The 7 Best Resort Pools in Destin, Florida

Looking for the best pool in Destin? Most people come here for the beaches, but a great pool where you’re staying is a major bonus.

I love a fabulous, memorable pool, and it’s a big factor for me when planning a vacation. That’s why I wrote this post to round up the best resort pools in the Destin area.

I’m especially highlighting pools with fun extras like lazy rivers, waterfalls, tropical landscaping, great views, awesome pool bars, kids splash areas, and anything else that makes the pool feel like part of the vacation.

Pools are also a safer option on days when the Gulf is too rough to swim. And on those extra-hot afternoons, it’s nice to trade the sand for a shady lounger closer to your room.

For the purposes of this article, I’m including Okaloosa Island pools when considering the best pools in Destin.

Okaloosa Island is the stretch of beach that connects Destin to Fort Walton Beach by two bridges, and it has some of the best pools in our area.

A lot of visitors consider Okaloosa Island to be part of Destin (even though it’s technically Fort Walton Beach). For the same reason, I’ve also included Miramar Beach and Sandestin pools.

Below are what I consider the best pools in the Destin area, in no particular order. They all made the list for different reasons, so the “best” one for you will depend on your group (kids or no kids) and what area you want to stay in.

1. Waterscape Beachfront Resort Pool and Lazy River

Waterscape Resort on Okaloosa Island is a Gulf-front resort with everything you could want in a pool and then some. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with kids because there are so many features to keep them entertained.

The Waterscape pool area is a beautifully landscaped, multi-level courtyard featuring a zero-entry lagoon pool (with an Olympic swimming lane), a lazy river, and two hot tubs. There are plenty of loungers and tables, plus a children’s splash pad and play area.

Waterscape is one of the largest pool areas in the Destin area, and it’s the most “water-park-like” on this list, with features like a lily-pad obstacle course and several waterfalls. Many rooms have views that include both the pool and the beach, which is always a win.

The beach at Waterscape is also just a short distance from everything at The Boardwalk, including the Okaloosa Island fishing pier.

It’s an easy walk along the water’s edge to get there, which makes Waterscape even more appealing if you like having everything close by.

Is the Pool at Waterscape Heated?

The large pool and lazy river at Waterscape are not heated in winter, but they do heat the upper-level courtyard pool so that one is comfortable for swimming year-round.

The non-heated pools usually feel comfortable for swimming from about April through October, sometimes earlier or later depending on the weather.

Hot Tubs at Waterscape Resort

The Waterscape pool deck has two hot tubs. One is round and the other is a slightly larger square one. Both are located on the main pool level.

Booking at Waterscape Resort

If you’re interested in staying at Waterscape, my friend Danica owns and/or manages 25 units there. She’s an amazing person and truly cares about her guests’ experience.

Her website (where you can reserve, see more photos, and even view a 3D tour) is RentWaterscape.com. Tell her Sarah from The Good Life Destin sent you and she’ll take extra good care of you!

2. Destin West Beach and Bay Resort Pool and Lazy River

Destin West is another resort with one of the best pool setups in the area, and it’s also on Okaloosa Island. The property is split by Highway 98, with one side on the bay and the other side on the beach.

On the bay side, there’s a zero-entry pool that flows into a 700-foot lazy river with tropical landscaping.

There’s also a pool with a waterfall in the center of the lazy river, plus two quieter pools tucked into more private, lush landscaping closer to the bay. The whole area is surrounded by charcoal grills, picnic tables, and plenty of grassy space to play or relax.

On the beach side, there’s a 5,000-square-foot pool, a smaller pool, a hot tub, and a children’s play and splash area.

When you stay at Destin West, you can use both sides of the resort no matter where your unit is located. The two sides are connected by a sky bridge that crosses over Highway 98.

Is the Destin West Pool Heated?

Destin West has four heated pools. The pool with a waterfall in the center of the lazy river, the two smaller pools on the bay side, and the smaller pool on the beach side are all heated and comfortable for swimming year-round.

The lazy river, zero-entry pool, and large beach pool at Destin West are not heated. The non-heated pools usually feel comfortable for swimming from about April through October, sometimes earlier or later depending on the weather.

Hot Tubs at Destin West Resort

Destin West has two large hot tubs on the bay side inside the lazy river area, plus another hot tub near the large pool on the beach side.

3. The Island Hotel Pool and Grotto Swim-Up Pool Bar

Okaloosa Island hotels and resorts clearly understand what a pool should be, because they take another spot on this list with The Island.

The Island has two pool areas, but it earns its spot here because of the standout Polynesian-style grotto pool.

The grotto pool features a cascading waterfall with the only swim-up bar in Northwest Florida, tucked inside a cave under the rocks of the waterfall.

Another feature I love: some ground-floor pool-view rooms let you jump right into the water from your private patio.

You can book one of those pool-patio rooms, though they usually cost a bit more than a standard pool-view room.

A lot of people might prefer a beach view, but honestly, the idea of stepping off my patio, swimming under the bridge, and floating through the waterfall to the swim-up bar is just too fun to resist.

The grotto pool bar at The Island is typically only open during busier seasons (summer, spring break, and some fall months). Check with the front desk for current days and hours when you book.

The Island also has a separate pool area with a landscaped courtyard, plenty of seating, and covered tables. There’s also a kids splash/play area, a snack bar, and a seasonal coffee/food truck.

Is the Island Resort Pool Heated?

The grotto pool (with the waterfall and swim-up bar) is not heated. The other outdoor pool is heated, so it stays comfortable for swimming year-round. The non-heated pool usually feels comfortable from about April through October, sometimes earlier or later depending on the weather.

