Located right on Florida's Gulf Coast, Destin is one of the most popular vacation destinations, with beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and an abundance of outdoor activities here.
Beaches, seafood, and exploring the outdoors are but a few of the best things to do in Destin.
And for those who love shopping, you will also enjoy Destin's shopping centers and boutiques.
Destin is a popular vacation spot for families, couples, and solo travelers because of its beautiful setting and abundance of activities.
Its beaches, emerald waters, and outdoor activities make it one of, if not the most, popular vacation destination out there.
And if you're planning a trip to Destin, here are few things you need to try.
Visit Destin's Beaches
With their crystal-clear water and white, powdery sand, Destin's beaches are among the most beautiful in the world.
Swimming, sunbathing, and water sports will undoubtedly be all available at these beaches, in addition to many other activities.
Beach lovers are known to flock to Destin's beaches. And if we were to name some off the top of our heads:
Henderson Beach
Also known as Henderson Beach State Park, this stunning beach is renowned for its emerald green waters and fine, crystalline sands.
It is quite the spectacular location for swimming, tanning, and all kinds of water sports.
You'll also find a nature trail perfect for anyone wanting to explore the region.
Miramar Beach
Another beloved gem of Destin, Miramar Beach is renowned for its soft, fine sandy beach and clear, blue waters.
It's an absolutely terrific place for swimming and tanning, and there are many restaurants and retail options nearby.
Destin Harbor Beach
Aptly named, this beach is located right off the Destin Harbor, making it the ideal destination for boat watching.
It also offers a wide range of water sports and activities, mainly due to the abundance of rental shops, from boats and pontoons to jet skis.
Norriego Point Beach
Located on the East end of Destin, Norriego Point Beach is a bit more isolated than its counterparts in the area.
It's simply ideal for anyone looking to have a fun time at the beach, while still enjoying a little bit of peace and quite.
And if you're passing by this beach, don't forget to bring your shelling gear!
And if you're looking for an even more laid back beach visit, you just can't go wrong with James Lee Park. It is completely peaceful and serene over there, much less crowded than the rest of Destin's beaches.
No matter which beach you end up choosing when visiting Destin, you'll definitely be treated to one of the most beautiful locations and experiences in the world.
So what are waiting for! Pack your sunscreen, grab a beach chair, and get ready to relax on the beautiful sands of the Emerald Coast.
Explore the Outdoors
For all outdoor enthusiasts, Destin is the place for you.
Any outdoor activity that you may crave, you'll definitely find it here, from boating and fishing to golfing and hiking, and so much more.
Rent a boat, go on a fishing charter to catch Destin's best seafood, go parasailing, partake in birdwatching... The list goes on!
You'll have ample opportunities to explore all that Mother Nature has to offer.
And we've compiled you a list to get you started!
Fishing
Destin has always been known for its fishing, ever since its founding.
You'll find all sorts of fish in its waters, like red snapper, amberjack, grouper and many more.
So make sure to rent a boat, pontoon or fishing charter, and try your luck at catching Destin's best seafood.
Boating
With its various marinas, Destin is the ideal destination for all boating enthusiasts.
Whether you're bringing your own boat, or renting one out from the many rental shops, make sure to thoroughly explore the mesmerizing waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Golfing
Whether you're a seasoned golfer, or merely an amateur looking to have some fun, you'll find exactly what you're looking for in Destin.
Amongst the golf courses that come to mind are the Kelly Plantation Golf Club and the Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club.
Hiking
Nature lovers will find an abundance of hiking trails with incredible views in Destin.
Our personal favorite is the Point Washington State Forest, which offers miles of trails through the pine trees and along the Choctawhatchee Bay.
Water Sports
No where's better than Destin when it comes to water sports and activities.
While visiting, make sure to try all that it has to offer, from jet skiing and parasailing to stand-up paddle boarding.
No matter the outdoor area that end up choosing, you'll definitely find what your heart craves here in Destin.
So we only have one question for you nature lovers - what are you still waiting for!
Go Shopping
Destin is known to be home to a variety of shopping centers and boutiques, whether you're looking for the perfect beach outfit, or looking to buy your friends and family a bunch of souvenirs for when you go back home.
