Amira Gundel 
One of the most beautiful destinations in Florida, Destin reigns supreme amongst our many Florida Gulf Coast treasures.
Whether you’re a Florida local or looking for the perfect beach vacation, Destin should be one of your top picks!
Destin is a true Emerald Coast gem with glistening turquoise waters, white sand beaches, gorgeous wild spaces, and towering sand dunes!
In this article, I’m going to let you in on all of the best things to do in Destin! As a local Floridian, I’m going to share some insider tips on the best things to do in this gorgeous Gulf Coast Florida destination.
Let’s dive in!
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Take the kids to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
- 2. Explore Henderson Beach State Park
- 3. Go on a dolphin cruise
- 4. Stroll along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk
- 5. Enjoy Crab Island
- 6. Check out the Destin History and Fishing Museum
- 7. Explore Harborwalk Village
- 8. Go shopping in the village of Baytowne Wharf
- 9. Venture out to Fort Walton Beach
- 10. Splash around at the Big Kahuna’s Water Park
- 11. Check out Gator Beach
- 12. Walk around Destin Commons and Crystal Beach
- 13. Get a beach sandcastle building lesson
- 14. Go on a Banana Boat Experience
- 15. Uncover Indigenous history at the Indian Temple Mound Museum
- 16. Go on a Buccaneer Pirate Cruise
- 17. Visit the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge
- 18. See some magic at the Maximum Magic Show
- 19. Pack a picnic and head out to James Lee Park
- 20. Go on an Emerald Coast boat tour
- 21. Watch the sunset
- 22. Grab some exquisite seafood at the Primrose Restaurant
- 23. Go on a jet ski adventure
- 24. Take a stroll in John Beasley Beach Park
- 25. Go snorkeling and see some dolphins
- 26. Check out the Air Force Armament Museum
- 27. Spend the day in Santa Rosa Beach
- 28. Wander over Okaloosa Island Pier
- 29. Grab some fresh catch at Brotula’s Seafood House
- Where to stay in Destin, Florida
- FAQs about things to do in Destin
- Conclusion
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Destin is one of Florida’s most popular beach destinations, and it’s not hard to see why. This incredible fishing village turned luxury beach getaway is a one-of-a-kind experience. That being said, a lot of the fun tours that make the trip worthwhile tend to sell out quick!
Here are the main things to book in advance:
- Sunset Dolphin Cruise – for those looking for romance
- Crab Island Tiki Cruise – for adventurous travelers
- Island Jet Ski Adventure – for wildlife and sport lovers
And here are the best hotels: Henderson Beach Resort (luxury), Hyatt Place Sandestin (mid-range), Holiday Inn Express (budget)
1. Take the kids to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
If you enjoy taking the family to the aquarium, this is the Destin destination for you!
With tons of incredible marine life, from dolphins to sharks, sting rays, sea turtles, sea lions, alligators, and more, your kids will definitely have a blast.
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park also has a touch tank where your little ones can have hands-on experiences with starfish, hermit crabs, and more!
There is also a dolphin show with an intimate theater so you can have an up-close experience with these incredible sea creatures.
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is also right on the water, so as you walk around the facility, you also get some incredible ocean views which just levels up the entire experience!
PRICE: US$27
2. Explore Henderson Beach State Park
Obviously, you can’t go to Destin without going to the beach! And the best beach in Destin, in my humble opinion, is Henderson Beach State Park.
This incredible state park offers visitors the unique experience of being at the most beautiful beaches in Florida while also being able to relax and be one with nature.
Many beaches in Florida are surrounded by development. Henderson Beach State Park is not one of these beaches! It is a gorgeous beach where you can see the incredible wildlife and wild nature of Florida before rapid development.
Between the white sand beaches, turquoise water, and pristine nature surrounding this beach, Henderson Beach State Park is an absolute dream. I highly recommend checking this state park out on your trip to Destin.
PRICE: US$6 per vehicle
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3. Go on a dolphin cruise
The West Coast of Florida is world-renowned for being one of the best places to see dolphins in the US. So naturally, going on a dolphin cruise is one of the best things to do in Destin!
There are so many dolphin cruises to choose from. While many people are doubtful about the odds of seeing a dolphin, most people leave the dolphin cruise amazed at just how many dolphins they saw.
As you set sail on the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico waters, taking in the incredible views, you will start to feel the excitement bubbling up as you see dolphins swimming in the waves, or swimming close to your boat. It is truly an incredible experience!
