Privately Owned Vacation Rental Properties

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Secret Paradise~5 bedrm LUXURY HOME, Miramar Beach, Florida Vacation Rental by Owner

Emerald Shores, Miramar Beach Vacation Rental House

Linda Mlinarcik
My Listings (3)
About Host


  •  440-390-8847
    08:00 am - 10:00 pm
    Eastern Time Zone (UTC-05:00)
Find me on
Destin Florida

  • Bedrooms:
    5
  • Bathrooms:
    4
  • Sleeps:
    14
  • House
  • Reviews:
    21
  • Views:
    21917

Last Updated: 12/22/2024

no service fees

Description

ALL NEW REMODEL, new flooring, quartz counters~2 UVC air purifiers! 3 KING beds! Walk to the beach!

"Secret Paradise” is a newly renovated (fall 2024), beautifully decorated 5 bedroom, 3 full and one half bath home located in the upscale gated community of Emerald Shores. This three story beach home is located only 1500 feet from the spectacular white sand and clear breathtaking water of Destin. You can walk to the beach with an easily in 5 minutes!  After visiting you will know why we named our new home “Secret Paradise”

Our home is located on a quiet cul-de-sac between the two private neighborhood pools; a short two minute walk takes you to either pool (one is heated seasonally), pickle ball/tennis court,  and basketball hoop. Emerald Shores is the only neighborhood in the Destin area with its own private beach pavilion on the Gulf with bathrooms, shower, picnic tables, sun deck, private deeded beach owned by the subdivision. During summer months Emerald Shores offers a free shuttle service to take you to the beach or you can enjoy the short 5 minute walk through the tropical neighborhood to get to the beach using our large wagon to bring all your toys and chairs. Beach service offer by LDV (umbrella and chair rental) is available as well.

“Secret Paradise” has been upgraded and professionally decorated. After entering through the leaded glass front doorway you will be welcomed with a large open floor plan to enjoy. The spacious living room has plenty of comfortable seating with 2 sofas and loveseat. Upgraded furnishings including a 55" SMART HDTV, dining area with solid wood table for eight and fully equipped gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and maple cabinetry with quartz counters with 5 bar stools for countertop dining on our new huge custom island.  Added in 2024 a custom coffee/beverage bar area including quartzite counters and a 150 can capacity beverage refrigerator. A Large corner pantry is an added convenience for storing all your snacks and essetials during your stay. The Kitchen also has a door to the back covered patio with a propane grill to extend outside dining .  We have everything you need to dine in with a fully stocked kitchen including multiple griddles, crock pots, waffle makers, coffee makers, bakeware to name a few. There are NO steps on the first floor and home has three entry ways for easy access.

The spacious first floor master bedroom suite boasts a KING size carved wood poster bed, 52 inch TV with roku, and DVD player. Attached is a beautifully renovated full bath with oversized tile shower. The upgrades include wood vanity, granite counters, new sink, all new faucets, new shower doors and wood look porcelian tile flooring throughtout the bathroom and entire first floor living space. The first floor also has a full laundry room with stainless steel deep sink, iron, ironing board, drying rack, and door to front porch. We also include complimentary laundry detergent. A half bath with a designer vessel sink, granite and wood vanity is conveniently located on the first floor.

Extra wide stairwell with high end CoreTec plank flooring leads to the second floor with three addition bedrooms, porch access, large renovated full bath with double sinks, vanity, granite, tile flooring, and shower doors to the tub with shower combination. One room features KING size bedroom suit, 42 inch smart TV, DVD player, NEW French doors to large covered porch, large closet. Additional bedroom has TWO TWIN beds and a QUEEN murphy bed cabinet (premium memory foam mattrice), 42 inch wall mounted smart TV, room hosts 4 people. Also a bedroom that sleeps four with QUEEN bed, deluxe FULL futon, large closet, and  wall mounted 42 inch smart TV and DVD player finishes this second floor. All bedrooms are very large with plenty of room to enjoy with private closets and dressers to unpack and enjoy your Secret Paradise stay.

