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Pvt Beach & Dolphin Views @ Seahorse Retreat: Htd Pool + Jacuzzi + Dock + Games

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A swimming pool with a wooden deck and a view of the water.
Shallow, calm water & private white sands—perfect for kids!
The ultimate kids’ hit! Arcade, Ping Pong & Foosball for all ages.
A private 1/2-acre resort. No crowds, just pure paradise.
Adventure from our private dock! Kayaks & paddleboards included.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
6 bedrooms5+ bathroomsSleeps 16

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer

Explore the area

View map
Mary Esther, FL
  • Place, Santa Rosa Sound
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Navarre Beach
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Destin Beaches
    ‪38 min drive‬
  • Airport, Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
    ‪29 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 16)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

2 Single Bunk Beds and 1 Double Bed

Bedroom 6

3 Single Beds

5 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Toilet

Bathroom 4

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 5

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 6

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Pvt Beach & Dolphin Views @ Seahorse Retreat: Htd Pool + Jacuzzi + Dock + Games

Escape to The Seahorse Retreat: A Private Tropical Oasis

Discover why families call this "The best of both worlds." The Seahorse Retreat is not just a home; it is a private 1/2-acre resort directly on the crystal-clear Santa Rosa Sound. Here, you avoid the red flags and crowds of the Gulf while staying just 5 miles from Navarre’s emerald waves.

Why Our Guests Love the "Seahorse Experience":

"A Dolphin-Watcher's Paradise": Our guests describe sightings as "magical," often seeing pods of dolphins swimming just feet from our private dock and white-sand beach.

The "No-Stress" Waterfront: Unlike the Gulf, the Sound offers shallow, calm, and clear water with NO SARGASSUM (seaweed). As one guest noted: "It’s perfect for small children to swim safely while the adults relax."

The "Dream" Backyard: Dive into our 15x30’ heated saltwater pool and spill-over spa. Whether you're fishing off the dock, kayaking the Sound, or enjoying the 3-person tree swing, the outdoor amenities are, in the words of our guests, "a total hit for all ages".

The Villa Highlights:

Spacious & Private: 3,300 sq. ft. of luxury sleeping up to 16 guests across 6 bedrooms, including 3 King suites.

Ultimate Game Room: Features a Multicade Arcade, Golden Tee, Ping Pong, and Foosball—perfect for those rare rainy days.

Gourmet Ready: A fully stocked kitchen with a dedicated coffee bar (Keurig, French Press, and more) to start your mornings on the panoramic porches.

The Seahorse Retreat offers a "no crowds, no red flags, just pure paradise" getaway. Book your stay today and experience the Gulf Coast's best-kept secret.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Signed rental agreements, which will be emailed upon booking, and copy of booker’s driver's license, are due within 48 hours of booking.
No 3rd party bookings allowed. Only guests listed on rental agreement have access to home/amenities. Guest who booked and paid must be in attendance.
We do not rent to student groups. Home is for 16, including babies. We will not accept guests with ratings of lower than 4 stars from previous stays.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 164976
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 are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Mary Esther

Located in Mary Esther, this holiday home is near a water park and on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Fort Walton Beaches and Navarre Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Family Jules Charters and Navarre Beach Marine Park. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and ecotours.
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Map
Mary Esther, FL

What's nearby

  • Santa Rosa Sound - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Navarre Beach - 10 min drive - 12.6 km
  • Fort Walton Beaches - 21 min drive - 22.2 km
  • Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park - 38 min drive - 38.8 km
  • Destin Beaches - 38 min drive - 38.5 km

Getting around

  • Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪El Jalisco - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Aegean Express III - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Waffle House - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬6 min drive
  • Panera Bread

Frequently asked questions

Does Pvt Beach & Dolphin Views @ Seahorse Retreat: Htd Pool + Jacuzzi + Dock + Games have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Pvt Beach & Dolphin Views @ Seahorse Retreat: Htd Pool + Jacuzzi + Dock + Games pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Pvt Beach & Dolphin Views @ Seahorse Retreat: Htd Pool + Jacuzzi + Dock + Games?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Pvt Beach & Dolphin Views @ Seahorse Retreat: Htd Pool + Jacuzzi + Dock + Games?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Pvt Beach & Dolphin Views @ Seahorse Retreat: Htd Pool + Jacuzzi + Dock + Games?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Pvt Beach & Dolphin Views @ Seahorse Retreat: Htd Pool + Jacuzzi + Dock + Games located?

Nestled on the beach, this Mary Esther holiday home is steps from Santa Rosa Sound and 3 mi (4.9 km) from Fort Walton Beaches. Navarre Parkway Beaches and Navarre Park Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 128 out of 142 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 142 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 142 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 142 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 142 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow! The house was private, wonderfully provisioned, and an absolutely perfect family getaway. Watching the dolphins from the back porch was our favorite. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pool and Hottub made the trip
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Josh L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent host! Amazing property!!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Margueritenewman N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The pool, hot tub and location made a perfect vacation for my family. After the beach, they would swim and relax at the pool and enjoy the house. Fishing off the dock was fun as well. It was an awesome experience. (Also, having Publix a mile away was a huge advantage)
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

RyanRoxane H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed here 2 weeks and had a wonderful family vacation. Between the pool, the hot tub, the beach, game room, corn hole, kayaks and paddle boards, the dock and fishing, there was never a dull moment and always something to do! The view was beautiful and we saw alot of marine life in the sounds and even caugh a of couple fish! The house had everthing we needed and and was clean when we arrived. The host was very friendly, helpful, and responsive. We would definitely rent again!
Stayed 15 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jamie J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I would give this stay 10 stars. Highlights: the game room suitable for multiple ages, hot tub instant heating, saltwater in pool a plus, plenty of pool toys, dock for fishing, kayaks & lifejackets, well stocked kitchen!, cute kid rooms, fans in bedrooms, nice bathrooms, plenty of room for a family of 15, ages 9-72. Excellent place to stay
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

