The Emerald Coast � located on Florida�s upper Gulf Coast and encompassing the southern sea towns of Destin, Fort Walton Beach and the island of Okaloosa -- boasts the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches even after the string of Florida hurricanes. To ensure that guests� experience a safe and enjoyable visit, the Emerald Coast has tested the water, cleaned the beaches of any debris and ensured that all roads are damage free. As for cosmetic measures brought on by Hurricane Ivan, the dune system is currently being replaced with additional sea oats, landscaping is being pruned and signage is getting touched-up. The Emerald Coast is open and accommodations currently offer off-season discounted rates ranging from 30% to 45% lower than the normal price.

As a direct result of the storm, the Emerald Coast, including the sea side town of Destin, is often referred to as the �World�s Luckiest Fishing Village,� has actually experienced an increase in fishing success due to the ocean carrying the fish further inshore to this destination. Attractions including the Emerald Coast Science Center, the island of Okaloosa fishing pier, the Track Recreation Center, newly opened Destin Commons shopping center, numerous golf courses and 98% of the areas restaurants are open for the public to enjoy.

When Hurricane Opal impacted Northwest Florida almost a decade ago, the area put several precautions into place for future storms such as new building codes and enhanced sand dune systems. With current building codes in place, inland buildings are able to withstand 110 mph wind loads and Gulf front buildings can withstand even higher wind loads. �All and all, we were very fortunate to have sustained fairly minimal damage during the hurricane and much of this is a direct result of preventative measures,� said Darrel Jones, president and ceo of the Emerald Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc.

Famous for 24 miles of sugar white sands and emerald green waters, The Emerald Coast, located on Florida�s northwest Gulf coast, �has bounced back from storms in the past, and this will be no different,� Jones said.

To experience the Emerald Coast this season, call the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 322-3319 or visit www.destin-fwb.com.

### Media Contact: Rachel Bray-Stiles +1 850-488-5607 rachel@VISITFLORIDA.org