Venture up to the third floor for a private tropical suite. KING size carved wood poster bed awaits with new French doors to a private balcony that is great for relaxing and watching the sunset or listening to the gulf breezes. This room features full upgraded bath with new vanity and granite, new custom glass shower door, closet, 42 inch wall mounted smart TV, DVD player and dresser.

We offer free password protected Wi-Fi,  Every room has a Smart TV, DVD players, cable TV. The home has 4 large covered porches for relaxing and enjoying your stay with Adorondak chairs. A propane grill is offered (we provide propane reimbursement if there is a tank exchage needed during your stay) . Also a large wagon and rolling cooler are supplied for your use as well. We have a large closet off the back porch with beach toys and floats to share with our guests! The home features two NEW hot water tanks(2024) and TWO NEW ac units (2021). Home is equipt with UVC lights in ducts to purify the air from the HVAC systems. Every bedroom and living room has NEW ceiling fans(2024). All linens and towels are provided(excluding beach towels). Private driveway for parking 3/4 cars.

Destin has so much to offer everyone. If you are looking for more to do than enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches and emerald waters there is plenty more to do. Destin is a shoppers dream with Destin Commons (upscale outdoor shopping plaza), Silver Sands Outlet mall (largest designer outlet mall in Florida, over 100+ outlet stores), and Baytown wharf (outdoor boutique shopping with restaurants). All located within 2-3 miles of “Secret Paradise”. Destin is also known as the “World’s luckiest fishing village”. The harbor walk village is located in the fishing harbor of Destin. Home to the Fishing Rodeo this harbor has charter boats and multiple activities for the whole family. Dining out in any of the area restaurants is a great way to spend an afternoon. Walking distance are a few beachside dining options. Sitting beachfront overlooking the beautiful views is a great way to enjoy the moment.

Come see for yourself why Destin has become our “Secret Paradise”! 

Availability

Rates

From/To Nightly Weekend Weekly Monthly Min Nights
08-24-2024
02-28-2025
-- -- $2,095.00 -- 7
03-01-2025
05-16-2025
-- -- $2,595.00 -- 7
05-17-2025
05-23-2025
-- -- $3,295.00 -- 7
05-24-2025
06-27-2025
-- -- $4,495.00 -- 7
06-28-2025
07-04-2025
-- -- $4,695.00 -- 7
07-05-2025
08-01-2025
-- -- $4,495.00 -- 7
08-16-2025
01-02-2026
-- -- $2,195.00 -- 7

Admin and cleaning fee: $450.00

Damage insurance: $79.00

Payment policy:

require 50% down at time of booking and the final balance is due 60 days before your arrival
weekly vacation home with Saturday to Saturday check in and out.
We do not rent to singles under 25 OR chaperoned groups
Florida tax will be added to the week at 12%
NO smoking home 
NO Pet property so you can be assured we are clean and alergy free
Adminitrative fee covers cleaning, credit card fees and reservation fees
SNOWBIRD Special rate $3000 (4 week stay) January and February months only

