Emerald Seas

A two-minute walk from the sugar-white sands and emerald waters of the Gulf Coast, this Dune Allen home earns its keep before you've even unpacked. The wrap-around porch – furnished with rocking chairs and bed swings – makes it easy to lose an afternoon to the coastal breeze, while the private pool and spa give you somewhere to decompress when you're back from the beach. The four bedrooms each have their own bathroom, and a second living area means groups can gather or scatter without stepping on each other.

Home truths:
* At full occupancy, one guest will sleep on the sofa bed in the living area.
* One of the bedrooms sleeps up to six people in two single-over-double bunk beds – we think this room might be best suited to children.
* While the home can sleep up to fourteen people, the maximum occupancy is thirteen guests.
* You'll need to bring your own beach and pool towels – bath towels are for indoor use only and cannot be taken out of the home.
* If you're planning to use the bikes or low-speed vehicle, you'll need to sign liability waivers and a damage agreement before setting off – your host can walk you through the details.
* The lead guest must be at least 25 years old.