Planning a vacation to stunning Sandestin in Northwest Florida? You won’t want to miss out on a visit to The Village of Baytowne Wharf. This unique “village” located beyond the gates of the renowned Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is filled with fun activities, entertainment, restaurants, and more for visitors to enjoy.
From the sparkling waters of Choctawhatchee Bay to charming boutiques and thrilling adventures, Baytowne Wharf can make any vacation feel special. To help plan the perfect vacation to The Village of Baytowne Wharf — nestled near the cities of Destin and Miramar Beach — here’s your ultimate guide.
Meet The Village of Baytowne Wharf
If a village within a golf resort seems impossible, look no further! The Village of Baytowne Wharf is an open-air gathering place full of shops, restaurants, pubs, galleries, and more inside Sandestin Resort. It features a European atmosphere and vintage charm. Find a casual meal, an upscale dining experience, or exciting activities to enjoy!
What Are the Best Things to Do in The Village of Baytowne Wharf?
There are tons of family-friendly things to do and see in Baytowne Wharf. For starters, there are outdoor concerts almost every night of the summer season. The village has a large playground for kids and many areas to explore. You can also take advantage of the zipline, carousel, or other rides offered throughout the year.
In addition, you’ll find many unique shops, restaurants, and bars. There are also galleries, a marina for fishing or boating, and plenty of opportunities to watch live events such as fireworks shows and summer festivals. The Village of Baytowne Wharf offers some of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle!
How Much Does It Cost to Visit?
One of the best parts of visiting The Village of Baytowne Wharf is it’s completely free. That means even if you’re staying in nearby Destin, Miramar Beach, or Santa Rosa Beach, you don’t have to pay a cover charge to explore the village.
Where Can You Park in Baytowne Wharf?
Parking can get a bit tricky as this massively popular spot is extremely crowded during peak seasons. While there are a few free parking lots in the area, most of them fill up quickly — and when they do, you’ll need to pay for street parking or use one of the paid lots or garages.
To make things easier, consider using public transportation during your visit. A shuttle runs from many of the nearby resorts to Baytowne Wharf for a nominal fee (waived if you stay within the resort).
Exploring Baytowne Wharf’s Unique Shops
One of the highlights of a visit to Baytowne Wharf is the opportunity to explore its eclectic collection of shops. From fashionable boutiques to specialty stores, you’ll find a wide array of options to satisfy your shopping cravings.
- Artful Soap Co. — This family-owned natural skincare company prioritizes quality and craftsmanship. Their products are handmade locally, allowing full control over every ingredient for a 100% natural result.
- Barefoot Princess — Sandestin’s top boutique offers a vibrant shopping experience. Find the perfect ensemble for any occasion with their selection of Lily Pulitzer apparel, jewelry, and footwear.
- Beth Christina Art — This jewelry brand is driven by passion and inspired by the beauty of Florida’s coastline. Peruse exquisite designs that capture a piece of coastal charm. Their creations are worn as accessories or used to adorn beach homes.
- Coconut Kidz — This Baytowne shop is a children’s paradise, offering an incredible shopping experience for boys and girls. The whimsical boutique combines fashionable clothing with fantastic toys under one roof, making it a one-stop shopping destination for parents and kids.
These are just a few of the many options, so be sure to explore all Baytowne Wharf has to offer. You never know what you might find!
Savoring Culinary Delights at Baytowne Wharf’s Restaurants
After a day of shopping in Baytowne Wharf, you’re sure to work up an appetite!
Here’s the good news: As you stroll through Baytowne Wharf, you’ll be enticed by the mouthwatering aromas emanating from its numerous dining establishments. With over 20 restaurants to choose from, there’s a culinary experience to suit every taste.
- 5 o’Clock Somewhere — Transport yourself to island time at 5 o’Clock Somewhere, a Margaritaville bar where it’s always 5 o’clock! With a well-known reputation, this bar offers a relaxed and lively atmosphere along with a wide selection of drinks.
- Charlie’s Café — For local treats and comfort food, visit Charlie’s Café. Enjoy made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and ice cream. Their espresso bar serves locally roasted coffee, and they also offer kombucha.
- Cosmo’s Robo Diner — This modern diner offers a unique dining experience with fast service and a fun atmosphere. Enjoy delicious items like burgers, chicken, shakes, boba tea, and more…served by robots!
- Dude & Meatballs: Italian Bar and Restaurant — Check out this Baytowne restaurant where Italian cuisine meets beach vibes. Enjoy homemade dishes, pasta, sandwiches, salads, and more. Don’t miss Dude, the lovable Old English Sheepdog, and Meatball, the sassy Pomeranian poodle mix!
No matter your culinary preference, Baytowne Wharf’s restaurants are sure to satisfy your appetite. And with plenty of outdoor seating, you can take in the beautiful scenery while savoring your meal.
Things to Do in The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Between shopping and eating, Baytowne Wharf and the surrounding Village of Baytowne offer plenty to do for visitors of all ages.
Thrilling Adventures at Baytowne Adventure Zone
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Baytowne Adventure Zone is the place to be. This exciting attraction offers a range of thrilling activities guaranteed to get your heart racing!
