Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
Airport, Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
48 min drive
Room options
About the area
Santa Rosa Beach
At this holiday home you'll be steps from Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and 2.1 km (1.3 mi) from South Walton Beaches. Highlights at this holiday home include a kitchen, a washing machine and free WiFi. .Home features 3.5 bathrooms, a fireplace and a patio. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. In-room jetted baths, a living room and a dining area are also available. .Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, gym and Hot tub as well as access to a playground. Other amenities include laundry facilities, a garden and barbecues. .Attractions within a 10-minute drive of this Dune Allen Beach holiday home include Santa Rosa Beach and Sandestin Golf Resort - Raven, Burnt Pine, Baytowne, The Links.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
South Walton Beaches - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
Beach - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
Santa Rosa Beach - 3 min drive - 2.8 km
Topsail Hill Reserve Beach - 4 min drive - 1.8 km
Getting around
Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional) - 43 min drive
Restaurants
Burger King - 6 min drive
Del Taco - 6 min drive
Pub Grimes - 3 min drive
Outcast Bar & Grill - 4 min drive
Cajun Corner - 7 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed!
Welcome to The Journey Begins — your private beach retreat on 30A.
★ Pool heated extra seasons! March 1- May 1 and October 1- January 4. (weather pending) in 2026 ★NEW 6-seat golf cart with GPS + sound system ★ Paddleboard included (with 4 life jackets) and 4 bikes with helmets ★ 2 community infinity pools with Gulf views ★ Pet-friendly (2 dogs under 50 lbs, pre-approved) ★ We personally self-manage — you get us, not a management company, which matters on 30 A!
LOCATION The Journey Begins is in the gated Cypress Dunes community on the quiet west end of 30A, tucked between Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and the Gulf of Mexico. You’re minutes from beach access, dining, Grand Boulevard shopping, and the best of 30A. The home is just off 30A, so you can legally drive the golf cart on 30A to multiple beach accesses and restaurants.
OUTDOOR + COMMUNITY AMENITIES • Stunning infinity-edge pool overlooking the Gulf • Hot tub, fitness center, lounge seating, outdoor fireplace • 2 resort-style pools, newly resurfaced tennis courts, and a newly updated gym! • Access to rare coastal dune lake areas and walking trails • Golf cart included for easy beach runs and exploring 30A • Paddleboard AND 4 bikes included
THE HOUSE Sleeps up to 12 total (including children). Perfect for multiple families, grandparents + kids, girls’ trips, or couples traveling together.
Sleeping Layout: • Bedroom 1 (main level): King suite and premium mattress with blackout curtains • Bedroom 2 (upper level): King suite and premium mattress with blackout blinds • Bedroom 3 (upper level): King suite and premium mattress with blackout blinds • Loft/bunk area: 4 twin bunks + TV hangout space for kids • Queen sleeper sofa • Additional: King Koil premium air mattress, gate for stairs, and pack-and-play
Bathrooms: • Brand new master bath and upstairs bath fully renovated and completed 11/25! No expense spared! It's stunning!
INTERIOR • 14’ ceilings on the main level, upscale coastal décor, and all-new designer furniture throughout • Open-concept living/dining space made for gathering • Fully stocked kitchen with stainless steel appliances, great counter space, and everything you need to cook, grill, or make snacks between beach trips • Strong WiFi and multiple TVs
OUTDOOR LIVING AT THE HOUSE • Screened-in porch with gas grill and comfortable seating • Tin-roof covered porch with outdoor hanging bed • Porch swings + multiple seating areas so your group can spread out • Outdoor lounge areas, front and back porch (perfect spot for the slow mornings)
WHAT’S INCLUDED We try to make beach days easy. At the house you’ll find: • Beach chairs & umbrellas • Cooler • Ice maker • Boogie boards & sand toys & towels & beach bags & beach cart • Paddleboard (with life jackets sized for kids and adults) • Golf cart access to nearby beaches — no loading cars and fighting for parking
DOG POLICY We happily allow up to 2 dogs under 50 lbs if they are fully house-trained and approved in advance—pet fee: $200 per stay. Please message breeds at booking. (No puppies under 6 months or aggressive breeds.) Dogs must be crated or placed in the bathroom when unattended and are not allowed on beds or furniture.
