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Florida Panhandle Vacation Rentals

(1985 rentals)
Browse vacation rentals along the Florida Panhandle, the 200-mile stretch of Gulf coast running from Pensacola to the Forgotten Coast. The median rate is $190 a night, but the price varies by area and rental type: Panama City Beach starts at $56.
Median nightly
$190
half of rentals cost less
Cheapest area
$146
Panama City Beach median
Best value month
October
warm Gulf, low rates
Peak season
May–Jul
school holidays, priciest

Where to stay in the Florida Panhandle

Six Florida Panhandle vacation rental areas along the Gulf of Mexico: Pensacola Beach, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island, Destin and Miramar Beach, the 30A and South Walton beach towns including Santa Rosa Beach and Inlet Beach, Panama City Beach, and the Forgotten Coast around Cape San Blas and Port St. Joe.
A wide, protected stretch of Gulf coastline with a more natural, less built-up feel than many Florida beach towns. You'll still find a pier, boardwalk, and beachfront bars, while downtown Pensacola (30 minutes) adds museums and great dining.
103 rentals · from $88 · PNS 20–40 min
A relaxed beach with the same sugar-white sand and emerald water as its pricier neighbors, at noticeably lower nightly rates. You'll find the Gulf-front rentals on Okaloosa Island and calm, shallow bay water on the sound side, while Destin (15 minutes) adds the harbor restaurants and charter fleet.
74 rentals · from $79 · VPS 15 min
A lively, family-focused resort town built around one of the largest charter fishing fleets on the Gulf. You'll find waterparks, dolphin cruises, and a harbor boardwalk that stays busy after dark, while Miramar Beach (10 minutes) adds quieter sand and outlet shopping.
258 rentals · from $74 · VPS 20–30 min
A 24-mile string of planned beach towns linked by a paved coastal path, and the most polished, walkable stretch of the Panhandle. You'll find Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Alys Beach along the route, with rentals listed under Santa Rosa Beach to the west and Inlet Beach to the east.
89 rentals · from $103 · VPS or ECP 30–45 min
A big, energetic beach town with 27 miles of wide Gulf-front sand, the widest choice of rentals on the coast, and the lowest rates. You'll find high-rise condos, Pier Park shopping, and Shipwreck Island Waterpark, while St. Andrews State Park (15 minutes) adds quieter sand and calm water at the eastern end.
764 rentals · from $56 · ECP 20 min
A quiet, undeveloped stretch of Old Florida coastline with no high-rises, no resorts, and the most dog-friendly beaches in the region. You'll find most rentals around Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach, and feast on local oysters and fresh seafood in areas like Apalachicola (30 minutes).
125 rentals · from $111 · ECP or TLH 45–90 min
Miramar Beach Condo
Sleeps 9, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

•Located in Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort •Ground-floor Villa, on level lower than parking, approximately 20 stairs down •3 Bed – 3 Bath – Sleeps 9 •NO PETS allowed! •1 King – 1 Queen – 1 Bunk Bed (1 Full, 1 Twin) – 1 Sleeper Sofa •Free...

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$161
avg per night
Cape San Blas House
Sleeps 13, 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms
4 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Oceanfront
  • Pet friendly
  • Private pool
  • Rentals by owner
  • WiFi

About this property

4Sunsets has 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 bath, 2 outdoor showers, optional Tandem Kayak/2 SUPs & breathtaking views from 4 different decks. New pool ready Jan 2027 (maybe Dec.!) between the house and the dune facing beach.Thank you for considering 4Sunsets for your vacation. We love it and we know that you...

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Featured review

"Perfect!"

Fantastic house! Cannot think of anything that could have been better! Alissa was so great and accommodating. Would rent this every year!

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$551
avg per night
Destin House
Sleeps 10, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Private pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Sunkissed Cottage Professionally Managed by Newman-DaileyBright Coastal Retreat – Dog Friendly Paradise With Private Pool Near the Beach!Welcome to your dream getaway in the heart of Destin! This charming home offers classic Southern architecture with first and second floor breezy wraparound...

