Destin, FL July 2025 by City Lifestyle

JulyExplore Issue

This month, we're embracing the spirit of exploration! Both in nature and within our vibrant Destin community. Our July issue invites you to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Emerald Coast, where sugar-white sands meet glistening Gulf waters. Whether you're walking the shoreline or sailing the bay, adventure and wonder await.

We’re also shining a light on the people and stories that make Destin so special. For those who love life on the water, don’t miss our exclusive feature on SunQuest Cruises. Step aboard their luxurious yachts and meet the visionary couple behind it all, James and Rhonda Murray, whose passion has shaped unforgettable experiences on the sea. Relive the magic of Yacht the Night Away, a glamorous gala made possible by our generous sponsors, and celebrate the impressive first-year milestone of The Barrett School, already making waves in local education. We also take you inside a night of Jazz, Flavor & Elegance at La Famiglia, where live music, Tuscan tastings, and Italian hospitality come together in a truly unforgettable evening. Finally, be inspired by Paddle for Peace, a powerful local movement promoting unity, healing, and adventure on the water.

Our hope is that this issue inspires you to embrace the spirit of exploration, both near and far. Step away from the everyday routine, and give yourself permission to slow down and savor life’s simple joys. Whether it’s getting lost in a good book by the beach, discovering a new café with live music, or finally booking that trip you’ve been dreaming about, now is the time to make space for what truly matters. Here’s to chasing adventure, creating memories, and making this summer one to remember. So jump in, explore, celebrate, and connect. This special edition is packed with stories that reflect the heart of summer and the soul of Destin.

CARMEN FOSTER, PUBLISHER @DESTINCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2025

PUBLISHER

Carmen Foster | carmen.foster@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Josh Foster | josh.foster@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Melanie Gray | melanie.gray@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Melanie Gray | melanie.gray@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Savannah Vasquez | savannahslens@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Emerald Blue Photography LLC, Shanna Perret of Davista Photography, Robert Young of Forever Young Images, Galina Wells Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

inside the issue

How Destin’s premier dinner cruise and luxury yacht fleet came to be

ARTICLE BY SAVANNAH VASQUEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMERALD BLUE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

If you have spent any time in Destin or the surrounding area, and you have looked for a unique date night or custom venue, you have no doubt heard of the SOLARIS dinner cruise yacht experience offered year-round through SunQuest Cruises in Sandestin. But you may not have known that this 125 yacht was custom built by locals in a shipyard just North of Destin in Freeport.

“My father-in-law was a ship builder and had Freeport Ship Building for over 30 years,” said Rhonda Murray, VP of Business Development. “Twenty-five years ago, my husband, James Murray, went to his father with a business plan and said he would like to build a dinner yacht, and that’s how the SOLARIS was born.”

The success of the SOLARIS is evident in the fact that it has been voted best wedding reception venue and has consistently been rated one of the top things to do in Destin on multiple media outlets and websites.

“We are the only dining and entertainment yacht in the Destin area,” said Kristi Oliver, Director of Sales and Marketing for SunQuest Cruises. “Our chef and crew prepare dinner service fresh on board, with plated dinner service for up to 149 guests. We host sunset dinner cruises multiple nights a week, and are available for private events year-round.”

This year, SunQuest Cruises has added a new boat to their fleet, another beautiful custom built yacht, the SOL y LUNA. This luxury 54-foot yacht has a unique, modern design and can accommodate up to 101 guests. SOL y LUNA is the only charter yacht experience for groups cruising to Crab Island from the Sandestin area. Additionally, SOL y LUNA will offer dolphin cruises, fireworks cruises, and is available for private events.

“SOL y LUNA is a beautiful black yacht with tan interior and gold accents,” said Rhonda. “Contributing to the design process of the new

HUSBAND, JAMES MURRAY,

“TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AGO, MY

WENT TO HIS FATHER WITH A BUSINESS PLAN AND SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO BUILD A DINNER YACHT, AND THAT’S HOW THE SOLARIS WAS BORN.”

yacht from its inception to completion alongside my husband who has over 25 years of experience in building yachts was rewarding.”