POOL HEAT The community pool is heated March 1- May 1 and October 1- January 4 (weather pending) in 2026! We cannot guarantee against temporary mechanical issues.
GOOD TO KNOW • Quiet, upscale, family-focused neighborhood • No parties, no events • Primary renter must be 24+ • Max occupancy enforced • We offer a return guest perk: refer a new weekly stay and get 10% off your next booking with us
You’re not renting an anonymous beach house run by a call center. We personally self-manage and care deeply about the details that make a stay special. Every touch reflects how we love to travel — comfortable luxury, ease, and thoughtfulness throughout.
Enjoy:
Ultra-comfortable beds with fresh linens, ceiling fans, and rotating floor fans in every bedroom
Fully stocked coffee bars with a Keurig, Nespresso, traditional coffee pot, grinder, and flavored syrups
Three outdoor living spaces — including a screened porch, hanging bed, and shaded patio seating — so everyone can relax or spread out
A cozy kids’ play nook and reading fort, giving little ones their own space while you unwind in the main living area with a book
From the layout to the small conveniences, everything is designed to feel personal, relaxing, and effortless — just like a true home away from home.
YOUR 30A PLAN Take the golf cart to the beach. Paddleboard the rare dune lakes. Watch sunset from the infinity pool, looking out toward the Gulf. Grill on the screened porch. End the night on the hanging bed under the tin roof, listening to the breeze.
This is the place where the trip becomes a memory.
Book The Journey Begins and start yours today.
We take pride in offering true owner self-management. Unlike many rental companies on 30A that rely on third-party management—and are often slow to respond or unresponsive when issues arise—we personally handle every reservation, email, and phone call.
As the owners, we manage all guest communication directly, ensuring you are promptly and thoughtfully assisted with any questions or concerns before, during, or after your stay.
Our reviews consistently reflect how much guests appreciate our hands-on care, responsiveness, and personal attention—something you simply won’t get with most commercial managed properties on 30A.
Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee grinder
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Ice maker
Kitchen island
Kitchenette
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
4 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
3.5 bathrooms
Bathtub
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Separate dining area
Entertainment
Books
Games
Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
Outdoor areas
Barbecue grill
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
Pet friendly
Welcoming dogs only
Up to 23 kg per pet
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Accessible parking space
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible van parking
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near an outlet shopping centre
Near the sea
On a lake
Things to do
Golf
Gym
Heated pool
Tennis
Water sports equipment
Birdwatching nearby
Cycling nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Theme park nearby
Water skiing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
General
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Eco-friendly toiletries
Garden
Local artist showcase
Property located in a resort
Unit size: 2,379 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 24
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Spray carpets with pet stain remover under the sink if your pet caused a stain to avoid extra fees. (Please check, as our maids do not clean pet waste, and a professional service will be called. )
Start a load of towels.
Pack and play, mats, and blow-up mattresses should be put away in their original places.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
Rental and golf cart agreements will be sent. No one under the age of 21 is allowed to drive. Must have a valid license.
No pets are allowed unless the pet has been added and paid to your reservation. Violation of this rule is grounds for immediate eviction.
Smoking and parties are grounds for immediate eviction. 0 party tolerance! 8 bands for the pool. No more than 8 adults per pool visit.
Pets
Pets are welcome
Only dogs are allowed
Maximum 3 (weight limit: 50 lb per pet)
Service animals are exempt from fees.
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in all accommodation.
Property is also known as
House
Frequently asked questions
Are there any beaches close to Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed!?
The closest beach to Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed! is Destin Beaches (21 km).