Whenever I go to Destin, I always make sure to book one of the many dolphin cruises in the area. You can check out Southern Star Dolphin Cruise for some nice options, but I think this sunset dolphin tour is really special and provides the most unique experience to see these incredible, sacred, wise beings up close!
I recommend going out on a sunset dolphin cruise as this is the best time of day to spot some wild dolphins as they prepare to hunt for dinner. Plus it’s super romantic, so it makes a perfect date night!
PRICE: US$53
Book Your Sunset Dolphin Cruise
4. Stroll along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk
If you are looking for free things to do in Destin, one of my top recommendations would be to walk along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk.
This boardwalk in Destin Harbor allows you to walk along the harbor and take in the undeniable beauty of the Gulf of Mexico and Destin. There is also plenty of entertainment and fun activities to do here!
Not only is this an excellent place to walk around, sightsee, soak in the incredible views, and watch the sunset, but it is also a great destination to grab some food and drinks.
It’s the perfect place to socialize with other visitors and locals, and pick their brains for other fun and unique things to do in Destin!
Destin Harbor is a classic Destin experience, and everyone should stroll along this boardwalk on their trip to the Emerald Coast.
PRICE: Free
5. Enjoy Crab Island
Crab Island is probably one of the most popular attractions in Destin. People from all over Florida, and even across the US know about Crab Island.
Crab Island is a gorgeous sand bar in the middle of pristine, clear, turquoise Gulf waters that many boaters take their boat to post up for the day.
At one point, it was an island. After years of erosion, it has turned into a sand bar that sits just below the surface of the clear crystalline waters.
While Crab Island is one of the most famous destinations in Destin, it is only accessible by boat, so this poses some limitations for some visitors.
There are also plenty of floating attractions on this happening sandbar, including bars, restaurants, and even obstacle courses. It’s always a party on Crab Island! This tour is one of the best ways to experience it without worrying about the responsibility of bringing your own boat.
On this Tiki Cruise tour, you will cruise out to the famous Crab Island, where you can swim, snorkel, and just lay back and enjoy the undeniable beauty of the Gulf of Mexico’s pristine waters.
You can also grab a drink and some food at one of the floating bars! This is family and kid-friendly, and also a great experience for adults looking to have a memorable experience out on a sandbar in the middle of tropical waters off the coast of Destin, Florida.
PRICE: US$110
Book Your Crab Island Tiki Cruise
6. Check out the Destin History and Fishing Museum
When it comes to the history of Destin, it’s probably not what you expect. With humble beginnings as a popular fishing town known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin went from a fishing town and simple seaside city to a bustling vacation destination in a few short years.
At the Destin History and Fishing Museum, you get to learn all about the humble beginnings of this fishing village turned tourist destination.
With settler history dating back to the early 1830s, as well as a robust Indigenous history, Destin is a fascinating place to visit. Not only is it breathtakingly beautiful, but Destin has a fascinating history that learning about will ultimately elevate your entire experience and add some cultural depth to your trip.
The Destin History Fishing Museum is one of the most enriching experiences you can have in Destin.
On display, you will learn all about deep sea fishing history and get to see some antique fishing equipment, learn about science, and the incredible history of this humble fishing village. Destin History is an important element to incorporate into your trip to Destin, Florida.
The Destin History Fishing Museum is one of my favorite things to do in Destin!
PRICE: US$5
7. Explore Harborwalk Village
Loaded with restaurants, cute shops, and more, Harborwalk Village is a happening destination in Destin.
Not only is this a popular destination for dining and shopping, but this is also a local hot spot for watersports! There are tons of water sports to choose from when you visit the Harborwalk Village and you can rent out equipment right there.
If you’re spending some time in the area, you’ll be glad to know there are a few fun tours that leave from here! Here is a super awesome dolphin cruise that leaves from Harborwalk Village – the perfect way to end your day!
PRICE: Free to explore Harborwalk Village, US$40 for a dolphin cruise
8. Go shopping in the village of Baytowne Wharf
On the shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay, Baytowne Wharf is a cute village community for both visitors and residents alike.
There are plenty of festivals, concerts, and all sorts of fun community events. Located near Miramar Beach, this is a great place to do some shopping and get a feel for the local vibe in Destin.
One of the lesser-known but top Destin attractions, Baytowne Wharf, is a fun place to visit in Destin. Shopping in the Baytowne Wharf area is one of the best things to do in Destin!