Hot Tubs at the Island Resort

The Island has one hot tub near the grotto pool.

4. Emerald Grande Resort Harbor View Pool

Emerald Grande has a zero-entry outdoor pool with panoramic views of Destin Harbor. There’s also a smaller indoor pool just inside the glass doors near the main pool.

The pool deck has loungers, a pool bar, tables and chairs. The highlight of this pool is mainly the view. From the deck, you get elevated views of Harborwalk Village, the beaches of Norriego Point, the Destin Bridge, and Crab Island on the other side.

It’s also a great spot for boat-watching: fishing boats, dolphin tours, water taxis, and everyone heading out to the Gulf and Crab Island all day long.

Only Emerald Grande guests can use the pools and hot tubs, but you can still enjoy the view by heading up for happy hour at the Grande Vista bar.

Is the Emerald Grande Pool Heated?

Yes, the main pool is heated, so it’s comfortable to swim outside year-round. I stayed here during a January cold snap and still felt warm enough to swim at night, even though the air temperature was chilly.

Hot Tubs at Emerald Grande

The hot tubs at Emerald Grande deserve special mention. They’re honestly some of the best in the area, especially now that the pool deck construction is finished.

The main hot tub is huge and zero-entry, located right next to the pool. The makeover they did here was a great upgrade.

They also have a large adults-only hot tub, which I personally appreciate because it’s hard to fully relax in a hot tub with kids splashing around.

The best part about the adults-only hot tub is the location. It’s tucked away on the sunset deck, removed from the noise of the main pool, but still has gorgeous harbor views.

5. The Henderson Beach Resort Family and Adult Pool

The Henderson Beach Resort easily makes the list with two outdoor saltwater pools: a large family pool and a separate adults-only pool.

The main family pool area includes a zero-entry option, a lazy river, a bridge walkover, a splash pad area, and an open-air pool bar. The splash pad area is gated, which makes it easier for younger kids to enjoy safely.

The pool bar is just steps from the water, and it really completes the “vacation mode” vibe. The Henderson has the largest pool bar I’ve seen in the Destin area.

The second pool is adults-only and located near the main pool, but in its own enclosed area for quieter, more relaxed swimming. This is one of the only adults-only pools in the area.

At night, the pool area is beautifully lit with colored lights and tiki torches. There’s also a fire pit nearby.

The Henderson isn’t directly on the beach, but it’s an easy walk across a quiet dead-end street to their private access beside their sister property, Henderson Park Inn Bed and Breakfast.

6. The Palms of Destin Lagoon Pool

The Palms of Destin deserves a mention too. At 11,000 square feet, this zero-entry pool is one of the largest in Destin, with beautiful tropical landscaping and walking bridges over the water.

The pool area also includes a separate heated pool, a hot tub, and a children’s splash area. The Palms is across Highway 98 from the beach, but they do offer a free shuttle.

The Palms is in a really convenient central Destin location, just a few miles east of Harborwalk Village and a few miles west of Destin Commons (the main shopping area). You’ll be close to restaurants, grocery stores, and basically anything you need.

Is the Palms Resort Pool Heated?

Yes. Surprisingly, the large main pool at The Palms is heated, which is not very common for a pool of this size. It’s a great perk if you’re visiting in the cooler months.

Hot Tubs at the Palms Resort

There is one large hot tub at The Palms in Destin.

7. Hotel Effie Rooftop Pool and Bar

Hotel Effie opened in early February 2021 inside Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, and it’s still the only rooftop pool in our area, which makes it an easy contender for this list.

Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge has stunning views of Choctawhatchee Bay, Baytowne Marina, and the Gulf of Mexico in the distance.

The décor is upscale and elegant, with cabanas, loungers, and even a giant chess set on the lawn. It’s also a great spot for sunset.

Ara is the rooftop pool bar, serving fine wine, hand-crafted cocktails, and an original menu of small plates. It’s also a popular spot for events and weddings.

Is the Hotel Effie Rooftop Pool Heated?

Yes, the rooftop pool is heated, so it’s comfortable for swimming year-round.

Hot Tubs at Hotel Effie

Hotel Effie does not have a hot tub, but the heated pool is the main draw here.

Honorable Mention: The Islander Resort Pools and Hot Tubs

Okay, yes, I’m biased because I have a unit here. But I still think the Islander Resort deserves an honorable mention, especially if a heated pool is high on your wish list (because honestly… the best pool is a heated pool).

The resort has two pools and two hot tubs, and one of the pools is heated year-round, which makes it comfortable even when it’s chilly outside. It’s also directly on one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in the area, close to the Destin jetties, so you get that “walk out and you’re there” beach feeling without having to drive anywhere.

Here’s a link to my unit at the Islander Resort if you want to check it out: Daylight Vacation Rental at the Islander Resort in Destin, FL

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I hope this list gives you a few good options to consider when booking your Destin vacation if a pool is high on your priority list. You might also enjoy my packing essentials post while you’re getting ready for your trip: Ultimate Destin Beach Packing List

Be sure to comment below if you have any questions or feedback. I love hearing from you and prefer to answer questions on here so my answers can help others as well. Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list so you don’t miss any posts!

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Hi, I’m Sarah — the creator, writer, and photographer behind this site. I sell prints and books featuring my Emerald Coast photography, and I also manage four vacation rentals on beautiful Holiday Isle in Destin. If you’re looking for a helpful, knowledgeable local host when you visit, I’d love to welcome you 🌴😃🐬My rentals include two 2-bedroom condos (one beachfront and one on the harbor) and two 4-bedroom homes, both located on Destin Harbor. You can check out my Destin vacation rentals here: https://thegoodlifedestin.com/vacation-rentals-by-sarah/

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