Emerald Towers

Emerald Towers is a Gulf-front condominium tower on Highway 98 East in central Destin, part of the row of beachfront high-rises between the Destin Harbor area and Crystal Beach. The building stands directly on the beach, with the pool deck facing the Gulf and the sand just beyond the dunes.

Completed in 1983, the tower rises 15 stories and contains 82 condominiums, according to association and county records compiled by Emerald Coast Condo Map. Rentals are primarily two-bedroom, two-bathroom units that sleep up to about eight guests, with full kitchens, living and dining areas, in-unit washers and dryers, and private balconies facing the Gulf.

Shared amenities include a heated, lagoon-shaped pool facing the beach, a hot tub and sauna, a fitness center with Gulf views, twin tennis courts, gas grills and gated entry. Some rental companies include seasonal beach chair and umbrella service with select units.

The location is convenient for exploring Destin. Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park and The Track family fun park are nearby on Highway 98, and restaurants and shops line the corridor in both directions. HarborWalk Village and the Destin Harbor, with fishing charters, water sports and waterfront dining, are a short drive west, and Destin Commons is a few minutes east.

Emerald Towers suits families and small groups looking for a two-bedroom high-rise condo on the sand with resort-style extras like a hot tub, sauna and tennis courts. Its central spot on Highway 98 works well for guests who plan to split their time between the beach and Destin’s harbor, dining and family attractions.