Check-In Time:   4:00 PM

Check-Out Time: 9:00 AM

Amenities

Barbecue - Grills
  • Private Gas Grill
Bathroom
  • Bathtub
  • Linens & Towels
  • Private Bathroom
  • Shower/Tub Combo
  • Walk in Shower
  • Hairdryer
Bedroom Extras
  • Private Bathroom
  • Walk-in Closet
  • Alarm Clock
Bedroom Setup
  • 1 Futon
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • 3 King Beds
  • 2 Twin Beds
  • 1 Sofa Bed
  • Roll Away Bed
Boating
  • Boat Rental Available
  • Marina
  • Pier
Cooling Comfort
  • Ceiling Fans
  • Central Air Conditioning
Dining Room
  • Dining Table
  • Eat in Counter
  • Eat in Kitchen
Disability Access Features
  • Ground Floor Unit
  • Walk-in Shower
Entertainment
  • Big Screen TV
  • Boating
  • Cable TV
  • CD Stereo
  • DVD Player
  • Fishing
  • Golf
  • Jet Ski
  • Kayaking
  • Minature Golf
  • CD Player
  • Scuba
  • Snorkling
  • Stereo
  • Swimming
  • Television
  • TV/DVD
  • TV/VCR
  • DVD/VCR
  • Smart T.V.
  • Wedding Friendly
Games
  • Board Games
  • Reading Library
General
  • Linens Included
  • No Pets
  • No Smoking
  • Smoking outside only
  • Vacuum
  • Home
  • Pack and Play
  • High Chairs
  • Online Booking
  • Managed By Owner
Home Office
  • High Speed Internet Access
  • Wireless Internet Access
Kitchen
  • Washer/Dryer
  • Blender
  • Breakfast Bar
  • Can Opener
  • Coffee Maker
  • Dishes
  • Dishwasher
  • Disposal
  • Fully Equipped Kitchen
  • Garbage Compactor
  • Gourmet Kitchen
  • Ice Maker
  • Ironing Board
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Mixer
  • Oven
  • Pots and Pans
  • Refrigerator
  • Stove
  • Toaster
  • Utensils
  • Water Filter
  • Crock Pot
Outside Living
  • BBQ Grill
  • Community Pool
  • Outside Shower
  • Patio
  • Porch
  • Porch Furniture
  • Private Parking
  • Restaurants
  • Balcony
  • Beach Chairs Provided
Parking
  • Driveway
  • Parking for 3 cars
  • RV Parking Nearby

Activities

Destin Florida Activities
  • Airboat Adventures
  • Backlash Charters
  • Baytowne Adventure Zone
  • Big Kahuna Water Park
  • Blackwater Canoe Rental
  • Blast Arcade & Laser Maze
  • Buccaneer Pirate Ship
  • Charter Boats
  • Crab Island Dolphin Tours
  • Destin Beach Parasail
  • Destin Florida Beach Helicopters
  • Destin Snorkle
  • Dockside Watersports
  • Emerald Coast Scuba
  • Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
  • Just Chute Me
  • Kelly Plantation
  • Mobile Sports LLC
  • Party Boats
  • Pelican Adventures
  • Sea Blaster
  • Southern Star Dolphin Cruises
  • SunQuest Cruises
  • SunVenture Cruises
  • The Kayak Experience
  • THE TRACK - GO Carts
  • Xtreme H2O Sports
  • Dolphin Watch & History Cruise
  • Deep Sea Fishing Party Boat
  • Sandestin Dining/Dancing Cruise
  • Fishing with Kids
  • Destin Paddleboard Rental
  • Mobile Massage Therapy
  • Horseback Trail Rides
  • Destin Snorkeling Excursion
  • Bart Rockett Magic Theater
  • Shark Fishing Charter
  • Reel Deal Charters
  • Waverunner Rental/Wet N Wild
  • Wet N Wild Parasailing
  • Dolphin Cruise
  • Original Sea Blaster
  • Destin Harbor
  • Private Sailing Excursion
  • Gator Country Alligator Park
  • Hydrojet Thrill Ride
  • Destin Float Spa Experience
  • AMC Theatre
  • Dockside Parasailing
  • Escape Zone 60
  • Bike Rentals
  • Golf Cart Rental
  • Local Fitness Center
Destin Florida Restaurants
  • Boathouse Oyster Bar
  • Bonefish Grill
  • Bric a Brac
  • Crab Island Cantina
  • Dewey Destin Seafood
  • Graffiti & The Funky Blues Shack
  • Hadashi Sushi Bar at Hilton
  • Hammerheads Bar & Grill
  • Harbor Docks
  • Jester Mardi Gras Daiquiris
  • Lighthouse Restaurant
  • LuLu's Destin FL
  • Margaritaville
  • Marina Cafe
  • Mellow Mushroom
  • Pompano Joe's
  • The Crab Trap
  • The Surf Hut
  • World Of Beers
  • McGuire's Irish Pub
  • Donut Hole Bakery Cafe
  • Crust Pizzeria
  • Dewey Destin's Harborside
  • Joe's Crab Shack
  • Callahan's Restaurant & Deli
  • Shrimp Basket
  • The Back Porch
  • Beach Walk Cafe
  • Louisiana Lagniappe
  • Fudpuckers Bar & Grill
  • Pepitos Mexican Restaurant
  • Another Broken Egg Cafe
  • Jasmine Thai
  • La Paz
  • Buck's Smokehouse
  • Ruth's Chris Steak House
  • Mimmo's
  • Fuji Seafood Buffet
  • Boshamps Seafood House
  • AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar
  • Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
  • Gilligan's Seafood
  • The Breakfast Table
  • Jackacuda's Seafood & Sushi
  • China One
  • Thai Delights Restaurant
  • Noonies Thai Cafe
  • Brotula's Seafood & Steamer
  • Original La Famiglia
  • Hog's Breath Saloon
  • Wingstop
  • Merlins Pizza
  • IHOP
  • Capriccio Cafe
  • Island Wing Company
  • Alatapatatas
  • Osaka Japanese Hibachi
  • Vinnie Mc Guire's Pizza
  • Mama Sherry's Pizza
  • Palm Grille
Recommended for
  • Adventure Trip
  • Beach Rentals
  • Romantic
30A-Beaches-South Walton Activities
  • Santa Rosa Beach
  • Seaside Beach
  • Rosemary Beach
  • YOLO Board and Bike
  • Grand Boulevard
  • Emerald Coast Wine Cellars
  • 30A Bike 19 Mile Bike Path
  • Big Daddy's Bike Rental
30A-Beaches-South Walton Restaurants
  • The Bay
  • Cafe Thirty-A
  • Fish Out of Water
  • Bud & Alley's
  • Bijoux
  • The Red Bar
  • Borago Restaurant