PRICE: Free
9. Venture out to Fort Walton Beach
A small city in the Florida panhandle adjacent to Destin, Fort Walton Beach is a cute beach town with so much to do.
Known for powdery white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and Okaloosa Island, here you can find the Gulfarium and the sacred Indian Temple Mound housing ancient Indigenous artifacts.
Fort Walton Beach is also a cheaper place to stay than Destin. While Destin has humble fishing village beginnings, it is a bit more upscale these days when it comes to places to stay due to its status as an incredible vacation destination!
However, Fort Walton is more happening when it comes to nightlife, and also more affordable if you want to visit Destin but not break the bank.
PRO TIP: Fort Walton is also a great place for golfing in the Florida panhandle – check out the mini golf course at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone! It’s about an 8-minute drive from the Emerald Coast Science Center so you can do both in one day!
10. Splash around at the Big Kahuna’s Water Park
The Big Kahuna’s Water Park is a super fun place to go on your Destin vacation with the family or with kids. This is a super fun experience for the whole family and if you love a good splash in a swimming pool (or several) then this is the activity for you.
Splash around for hours on the dozens of water slides and various pools (including a lazy river) at this super fun waterpark.
If you’re not a water park enthusiast, you can relax at the cabanas all day.
Big Kahuna’s Water Park is a great place for thrill seekers and little ones to have some fun and splash around! This is one of the best things to do in Destin with kids.
They have multiple different packages for mini golf courses, rollercoasters, adventure park tickets, different cabana options, and all sorts of packages. See here for the details.
PRICE: from US$55
11. Check out Gator Beach
Gator Beach is one of the most fun and exciting places to visit in Destin. Known as the “World’s Greatest Alligator Park,” Gator Beach is a really cool place to visit in Destin!
This is also a popular place for dining. In fact, if you choose to eat at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, you can visit Gator Beach for free! I highly recommend eating at Fudpucker’s to make your day out super cheap for the whole family!
At Gator Beach, you can see some live gators and even get the opportunity to feed some of these dinosaur-esque beasts!
There is also a Gator Museum, as well as entertaining gator shows for some further education and interactive experiences with these incredible ancient beings.
Seeing a gator in the wild can be both an exciting and sometimes scary experience. However, seeing them in a controlled setting has all of the fun and none of the nerves that come with seeing one in the wild!
PRICE: Free
12. Walk around Destin Commons and Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach is aptly named. Its beauty is truly crystalline with glistening and shimmering shorelines and white sand beaches.
This is also an awesome place to stay in Destin and there are some really awesome vacation rentals around here!
There are so many fun things to do in Crystal Beach and around Destin Commons. The Destin Commons is a super fun entertainment complex where you can grab a bite to eat, see a movie, shop, grab a coffee, and just walk around.
PRICE: Free
13. Get a beach sandcastle building lesson
What better way to spend the day on the Emerald Coast than to build some elaborate sand castles?
Everyone tries to build a sand castle at some point or another in their lifetime. However, the incredible sea castles that you see in pictures or online are not so attainable for the everyday sandcastler.
However, getting sand castle lessons from Beach Sand Sculptures is one of the coolest and most unique things to do in Destin.
Learn how to build an extravagant sand castle that goes beyond your average sand castle and is a complete work of art!
Create sophisticated structures and engage in a bonding activity with the family or with a friend!
This is a super fun group activity, and children under 4 with an adult get to experience this fun activity for free!
PRICE: For a group of 5 people, it costs US$249, for 6-10 people it costs US$299, and for 11-15 people, it costs US$349.
14. Go on a Banana Boat Experience
Have you ever considered that bananas bear a close resemblance to a boat?
While this may not be the most common train of thought, the Banana Boats in Destin are a super popular attraction that adults and kids alike thoroughly enjoy!
Enjoy being pulled by a larger boat while you’re atop a mini banana-themed boat!
As long as everyone in your group knows how to swim, this is a super fun activity to enjoy the gorgeous Emerald Coast.
This is a great time for family fun – enjoying a thrill-seeking adventure and having a super unique and memorable experience.
PRICE: US$61
Book Your Banana Boat Experience
15. Uncover Indigenous history at the Indian Temple Mound Museum
Florida has a vast and rich history with Indigenous peoples with varying cultures and traditions from all parts of the state.
The Indigenous tribes of South, Central, and North Florida, the East Coast, and the Panhandle all have different traditions and cultures, and it is important to learn about the original peoples of what we know as Florida today.
