show you how stress free your real estate transaction can be when you work with a true professional. And as the broker and owner of Realty One Group Emerald Coast, not only can I help you find the right home, I can help you find the right career!

YOU CAN SEND YOUR REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS TO US and we will “Ask Jacqui!” Jacqui Luberto is the owner and broker of Realty One Group Emerald Coast and has a tremendous wealth of knowledge and experience to share! Send your questions for Jaqui to admin@destinflorida.com.

Q: Can you help me decide if it is better to buy versus rent a home?

A: You bet! A side-by-side walkthrough of all your housing options always makes sense. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether it is better to buy or rent a home. The decision will depend on your individual circumstances and what is most important to you. A great realtor will help you work through the variables! One of the most important things to look at is the upfront cost of obtaining a mortgage versus renting a home. There are some mortgage products and negotiation techniques available right now that can actually cost you less out of pocket than a first month’s/last month’s/security deposit scenario. Make sure your financial advisor, lender and agent are good partners so they can work together to help find what works. Other important factors to consider are your flexibility, potential for financial return and your personal lifestyle. Find an agent that truly has your best interest at heart, and you’ll do great either way!

Q: What is your opinion on so many different HOA fees/costs in these communities?

A: Each community has different amenities and reasons that people choose to live there. Even without being in a gated community the property’s general upkeep, deeded beach access points or enforcement of rules to keep home values high can make a huge difference with ownership and resale. With condos, specifically, we learned a lot about upkeep and maintenance with the tragedy in Miami at Champlain Towers. Owners should stay involved in their association and know what's going on. Continual improvement benefits all!

Q: Are there financing options for income-producing properties that use the property’s income to qualify me?

A: Indeed, many people in this area use it! A debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) loan is a type of loan that is based on the borrower's ability to pay off the loan. The DSCR is a financial ratio that measures the amount of cash flow a borrower has available to make loan payments. It is calculated by dividing the property's net operating income (NOI) by the annual debt service (loan payments). DSCR loans are often used in short-termrental real estate financing, as they allow lenders to assess the financial viability of a property and ensure that it will generate sufficient income to cover the loan payments. However, they may also be used in other types of lending, such as for small businesses or individuals seeking personal loans. It’s a great product and many of our amazing local lenders offer them!

Q: How do you determine a list price for a property going on the market?

A: Well it's equal parts math and magic! First, we need to review comparable properties. This can give us an idea of the general price range for properties in the area and help you determine a competitive list price. Then, we evaluate the condition of the property. If the property is in excellent

condition, it may be worth more than a similar property that needs significant repairs or even just cosmetic updates. The majority of buyers want turnkey properties. Next, we evaluate features and amenities of the property and surrounding area. For example, a property with a swimming pool, large lot or, in our area specifically, Gulf views, may be worth more than

important to work with a real estate agent who has knowledge of the local market and can help you determine the right list price for your property.

Q: How can I buy a home if I have to sell mine first? What options are available?

A: If you need to sell your current home in order to buy a new one, there are a few options you can consider:

Contingency offer: You can make an offer on a new home that is contingent on the sale of your current home. This means that your offer will only be accepted if your current home sells within a certain time frame. However, contingency offers may be less competitive in a seller's market.

Sell your current home first: You can try to sell your current home as quickly as possible and then start looking for a new one. This can be a good option in our area, due to the high number of short-term rental options.

Get a bridge loan: A bridge loan is a short-term loan that helps you bridge the gap between the sale of your current home and the purchase of a new one. This can allow you to buy a new home before you sell your current one. But it's important to be aware that bridge loans can be expensive but are very often short lived!

a similar property without those features. Finally, we will review the local market conditions. There have been ups and downs over the past few years and these changes often happen very fast.

Ultimately, the list price of a property is a balancing act between what you believe the property is worth and what buyers are willing to pay. It's

Rent out your current home: If you have enough equity in your current home, you may be able to rent out your current home and turn your liability into an asset. This can give you the financial flexibility to buy a new home without being rushed to sell your current one.