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$251
avg per night
Miramar Beach Condo
Sleeps 10, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
1 review

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Oceanfront
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

•Beachfront 8th floor condo located in Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort •3 Bed – 2 Bath – Sleeps 10 •2 Kings – 2 Fulls – 1 Sleeper Sofa •NO PETS allowed! •Free Resort Shuttle service and Wi-Fi included! •Larger newly renovated patio balcony to...

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Featured review

"Awesome views!!"

The room was in immaculate condition! The views were awesome! The beach was beautiful and calm when we went! Highly recommend!!

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$256
avg per night
Miramar Beach Condo
Sleeps 6, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Oceanfront
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

•Beachfront 7th floor condo located in Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort •6-Seater Golf Cart included! •2 Bed – 2 Bath – Sleeps 6 •1 King – 2 Twins – 1 Sleeper Sofa •NO PETS allowed! •Updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite...

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$256
avg per night

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Panama City Beach Condo
Sleeps 4, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
4 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

25 Age Requirement to book! Experience a stunning remodeled studio suite located on a convenient low floor with same-floor parking at the renowned Shores of Panama Resort in Panama City Beach, Florida. This inviting studio is the perfect vacation destination.Enjoy luxury and comfort with premium furnishings,...

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$103
avg per night
Miramar Beach House
Sleeps 9, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

•3 Bed - 3.5 Bath - Sleeps 9! (2 Kings - 2 Queens - 1 Sleeper Sofa) •Includes a 6 Person Golf Cart to use During Your Stay! •Completely Renovated with the most Modern Upgrades Available! •NO PETS allowed! •Minutes from the Beautiful Sugar White Sands of the Gulf of Mexico! •Located...

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$248
avg per night
Panama City Beach House
Sleeps 14, 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms
24 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Private pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Welcome to Sugar Shores! Located on the south side of Thomas Drive on the east end of Panama City Beach. This amazing location is not only steps from the white sandy beaches of PCB, its situated minutes from St. Andrews State Park as well as several great places to eat such as Schooners and Patches. Sugar...

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Featured review

"Awesome condo"

Seaview condo 204 was the cleanest condo I have ever been in. The owner and host was super responsive if you needed anything and made it convenient by texting. We will be back!

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$339
avg per night
Pensacola Beach House
Sleeps 14, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms
2 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Important Booking Tip: For accurate availability, pricing, and current specials, please visit our website by searching Paradise Beach Homes. Calendars on this site do not update, and rates, minimum stay requirements, and specials change often.Beautiful "beach chic" decor' in this 3...

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Featured review

"Fantastic vacation"

Fantastic view, fantastic home, and fantastic response time = a fantastic vacation!We couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay. The home was beautiful, exactly as described, and the view was...

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$321
avg per night
Panama City Beach Condo
Sleeps 6, 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms
26 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

"Sol and Sand" is located on the 9th floor of the Shores of Panama. This end-cap unit offers stunning views of the Gulf! Condo 902 includes a dedicated parking spot on the same floor, just around the corner from your condo.Our beautiful condo features one master bedroom and a bunk room,...

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Featured review

"Nice condo"

Shores of Panama 902 was perfect for us. Great view of the Gulf. Since we were there in early May, it wasn’t as crowded as the summer months. My only complaint is with the resort itself. I feel charging...

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$136
avg per night
Pensacola Beach Townhome
Sleeps 7, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
1 review

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Important Booking Tip: For accurate availability, pricing, and current specials, please visit our website by searching Paradise Beach Homes. Calendars on this site do not update, and rates, minimum stay requirements, and specials change often.Whether you’re looking for a great pool, tennis court,...

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Featured review

"Blue Angel Air Show Wknd"

The property was absolutely perfect. The location was right across the street from beach access with a little covered picnic area with shower, trolley access directly across the street and probably 2 mi...

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$237
avg per night
Miramar Beach Condo
Sleeps 6, 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

•2 Bed - 2.5 Bath - Sleeps 6 (1 King - 2 Twins - 1 Sleeper Sofa) •NO PETS allowed! •Short Walk or Free Shuttle Ride to the Beach! •Open Floor Plan Perfect to Relax with Family! •Private Deck with Gorgeous Lake Views! •Beachwalk Features a Huge Neighborhood Pool and 2...