On your trip to Destin, definitely make sure you visit this museum to pay respects to the original people of this land!
The Indian Temple Mound is one of the best things to do in Destin for a culturally enriching experience and to do something interesting besides going to the beach.
Here you can learn about Indigenous artifacts, traditions, and ways of life of the original peoples of what is now known as Destin.
With thousands of years of chronicled information on Indigenous history, this is a really important experience that should be a part of your trip to Destin, Florida.
The Emerald Coast is absolutely stunning and has so much to offer visitors. The least one can do while visiting is to give back in an impactful way by supporting the preservation of Indigenous history in the area.
Not only can you learn about Indigenous history, but also the prehistoric history of the Southeastern United States!
PRICE: US$5 + tax
16. Go on a Buccaneer Pirate Cruise
If you have ever had the urge to be on a pirate ship, this is your opportunity! The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is one of the best things to do with the family in Destin, Florida.
The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise has a capacity of over 100, so this really gives off the vibe of being on your classic Pirates of the Caribbean pirate ship!
This is especially a fun experience for the little ones. While aboard the ship, there are fun activities like treasure hunts, riveting swordplay, water gun fights, and so much more. The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is an especially fun experience for the family.
Your kids will absolutely love this experience, and it will undoubtedly bring out the inner child in adults as well!
PRICE: US$36
17. Visit the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge
Located near Destin, the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to visit to learn about the local wildlife and ecology.
If you want to make your trip more well-rounded and have lots of fun in the sun while also having an educational and culturally enriching experience, definitely pay the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge a visit!
It’s both refreshing and inspiring to see how much care goes into caring for these incredible majestic beings that have called Florida home for thousands of years.
Aside from the local wildlife that they rehabilitate and care for, they also have all sorts of international animals, such as wallabies, sloths, tigers, and lemurs!
This is an excellent alternative to visiting a zoo as they often rescue abused animals from those settings and give them a much better life.
PRICE: US$7
18. See some magic at the Maximum Magic Show
The Maximum Magic Show is one of Destin’s many claims to fame. Whether you spend the day out on Crab Island, on the beach, snorkeling, at the Indian Mound Museum, at amusement parks, or seeing the incredible marine life that Destin has to offer, whatever you do, don’t miss out on this super fun experience!
Another great activity to do with the family or with kids in Destin, this magical show will pique your curiosity and trigger your imagination.
As you might have noticed, Destin is the perfect destination for a family vacation. There are endless fun things to do and memorable activities that are unique to Destin!
Back to the magic – world-renowned award-winning illusionists Noah and Heather Wells put on the show of a lifetime at this incredible Destin excursion.
Prepare to rub your eyes in disbelief at their incredible illusions and stunts. Your kiddos will absolutely love this!
The shows sell out pretty quickly, so make sure to get your tickets in advance!
PRICE: From US$32 – prices vary. Click here to book your tickets.
19. Pack a picnic and head out to James Lee Park
Looking for romantic things to do in Destin? James Lee Park should be high on your list. With incredible views and romantic sunsets, this is one of the best things to do for couples in Destin!
Not only is this Emerald Coast destination super romantic, but it is also a great place for swimming, fishing, walking, and tons of other outdoor adventures. You can also
Beach chairs are available for rental. There’s also a playground on site and incredible views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Once you’re done, you can also check out other parks in the area like Clement Taylor Park and Mattie Kelly Park!
I am fully aware of how pricey vacations can get. That’s why I always try to include some super fun free things to do in my articles!
PRICE: Free
20. Go on an Emerald Coast boat tour
Destin is well known for its incredible emerald green-blue, transparent, glistening clear waters and the incredible experience of the Gulf of Mexico.
What better way to experience the famous Emerald Coast than to set sail on a boat?
One of the most romantic things to do in Destin is to charter a private boat with your friends or loved ones – and if you are looking for fun things to do for a friend’s birthday, chartering a private boat is a super fun and memorable experience! This incredible experience is unforgettable and provides a nice private respite for your trip!
PRICE: US$600 per group (6 people)
Book Your Private Chartered Pontoon Boat
21. Watch the sunset
It is no secret that the Gulf Coast of Florida has the most incredible sunsets in the country.
Packing up a picnic and heading to the beach to admire the incredible painted sunset should be high on your list of things to do in Destin.
The enrapturing patterns of the cloud and the sky, as well as the mesmerizing rays, paired with the glistening emerald, turquoise waters, makes for an unforgettable experience.
