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Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee

Photo gallery for Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee

A wooden deck with chairs and a table overlooking a body of water.
A spacious living room with a large sofa, a dining table with chairs, and a ceiling fan.
A dining area with a table and chairs, a bench, a rug, and a sofa.
A living room with a beige sofa, a coffee table, and a dining area with a table and chairs.
A modern kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and a wooden floor.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Beach equipment
    A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Santa Rosa Sound
2 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Mary Esther, FL
  • Place, Santa Rosa Sound
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Rosa Mall
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Liza Jackson Park
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Airport, Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
    ‪22 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Number of living rooms
Dining area

About this property

Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee

Peaceful, quiet retreat away from the condos and traffic. Beautiful views of the Santa Rosa Sound.

Bring your boat. Water and dock access (only shared with the owners). Short boat ride from Crab or Spectre Islands. Close to shopping, food, Santa Rosa Island and Destin.

Note: Water and dock access is behind our primary home, just south of the property. You can see it in the pictures. There are a couple of small gates (keep our dog in) and you are out to the water. A cart is available to bring personal items to and from the dock.

Two full bedrooms, each with a closet and on-suite bathroom. Each Bedroom has a flatscreen TV with Roku.
Large living area with 70" TV and a sofa sleeper
Dining Room that seats 6
Kitchen with all the expected amenities.
Large upstairs deck (50'X9') with comfortable outdoor furniture that seats 6 and beautiful water view.
Downstairs patio, with seating for 6, should you want to enjoy outside relaxation in the shade.
Washer and Dryer
Private single car garage and additional parking in front.

Water access, with the ability to tie up a boat or Waverunner. Upper deck on the water, with seating for 4, with breathtaking water views.

Convenient trailer parking

Navigating Stairs is necessary to enter the residence.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 50 lbs per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Hypoallergenic dogs are ok with owner approval
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 3371470
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

About the neighborhood

Mary Esther

Located in Mary Esther, this vacation home is near a water park. Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Fort Walton Beaches and Okaloosa Island Beach. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's going on at Fort Walton Beach Tennis Center, or consider a night out at Azul Mexican Fusion. Jet skiing, kayaking, and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours nearby.
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Map
Mary Esther, FL

What's nearby

  • Santa Rosa Sound - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Santa Rosa Mall - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Miracle Strip - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Liza Jackson Park - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Emerald Coast Science Center - 4 min drive - 2.5 km

Getting around

  • Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Ocean Buffet - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Chili's Grill & Bar - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪LongHorn Steakhouse - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬17 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee?

As of Aug 7, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee on Nov 1, 2026 start from $170, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Serenity on the Water - Free Dock Access - Water Access - No Cleaning Fee located?

Situated in Mary Esther, this vacation home is within a 10-minute walk of Fort Walton Beaches and Santa Rosa Sound. Santa Rosa Mall and Miracle Strip are also within 1 mi (2 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 20 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 20 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 20 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Deborah C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Kristen and Doug were such gracious host. We loved the place and will be back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Victoria V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place, went beyond my expectations. Comfortable, relaxing, everything we needed and perfect amount of communication from the host. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jeff S.

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

Great stay

Great place to stay to decompress and spend time with those you love!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sarah G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Could not have asked for a better place to stay! The house and furnishings were beautiful. The location was perfect, close to all of the attractions, besches and shopping but tucked away on a quiet street. The private dock was incredible. Cannot say enough nice things about the host. He was so welcoming and kind. He took the time to help our son salt water fish for the first time. That definitely made our trip more enjoyable.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an excellent stay and couldn't have asked for a better experience. The property was exceptionally clean, well maintained, and exactly as described. Everything was in great condition, and it was clear the owners take pride in keeping the place in top shape.The dock and waterfront amenities were outstanding and made overnight docking our boat easy and stress-free. Having a safe, convenient place to keep the boat was a huge plus and one of the reasons we'll be returning.The host was fantastic—friendly, responsive, easy to work with, and incredibly accommodating throughout our stay. They went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed and made the entire process seamless from booking to checkout.We highly recommend this property to anyone looking for a clean, comfortable place to stay with excellent boating access and a host who truly cares about their guests. We look forward to staying here again in the future!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Paige C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My family had an amazing time! The location is so convenient, not far from the beach. The host are extremely friendly, and helped create an amazing vacation for all of us! Also helped us have a great fishing experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

weston h.

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

Perfect place

It was extremely well kept, very cozy, and in a great location. Owner was very helpful and friendly.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 14, 2023
Thanks Wes. It was our pleasure hosting you and your group. We would welcome you back anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

April V.

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

Amazing

Our stay was amazing. The owners were the best. Great people and a beautiful property. Enough said! Without a doubt we would stay again
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 24, 2024
Thank you for the wonderful review. Hosting your family here was our pleasure. We hope to see you again soon.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ross J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed here for a week while attending a nearby family reunion in Fort Walton Beach, arriving and departing on a Saturday. Communication with the host was excellent — friendly, prompt, and clear — and check-in was effortless.The condo itself was lovely: spotless, comfortable, and very well-stocked with everything we needed. We especially appreciated the access to the dock overlooking the bay.The location was convenient, with a Publix just a few minutes away for groceries. We had a relaxing week and particularly enjoyed unwinding on the balcony in the late afternoons.Highly recommended!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lavonne F.

