For several years we have chosen units in the Caribbean Dunes complex in the Crystal Beach area of Destin. It's only a block off the main street and the mid-bay bridge entrance, avoiding downtown Destin traffic. The white sands and emerald waters are just across the scenic highway and Henderson State park with less crowded beach areas.

This unit had wonderful luxury towels in the bathrooms, a kitchen fully stocked with cooking items and small appliances, and its own washer/dryer unit. The upstairs bedroom is just an open loft, so the sun will wake you up in the morning and the living room TV is even louder upstairs. We put our teen daughters up there and used the bedroom on the lower floor. We love the balcony to store beach toys and dry towels and suits. And we could view the complex's swimming pool and hot tub as well as a bit of ocean from the balcony.

For check in we had to visit the office to get our code. Usually we get the door code from the app on our phone and go straight to our unit - handy if we arrive late in the evening. Yes, the office was close by, but it was still an extra step that some units in this complex don't require. Bonus - we got a gift card for several free items, including a water park pass and, dolphin tour, and parasailing. Make sure you call the correct number on the card (there were 4 of them) to reserve in advance.

There were no extra trash can liners, dishwasher detergent, dishwashing soap, kitchen towels, or dishrag provided. Many times when we go skiing or to the beach these are included. Since we stay a week, I had come with my own to supplement.

The unit wasn't quite ready when we arrived just after the 4pm checkin time, but the cleaner let us go ahead and start unloading. We visited over July 4th week, so I know they were extra busy.

Water heater is small so schedule some time before you send the next person in to bathe.

These units are 20+ years old, so there are little things here and there that come with age, but we love this complex - if we can't find one on VRBO we go through a property management company to get one here. Have even considered buying a unit. The prices seem to be the same no matter how you find your unit - choose Caribbean Dunes - it's perfect!