Destin Commons
Located right off Highway 98, Destin Commons is quite the popular outdoor shopping center with a variety of stores and restaurants.
This shopping mall has all kinds of retailers from apparel and accessories to home items and gifts, and eateries from restaurants to cafés.
Silver Sands Premium Outlets
A prominent outlet mall with over 100 stores, Silver Sands Premium Outlets' stores include designer labels and well-known businesses, with fantastic deals and discounts on clothes, accessories and even home products.
Sandestin
A variety of boutiques, shops and restaurants can be found at the Market Shops at Sandestin, with a extensive product line, ranging from clothes and beachwear to gifts and souvenirs.
And don't miss out on the irreplaceable shopping and dining experience that is the Village of Baytowne Wharf.
As part of the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, this outdoor shopping center offers its visitors a wide range of stores, restaurants and cafés.
Grand Boulevard
Adjacently situated to Miramar Beach, the shops and restaurants of the Grand Boulevard provide the ultimate shopping experience for Destin's visitors.
Whatever you may crave, you'll find a store selling it here, whether it be mementos, beachwear, or designer labels.
With so many shopping options at your disposal, Destin is a terrific spot to spend the day looking around and selecting the ideal souvenirs to bring back home with you.
Taste The Local Seafood
Destin has many restaurants and eateries, all of which serve fresh, locally caught seafood.
We've compiled you a short list of some of our own personal favorites.
Harry T's Lighthouse
Situated on the Destin Harbor, Harry T's Lighthouse is quite the popular seafood joint.
Its best known for serving locally caught, fresh fish, yet its menu isn't limited to just those.
You could also order a variety of other seafood dishes like oysters and shrimp, in addition to non seafood options like steaks and chicken sandwiches.
AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar
Another well known eatery in Destin, AJ's Seafood and Oyster Bar is world renowned for its fresh oysters and a wide array of various seafood platters.
Everything from fish and sandwiches to oysters and half shell can be found on their menu.
Dewey Destin's Seafood Restaurant
For more than 50 years, Dewey Destin's Seafood Restaurant has been a Destin staple.
You simply cannot visit the area without stopping by this family owned place, rich with Destin's history. You simply have to try their catch of the day!
Louisiana Lagniappe
This beloved seafood restaurant is mostly known for its Cajun inspired dishes, like gumbo and blackened redfish.
Louisiana Lagniappe's menu always features a house special, so make sure to check it out next time you're in the area!
Whether you're in the mood for oysters, shrimp, or an all encompassing seafood platter, you'll find plenty of delicious options in Destin.
With its abundance of fresh, locally caught seafood, it's a great destination for seafood lovers.
Educational Activities
With a range of educational activities and animal displays, Destin is the optimal location for families and fauna and flora enthusiasts.
And one of its best exhibits is the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Here's a quick glimpse of what to expect when visiting.
Animal Exhibits
Dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays are just a few of the aquatic wildlife that can be seen at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
In the park's displays, you can easily view these animals up close, and in some of the educational activities, you even get the chance to interact with them.
Educational Shows
Kids will absolutely love tagging along for this experience.
They'll get their pick of shows featuring dolphins and sea lions and many more among the instructional performances available at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
These programs will act as excellent resources for your kids to learn about these creatures, and the significant part they play in the ecosystem.
Animal Encounters
This is absolutely the best part of the experience!
If you wish to get a closer look at the animals, you get to take part of the park's animal tours.
You can engage first-hand with these animals during these interactions, by either feeding the stingrays or petting the dolphins.
Behind the Scenes Tours
You get the chance to take a behind-the-scenes tour if you're curious to learn more about the animals and the park's operations.
These excursions provide a special chance to view what happens in the background and discover more about the animals and their care.
In addition to the animal exhibits and educational shows, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park also offers a variety of amenities, including a gift shop, a snack bar, and a playground for kids.
Whether you're an animal lover or just looking for a fun, educational activity, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a great destination.
With its variety of animal exhibits and educational programs, it's a great place to learn about the animals and the important role they play in the ecosystem.
And remember, this is just the tip of the iceberg! These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Destin.
Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, try some delicious seafood, or explore the great outdoors, there's something for everyone in this beautiful city.