Reviews

review

Elaine Wilder

We loved all the updates    Nov 24, 2024

review star


Our family loved the updates the minute we walked in the door. The new kitchen island really opened up the kitchen area. The paint color and the new flooring just added to the open feel of the whole room. Moving the cooler to a stationary place at the coffee center also opened the room. With a big crowd, sometimes "less is more". Of course, we always love having the pantry! With three levels, my family has room to spread out. We have stayed in Secret Paradise for several years now. Linda has been great to work with and insure we enjoy our visit.

owner image

Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

We enjoy hosting your family year after year at Secret Paradise! You were our first guests after the competition of our whole home renovation. So happy you found it made our home more spacious and bright. Happy you already confirmed your 2025 stay!

review

chris kleinholz

A Week at Secret Paradise    Jul 06, 2024

review star


Thank you Linda for a perfect week in Destin.You have such a beautiful and spacious home. Very clean with many amenities. The kitchen was stocked with everything, every appliance. Shuttle to beach and pool was just perfect. Emerald Shores is a quiet and beautiful neighborhood. Beach pavilion was great with bath facilities and snack bar. Kids loved the board games and porches. Outstanding home. Hope to make back next year .Thank You Linda!! Chris K.

owner image

Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

So glad you enjoyed all the extras our home has to offer! We just completed a whole home remodel in October 2024 with all new flooring throughout, entire interior painted, new quartz countertops and backsplash in kitchen, all new custom huge island, coffee/beverage bar with quartzite counters, all new sofas and leather loveseat, PLUS MORE! We hope you return and enjoy all the bonus upgrades to make your next stay even more enjoyable! Looking forward to 2025