It's important to carefully consider your options and choose the one that is most feasible and financially responsible for your specific situation. Give me a call and I’ll help you work through the options! It all starts with a good conversation!

Ultimately, the list price of a property is a balancing act between what you believe the property is worth and what buyers are willing to pay. It’s important to work with a real estate agent who has knowledge of the local market and can help you determine the right list price for your property.

Renting the Beach

Breathing Easier

Brittany Blackman’s vacation rental business is thriving after beating pandemic-sized odds

BY NICK COREY

IN 2020, BRITTANY BLACKMAN LAUNCHED HER Miramar Beach company, Breathe Easy Rentals, in the wake of pandemic-induced turmoil in the industry.

She had been working as the operations manager for another rental company. But the pandemic spurred an inflection point for her, inspiring the start of her fledgling business. She was now navigating entrepreneurship while juggling health restrictions amid an era of the “new normal.”

Blackman grew up in small-town Chatsworth, Georgia, the sister-city of Dalton, Georgia — known primarily as the carpet mill capital of the world. But, Blackman felt pulled to something beyond the carpet industry, even if not initially knowing what that might be.

“My family, my support system, they were great,” Blackman said. “I just knew that career-wise, I wanted something beyond what Chatsworth offered.”

She attended Reinhardt College in Waleska, Georgia, hoping to find a path that might interest her.

“I didn’t love it,” she said. “I left after a semester.”

Remembering the surrounding, natural beauty she experienced after visiting Destin during her senior year in high school, Blackman decided to make the beach her home. She found whatever work she could to support herself.

“I was a photo girl for fishing excursions,” she chuckled. “I did door to door sales; whatever I had to do, I’d do it.”

Until she found employment that seemed to fit her organized temperament and outgoing personality.

“I started working as a reservationist for short-term rental properties.”

Unbeknownst to Blackman, that job, however short lived, would be the seed that sowed her career.

“Starting out, it was great,” Blackman said. “Then out of the blue, within my first few weeks, the operations manager abruptly left. We were a pretty small team, and he left with everything. We were scrambling.”

The owners had moved to Alabama and asked Blackman to take over as operations manager. She worked, learned and began developing her own personal business chops.

Then COVID-19 hit.

“We had to let go of everyone,” she said. “It was awful — so sad and stressful.

Blackman was left short staffed, adding nearly 700 cancellations to her list of duties.

“I had to tell people who’d been stuck indoors forever that their vacations were now canceled,” she recalled.

Blackman made YouTube videos that garnered attention — raw, unscripted, emotional pleas for Florida’s governor to end the restrictions that had been placed on vacation rental companies.

“It was emotional,” she said. “It all ended up being a shake-up moment of life for me.”

But Blackman had an idea. She’d garnered connections in the industry. And she trusted her work ethic. She proposed buying the business from the current owners.

They refused her offer.

“I ended up putting in my notice to hopefully convince them,” Blackman said.

Her plan backfired. Her bosses accepted the resignation.

“I reached the point … I just decided it was time,” she said.

Blackman ventured out on her own, starting Breathe Easy Vacation Rentals from ground zero. She found obstacles of miles of red-tape restrictions that short-term rental owners and property managers dealt with daily. So she became a leading voice for others in the industry. She emailed, called and attended meetings with government representatives, seeking ways in which time-consuming obstacles could be reexamined.

“I kind of unknowingly became the circus leader, trying to keep up with county regulations and relaying all that information back to property managers,” she said.

In a landmark victory, Blackman achieved the permission of affidavits to serve as sufficient for those

seeking rental-property certificates versus the previous need for inspections by county representatives.

“It was impossible for the inspectors to do all the inspections in a fair, timely fashion. So getting the affidavits approved was a big win for us.”

Blackman continues to stay in contact with other property management companies, providing updates on the latest ordinances that might affect them. She’s been asked to be on a task force with the Walton County government. She looks for ways to decrease mandated red tape

on anything affecting not only her own business, but the businesses of others in the short-term rental industry of Northwest Florida.