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$115
avg per night
Panama City Beach Condo
Sleeps 4, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
17 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Free Beach Chair/Umbrella Service (March 1-October 31) This beautiful, completely remodeled Gulf front condo is truly a coastal oasis! It is fresh with new paint, new appliances, new kitchen remodel, all new furniture and new flooring! King Master Bedroom overlooks the Gulf of Mexico! Free Beach Chair/Umbrella...

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$141
avg per night
Panama City Beach Condo
Sleeps 4, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
33 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Free Beach Chair/Umbrella Service (March 1-October 31) King Master Bedroom overlooks the Gulf of Mexico! The kitchen has stainless steel appliances. It has an open floor plan and a spacious balcony with breathtaking views of the white sandy beaches located here on the Emerald Coast. The queen sleeper...

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$132
avg per night
Panama City Beach House
Sleeps 9, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms
5 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Coastal Charm at Summertowne Cottages – 3BR Beach Retreat in Panama City Beach Welcome to your perfect beach getaway! This beautifully decorated 3-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom cottage is located in the charming Summertowne Cottages community, directly across from the beach and steps from Pier Park, restaurants,...

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$189
avg per night
Panama City Beach Condo
Sleeps 8, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
9 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort is well known for breathtaking views of the crystal clear emerald waters, white sandy beaches and amenities galore. Absolutely gorgeous remodeled 2 bedroom plus bunk area in Tower 2-1002 at Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort. You'll know why our name is "There...

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Featured review

"️️️️️ Perfect Paradise"

Absolutely! Here's a concise 100-word version of the review:---**️️️️️ Luxurious Oceanfront Perfection**Our family of four had an unforgettable stay at this stunning oceanfront condo....

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$215
avg per night
Cape San Blas House
Sleeps 14, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pet friendly
  • Private pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Barefoot Escape:*This property only books from SATURDAY to SATURDAY during peak season! (Spring Break, Summer and Fall Break)Let your vacation escape begin here…. Barefoot Escape is a breathtaking 3-story home located in the gated Seagrass Community on Cape San Blas. This home offers views...

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$461
avg per night
Miramar Beach House
Sleeps 10, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Luxury home located inside gated Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, offering easy golf-cart access to the sugar-white beaches of the Gulf. Situated in the Villa Lago neighborhood along the Baytowne Golf Course, this spacious home features two private 6-passenger golf carts, a walkable neighborhood pool,...

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$421
avg per night
Pensacola Beach House
Sleeps 13, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
1 review

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pet friendly
  • Private pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Important Booking Tip: For accurate availability, pricing, and current specials, please visit our website by searching Paradise Beach Homes. Calendars on this site do not update, and rates, minimum stay requirements, and specials change often.A favorite of Pensacola Beach vacationers, Baker's...

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Featured review

"Perfect!"

This condo has it all! Absolutely beautiful place and perfect location. The condo was well stocked with everything we needed. We will definitely stay here again.

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$483
avg per night
Pensacola Beach Townhome
Sleeps 8, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms
1 review

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Oceanfront
  • WiFi

About this property

Important Booking Tip: For accurate availability, pricing, and current specials, please visit our website by searching Paradise Beach Homes. Calendars on this site do not update, and rates, minimum stay requirements, and specials change often.This gorgeous 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, gulf front townhome...

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Featured review

"Relax And Enjoy"

Very nice condo. Had everything we needed for our stay. Close to shops and restaurants. Beautiful beaches and crystal clear water. Had a great time!!!

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$342
avg per night
Panama City Beach Condo
Sleeps 4, 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms
31 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort is the only full-service resort in Panama City Beach, offering a variety of vacation rental options, activities, and amenities. Each suite has a fully-equipped kitchen and washer and dryer for your convenience, and golf course or beach views for your enjoyment. Our resort...

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$134
avg per night
Destin House
Sleeps 10, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Private pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Under the Sea Professionally Managed by Newman-Dailey**All new refrigerator, range microwave, dishwasher, washer, dryer, kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities! Plus a private pool (can be heated), large pool deck with outdoor dining, outside bar with a TV and rec room-all within walking distance...

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$195
avg per night
Destin Condo
Sleeps 6, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
1 review

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Caribbean Dunes 111 Professionally Managed by Newman-DaileyNestled in the heart of Destin and just a few steps from the Gulf of Mexico, this quaint Destin condo is ideal for a fun-filled beach vacation! Its location is one to be envied with the beautiful white beaches only a minute’s walk away...