review

Bill Hardin

A Home Away from Home - Perfect Family Getaway    Jun 22, 2024

review star


Our family has had the pleasure of staying at this condo nestled in the Emerald Shores community in Destin, FL, every summer since 2021, and it has become our home away from home. From the spacious accommodations to the family-friendly amenities, this place has never failed to exceed our expectations. The condo is ideal for a large family like ours, providing ample room for everyone to relax and unwind. The beautifully decorated interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it easy to settle in and feel comfortable right from the start. The attention to detail in maintaining the condo is evident, as everything appears pristine and well-cared-for. One of the highlights for us is the convenient access to not just one, but two pools. This feature proved to be a lifesaver on days when we wanted a change from the beach. The pools are well-maintained and provide a refreshing break for both adults and children alike. Speaking of the beach, the condo's proximity to the shoreline is fantastic. A short and pleasant walk brings you to the sandy shores of the Gulf of Mexico, making it easy to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand whenever the mood strikes. This convenience truly enhances the overall vacation experience. The kitchen is a chef's dream, well-stocked with a variety of cooking utensils, pots, and pans. It's evident that the owner has taken great care to ensure that guests have everything they need to prepare delicious meals. The addition of a high-quality gas grill is a thoughtful touch, perfect for those family barbecue nights. The family-friendly vibe of this condo is evident in every detail. From the comfortable furnishings to the thoughtful amenities, it's clear that the owner understands the importance of creating a space that caters to families. In conclusion, our annual summer retreat to this Destin condo has become a cherished tradition for our family. We look forward to creating more unforgettable memories at this wonderful beachfront oasis in the years to come

owner image

Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

We appreciate all your kind words about your vacation experiences at our home Secret Paradise! Calling Secret Paradise your "home away from home" makes us so happy. The tradition of staying year after year is why we share our home. Every year we do upgrades to our beach home and am happy our repeat guests are able to enjoy the extra details year after year. Since our family also vacations at our homes we make sure it is well stocked with everything our guests need for a stress free vacation!

review

Shannon Renfro

Loved every part of staying at Secret Paradise    Mar 30, 2024

review star


My family and another family of friends spent Easter 2024 and Spring Break in this lovely home. The details and thought that went in to making this home suitable for famiies made it evident Linda loves this home and it is so much more than a rental. It literally had everything we could have needed from cooking utensils to 2 crock pots, ample storage, hangers in the closets, extra bedding, and an entire closet full of games AND a closet full of outdoor beach and pool toys! This is our 3rd time spending Spring Break in Emerald Shores but our 1st time at this house and the upgrades, convenience, and space was just a better fit for our group. We will be back to stay at this home again!

owner image

Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Yes we do vacation in our home Secret Paradise as it is our "home away from home" When you texted as you arrived and mentioned your family said our home was "gorgeous and you thought of everything!" it truly made my day. I work hard to be sure our guests get premium customer service and have access to all the amenities a family could need to enjoy a relaxing vacation. Happy you enjoyed your stay and will return as we appreciate all our guests!

review

Cathy Erskine

Perfect Trip!    Mar 23, 2024

review star


We love Miramar Beach and the Emerald Shores neighborhood. This is our second time staying at Secret Paradise and it is comfortable, updated, clean and a short walk to the beach. Close to Kenny D's and Pompano Joes. Love the beach bathroom access. Lots of sand toys and wagon included. Property easily fit our family of eleven and we had a great week! Home owner is a pleasure to work with.

owner image

Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Enjoy welcoming repeat guests to Secret Paradise! Our location is so convenient to the beach and area restaurants which is one of the reasons we purchased this home 14 years ago. I pride myself on great customer service so happy you found me “a pleasure to work with “! Our pavilion beach access is the best convenience for our gated community with bathrooms right in the beach! Looking forward to hosting another family vacation!

review

Frank May

Spacious House Accomadated Our Large Group    Jun 18, 2022

review star

We just returned from Destin. There were 12 people in our group and the house handled us well. The things that stood out to me was the extra refrigerator for drinks which was very useful. The nice washer and dryer that we put to good use. The place was clean and it good shape. What was also very nice was the assortment of chairs and beach toys available to use. That was great. Since it was peak season the property pools were crowed and a little small but we have rented other houses in the past and this is the nicest thus far.

owner image

Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Thank you for all the nice comments on our extra amenities that we offer to our guests! Happy to hear we have ranked number ONE out of all the homes you have rented! We hope you put our home top on your list for a return visit. Every year we add upgrades to keep our home comfortable for our guests!

review

Elizabeth B

Delightful    Nov 20, 2021

review star

This house was exactly like the photos. It was was very clean, spacious, and perfect for what we were looking for.

