Often called The Crown Jewel of the Emerald Coast, Destin is perched like a sparkling diamond on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico in between Pensacola and Panama City. With crystal clear water and sugary white beaches, it’s easy to see why Destin is such a draw for those seeking sun, sand, and surf. Here are a few things we love to do in Destin.
When you’re ready to hit the beach, we recommend sinking your toes in the sand at Henderson Beach State Park. With epic, soaring sand dunes, this pristine, protected strip of coastline is straight out of a dream. If you’re looking for a beachfront adventure, there are plenty of fishing, kayaking, hiking, and biking trails to choose from. Or if a slower pace is what you seek, simply set up your beach chair and relax.
For a super-fun and informative trip for the whole family, head over to the Destin History & Fishing Museum. There are over 5000 square feet of exhibit space featuring hundreds of fish mounts, local artifacts, and the science behind why the fishing is so good here and why the sand is so white. There are also scavenger hunts for the kiddos and self-guided tours.
Do some serious shopping while you’re here at Silver Sands Premium Outlets. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect souvenir, gifts for folks back home, or some new beachwear for your Destin vacay— the shops at Silver Sands have a little bit of everything. From Nike to Disney to Tory Birch, you’ll love to spend an afternoon strolling the shops. There are some great restaurants here too for when you need to refuel.
No trip to the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village is complete without an adventure out on the water. Head over to Dockside Watersports and take your pick of some unforgettable ocean experiences. You can kick back and relax on a pontoon boat, fulfill your need for speed on a jet ski, or catch that evening’s dinner on a fishing boat.
You may also want to explore Crab Island or take a sunset cruise. The local experts at Dockside will hook you up— pun intended.
Located about 8 miles to the east of Destin, Miramar Beach is an eclectic and vibrant community that’s filled to the brim with opportunities for fun. From antique shops to arcades— Miramar Beach has a little something for everyone in your crew. Here are a couple of things we love to do in Miramar Beach.
Nothing quite matches the feeling of being swept up high in the air over the Gulf of Mexico while being gently tugged along by a boat far below. Parasailing is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you don’t want to miss, and nobody does parasailing better than Miramar Beach Parasailing. Check out their banana boat and jet ski rentals, too.
For some rainy-day fun, check out Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade. Escape into another world when you enter this 18-hole indoor jungle-themed golf course that’s lit with neon black lights. Challenge your family to a mini-golf tournament, then hit the arcade for some more family fun. This arcade is located right next door to the popular Melting Pot fondue restaurant, so stop in there for some yummy dinner and dessert.
If you’re up for some heart-pumping competition, check out the beach volleyball nets at Miramar Beach. Many of the nets are permanent and well-maintained, and you just may find yourself playing with a crowd of savvy locals. The sugary soft white sand of Miramar Beach makes for world-class beach volleyball courts.
Located a little further east of Miramar Beach is Sandestin. Perhaps best known for the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort— a 2400 acre destination resort village— Sandestin proper is filled with shops, restaurants, and family attractions.
Just minutes from the sandy beach and warm Gulf waters is Grand Boulevard— a premier shopping and dining destination. Park your car and take a leisurely stroll along the boulevard, stopping to browse shops like Anthropologie, Lilly Pulitzer, Pottery Barn, and Tommy Bahama. When you want to stop for lunch, there are plenty of casual cafes and formal dining to choose from— like Emeril’s Coastal, Kilwins, Jimmy John’s, and PF Chang’s. There’s a movie theater here, too.
There simply isn’t enough space here to tell you all of the fun things to do at the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort. This sprawling destination resort is ideal for golfers, tennis players, and watersports enthusiasts. Check out all the exciting activities they offer on a daily basis— including endless shopping and dining, too.