Girlfriends Go Coastal: Destin, Fort Walton and OkaloosaIsland Draws WomenAlong Florida’s Emerald Coast (NAPSA)—The trend in girlfriend getaways continues. Housewives and business executives alike unwind from everyday stresses at Florida’s Emerald Coast. From sunset cruising on a 54-foot sailboat and shopping sprees at the upscale Destin Commons—the area’s destination for a) oe fashion, food and film—to drink- ing daiquiris overlooking the Destin Harbor and basking in the sun along sugar-white sands and sparkling, emerald-green waters, Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island are full of activities to enjoy. Unleashing a suppressed wild side, gal pals feed alligators at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grills “Gator Beach,” featuring 80 live alligators (850-654-4200). Ladies indulge in shopping excursions at Destin Commons (850337-8700), a unique, open-air town center with upscale retailers including Ann Taylor Loft and Cach. Resting after an intense shopping spree, women relieve stress sipping daiquiris on the deck of A.J.’s Seafood & Oyster Bar (850-837-1913) while enjoying the spectacular view of Destin Harbor and set sail on the “Nathaniel Bowditch” (850-650-8787) to watch the evening stars appear. Singing classics such as “Girls Just Wantto The cool shores and shops of Florida’s Emerald Coast are a hot destination for girlfriends to gather. Have Fun,” femmes finish their evening jaunts with karaoke at Howl at the Moon (850-301-0111), joining dueling piano players on stage for renditions of favorite hits. Voted “Number One Beach in the South” by Southern Living magazine for nine consecutive years, the pristine beaches of the Emerald Coast provide the utopian scenery to unwind from lively exploits. With spirited seasidecelebrations, undeniably fresh seafood and tempting temperatures year- round, the Emerald Coast is the ideal getaway for women. To “Go Coastal” with girlfriends on the Emerald Coast this season, call the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-322-3319 or log onto the Web site at www.destin-fwb.com.