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Thank you for your great review posted when we were with the VRBO site after your Thanksgiving 2021 stay! We are happy we had everything you need to have a great Thanksgiving memory.

review

Gina M

A Must    May 15, 2021

review star

Secret paradise is a true gem. From beginning to end Linda was lovely to work with. She provided detailed info, answered all my questions timely and all the extra amenities available for use at the house were perfect. And the house is beautiful and comfortable! NO complaints here!

owner image

Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

HAppy you appreciated all our extra amenties at the home such as the beach toys provide, wagon and fully stocked kitchen. If a guest arrives and needs something to make their stay more comfortable we do everything we can to accomodate. We look forward to a return visit.

review

Ramona D

Amazing    Mar 13, 2021

review star

We had 14 and had plenty of room. It's centrally located. The neighborhood is very nice. Short walk to the beach. Linda answered all questions very quickly. House is very nice and well supplied with all essentials.

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Glad you enjoyed our close proximity to the beach and pools. It is nice to be walking distance to all the amenities and the beach. We enjoy Emerald Shores so much we actually own 2 properties in the same gated community. Looking forward to your return visit.

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Ann M

Perfect house, perfect location    Jul 18, 2020

review star

The house was spacious, clean and had everything we needed for our family of 7. The kitchen had everything you could need and more! The beach wagon and cooler were an added bonus. The beach was an easy 10 minute walk, and having the private pavilion with restrooms and a bar was awesome! Linda responded to all my questions immediately-she was great to work with. I can’t say enough great things about this house -we hope to stay here again soon!

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

I am happy you enjoyed your stay and all the extras we offer in our kitchen too! We pride ourselves on good customer service and reply to questions and vacation needs as soon as possible. We look forward to your return!

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Caroline G

Sunny paradise    Jun 27, 2020

review star

How was just as pictured. Owner great to communicate with. Fun area and great walking path.

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Happy you enjoyed your two week stay! The walking/bike path along the beach makes for a great added activity! Sure are great views of the beautiful water and beach. I enjoy working with our guests and making sure our vacations are happy. We look forward to your return!

review

Donna B

Perfect home near the beach    Aug 31, 2019

review star

House is beautiful and very well maintained. Had everything we needed and more!! Walk to Beach wasn’t bad!! Definitely on the repeat List!!

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

We are glad you are committed to being a repeat guest! We appreciate all our clients and welcome you back! Happy you found our home had everything you needed for a great vacation:)

review

Brent K

Great condo for a large family of 12-14    Jun 29, 2019

review star

Nice property with great ammenities. Overall very quiet and feels secluded although it really isn't. Not too along of a walk to the beach and a quick drive

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

I agree! Emerald Shores is tucked away but yet close to all the fun "things to do" in the area! Like that you will definitely stay again! We enjoy all our repeat guests and appreciate all our new guests!

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Jennifer S

Perfect House    Apr 01, 2017

review star


This was the perfect house for our family vacation. We had a group of 7 adults and 4 children, and everyone had plenty of space. The house was very clean and nicely decorated. Linda was amazing to work with. There were a few very minor issues and she responded right away. The neighborhood is so pretty, and it's just a short walk to the beach. The wagon that she provides was a life saver for hauling all of our beach chairs and toys. The kids really loved the pools too. We will definitely be back!