During your trip, I highly recommend you watch the sunset as many days as you are there. Each one is uniquely beautiful and an absolute sight for sore eyes!
PRICE: Free
22. Grab some exquisite seafood at the Primrose Restaurant
You are seriously missing out if you don’t have some fresh seafood on your trip to Destin.
Destin is famous for its incredible fresh catch. This is a must-eat on your trip to the Florida Panhandle!
If you’ve had seafood in other places in Florida, you will quickly learn that Destin has its own special magic when it comes to seafood. It is something about its history as a fishing village. There is something in the water that just makes the seafood so delicious!
Located at the Henderson Resort, Primrose Restaurant is a truly next-level dining experience. The flavors present in the meals, paired with the succulent and delicious seafood, make for a super memorable dining experience.
If you’re not so much of a surf person, they have plenty of turf too! While seafood is one of the highlights of the menu, there is so much more that this incredible Destin restaurant has to offer.
PRO TIP: If you love seafood and you’re traveling to Destin around October, the Destin Seafood Festival is an event you can’t miss!
23. Go on a jet ski adventure
Water activities are the cream of the crop when it comes to fun things to do in Destin.
This jet ski adventure takes you to the famous Crab Island so you can cool out on an incredible sand bar and take part in festive activities.
Get your adrenaline pumping and zip through the clear turquoise waters surrounding Crab Island!
You can also spot some local wildlife while cruising around, then take a break at Crab Island and splash around in the shallow waters.
Take in the gorgeous coastal scenery, feel the ocean breeze blowing through your hair, and take part in a super fun Destin water adventure!
PRICE: US$111
Book Your Island Jet Ski Adventure
24. Take a stroll in John Beasley Beach Park
This scenic beachside park is a great place to take a walk and take in the abundant beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Complete with pavilions, a snack bar, showers, and picnic tables, John Beasley Park is one of the best places to go in Destin to enjoy the beauty of the area as well as take a romantic stroll on the beach!
I recommend packing up a picnic and heading out to this beautiful beach park to enjoy the incredible views and soak up the beach.
PRICE: Free
25. Go snorkeling and see some dolphins
We’ve already established that the water in Destin is some of the clearest, most tropical water you can get in Florida.
That’s what makes snorkeling in Destin one of the most memorable and special experiences you will have in your life!
This incredible tour not only takes you snorkeling, but the tour is also designed so that you can see dolphins while you’re in the water! How special is that?
For those who have a deep love for nature, the ocean, marine life, and the incredible wonders of planet Earth, this is one of the best tours you can do in Destin, Florida.
While you can totally go snorkeling on your own during your trip, you are always better off with an expert local guide who can take you to the best snorkeling spots in the area. Plus, it’s safer!
This tour is really fun and gives you an awesome chance to see some incredible marine life. It’s also a dolphin tour, so you get 2 in 1!
PRICE: US$60
Book Your Snorkeling & Dolphin Tour
26. Check out the Air Force Armament Museum
If you want to learn about the air force, the US Army, and all sorts of different armament equipment and weapons, head on over to the Air Force Armament Museum.
This is a fun experience for a family trip to learn about the air force and the various weapons used across the span of time. Plus, it’s totally free!
In fact, this is the largest air force armament museum in the entire world. So if you’re into military stuff, this is a great thing to do in Destin!
PRICE: Free
27. Spend the day in Santa Rosa Beach
This beautiful beach located in Walton County, just outside of Fort Walton Beach, is a gorgeous beach and the perfect place for your beach getaway!
A super fun place to vacation, with excellent food, great beaches, and plenty of entry points to the beach. This is truly a lovely place to visit with loved ones or by yourself for a little TLC! Plus, there are a few little food trucks!
Destin has a more lively vacation vibe, while this neighboring beach town has a more sleepy and laid-back vibe. I highly recommend checking out this beach town for a more chill vibe, with all the benefits that Destin’s beaches offer.
PRICE: Free
28. Wander over Okaloosa Island Pier
This incredible concrete pier extends far out into the turquoise Gulf waters and is a happening place for the fishing industry, watching the sunset, seeing marine life, and incredible views.
Okaloosa Pier is an excellent place to watch the sunset and is well worth checking out on your trip to the panhandle/Destin area.
The family-friendly atmosphere makes this an excellent place to go with the family and see some incredible views while you’re at it!
NOTE: If you want to fish, it costs US$8.
29. Grab some fresh catch at Brotula’s Seafood House
This is an excellent place for some delicious dining paired with gorgeous oceanfront views!
