The Ultimate Guys’ Trip Guide

Plan the Ultimate Guys' Trip on Florida's Panhandle: Fishing, Golf and Breweries

The Emerald Coast—spanning popular destinations like 30A, Destin, and Panama City Beach—is the ideal location for an unforgettable guys’ getaway. Whether you're planning a bachelor party, a Father’s Day celebration, or just need a weekend to reconnect with friends, the Florida Panhandle offers a mix of activities that will keep you entertained, from fishing and golf to craft breweries and live sports. Plus, with Benchmark Management providing a range of luxury vacation rentals—from private pool homes to gulf-front condos and pet-friendly properties—you’ll have the perfect home base for your adventure.

The Beaches of the Emerald Coast

The Emerald Coast is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters—perfect for beachside activities. Set up a game of volleyball, toss around a football, or enjoy a day of stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking. If relaxation is your goal, grab some beach chairs, ice-cold beers, and take in the sun with your friends. Popular beach spots like Grayton Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and Panama City Beach offer a great mix of active and relaxing environments.

Craft Breweries

No guys’ getaway is complete without visiting some of the best craft breweries along the coast. The Emerald Coast offers plenty of top-notch spots for you and the crew to explore:

• Idyll Hounds Brewing Company: Famous for their Divide and Conch’r Double IPA, this is a must-visit for beer lovers in the area.
• Grayton Beer Company: Known for their 30A Rose Gose, a refreshing local favorite perfect for a hot day on the beach.
• Destin Brewery: Featuring unique brews like the Mango Habanero IPA and Blood Orange Blonde, Destin Brewery is a local hotspot that offers a range of creative flavors.

A visit to these local breweries makes for a laid-back day with the guys, where you can enjoy good drinks and great company. Many of these locations are highly rated on TripAdvisor, offering not just great beer but also fun and casual atmospheres perfect for group outings.

For a more event-driven experience, don’t miss the Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest in Sandestin, held each October. This festival brings together more than 40 on-site craft brewers offering over 200 domestic and international craft beers. It's the perfect opportunity to explore a wide range of beers while enjoying live music and the waterfront views at The Village of Baytowne Wharf. The event is a big draw for locals and tourists alike, and it’s an excellent addition to your guys' weekend plans.

Whether you're looking to sip on local favorites or immerse yourself in a craft beer festival, the Emerald Coast has a vibrant and growing craft beer scene that's perfect for your next guys' getaway.

Golf on the Emerald Coast

For the golfers in your group, the Emerald Coast boasts some of the best courses in Florida. Start your day on the links at Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico while challenging yourself on this 18-hole course. Other great options include:

• Camp Creek Golf Club in Watersound: Known for its pristine greens and challenging holes.
• Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club in Destin: Ranked as one of the best courses in the state, it offers a beautiful backdrop for your round.

Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just looking for a fun day on the greens, the courses on the Emerald Coast will not disappoint.

Deep Sea Fishing

Destin is known as the "World’s Luckiest Fishing Village," and for good reason. A day spent deep sea fishing with the guys is sure to be filled with adventure, whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport. Hop on a charter boat to reel in Red Snapper, Grouper, King Mackerel, and more. Afterward, you can bring your catch back to your vacation rental and throw it on the grill for a fresh, flavorful dinner. Many charters operate out of Destin and Panama City Beach, offering half- or full-day trips for every skill level.

• Destin Fishing Rodeo: An annual event that takes place in October, drawing anglers from all over the country. You can even schedule your trip around the event to experience the excitement firsthand.
• Panama City Beach Fishing Charters: Offering trips that range from trolling to bottom fishing, this service ensures you have a full day of excitement on the water. Whether you're after a large Grouper or a fast-moving Mahi-Mahi, you’ll be in for a memorable fishing experience. Check out PCB Fishing Charters
• PCB Offshore Fishing Charters: Known for offering personalized experiences, this charter service caters to both experienced anglers and beginners. Explore PCB Offshore Fishing Charters

Live Sports and Entertainment

If you and the guys are sports fans, head to one of the many sports bars along the coast, such as Bosphorus or Bric à Brac in Destin, where you can catch the game over food and drinks. Additionally, check out venues like the Emerald Coast Dragway in Holt, which offers high-octane racing events on select weekends. For those looking for a unique group activity, you can also try your hand at axe throwing at Class Axe Throwing in Panama City Beach for a bit of friendly competition.

Stay in Style with Benchmark Management

When it comes to accommodations, Benchmark Management offers the perfect vacation rentals for your guys’ trip. Choose from luxury homes with private pools, gulf-front condos, or pet-friendly properties so you can bring the whole crew along. Benchmark Management’s local hospitality team will ensure your stay is seamless, providing you with insider knowledge on the best activities and places to visit on the Emerald Coast.

Whether you're grilling your fresh catch, strategizing for your next fantasy football draft, or just taking a break from the everyday grind, a guys’ getaway on the Emerald Coast is the perfect way to bond and relax with friends.

Book your next stay with Benchmark Management and start planning the ultimate guys’ trip along Florida’s stunning Panhandle!