One is struck with how genuinely and affably Blackman communicates herself, even when discussing unsteady, difficult times.

One also senses that Blackman is busy — a portrait of perpetual, kinetic, get-it-done energy.

She wouldn’t trade any of it.

“I’d do it all over again,” she said. “I really would. Change is so hard, walking away from security is so hard. But it’s so worth it.”

For more information or to view rental listings in the Destin area, visit BreathEeasyRentals.com.

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Fun Facts

▶ BECAUSE OF ITS PROXIMITY, Miramar Beach is often considered to be a part of the city of Destin, but is actually located in Walton County, with its own separate zip code (32550). And Destin is in Okaloosa County and has two separate zip codes (32540, 32541).

▶ LOCALLY, RUNNING THROUGH BOTH Walton and Okaloosa counties, U.S. Highway 98 is the longest state road that runs through Florida and is one of the longest state roads in any U.S. state, coming in third behind U.S. Highway 101 in California and U.S. Highway 83 in Texas. It spans Florida from the Alabama state line in the western-most region of the Panhandle down to Palm Beach in the southeastern region of the Peninsula.

▶ ALONG THE COASTAL PANHANDLE stretch, U.S. Highway 98 offers no shortage of excellent restaurants serving fresh and delectable seafood, but what if your palette is in search of fine Greek cuisine?

The Aegean Greek Restaurant at 11225 U.S. Highway 98 in Miramar Beach offers classic Greek breakfast, lunch and dinner favorites, all served in a cozy, Mediterraneanthemed atmosphere. The decor and murals lend Grecian authenticity to this gem, and the food is outstanding!

(The author has eaten there; thank him later!)

Renting the Beach

Shipwatch Palazzo

Simplicity meets serenity at this spacious coastal retreat in Miramar Beach

BY NICK COREY

THE EXPANSIVE SEVEN-BEDROOM

Shipwatch Palazzo rental home, just east of Destin in Miramar Beach, yields idyllic views amid a simplistic sanctuary.

Brittany Blackman, owner of Breathe Easy Rentals, knows firsthand that some renters seek a retreat fit for the ultimate beach party while others search for modern luxury and sleek design for their vacation. She also

knows that many fall somewhere in between — that sweet spot of calm perfection coupled with modern conveniences.

“Shipwatch is peaceful,” Blackman said. “There’s a welcoming aura visitors can sense. You can walk downstairs to the pool deck and take a pathway straight to the beach.”

Shipwatch Palazzo translates to that sweet spot for visitors.

This Miramar gem is nestled in quiet perfection. Peaceful, relaxing and perfectly placed, the home preserves the quaintness of a beachside hideaway while residing in the center of activity.

“It has what many desire,” Blackman said. “A private pool, a short walk to the grocery store and outlet mall. It’s 10–15 minutes from both Destin and 30A, and the house itself has all the amenities for a great stay.”

The open floor plan, three-story home boasts seven bedrooms, six full baths, a half bath and sleeps up to 22 guests — a boon for those planning large-group vacations with family and friends. The kitchen is stocked with all the necessary tools to prepare meals,

FEATURED RENTAL

The rear entrance of the property does not prepare you for the beachfront views.

whether it’s a morning cup of coffee, an easy afternoon lunch or a three-course meal to be enjoyed on the patio. Smart TVs are in place throughout the living and bedrooms. An elevator offers easy access to all three floors. And parking allows up to five vehicles.

“The living room provides such an amazing view of the water,” Blackman said. “It gives that open-airy, spacious feel with clean lines. It’s tasteful and relaxing, nothing over the top … and rooms that open up onto balconies.”

For those considering coming to Miramar Beach for the first time, Shipwatch Palazzo provides the perfect rest and rejuvenation spot after a fun-filled day of sun, sand or anywhere

out and about. Whether returning home after a Crab Island tour, shopping at Silver Sands Premium Outlets or from a day on the links at one of the area’s breathtaking golf courses, this rental jewel offers the ultimate sanctuary experience.

As the saying goes in real estate, “location, location, location” truly rules the day.

