Aegean

Aegean is a Gulf-front condominium complex on Gulf Shore Drive on Holiday Isle, the residential strip between the Destin Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. The complex sits directly on the beach, so guests can walk from their unit or the pool straight onto the white sand.

Built in 1975, Aegean is five stories tall and has 80 condominiums, according to association and county records compiled by Emerald Coast Condo Map. Rentals are mostly two-bedroom, two-bathroom units that sleep up to eight, with open layouts, full kitchens, and patios or balconies with Gulf views. Sleeping arrangements often include king, queen and bunk beds, which suits families.

Shared amenities include a pool, a hot tub, tennis courts, elevators and gated entry, with direct access to the beach. Some rental companies include seasonal beach service for their guests.

Holiday Isle is quieter than the Highway 98 strip but only minutes from it. The Destin Harbor, HarborWalk Village and the charter fishing fleet are a short drive away, and the jetties at the East Pass, a popular spot for snorkeling and watching boats, are at the west end of the island. Restaurants, shops and family attractions along Highway 98 are just east of the Holiday Isle entrance.

Aegean suits families and small groups looking for a relaxed, low-rise complex right on the beach. The building’s modest height and ground-level patios give it a more casual feel than the towers nearby, and its Holiday Isle address keeps guests close to Destin’s harbor while offering a calmer stretch of sand.