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

So happy your first stay at Secret Paradise was so enjoyable! When guests have questions or needs to make their stay more comfortable I address it immediately as my goal is for our guests to have the best experience possible! We are looking forward to your next visit and keep in mind our 2018 calendar is already open for reservations:) If your needs change for a smaller group for your next visit keep in mind we own Simply Paradise which is also located in the beautiful gated community of Emerald Shores as well:) Thank you for the unsolicited review!!

review

Tom

Great Home To Rent !    Jul 01, 2016

review star

Great home. We had a group of 7 adults and 3 children and the house fit everyone nicely. House is beautiful inside and it is just a short walk to the beach. The community's two pools are just a stone's throw away. Linda is very easy to work with. She called within minutes of us expressing interest in her house and answered all of our questions.

 

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

We are so happy to hear you enjoyed our home Secret Paradise! We are conveniently located between to two community pools. I pride myself on good customer service and am always happy to answer any questions my guests have...before and during their stay! We hope you return as we enjoy having repeat guests:)

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Susan D

Wonderful Stay !!    Jun 10, 2016

review star

Our stay at Secret Paradise could not have been better! It is a beautiful home, tastefully decorated and very comfortable. Our group consisted of eight adults and four grandkids. The house is very spacious and we never felt like we were in each other's way. The location of the house was great as well. It's a short and pleasant walk to the beach and an even shorter walk to the pools. We did utilize the golf cart shuttle that is available to take you to the beach. That was especially nice when taking all of the beach equipment! And, boy, is this place stocked with beach equipment! Toys, umbrellas, chairs... you name it. We brought our own but quickly discovered there was no need to. Linda, the owner is great to work with. She answered all of my questions very quickly and I appreciated that. I have no hesitations in recommending Secret Paradise. If you are looking for a comfortable and well equipped home in a beautiful and relaxing location you have found your place with Secret Paradise. Thanks Linda for a wonderful stay!

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

We enjoyed hearing your use of all the beach toys, floats, chairs and umbrellas that we share with all our guests! Just load up the large wagon we have and take everything you need to have a fun day at the beach:) Happy you were able to take advantage of the free shuttle our gated community offers to get you quickly to the beach. We look forward to share our home again with you for another relaxing vacation in the future!

review

Nell G

Family Fun    May 28, 2016

review star


Our family of 11, ages 2 to 64, enjoyed a week's stay at Secret Paradise. The house was clean, and we enjoyed its proximity to the community pools and the beach. The community's beach pavilion was definitely a bonus! Initially, we were concerned about the distance to the beach, but it was a quick walk or we could ride the tram which passed by frequently. The community is safe and quiet, and it is close to various attractions and restaurants in Destin. The kitchen was well equipped, and we cooked several evenings and grilled out one evening. We had no problems throughout the week, and Linda was very easy to work with.

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

I am glad you took advantage of the free beach tram that our neighborhood has to offer:) Emerald Shores is the only neighborhood in Destin that has a beach pavilion as our private beach access with bathrooms, snack bar and rinse showers. Happy you found our home and neighborhood had all the conveniences you needed to enjoy your week!

review

Heather D

Simply Fantastic    Apr 02, 2016

review star


We stayed a week recently and everyone was blown away by the place. And the owners were an absolute dream to work with. Never have I had such a relaxing vacation. Great location. We all felt very safe and secure. And that's important when you're somewhere new. Highly recommended.

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Our guests having a relaxing vacation is our number one goal! We are happy you enjoyed your stay in our beach home Secret Paradise. Our gated community of Emerald Shores is very family friendly and happy you felt right at home. We hope our home becomes an annual destination for your group ad if your group traveling is smaller next time keep in mind we offer a smaller property also located in Emerald Shores:)

