Work and Play in Sandestin

Time To Read

Golf Carts and Starbucks

Starbucks drive thru in a golf cart? Yes please! I have been to Sandestin many times but it was only recently that I realized how many places are accessible by golf cart using one of their ‘non main’ entrances. I knew of the tunnel that goes under highway 98 to get to the beach by golf cart but I had no idea I could get to the places at Grand Boulevard and access so much. Including a Starbucks and its drive thru. I must say I really enjoyed being able to zip over there and grab something to drink, especially while the morning weather was nice, and then head back to our stay.

Starbucks Drive Thru

Sandestin has plenty to offer. You can enjoy the sound of waves gently lapping the shore, sipping your morning coffee as you watch the sunrise over the ocean, and then settling into a productive workday. Or anytime of the day for the matter. Enjoying work all from a work-ready short-term rental. This is the unique experience of working from vacation rentals in Sandestin, Florida. The blend of work and play in such a picturesque setting not only enhances productivity but also offers a refreshing change from the monotony of traditional home offices.

Self Employed Remote Work Trend

The trend of remote work, particularly among the self-employed, has surged since 2022. According to the Pew Research Center, about 59% of U.S. workers who say their jobs can mainly be done from home are working remotely all or most of the time. This certainly holds true for entrepreneurs. This shift has been fueled by advancements in technology and changing attitudes toward work-life balance, allowing professionals to work from virtually anywhere. Sandestin, with its scenic beauty and modern amenities, is an attractive destination for remote workers looking to combine business with leisure.

Best Times to Visit Sandestin

Choosing the best time to visit Sandestin depends on your preferences for crowds and activities. The peak season runs from late May to early August, attracting families and vacationers. During this time, you can expect vibrant energy, bustling restaurants, and more traffic. However, it also means longer wait times and higher prices. And traffic can impact your available time so keep that in mind when selecting dates and when to venture out.

For those who prefer a quieter experience, the off-peak seasons in spring (March to early May) and fall (September to November) are ideal. The weather remains pleasant, the beaches are less crowded, and you’ll enjoy shorter wait times at popular restaurants. Additionally, these periods offer better accessibility and more affordable rental rates. The water is warm into September and October.

Attractions in Sandestin

Sandestin is brimming with attractions that cater to a variety of interests. The Village of Baytowne Wharf is a must-visit, featuring a charming collection of shops, eateries, and nightlife venues. It’s a perfect spot for evening strolls, live music, and seasonal events. Having golf cart parking is a huge plus, but keep in mind even those spots can fill up. Selecting a rental that includes a golf cart is a huge enhancement for the whole experience. Baytowne does offer some great places and nightlife and the golf cart parking made it nice and close to access events. For golf enthusiasts, the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers four championship golf courses, providing an excellent way to unwind after a day of remote work.

Baytowne Wharf Evening Night (Memorial Day Weekend)

Another unique attraction is the Jolee Island Nature Park, a serene spot perfect for nature walks, bird watching, and picnics. The park’s trails offer stunning views of Choctawhatchee Bay, making it a tranquil escape from the daily grind. Additionally, the area’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for water sports, sunbathing, and simply relaxing by the shore.

Geographical Features - Bay and Beach

Sandestin’s geography is one of its most appealing aspects. Nestled between Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, it offers the best of both worlds: bay and beach access. The area’s white sand beaches are a major draw, while the bay provides opportunities for boating and other sight-seeing activities. This unique geographical setting ensures that there’s always something to do, whether you’re looking to relax by the water or engage in outdoor activities.

Choctawhatchee Bay

Sandestin has some of the most beautiful beach access I have seen. Many days the water offers wonderful versions of clear, blue, and turquoise that might make you think you are in a more tropical setting and certainly not mainland. And that sand. For those not familiar with the white sand beaches around the Destin area, they are magnificent. They are fine, white sands that lends their name to sometimes being called sugar beaches. If my geographic memory serves me correctly, these sands are mainly quartz crystal, now weathered and smooth, that made its way down from the Appalachian Mountains from millions of years ago. Fun fact, the white color has a reflective property that helps keep the sand cooler.