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Featured review

"Comfortable"

The condo was comfortable. The front patio was a relaxing place. There are basically two things i would like to mention. A couple of pot holders .for those guests who fly down at least a couple of beach...

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$127
avg per night
Miramar Beach Condo
Sleeps 8, 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • WiFi

About this property

Hidden Dunes Cottage 181 Professionally Managed by Newman-DaileyCottage 181 is an upstairs rental accessible by exterior staircase from the parking lot. There is an additional loft bedroom within the Cottage accessible by spiral staircase.Perfectly proportioned this Hidden Dunes Cottage is a nature...

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$181
avg per night
Miramar Beach Townhome
Sleeps 6, 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms
3 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

Fabulous gulf front view townhouse! Steps from beach!! Incredible Gulf Views at Great Prices!! Sit on the deck and watch the waves in this 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath townhome, located in one of Destin's most sought after areas. Fronting the most beautiful beaches in the world with no buildings between...

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Featured review

"Sweet Spot"

We Loved the natural beaches & shoreline. Our doggy saw the beach for the 1st time and everyone around us loved it. The patio was our spot. The pool location is perfect.

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$151
avg per night
Pensacola Beach House
Sleeps 17, 6 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms
1 review

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Oceanfront
  • Pet friendly
  • WiFi

About this property

Important Booking Tip: For accurate availability, pricing, and current specials, please visit our website by searching Paradise Beach Homes. Calendars on this site do not update, and rates, minimum stay requirements, and specials change often.What could be better than stepping out your back door directly...

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Featured review

"Super cute condo"

This condo is great. Super close to the beach they provided everything you need to enjoy the beach (chairs, umbrella, kid toys). The kitchen is well appointed. Bedrooms where nice. Bathrooms had lots...

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$643
avg per night
Panama City Beach Condo
Sleeps 8, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
1 review

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Hot tub
  • Oceanfront
  • Private pool
  • Rentals by owner
  • WiFi

About this property

Welcome to "Just Coasting" in Tidewater Beach Resort! You will feel like you are on top of the water! Check out the breathtaking ocean views from the 28th Penthouse floor. Book directly with us and save instead of using Airbnb or VRBO!Get ready for paradise at this stunning, beachfront...

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Featured review

"Vacation with a side of Fastpitch softball"

As grandparents, we follows our girl grands in their quest for softball. Never having stayed at a condo within a resort was a first but this was great! This condo was very clean, very comfortable and the...

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$154
avg per night
Cape San Blas House
Sleeps 12, 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms
1 review

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Oceanfront
  • Private pool
  • Rentals by owner
  • WiFi

About this property

GULF-FRONT home on the sugar sands of beautiful Cape San BlasPANORAMIC sunset views over the ocean from your deck! 3 decks overlooking the Gulf and BayThis section of the Cape has very few homes, so the beach is very private and quiet hereHeated private pool, with beautiful tropical flowers...

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Featured review

"Perfect Vacation"

My family stayed at EsCape Vibes for 4 nights, which definitely wasn’t long enough in this beautiful place! It was probably our favorite of all the places we’ve stayed over the years. It was so close...

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$1,799
avg per night
Panama City Beach House
Sleeps 6, 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms
2 reviews

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront

About this property

Edgewater Beach Resort Condo

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Featured review

"Cheryl and Craig Scurlock"

We have been coming to Edgewater since 1989. Met Cheryl 12 years ago, thank God. The Scurlock's are a God sent. Have been renting from them for 12 years, usually for a month, each visit. We wouldn't rent...

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Cape San Blas Townhome
Sleeps 4, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • WiFi

About this property

Discover the beauty of North Cape San Blas at Villa Cape San Blas, a charming 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome that offers the perfect coastal retreat. Located just a 2-minute stroll from pristine Gulf Coast beaches, this townhome is ideal for couples or small families seeking comfort, convenience, and...