Does Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed! have a pool?
Yep, and guests love it! Take your pick from a heated pool, a pool and a communal pool.
What luxury perks are available at Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed!?
This property features a heated pool, as well as a jetted bath and a fireplace.
What makes Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed! a romantic place to stay?
1 hot tub, Jetted bath, and fireplaces all help set the scene for a sizzling getaway at Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed!.
Is Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed! family-friendly?
You bet! With amenities such as a playground and laundry facilities, as well as children's dinnerware and children's books, it's no surprise that Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed! is a winner with our family travellers.
Is there a private hot tub at Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed!?
Yep, there is a hot tub.
Is there a free airport shuttle available at Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed!?
No, Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed! does not offer an airport shuttle service.
What time are check-in & check-out at Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.
Pool Heated, Pet-Friendly, 6-person Golf Cart, and Infinity pool! Self Managed! Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 113 out of 115 reviews
10 - Excellent
113
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 115 reviews
8 - Good
2
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 115 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 115 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 115 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Steven S.
29 Mar 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Exactly as described in listing and reviews. Would highly recommend!
Steven S.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
10/10 Excellent
Robert D.
21 Mar 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to stay for the whole family.
Robert D.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
10/10 Excellent
Monica R.
28 Feb 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
The house is beautiful and well appointed. The neighborhood is pretty. The infinity pool is conveniently located. The host responded quickly to any questions we had. We enjoyed the numerous restaurants within a few miles and the beautiful beaches.
Monica R.
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
William C.
26 Jan 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
House was perfect and golf cart and bikes were useful.
William C.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Carol F.
11 Oct 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay with our furry friend at this lovely home. The house was very clean and has super comfy beds. The owners provided everything imaginable to ensure an enjoyable stay. We had an issue with the golf cart and within no time, Frank provided us with a replacement for our use. We typically stay a little further east in the Seaside area and really enjoyed the peacefulness of this location. Would certainly consider staying here again!
Carol F.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Carol M.
27 Sept 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome house, amazing hosts, great vacation!
Carol M.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Pat G.
21 Sept 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Loved this property! Beaches were a short drive on the golf course.
Pat G.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Cedric S.
1 Sept 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This rental was everything we wanted and more. The property was spacious, clean, and relaxing. The front porch was one of our favorite spots for coffee and family time. The owners thought of everything. We just needed our clothes and food. There were plenty of beach towels and beach gear for us to use. The golf cart and bikes were an added bonus. This home is in a beautiful gated community with a clubhouse, fitness center, and an infinity pool that was never crowded. We like this location because it's far enough away from a lot of the traffic on 30-A, but close to the beach. Communication with the owners was great, and they quickly resolved any issues we had. We will definitely return to this rental in the future.
Cedric S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Emily W., Germantown, TN/Memphis, TN
18 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
If you are looking for a beach home that is in a quiet and secluded gated community, then this is the house for you! We didn't have to worry about noise pollution or heavy footsteps above head like we have in previous condo units. We absolutely loved all of the amenities that this house had to offer! It was also great that they were so well laid out in the listing. The owners were SUPER communicative, friendly, and easily accessible, which was much appreciated! The golf cart was a nice perk and made going to the beach super easy! I will note that the listing describes the upstairs master bedroom as having a tub, but it's just a shower. So that was a little misleading. Overall, we had a wonderful stay and would absolutely recommend this house!
Emily W.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kevin H.
4 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect vacation house
Beautiful home with very thoughtful touches! The owners have covered all the bases at this property, there was nothing we needed for our vacation that wasn't provided for us. The home had plenty of space for everyone with large bedrooms, kitchen, and living area, and the outdoor patios were great for mornings and evenings. We had great communication with the owners, and they were very responsive. We highly recommend this property!
