Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour May 17-19 Benefits Alaqua Animal Refuge

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast will be the backdrop for The Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour May 17-19 as hundreds of cyclists venture through Northwest Florida. The weekend bicycle event is designed for all road cyclists. Participants will get an opportunity to soak in a scenic bike ride alongside pristine beaches including a rest stop at Grayt Coffee House in Grayton Beach and also enjoy post-ride activities and mechanical support. Rides are led by experienced cyclist Robin Wilkes of Robin's Bikes and Fitness.

“They say it’s all about location,” said Shawna Harris, events director for Sandestin. “With road cycling becoming the most widespread form of cycling we have found that Sandestin and the Emerald Coast is a popular road cycling destination and what better time of year to soak in the amazing weather and view than the month of May.”

In addition, Sandestin’s event marketing team is anticipating a great turnout this year, as preliminary entries show cyclists from all over the United States, including: Louisiana, Florida, Kentucky, Alabama and more.

On Saturday 30 and 60 mile rides will begin at Baytowne Marina at Sandestin and head east to Scenic Hwy 30A. The 30 mile ride will stop at Grayt Grounds of Monet Monet in Grayton Beach then return back to Sandestin. The 60 mile ride will continue down 30A and turn around at Rosemary Beach. On Sunday the 15 mile loop will begin at Baytowne Marina and head West to Scenic Hwy Old 98. The ride follows this road to the end where you will turn around and head back to Sandestin. All routes are very flat and include gulf views. Participants and their families will be able to enjoy activities at the Marina throughout the weekend. All rides start at 8 a.m. at Baytowne Marina with pre-tour instructions at 7:30 a.m.

Receive a discount  on your tour entry as well as special room rates when you book a package at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort by mentioning code BIKE13. For more information call 855-348-1894 or See Sandestin Bike Tour website for event information, rules and registration. Pre-registration and entry online is recommended.

The Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour benefits Alaqua Animal Refuge, an independent, non-profit organization located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, that advocates the general welfare and humane treatment of animals by providing shelter, prevention of pet overpopulation and adoption services. Located down a winding gravel road on a picturesque, 10-acre farm in Freeport, Fla., once homeless, lost and abused animals run and play in sun-soaked pastures, swim in cool, clean ponds, relax on breezy screened porches and graze in lush, green fields. These animals – and many like them, usually more than 250 at any given time – have found safety and care at Alaqua Animal Refuge Inc., a unique full-service, no-kill shelter.

Marina Bar and Grill will be participating in Dine for Dogs on Saturday, May 18 with a portion of the proceeds going to help animals in need.   

About Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort was named the #1 resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast. The resort invites guests to a world of 30 charming neighborhoods featuring 1,300 Destin vacation rentals, condominiums, villas, town homes and the best in Destin hotel accommodations. As a member of Visit South Walton and Visit Florida, the resort features more than seven miles of beaches and pristine bay front, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 19 swimming pools, a 113-slip marina, a fitness center and spa, meeting space and The Village of Baytowne Wharf, a pedestrian village with shopping, dining and nightlife. Guests can visit www.sandestin.com or follow Sandestin on Facebook and Twitter for the latest information and events.