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Miramar Beach Condo
Sleeps 7, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Beachfront
  • Pool
  • WiFi

About this property

•Located in Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort •6-Seater Golf Cart Available! Garage access also available for guests! •Parking-level Villa, on middle level, NO STEPS! •3 Bed – 3 Bath – Sleeps 7 •NO PETS allowed! •1 King – 1 Queen – 1 Full –...

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New
Destin Condo
Sleeps 9, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • WiFi

About this property

Freshly updated! Flooring - Paint - Cabinets - Granite Countertops - Bedding & More!Located in the heart of Destin. The 4300 square foot Lagoon-style pool fronts your dedicated beach and features a mushroom fountain the kids love. There is a BBQ alongside if you're in the mood to grill; if...

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New
Miramar Beach Condo
Sleeps 6, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pool
  • Rentals by owner
  • WiFi

About this property

1 Month Lease, $400 deposit, Available Nov 1 Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath condo. Perfect for snowbirds, contractors, families in between homes , etc looking for month to month terms. Pets (inquire about) Searching for sun-kissed pool days and seaside fun? This 2-bedroom, 2-bath vacation rental in Miramar...

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$67
avg per night
New
Pensacola House
Sleeps 9, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Pet friendly
  • WiFi

About this property

B Street is a spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath vacation rental that sleeps up to 9 guests — perfect for family trips, girls’ weekends, military visits, sports weekends, festivals, or a quick Gulf Coast escape.You’ll be close to:Blue Wahoos Stadium Downtown Pensacola restaurants...

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$150
avg per night
Panama City Beach House
Sleeps 5, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

Key Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Private pool
  • Rentals by owner
  • WiFi

About this property

Enjoy your stay at this newly renovated home with a branded new heated pool. Quiet and safe neighborhood. Near the boat ramp at the lagoon for your fishing needs. Golf cart friendly area. Minutes to St. Andrews State Park. Free beach parking at the Richard Seltzer Park with lifeguards, bathrooms and showers...

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Which part of the Panhandle fits your trip?

AreaMedian/nightBest forThe beach
Panama City Beach $146Budgets, big groups, teensWide and busy, condo towers behind
Fort Walton and Okaloosa Island $151Value-minded familiesOpen Gulf on the island, calm bay behind
Destin and Miramar Beach $233First-timers and familiesBusy and built-up
30A / South Walton $279Couples, walkable beach townsPristine, quieter, dune lakes
Pensacola and Perdido Key $351Beaches, history, a night outLong and protected, national seashore
The Forgotten Coast $374Seclusion, leashed dogsUndeveloped with no condos

When to visit the Florida Panhandle

The Panhandle fills up in summer rather than winter, so rates rise with the school holidays and settle back down once the beaches empty out in fall. Here's how the median nightly rate tracks the Gulf water temperature through the year.

Peak rates Best value Shoulder Gulf water temperature
MonthMedian nightlyDifference from annualHigh / low air tempAvg. gulf tempWhat’s going on
January$178-38%61° / 43°60°The quietest month of the year
February$196-32%64° / 46°60°Still off-season; snowbirds and long stays
March$287-0%70° / 51°64°Spring break fills Panama City Beach and Destin
April$292+1%76° / 58°70°Easter and late spring break spike
May$339+18%84° / 66°78°Peak season begins; Memorial Day weekend
June$466+62%89° / 73°84°School holidays begin; family visits pick up
July$475+65%91° / 75°84°Busiest month of the year; July 4 week
August$314+9%90° / 75°86°School returns and prices start to ease
September$275-5%87° / 72°84°Peak hurricane season, lowest demand
October$263-9%79° / 61°78°Best weather-to-price ratio of the year
November$180-38%70° / 51°70°Thanksgiving week demand
December$185-36%63° / 45°63°Holiday weeks spike, the rest of the month is calm

Based on the median Panhandle nightly rate on FloridaRentals.com.


Planning a Florida Panhandle trip

Three airports, far apart

Flying into the wrong airport can cost you hours of driving. Pensacola (PNS) serves the west, Destin–Fort Walton (VPS) the middle, and Panama City (ECP) the east. Book the one nearest your rental, and check ECP against Tallahassee (TLH) if you're heading to the Forgotten Coast.

The Gulf gets cold in winter

The Panhandle runs opposite to South Florida. December through February bring mild, pleasant days on land but Gulf water in the low 60s, which is too cold for most people to swim in.