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Melissa H

Fantastic Vacation!    Mar 26, 2016

review star


As soon as you walked in the door of this home you automatically feel that you are on vacation. The home was beautifully decorated. The kitchen is stocked with everything that you can think of from slow cookers, griddles, spices, storage containers, platters, wine glasses etc. The home is located in a beautiful gated community with two pools- one of them was heated. You are a short walk to the beach- which made it easy to go back and forth. The home is also well stocked for items for the beach from sand toys, beach chairs, umbrellas, etc. They are easy to take to the beach with the wagon provided. We rented bikes from bikes r us for $35 a week. Even took the bikes to the winery- right down the road. It was fun riding bikes up and down the board walk. There are lots of sidewalks near by. You are within walking distances to many restaurants- Captain Dave's, Pompano Joe's, Kenny D's to name a few. I would highly recommend this house and working with the owner Linda. She is responsive to all your questions.

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Sounds like you had a great time at our beach home Secret Paradise and enjoyed all the extras we provide in the kitchen and back closet filled with beach items to share:) Our family also enjoys going to the winery and riding bikes along the beach and happy to hear you took advantage of this activity too! Keep in mind we have a smaller property Simply Paradise, 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home also located in Emerald Shores in case your group traveling is smaller next time. Looking forward to your return visit!

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Bernie H

Family vacation    Mar 26, 2016

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The home was very clean and welcoming. Convenient location to the beach and local businesses. Enjoyed the heated pool and close proximity to the beach. Our adult children and grandchildren felt comfortable and safe in this community. I would recommend this home to anyone who was looking for a clean, well stocked, roomy home for a family vacation. The owners were very friendly and available for any questions. We are already planning our next years vacation to the beautiful Destin, FL area. Bernie H.

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

We take pride in our beach home, Secret Paradise, and always strive to be sure our home is clean and well stocked for our guests! Happy you found the location of our home convenient:) One of the 2 pools offered in our gated community is always heated seasonally and happy this was a feature your family enjoyed. We look forward to your return.

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Amy

Wonderful Experience & Beautiful Home    Aug 22, 2015

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My family recently visited Secret Paradise and we were just astonished when we first walked through the door. We arrived with 5 Adults and 3 children (under the age of 5) and the house had something for everyone. First off, I want to start by saying the house was VERY CLEAN! I have rented many homes over the years and I truly believe this one was the best I have ever rented. The house is HUGE and it allows for everyone to have their own space. The kids absolutely loved the closet of beach toys and other beach accessories. We actually brought some toys along with us and didn't even take them out of the car when we saw how many toys the house had. The house is approx. 5-8 minute walk to the beach (for us it took a little longer because of the kids.) Once you enter the private beach you feel like you are in a tropical paradise. Pictures just don't do Destin justice. The beach was extremely clean with the whitest sand I have ever seen and the water was just delightful. I have never seen such clear, blue, beautiful water in my life! Something that I think is important to mention about Secret Paradise is the location. You are located off of a main strip that allows access to everything from Outlet shopping to the grocery store to many restaurants but the nice thing about where Secret Paradise is located is that it is on what I called the "quieter side of Destin." It truly allows for a relaxing vacation and doesn't have a tourist feel to it. Lastly and most importantly, I can't even begin to praise the owner of the home enough. Linda was wonderful to work with and ALWAYS answered her phone when I called her. She answered every question I had (and there were a lot) and was extremely accommodating. I can't even begin to thank her enough for making this a wonderful vacation for my family. Thanks for allowing us to stay and thanks for your generosity and hospitality. Your house is gorgeous and we are hoping to come back next year and many years after that!

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Linda Mlinarcik's reply:

Thank you for all your positive comments! To say our beach home Secret Paradise was "the best I have ever rented" and "VERY CLEAN" made my day! I enjoy answering any and all questions my guests have so I am happy to pick up calls or emails as they arrive:) I truly want to be sure each and every guest has a wonderful vacation and happy to hear yours was great! Our private gated community of Emerald Shores has a quiet relaxing atmosphere but yet close to all the action Destin has to offer and is the main reason we own two properties in this one of a kind neighborhood! Looking forward to hosting your 2016 vacation and years to come!

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