Sandestin Beach

Work Support

For remote workers and entrepreneurs, Sandestin offers several amenities to support business needs. Services like FedEx Office and a UPS Store provide essential print and shipping services. Additionally, nearby business centers and co-working spaces offer quiet environments equipped with high-speed internet and office supplies if needed. These facilities ensure that you can stay productive and connected, even while enjoying a beachside retreat. There is also a Regus location for those of you who have access. Wireless service was fine and I do not think there were many connectivity issues, even during peak times.

Rental Must Haves

When selecting a rental in Sandestin, certain features can enhance your remote work experience. Look for properties with dedicated workspaces and reliable high-speed internet to ensure uninterrupted productivity. While we all may have different opinions on what constitutes a ‘dedicated workspace’, I can make do with a table or desk and room for a laptop and external mouse. But, a space to work is a minimum requirement for me. Creative inspiration can be found in rentals with stunning views, natural light, and comfortable furnishings. Privacy was pretty abundant even for a populated place. Sandestin and its accessible places make it kind of like its own little city of sorts and whether I needed privacy in a rental or while out and about shopping and dining, I was able to find quiet places just fine. Enough so that my work calls were made and people had no idea if I was in my home office or a resort. That is what I LOVE about remote work, being able to get your job and tasks at hand done, and no one knows whether you are home or not, whether your are playing or not. If you are interested in visiting Sandestin, join teostays and receive notifications for rentals tailored to your preferences.

Work/Play Suggestions

Balancing work and leisure is effortless in Sandestin. For instance, take advantage of local amenities like the almost on-site Starbucks for a pleasant break or a social workspace. Begin your day with a morning jog on the beach, followed by a productive work session in your rental’s dedicated office space. I also tried a place called Another Broken Egg Café and I highly recommend their breakfast! In the afternoon, take a lunch break at one of the charming cafes in Baytowne Wharf, and wrap up your workday with a relaxing sunset walk along the shore. You can even drive a golf cart to Applebee’s if that’s your kind of thing.

Tips for Staying Productive While Working from a Vacation Rental

  1. Establish a Routine: Set specific work hours to maintain productivity but let yourself enjoy your surroundings in between and during work time.
  2. Create a Nice Workspace: Choose a spot with minimal distractions and good lighting to set up your workspace.
  3. Stay Connected: Ensure your rental has high-speed internet and stay connected.
  4. Take Breaks: Use short breaks to enjoy the surroundings, whether it's a quick foot splash in the ocean or a walk in nature.
  5. Plan Activities: Schedule leisure activities outside of work hours to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Sandestin also has plenty of nice pools available.

Travel Vicinity of Sandestin

Sandestin is conveniently located within driving distance of several major cities. It’s approximately 250 miles from Atlanta, Georgia, and about 150 miles from Mobile, Alabama. This makes it easily accessible for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, offering the perfect blend of convenience and relaxation.

Overall

Sandestin, Florida, presents a unique opportunity to blend work and play seamlessly. With its stunning geography, abundant attractions, and supportive work environment, it’s an ideal destination for remote workers and entrepreneurs. By choosing the right rental and balancing your schedule, you can maximize productivity while enjoying everything this beautiful location has to offer.

Baytowne Wharf (Entrance/Exit)

About TeoStays

Having worked for myself for a number of years, I can say one of the best parts of entrepreneurship is being able to work while traveling. When short-term rentals became more mainstream, it felt like the market was heading in a great direction. And while it was, I still wanted more—more self-booking options, more work-friendly locations, and clearer pricing. I knew what I wanted to spend and the kind of place I wanted, but I needed an easier way to find it. That’s where Teostays comes in. It’s designed for entrepreneurs and self-employed remote workers to effortlessly find places that make the work/play balance seamless.

Disclaimer: This article provides opinion and tips for working from Sandestin. Visitors should verify updated location information and attractions to ensure accuracy.

Citations:

  • Pew Research Center, 2023.

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