The Panhandle spans two time zones

Gulf County is the only county in Florida split between two time zones. Everything from Pensacola through Panama City Beach and Mexico Beach runs on Central time. Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, Apalachicola, and St. George Island are on Eastern.

“June grass” can show up all summer

The green algae locals call June grass follows the water temperature, not the calendar, so it can appear any time from May through September. It's harmless, just slimy where it collects at the waterline. If you move a few miles down the coast, the water may be clearer.


Panhandle vacation rental FAQs

How much does a vacation rental in the Florida Panhandle cost?

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The median Panhandle rental is $190/night. A week comes to about $1,288 and a month to $4,830. The most affordable area is Panama City Beach with a median of $146/night and the most expensive area is The Forgotten Coast with a median of $374/night.

What is the cheapest month to visit the Panhandle?

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January is the lowest at about $178/night, but the Gulf has cooled to 60° by then. Late September and October are the better trade. Water is still around 84° in September and in the high 70°s through October with rates well under the annual median.

What is the best place to stay in the Florida Panhandle?

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The best place to stay in the Florida Panhandle depends on your type of group and interests. Panama City Beach has the most rentals at the lowest rates; Destin is the easiest first visit; and 30A is the upscale, walkable end of the coast. Fort Walton Beach and the Forgotten Coast offer quieter, cheaper alternatives.

Where is the best area for families in the Florida Panhandle?

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Panama City Beach and Destin have the most to do when the kids get bored of the sand. Waterparks, piers, mini-golf, and go-karts are within a few minutes of most rentals. For small children, Fort Walton and Okaloosa Island are the better pick because the sound side has almost no surf, and the beaches are emptier than Destin's a few miles away.

What is the least crowded beach in the Florida Panhandle?

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The emptiest sand on the coast is in the state and national parks, and most of it is free or a few dollars to enter. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park at the tip of Cape San Blas and the nine undeveloped miles at the east end of St. George Island are the quietest stretches anywhere in the region. In the west, the run of Gulf Islands National Seashore between Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach has no development at all for roughly eight miles.

What is the best time of year to visit the Florida Panhandle?

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September to October and April to May are optimal times to visit the Florida Panhandle. Water and air temperatures are still enjoyable, with rates below peak summertime and fewer crowds.

Do you need a car in the Panhandle?

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Yes, a car is recommended in the Florida Panhandle. There is very little transit, and beaches, restaurants, and attractions are spread out. The one exception is 30A, where the coastal bike path gets you between towns without a car.

Is the Florida Panhandle dog friendly?

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The Forgotten Coast is the most dog-friendly stretch in Florida. Leashed dogs are welcome on every county beach in Gulf County, including Cape San Blas, Indian Pass, and Port St. Joe, and on all of St. George Island outside the state park. Everywhere else, dogs are confined to small designated dog beaches. Pensacola Beach has two, and Panama City Beach has a small dog section.

What if I need to cancel my trip?

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Because you book with the owner rather than with us, the cancellation policy is theirs, and it varies a lot from one listing to the next. Make sure you understand the cancellation policy before you book, and contact the owner directly if you have any questions.

All Panhandle towns

Pensacola, Perdido, and Navarre
Pensacola Beach 103 · from $88
Pensacola 37 · from $93
Navarre Beach 26 · from $141
Navarre 24 · from $131
Perdido Key 13 · from $131
Gulf Breeze 8 · from $158
Fort Walton and Okaloosa Island
Okaloosa Island 74 · from $79
Fort Walton Beach 74 · from $79
Mary Esther 2 · from $238
Niceville 1 · from $400
Destin and Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach 286 · from $67
Destin 258 · from $74
30A / South Walton
Santa Rosa Beach 73 · from $103
Seacrest Beach 8 · from $118
Inlet Beach 7 · from $166
Rosemary Beach 2 · from $378
Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach 764 · from $56
Panama City 7 · from $60
Lynn Haven 1 · from $80
The Forgotten Coast
Cape San Blas 125 · from $111
Port St. Joe 65 · from $117
St. George Island 9 · from $179
Mexico Beach 8 · from $140
Apalachicola 5 · from $119
Indian Pass 2 · from $245

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