Like the SOLARIS, the SOL y LUNA demands attention. Designed to turn heads, this party yacht will make every cruise a luxury experience.

“If you are looking for an elevated experience look no further than the SOL y

LUNA,” Rhonda said. “With our full-service event company, we can even facilitate rentals, florals, and catering - we are able to do all facets of the events aboard our yachts.”

To complete the SunQuest Cruises fleet, the company also boasts two 45-foot catamarans the SunVenture 1 and SunVenture 2. These catamarans accommodate 49 passengers each and offer a fun, laid-back group experience.

“All of the boats come with a captain, and service staff,” Kristi said. “Our captains will ensure you are able to relax for a worry-free day on the water. Plus, we’re able to host large groups all on one yacht, rather than groups needing to rent multiple boats.”

Whether you are looking for a luxury dinner cruise, a private party yacht or a relaxing

sunset cruise, SunQuest Cruises does it all. Look for their kiosk inside the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort at the Baytowne Marina and at the Destin Harbor or visit them online at www.sunquestcruises.com and www.sunventurecruises.com. Exclusively for readers of Destin City Lifestyle, use code DESTINCITY20 for 20% off any public cruise with SunQuest Cruises.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN DESTIN, FL

TOP CRUISE EXPERIENCES ACROSS THE EMERALD COAST

Let us take you! Enjoy captained excursions to Crab Island, Destin’s most popular sandbar. Swim, play, and enjoy a worry-free day on the water. Water toys and floats included!

sunventurecruises.com 850-424-6465

Dine. Dance. Cruise! Enjoy a threecourse dinner as you cruise along the Choctawhatchee Bay aboard the 125' SOLARIS Yacht. It’s not waterfront dining, it’s dining on the water.

Get the closest view of the dolphins! Relax aboard a sunset dolphin cruise. Cruising from both Destin and Sandestin, enjoy a narrated dolphin cruise on the Choctawhatchee Bay. sunventurecruises.com 850-424-6465

End your night with a booming fireworks display! Cruising from both Destin and Sandestin, enjoy fireworks cruises on select nights all summer long. This cruise is seasonal.

sunventurecruises.com 850-424-6465

ANNIVERSARY EXTRAVAGANZA

THE BARRETT SCHOOL’S GALA IGNITES COMMUNITY SPIRIT AND INNOVATION

ARTICLE BY DCL MAGAZINE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMERALD BLUE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

The Barrett School, Destin’s hub of innovative education, celebrated its one-year anniversary with a vibrant gala, co-hosted with Destin City Lifestyle Magazine. The "Yacht the Night Away" event, held in Legendary Marine’s sleek showroom adorned with luxury boats and yacht-themed decor, drew over 200 guests to honor the school’s mission of fostering an inclusive environment for Pre-K3 to 12th-grade students. La Famiglia’s gourmet Italian cuisine delighted attendees, while Sarah Again’s soulful melodies from Stringing Myself Together and Josh Sirten's Frank Sinatra tribute show ignited the dance floor. A teacher award ceremony recognized educators empowering neurotypical and neurodiverse learners through a STEM-focused curriculum featuring robotics and coding. The evening raised $8,000 for the PTO foundation, fueling innovative student programs. This spirited night,

brimming with community connection, set a bold course for The Barrett School’s future.

The gala’s success was driven by dedicated sponsors. Legendary Marine crafted a nautical paradise with stunning boats and elegant decor. Jolly Roofing & Contracting Co., 654LIMO, and Hand Arendall Harrison Sale brought expertise and sophistication, while the Rivest Family exemplified community spirit. Wood’s Tree & Land and Toxic Freedom aligned with the school’s forward-thinking values. FASTSIGNS of Fort Walton Beach/ Destin provided polished signage, and Professor Matt, alongside Alex Weinberg, sparked inspiration. The $8,000 raised will empower students, marking the night as a triumph of unity and shared vision.

Dr. Matthew Weinberg, Head of School and Academic Dean, leads with a PhD in Education, MEd in Multicultural Education, and degrees in Biochemistry and Egyptian Archaeology. His expertise in Egyptology, medicine, and game theory shapes a dynamic, interdisciplinary curriculum tailored for neurodivergent and hands-on learners.