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

Best Vacation Ever

The hosts were awesome. They provided us with fishing and dining out tips. The property was top-notch and so close to restaurants, shopping and water access. Their private dock provided us with a space for our boat and hours of fishing!!!! Highly recommend this property!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Thank you so much for the feedback. It was our pleasure hosting you. Please come back again soon.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mark A.

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

True Southern Hospitality

From arrival through departure our stay exceeded any and and all expectations we had of a vacation rental. The unit was immaculate and furnished with everything we needed to enjoy our stay. The attention to detail by our hosts was truly on display and the hospitality provided made us feel like family members not guests. We will definitely be returning to Sweet Magnolia.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Everything was wonderful

Lovely property that was spotlessly clean. Appreciated the extra little things, including the snacks that were in the house. It was also nice that we had an enclosed garage. We had a lovely time over Thanksgiving in this property that is close to grocery stores, etc.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Harley G.

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

Jeepaloosa

The property was amazing. Didn't expect the dock access to be like it was per the listing. However, access was so easy, and the dock was just amazing. The owner was so nice and was willing to do whatever to ensure our visit was just perfect. We will book once again in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 31, 2024
Thank you for the review. It was a pleasure hosting you.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

April V.

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

Family

Another beautiful family vacation with what we now consider our extended family. Doug and Kristin are such amazing people. There for you for whatever you need. Fishing advice, local restaurants recommendations, they are glad to help. It is such a blessing that our family gets to experience such a beautiful place for our vacation. Always a five star experience when we stay. You can't beat a cup of coffee in the morning on the balcony overlooking the intercoastal, or a sunset on the dock with a cold drink and good breeze. Thank you Doug and Kristin for sharing your beautiful home with us.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Daniel G.

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

Absolutely Amazing Stay, Location & Hospitality

Doug was absolutely amazing and very attentive to our needs and stay. Checked on us for the first few days to make sure we were settled in. The property was amazing, clean, quiet and safe. Had everything we needed and some. We honestly could have done without the tote of things we brought for our trip. The extras like, lilly pad for the water fun, beach wagon and chairs and others really made for such a great stay. Can’t say enough good things about this place and the host! Will def be coming back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer N.

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

Beautiful Home

This was an amazing house to stay in, updated and clean. I did think that the VRBO listing needs to say that this house has access to the dock and bay only through the Owner's yard/fence. In looking at the pictures, it appears as though we have straight access from the rental. The owner is very very nice, and accommodating, however, we felt like we were intruding a bit.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 7, 2024
Thank you for the feedback. We enjoyed hosting your group. This is the first time we've received this feedback, verbally or online. Deeded water access is pretty common in this area, so you were definitely not intruding. I will see if I can add a video to the listing to show the path to the dock. Thanks again for the feedback!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Britny L.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location
Disliked: Check-in

Quiet but interupted

My Fiance just came back from training for 3 weeks currently we are looking to move else where in the neighborhood, to try out different locations we stay in different cities. We have tried Navarre, Crestview, Niceville and now Fort Walton. The place is beautiful we like the location however the only thing is that all weekend it was rainy so we stayed inside and on Sunday while have a bit of a lazy day the owners proceeded to come inside the unit. They did ring the door bell but again we were in bed and taking naps. Only thing I didn't enjoy was being walked in on. Definitely didn't feel comfortable knowing that the owners come in as they pleased, even if it was to ask about a package. (Which wasn't mine BTW)
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 25, 2023
Brinty. We appreciate the feedback and apologize again for the issue with the package. . As you stated it was raining very hard and a large package was delivered to the door. We did not recognize the name, and thought it might be your package. We didn’t want it to get damaged in the rain. We rang the doorbell and knocked but got no answer. The car was not in the driveway so we thought you were out. We opened the door to put the package in the foyer, which is downstairs. We would have never walked up the stairs. We also apologized at the time for disturbing you. We thought we were rescuing what could have been your package. Certainly you can understand this unique circumstance.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alycia G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful home. The hosts were exceptional and having a dock to leave our boat in the water all week was nice.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Terry M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 16 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 16, 2025
We have no idea why we were rated a four. All of our communications were great. They seemed to really enjoy their stay. No feedback was given as to why.

About the host

Hosted by Douglas White

Host profile image
We are Doug and Kristin White. We have lived in Fort Walton Beach/Mary Esther for 25 years. We have 3 sons, all college age. We love water activities of all kinds. We live next door and would love to provide tips on the best places to eat, activities to do, and even give tips on the best approaches to fishing/crabbing,

Why they chose this property

The street is very quiet with no through traffic. There are only 4 houses on the street. We have great neighbors as well.

What makes this property unique

Beautiful views and access to Santa Rosa Sound. We have a small island between us and the channel, which limits boat traffic and wake. The island provides an easily accessible getaway.

Languages:

English

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