“The location of Shipwatch is one of the best things about it … making it such a great place to stay,” Blackman said. “Just being so close to everything makes it special.”

And added amenities certainly don’t hurt.

The rental house provides four bicycles for wandering aimlessly through the coastal town. The availability of golf-cart rentals adds to the convenient and fun commutes for those ideal summer beach days. Visitors can enjoy access to beach-chair and umbrella setups as well. There’s a spare fridge in the garage so you don’t have to worry about where to store your stock of specialty beverages. And two waterless water heaters guarantee that not even one of up to 22 guests will shower sans warmth.

Yet, despite all the amenities and conveniences, there’s a subtle, classy and nuanced air about Shipwatch Palazzo.

In an age and industry with no shortage of examples in which garish extravagance appears, this home offers renters a breath of proverbial — and literal — fresh air.

Picture serenity and beauty balanced in modernity.

And that stunning view of the ocean, outside the living room window — priceless.

For more information about Shipwatch Pilazzo, visit BreatheEasyRentals.com

Experience the The Emerald Coast

CRAB ISLAND

A favorite of locals and tourists alike, Crab Island is an anchoredboat haven where you can hunker down at the sprawling sandbar and enjoy a day in the sun, swimming the clear waters and wandering through the sea of friendly boaters. The atmosphere is fun and festive, and boating and floating vendors offer food, drinks, ice cream, floats and souvenirs. You can rent a boat on your own to venture out or hop on a captained excursion. Floats are a must and kayakers and paddle boarders are welcomed, too. The boat ride to and from offers an exciting experience in itself, with expansive views and frequent sightings of dolphins and other ocean life.

SHOPPING

Silver Sands Premium Outlets

in Miramar Beach is home to more than 100 name-brand and designer outlet stores. Big brands include Coach, Columbia Sportswear, Banana Republic, Gap Outlet, J. Crew, Kate Spade New York, Michael Kors, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Under Armour, Vera Bradley and more. The phrase, “something for everyone” has never been more aptly applied than at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. The shopping destination has more than 80 shops, restaurants, retail centers and an AMC movie theater — to name just a few of its attractions!

DESTIN FLORIDA VACATION RENTALS

When you are ready to book your next family vacation to the Destin Florida area, be sure to review these featured listings for great deals. Use the QR code and find thousands of other listings to choose from. Be sure to “book direct” with our hosts for the best pricing and service. We look forward to seeing you in Destin soon!

SELAH BY THE SEA

Sleeps 10

3 beds, 3 baths

Community: Emerald Shores DestinFlorida.com/414

MARAVILLA 2409

Sleeps 6

2 beds, 2 baths

Community: Maravilla DestinFlorida.com/1162

ADAGIO G201

Sleeps 8 3 beds, 3 baths

Community: Adagio Vacation Condos DestinFlorida.com/1320

TIKI TIDES

Sleeps 8

3 beds, 2½ baths

Community: Blue Mountain Beach DestinFlorida.com/1498

MONTERREY 301

Sleeps 10

3 beds, 3 baths

Community: Seacrest Beach DestinFlorida.com/3249

SEAS THE DAY

Sleeps 36 8 beds, 8 baths

Community: Crystal Beach DestinFlorida.com/4332

THE MEDITERRANEA

312D

Sleeps 8 2 beds, 2½ baths

Community: Mediterranea of Destin DestinFlorida.com/7230

OASIS

Sleeps 12

5 beds, 4 baths

Community: Destiny by the Sea DestinFlorida.com/5232

HP 24W CONDO

Sleeps 6 2 bed, 2 baths

Community: High Pointe Resort

DestinFlorida.com/5582

50 SHADES OF BLUE

Sleeps 8 2 beds, 2 baths

Community: Crystal Beach DestinFlorida.com/5730

ISLANDER 6004

Sleeps 6 2 beds, 2 baths

Community: Islander Beach Resort Condos DestinFlorida.com/6345

AZURE 6004

Sleeps 8 3 beds, 3 baths

Community: Azure Condos DestinFlorida.com/7217