Digital tools, robotics, and coding ignite young minds, while small classes and highly trained educators ensure every student excels.

The "Yacht the Night Away" gala united the community in celebration of this mission. Honored educators, equipped with advanced training, reflect the school’s commitment to excellence. Heartfelt thanks to sponsors: Legendary Marine, Jolly Roofing, 654LIMO, Hand Arendall Harrison Sale, the Rivest Family, Wood’s Tree & Land, Toxic Freedom, FASTSIGNS, Professor Matt, and Alex Weinberg for making the night unforgettable. As The Barrett School sails into its second year, the gala’s energy lights the way, reinforcing its role as a beacon of creativity and inclusion in Destin’s educational landscape, inspiring students to reach new heights.

“Every

student deserves a space where curiosity thrives,” Dr. Weinberg said. “Our STEM-focused, inclusive approach blends science with creativity, empowering learners to become tomorrow’s innovators.”

ARTICLE BY DCL MAGAZINE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A Big Thanks To Our Sponsors!

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS SUPPORTING THE BARRETT SCHOOL.

Legendary Marine

Legendary Marine in Destin, Florida, is a premier, award-winning boat dealership offering top brands, professional sales staff, expert service, and unmatched customer care for boating enthusiasts along Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast.

654LIMO

654LIMO offers premium transportation for every occasion—airport transfers, weddings, special events, and more. With a focus on safety, comfort, and style, each journey promises a luxurious, first-class experience.

Jolly Roofing & Contracting Co.

Jolly Roofing & Contracting Co., based in Collierville, TN, delivers top-tier commercial roofing solutions nationwide, combining decades of experience, industry expertise, and dependable service to meet the needs of diverse clients coast-to-coast.

Wood’s Tree Service

Wood’s Tree & Land is a woman and veteran-owned company proudly serving Walton and Okaloosa counties, offering exceptional services including palm trimming, tree removal, dune trimming, lot clearing, and more! Contact us at (850) 401-2633

Sarah Again

Sarah is a raw, soulful singer-songwriter whose debut album, Stringing Myself Together, invites listeners on a journey of healing, truth, and self-reclamation. Listen now at ListenToSarahAgain.com.

Making a Difference Together

Dr. Matthew Weinberg

Discover Dialogic Education by Dr. Matthew Weinberg a powerful journey from Socratic dialogue to AI, exploring how conversation shapes truth. A mustread for thinkers, educators, and lifelong learners. Available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and professormattw.com.

“Your support helps shape the future of every student at The Barrett School.”

The Rivest Family

A heartfelt thank you to the Rivest family for their generous support as sponsors of The Barrett School’s first anniversary celebration at the Yacht the Night Away event.

Toxic Freedom FASTSIGNS

FASTSIGNS of Fort Walton Beach/ Destin, FL provides custom signage and visual solutions to help businesses attract customers, enhance branding, and improve workflow—all with local expertise and personalized service.

Discover Toxic Freedom: a women veteran-owned store offering toxin-free personal, home, and baby care products. Embrace wellness with our clean herbs, therapeutic tinctures, and delightful teas. Choose clean, live free!

Jazz, Flavor & Elegance

Join La Famiglia for jazz, Tuscan oil, balsamic tasting, ’’because at our table, everyone’s famiglia!” Francesca

On April 3rd, Destin was swept away by the soulful sounds of jazz and the rich aromas of authentic Italian cuisine at a night of Jazz, Flavor & Elegance. This intimate evening, hosted by La Famiglia Italian Restaurant in collaboration with Destin City Lifestyle, brought locals together to celebrate food, music, and community—Italian style.

Guests were welcomed into a cozy, elegant atmosphere that blended live jazz by the Matt McCarty Duo, courtesy of Top Hot Live, with the warm hospitality La Famiglia is known for. Attendees indulged in classic dishes inspired by the Rella family’s Roman roots and were treated to a tasting of Tuscany’s finest olive oils and balsamic vinegars. The night embodied the heart of Italian culture—where great food, great company, and soulful music take center stage.