The Smalling Group

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely loved this home. Had a little girls trip and enjoyed every second of it. Home was clean and the location is very private.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

DeAnne M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property definitely exceeded our expectations. Our family of 10 stayed and we had a great time! The kids (ages 10-19) stayed in the pool and using the paddle boards and kayaks the entire stay. The communication with the owners was top notch and we didn’t encounter any issues. House is updated, clean, and beautiful!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ryan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful house, very kid friendly and private. Excellent communication from our host. Thank you Elizabeth!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shelly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about our stay was perfect! Whether we were fishing off the dock, walking on the beach, splashing in the pool, or enjoying the sunsets…we had the best time! We even got to see a family of dolphins jumping around…it was a treat for our kids. Tim and Elizabeth were the absolute best hosts and were quick to respond to any questions we had while there. We will definitely be booking with them again in the future.
Sunrise on our last day.
View of back of house from the dock.
View from back porch at dawn.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenn H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to make family memories

Overall the home was delightful and a perfect spot for our large family. The homeowners were very responsive and attentive to us, and the home was amazing. We had a wonderful time!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Perryman

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was just as listed, no surprises. We had an amazing vacation, and the rental was so goid we barely left. Highly recommend!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was an awesome property. Extremely clean and well maintained both inside and out. Communication with the owners was quick and they were anxious to ensure we were comfortable and pleased. The location is perfect for going to Pensacola, Navarre, Fort Walton and Destin. We will definitely be staying here again.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Glennda W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect family celebration. Everyone just wanted to be together and enjoy the weekend. My grandson was on the peer from sunset just catching fish. We all thought it was one of our best family vacations.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful house and great location

House was just as advertised, with an amazing view, working hot tub and heated pool, gas grill, plus plenty of beach chairs. Great location if you like being close to Navarre but also a little closer to Mary Esther and Fort Walton.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Macy I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent family vacation spot!

My family loved this house! So many things to do while staying, and it comes fully stocked with everything you could possibly need. We already have our next trip here booked!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 April 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review, and we look forward to having you come back this summer!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Don T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Hime for Summertime Vacation.

Very nice home with plenty of amenities. A lot of supplies (kayaks, paddle boards, pool, games) to entertain everyone. Very good communication with the hosts.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

teresa g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay was wonderful. Beautiful home and location. Owners provided great information regarding the property and things to do in the area; restaurants, etc. All the beds were very comfortable! Elizabeth was prompt with any questions I had. We enjoyed all the amenities offered. Paddleboarding and kayaking on the Sound was fun and a new experience. Not being directly on the ocean was perfect for our young grandbabies. Pool and hot tub were great. Great family vacation! Zero complaints.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bapento

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for kids!

The hot tub and pool and game room are a dream! The dock and provided paddleboards are awesome for teens/older kids, and the shallow sound along with small beach area is perfect for smaller kids. Perfect property for families.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sharon C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place.

Wonderful place, beautiful views. Very clean with plenty of rooms. The owners stayed in constant contact and were very helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Liz M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic vacay house.

Beautiful property, very well stocked kitchen. Owners are awesome to work with. Very highly recommend.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carianne P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing beach house

Fantastic vacation with the family. The house was amazing. Pool and access to the sound were both fantastic.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2024
You were awesome guests, and we loved hosting your family! Come back again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay

House and location as advertised. Great stay. Pool and hot tub got a ton of use. Communication was great.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 April 2024
Thanks for your review and happy to hear you had a great stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous house! So many amenities and comfortably stocked (extra blankets, dish towels, towels, kitchen supplies-even found batteries for TV remote!). Pictures are accurate and the hosts were very responsive and helpful. Loved the pool and calm waters of the bay for kayaking and paddle boarding. We saw fish, stingrays, and even a pod of dolphins that gave us a show. Everyone played the arcade games. Beautiful home and area-I hope to return one day. Perfect place to celebrate a 60th birthday with kids from 2-62! Thank you to wonderful hosts for sharing their home.
Navarre Island
Sunset on Navarre Island
View of Seahorse Retreat from the dock
View of pool and Santa Rosa Bay from the house
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shirley B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family vacation

Excellent!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

About the host

Hosted by Timothy or Elizabeth Spaid

Host profile image
We have been in the vacation rental property business since 2003 when we purchased our first town home on Folly Beach, SC. We love to share our homes with guests, and our guests make a lot of memories here because they often bring three generations of family members! You can view more photos of our two homes (this home and a home in the mountains near Cashiers, NC that sleeps 7) on Coast Awhile Vacations.

Why they chose this property

In 2006 we saw this hurricane-ravaged piece of land on the Santa Rosa Sound and took a gamble. We bought it and with our partner, started building two identical homes, The Seahorse Retreat and the Palm Breeze Beach House.

In 2020 Hurricane Sally destroyed our dock and lower yard. We rebuilt it back in 2021 better than before. Then in winter 2024, we built our own unique pool and spa; had the property professionally landscaped; upgraded our game room and other amenities; added a fence, and now it is a private oasis.

What makes this property unique

Our location - 5 miles from Navarre Beach and 15 miles from Destin - makes it easy to access both towns, as well as Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola. The water on our beach on the Sound is perfect for swimming because it's shallow and calm, and it's probably one of the best places to try paddle boarding (we provide two, and if guests want more, there is an outfit on Navarre Beach that will deliver them to the home). The lovely landscaping, beautiful gunite pool and spillover spa, large pool deck with multiple loungers and chairs, numerous balconies, and upscale decor make it a great place to relax and enjoy special time with family or friends.

Languages:

English

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