A Landmark Vision for Modern Coastal Resort Living
The early 2000s marked a transformative period for the Emerald Coast, and Thomas Becnel played a defining role in shaping Destin’s evolution through the creation of The Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center. Rising prominently across from Henderson Beach State Park, The Palms was envisioned as one of the region’s most ambitious resort communities, bringing together condominium residences, extensive amenities, and a full-service conference center. At the center of the property is a remarkable 12,000-square-foot lagoon-style pool, one of the largest in Northwest Florida, surrounded by tropical landscaping, waterfalls, bridges, and broad sun decks that create an atmosphere of relaxation and escape. Two 12-story towers anchor the resort and offer sweeping views of the coastline and the rapidly expanding Destin corridor, establishing The Palms as a distinctive presence in the skyline.
The opening of Trader Vic’s added an exciting culinary element, introducing a globally recognized dining experience to Destin and contributing to the resort’s energetic and modern character. The overall master plan emphasized year-round hospitality, event hosting, outdoor recreation, and convenient access to the surrounding entertainment district. From the beginning, The Palms was designed not simply as a place to stay, but as a destination that offered a complete resort lifestyle. This philosophy reflected the experiential, guest-centered approach that Becnel first embraced during his years developing properties in Hawaii.
An aerial photograph from 1998 shows the early stages of growth along the coast, with large stretches of land awaiting transformation. The Palms emerged during this dynamic period and quickly became one of the area’s most recognizable and amenity-rich properties. By early 2007, as construction neared completion, regional excitement and strong reservation activity signaled the impact the development would have on Destin’s hospitality market. Today, The Palms of Destin stands as a testament to Becnel’s vision for creating vibrant, lifestyle-driven communities that elevate both the guest experience and the surrounding region.