It’s not the first time La Famiglia has infused Destin with Italian traditions.

Over the holidays, the Rella family opened their doors—and hearts—with a festive two-day Christmas celebration, complete with a visit from Santa and a tribute to Frank Sinatra. For Francesca Rella, who runs the restaurant alongside her sisters and mother Stefania, these gatherings aren’t just events—they’re an extension of their family legacy.

“Our traditions are all about food and togetherness,” Francesca shared.

“Even now, after the loss of our father, we gather at my mom’s home with 40 to 50 people. We cook for days and always invite friends who don’t have family nearby—it’s about sharing that joy.”

From handmade biscotti dipped in wine to unforgettable evenings like this one, La Famiglia continues to offer Destin a true taste of Italian warmth. Whether you're celebrating the holidays or enjoying a weeknight dinner, one thing’s for sure: at La Famiglia, you're part of the family.

“An

evening seasoned with tradition and taste.”

Paddle for Peace Heals Souls

ARTICLE BY DCL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNA PERRET OF DAVISTA PHOTOGRAPHY

JOIN GULF THERAPY’S 5TH ANNUAL EVENT FOR MENTAL WELLNESS AND COMMUNITY ON THE GULF

On September 20, 2025, Grayton Beach, Florida, hosts the 5th Annual Paddle for Peace, a transformative event by Gulf Therapy. Founded by Amanda Abbott and partnered with Tyler "TK" King of Adventure 30A, this gathering at the Western Lake boat launch on Hotz Avenue blends paddleboarding, community, and mental health advocacy. Paddle for Peace harnesses the Gulf of Mexico’s therapeutic power to promote wellness. The event raises funds to provide paddleboards and connect individuals with mental health specialists, supporting its mission to foster well-being on and off the water.

In a world with stress and mental illness, Gulf Therapy’s initiative offers a natural remedy: saltwater, sun, and sand. The purpose is to promote mental wellness through the therapeutic act of paddleboarding while raising funds to expand access to boards and professional mental health support. Amanda Abbott captures the mission: “If we can help just a couple of people battling depression or mental illness and have them connect with paddleboarding as a release, then we have succeeded.”

The day begins at 8:30 a.m. with check-in at Grayton Dunes beach access on Garfield Street, east of the boardwalk by Western Lake. Participants enjoy coffee and pastries from Black Bear Bread Co. before a 9:00 a.m. opening ceremony, featuring a social circle and guided breathwork to set intentions. At 9:30 a.m., the intentional paddle invites attendees to release burdens, honor loved ones, or set personal goals, paddling the Gulf or Western Lake until 1:00 p.m. From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., live music by The Sunshine Wranglers and The Kennedy's creates a vibrant atmosphere. At noon, lunch will be provided on the beach for participants.

A raffle from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hotz Coffee offers prizes like paddleboards, art, and wellness packages. Pre-registration at gulftherapy.org/paddleforpeace is recommended, as boards sell out quickly. Parking is limited, so drop off boards early and park at the county lot by Hurricane Oyster Bar (1427 County Hwy 283 S), with shuttles available. Supported by Chiringo, the YOLOBoard Tribe, Bote Board, and Grayton Beach Surf Club,

Paddle for Peace unites the community for a cause that heals hearts and minds.

Paddle for Peace fosters a sense of tribe, bringing together diverse individuals to support mental health advocacy. The event’s inclusive nature welcomes firsttime paddlers and seasoned pros alike, with Adventure 30A providing board rentals to ensure accessibility. Funds raised empower Gulf Therapy to expand its outreach, connecting those in need with local mental health specialists. Sponsors and volunteers are vital to its success—those interested can contact amanda@ gulftherapy.org (850.830.6273) or tk@adventure30a. com (844-548-3302). As a 501c3, Gulf Therapy offers tax-free donation receipts and community service hour sign-offs. Paddle for Peace is a celebration of resilience, community, and the Gulf’s healing embrace, leaving participants refreshed and inspired to prioritize mental well-being in their lives.