Kevin H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
28 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home in a wonderful setting. We loved the community center with a gym and infinity pool. Neighborhood is in a gated community and very quiet and serene. The home was clean and tidy with comfortable seating and beds. The golf cart was an added bonus. Owners were very quick to answer questions and offer advice on things to do in the area. We had a lovely stay!
Verified traveller
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Stacey A.
22 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This was the best VRBO rental ever! Beautiful. Clean. Easy check in and communication process. The home was beautiful and had sooo many things! It was just the absolute best! We loved the quiet. Thank you for the best stay ever!
Stacey A.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brittany V.
8 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing stay!
Our stay at The Journey Begins was amazing! The hosts have thought of everything you need while staying there! We were so impressed by all the thoughtful touches in the home! Our kids loved the space as well. The house was so clean and felt so cozy!! We will definitely be back! The property, pool and beach access were top notch! Highly recommend staying here!
Brittany V.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Frank J., BATON ROUGE, Louisiana
6 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property and neighborhood
We can’t say enough about how great this property is. The kitchen is supplied with everything you need to prepare meals if you so choose. There are multiple items for beach and pool fun for children. The golf cart is a great plus for trips to the beach or pool. The beds are very comfortable. Frank and Jamie are excellent hosts and seem to have thought of everything to make your stay enjoyable.
Frank J.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Vicki T.
31 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect
The house was beautiful and had everything you needed very well equipped. The community pool was beautiful. The house was close to restaurants and shopping. I would stay there again.
Vicki T.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lisa R.
26 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Cypress dunes
The owners thought of everything you might need. Wonderful property and neighborhood! This was our second time to stay in this neighborhood.
Lisa R.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer D.
7 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Family Getaway
Stay was wonderful! House was well appointed. We had everything we could have needed for our family getaway. Close to shopping, restaurants, and stores. Appreciated the detailed instructions and recommendations for local things to do. One of the best rentals we have ever booked!
Jennifer D.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Mark C.
17 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice, quiet neighborhood in a great location.
Had a wonderful stay. We had a couple small issues were addressed to our satisfaction very promptly.
Mark C.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
15 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Spring Trip to Florida
Well appointed property with beautiful decor. This home is an absolutely beautiful place to stay. I could get off the front porch swing, amazing. Communication with host was superb. We cannot wait to come back to The Journey Begins. Oh ..the coffee bar completely makes the home amazing!!
Verified traveller
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jo D.
28 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location to kick back & relax
The property more than met our needs. The location is ideal for either exploring 30A or chilling out by the pool. We really appreciated the gym facility & use of bikes & thegolf cart. The house is well furnished & comfortable & we made great use of the grill. In addition i would say the owners & property manager were excellent & super helpful.
Jo D.
Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Cameron C.
24 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Staying in Santa Rosa beach
Very lovely home in a nice area. Pool and gym are nice and not too busy. The home owners are amazing people. Definitely an area for a relaxing vacation!
Cameron C.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Clinton S.
10 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great spot
It was honestly a perfect spot, a little far from seaside and rosemary but the house itself and neighborhood was amazing. About a 2 minute drive to the beach and I would stay here again.
Clinton S.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Denise S.
3 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful 5 week stay on the 30A
The property exceeded our expectations in all ways. The home was so well equipped for all of our needs and was clean and comfortable. We would absolutely come back! Frank and Jamie are terrific hosts!
Denise S.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Rebecca M.
30 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Winter Stay with Snow
We visited Florida and it snowed! But we couldn’t have asked for a more Beautiful & Comfortable Home to be snowed in for 2 days! So bright and clean, had everything we needed. We were able to walk the neighborhood and surrounding trails and they were gorgeous. Would definitely stay here again!
Rebecca M.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Sam H.
5 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Annual Family Christmas Break trip!
Great house with lots of room and a very quiet neighborhood. This house is fully stocked with everything you might need and more. The beautiful infinity pool and hot tub was a game changer for our family. We would love to stay in this house on our next get-away.