Enjoy some daily catch with family and friends and see the boats passing by. You may even spot some dolphins while you’re enjoying your meal!
Another awesome seafood spot with oceanfront views and delicious fresh catch is Brotula’s Seafood & Oyster House. This is one of the best things to do in Destin when it comes to enjoying fresh seafood with a view!
PRO TIP: Get there early if you can. The wait can be super long. Also, I highly recommend getting a table outdoors for some incredible views of the ocean while you enjoy your meal!
| 👪 Family-friendly score: | High |
| 🏛️ Best museum: | Indian Temple Mound Museum |
| 🎢 Top paid attraction: | Private Destin Pontoon Boat |
| 🚶🏽♂️ Best free activity: | Destin Commons and Crystal Beach |
| 👧 Best activity for kids: | Big Kahuna’s Water Park |
| 🕺 Nightlife: | Downtown Fort Walton Beach |
Where to stay in Destin, Florida
Destin is by far one of the most popular beach destinations in Florida. It is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in the Sunshine State!
That being said, finding the perfect place to stay is going to make your trip 100% better. Destin is a dreamy destination, and you want to make sure that wherever you stay highlights the dreamy nature of this Gulf Coast gem.
As someone who has visited Destin multiple times, these are my favorite places to stay in Destin!
Luxury (US$400 and up)
- Henderson Beach Resort – Right next to the gorgeous Henderson Beach State Park, this luxury stay in Destin offers private beach access, a full-service spa, two pools, several dining options, ocean views, and an overall elevated experience. I highly recommend staying here if you have a few extra bucks to spend if you want a more luxurious experience in Destin.
- Hotel Effie Sandestin – Located only 1.6 miles from Miramar Beach, this place is honestly 4-star luxury to a T! You’ve got a full-service spa, a private beach, and an amazing restaurant – plus amazing views across the shore!
Mid Range (US$250 – US$350)
- Hyatt Place Sandestin – If you’re looking for a nice terrace and pool, this is the place to beat! It’s super central and there’s even a fitness center onsite, making it the perfect place to stay!
- Inn on Destin Harbor, Ascend Hotel – This hotel offers access to a small harbor beach in Destin Harbor. One of the best parts about this stay is that it features an oceanfront pool with incredible panoramic views of the breathtaking beauty of Destin.
Budget (up to US$250)
- Sterling Shores II – Located only a 4-minute walk from the Destin beaches and 0.8 miles (1.2 km) from Henderson Beach, this awesome hotel has ocean views, pool views, and a great vibe. This is an excellent budget hotel that will give you an elevated experience just with the views and pool alone.
- Holiday Inn Express – Around 4.5 miles from Downtown Destin, this place is an excellent budget choice for those looking for all the basics and more! There’s a pool, a great breakfast that guests love, and it’s just a quick walk to the beach!
FAQs about things to do in Destin
🏖️ What are the most unique things to do in Destin?
You can spend the day on a sandbar at Crab Island, take a tiki cruise, go on a dolphin tour, explore Henderson Beach State Park!
💟 What are some things to do in Destin, Florida, for couples?
Being one of the most beautiful beach destinations in all of Florida, pretty much anything you choose to do in Destin is romantic. I recommend taking a beach stroll in James Lee Park, go jet skiing, or eat dinner at Primrose Restaurant!
🌴 What are some things to do in Destin that aren’t in the water?
If for whatever reason you need to avoid the water, don’t worry. There’s still plenty for you to enjoy in Destin, Florida! Check out the Grand Boulevard Farmers Market or take a cultural visit to the Indian Mound Temple Museum.
👶 What are some things to do in Destin for families?
Check out the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, go jet skiing, go on a dolphin tour, or visit Gator Beach! Destin is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Florida!
Conclusion
There you have it! Your personal list of the absolute best things to do in Destin, Florida!
I am of the school of thought that this is one of the best, if not THE best, places to visit in Florida if you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway.
Destin is literally paradise. Never in my life have I seen such gorgeous beaches as I have in this gorgeous Gulf Coast gem of a fishing village. Plus, Destin is a super family-friendly destination, so you get the best of both worlds: a relaxing tropical beach getaway and a super fun place for the kiddos!
I hope you enjoyed this list and that you create some beautiful, unforgettable memories during your trip to Destin. It is a true Florida gem, and I honestly think everyone should go at least once in their lives.
With Love and Gratitude,
Amira G.
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Excellent and thorough article!