Experience the thrill of soaring through the skies on the exhilarating Sandestin Zipline. Capture breathtaking views of the bay as you glide across the lagoon. Challenge your agility on the Sky Trail Ropes Course, navigating high above the ground amidst thrilling obstacles. For extra-adventurous souls, conquer the towering heights of the 40-foot Tower Climb.
And if that’s not enough excitement, try your hand at Eurobungy or challenge your friends to a game of mini-golf. Whether you’re a daredevil or just looking for a fun-filled day, you’ll have a blast at Baytowne Adventure Zone.
Unforgettable Fun at Blast Arcade & Laser Maze
Step into a world of electrifying fun and excitement at Blast Arcade & Laser Maze, nestled in the heart of Baytowne Wharf. Offering an unparalleled blend of high-tech arcade games, a thrilling laser maze, and more, this entertainment haven is a must-visit spot for those seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Try your hand at the plethora of exhilarating arcade games available. Compete with friends or family, set new high scores, revel in the retro charm of classic games, or immerse yourself in the cutting-edge graphics of the latest gaming experiences.
But the fun doesn’t end there! Ready for a dash of adrenaline? Brace yourself for the Laser Maze — a world where you become the spy. Navigate through a pulsating web of lasers, evoking the excitement and suspense of a true espionage mission.
And for those who’ve nurtured dreams of stardom, Blast Arcade & Laser Maze gives you the perfect stage. Take the spotlight at Baytowne Idol, showcasing your singing prowess. Belt out your favorite tunes and let your voice echo through the hall, creating unforgettable moments.
Blast Arcade & Laser Maze isn’t just a place — it’s an experience.
Magical Moments at Baytowne Carousel
Transport yourself into a fairytale at the enchanting Baytowne Carousel. Step onto the beautifully adorned carousel and take a ride on one of the whimsical creatures. From dragons to zebras, the carousel offers a magical experience for children and adults alike.
As one of the few remaining antique carousels in the United States, it’s sure to create moments that will last a lifetime. So gather your family and friends, hop on a horse or mythical beast, and enjoy your ride into a land of dreams!
Exciting Events & Festivals at Baytowne Wharf
Baytowne Wharf is renowned for its vibrant calendar of events and festivals that take place throughout the year. From live music performances to seasonal celebrations like the Baytowne Beer Festival, there’s always something happening in this lively village — and best of all, most of them are free!
- Attend the Scallywag Sunday events and be captivated by the magic, music, and mayhem presented by the featured pirate Captain Davy.
- If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, make sure to witness the spectacular fireworks show, Boomin’ Tuesday, that lights up the night sky over the lagoon.
- On Thursdays, catch the awe-inspiring performances of fly-board extraordinaire Ben Merrell during Fly Guy Thursday.
- For music enthusiasts, the Wednesday Night Concert Series offers a chance to unwind and enjoy live performances by talented local and regional artists.
Throughout the year, don’t miss the popular farmers market, held every Saturday and Sunday, where you can shop for fresh produce and local seafood. With its exciting lineup of events, Baytowne Wharf ensures every visit is filled with unforgettable experiences — whether you’re here for a birthday celebration, an anniversary, a holiday getaway, a family vacation, or spring break in Florida.
Watersports & Outdoor Activities in Baytowne
Thanks to its idyllic location on the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, Baytowne Wharf offers a wide range of watersports and outdoor activities.
You can rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the tranquil waters at your own pace. For a more exhilarating experience, try your hand at jet skiing or take a thrilling ride on a banana boat — a fun and unique way to enjoy the waterfront scenery.
For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are plenty of outdoor activities, such as biking and Segway riding. And the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s unparalleled golf courses are just a short drive away.
Are you a fan of fishing? Enthusiasts can embark on a charter boat excursion and cast their lines in search of the perfect catch. The Baytowne Marina also offers a variety of lake, bay, and inshore fishing tours that are sure to please everyone. For more fishing fun, check out Destin fishing charters in the area!
The Best Places to Stay in & Around The Village of Baytowne Wharf
To easily access The Village of Baytowne Wharf, we recommend staying in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. At Florida CFY, we offer Florida townhome rentals in the Le Jardin neighborhood — within walking distance of the village — or high-rise condos at Luau Towers. Both offer free shuttle rides around the resort and to the beach plus access to swimming pools and fitness centers!
If you’d prefer to stay outside the resort, there are plenty of great places to stay within a short drive! Our Florida beach rentals around the region — including Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, and Panama City Beach — give you the perfect place to rest and relax after a fun-filled day at The Village of Baytowne Wharf.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate family getaway or a larger group vacation rental, we have you covered! Our beach rentals on the Emerald Coast come with all the amenities you need — including full kitchens, private balconies, big screen TVs, fast Wi-Fi, king beds, and resort extras — making the perfect home away from home.
Plan Your Visit to Baytowne Wharf Today!
With its diverse array of activities, delectable dining options, unique shops, and exciting events, The Village of Baytowne Wharf promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Best of all, you can enjoy all The Village of Baytowne Wharf has to offer without leaving the comfort and convenience of your vacation rental.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your visit to Sandestin today and immerse yourself in the charm of Baytowne Wharf. Let the captivating atmosphere, stunning views, and endless entertainment help create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
