Destin, Florida, located on the Sunshine state's panhandle, is known for its white sandy beaches,
emerald blue water, high-rise resort hotels, and many tourist attractions. While most folks
tend to flock to Destin to catch some rays at the beach, if you spend all of your trip
working on your tan, you'll miss out on experiencing everything else that makes this bustling,
seaside town so great. Catch a tee-time at one of Destin's world-class golf courses,
grab a bite to eat at one of Destin's top-tier restaurants, or cast a line off a pier or
book a voyage out to sea to try and snag an amberjack or red snapper. Whatever your interests
might be, there is fun to be found for all in Sunny Destin, Florida. Keep watching to
see what we think are some of the best things to do next time you're in town.
Sign Up For A Sandcastle Lesson
Sure, you probably grew up building sandcastles during family vacations with your little plastic
bucket and shovel, but if you want to level up your sandcastle-making skills, consider
taking sandcastle building lessons from Beach Sand Sculptures. It's a great team-building
activity perfect for families, workgroups, or even romantically entangled couples looking
to have a fun, productive, and relaxing day at the beach.
Roast Marshmallows At A Beach Bonfire
What could be more relaxing than sitting around a crackling fire on a warm, sandy beach with
a group of your closest friends while swapping your spookiest ghost tales? Miramar Beach
is the closest public beach that allows you to have a beach bonfire, but keep in mind
that you'll need to acquire a permit before stoking your flames.
A permit costs $50 and you should also call the South Walton Fire District ahead of your
visit to make sure that you're aware of all of the local fire regulations.
Free and public beach fires are held at Royal Palm Grille every Friday evening or you can
always hire a private company to set up a private one for your group.
Hey, not to get too sidetracked, but if you're enjoying this video so far, make sure you
take a moment to give it a like while subscribing to Viewcation. And don't go anywhere just
yet. We haven't even told you what our favorite fishing spots are yet.
Slip and Slide At Big Kahuna Water And Adventure Park
If you're a big water park fan like we are, then you should definitely check out Big Kahuna's
which is home to over 40 attractions and rides. Go for a float down the lazy river or take
the plunge on one of Big Kahuna's massive water slides. It's an excellent spot for families
or solo adventurers and there are plenty of activities available for thrill-seekers and
sun soakers alike.
The park is open from Mid-May to August, but make sure you check their website for any
updates or schedule changes. You'll also want to bring along a pair of water shoes to help
protect your feet, especially on hot days when the pavement can get hot enough to fry
an egg. And don't forget your towel!
Embark On A Guided Boat Tour
One of the best ways to explore Destin is on a boat tour. There are numerous options
available depending on your needs and desires. You can book an outing on a speed boat tour,
a catamaran, or even on a glass-bottom boat. You can even potentially get out on the water
in a jet ski or rent your very own private pontoon boat if that's more your style.
The two most popular kinds of tours are Sunset Cruises which gives visitors the opportunity
to appreciate the naturally vibrant colors as the sun descends below the horizon or Dolphin
Tours where you can get to see dolphins up close and personal as they playfully splash
about in the water.
Learn All About Alligators At Gator Beach
Located adjacent to Fat Daddy's Arcade, Gator Beach is an alligator attraction home to more
than 100 adorable baby alligators that you can either watch or even feed so long as you
do so from a bit of distance of course. Gator Beach also has an educational Gator Museum
and they put on several live shows per day. And if you do check out Gator Beach, you can't
go home without taking a selfie while holding a live baby alligator. After all, nothing
says 'I Just Vacationed In Florida' like your mugshot next to a living dinosaur.
Destin Harbor Boardwalk
If you are traveling on a budget or just looking for something free to do to fill a gap in
your itinerary, head on over to the Destin Harbor Boardwalk where you'll find many shops,
restaurants, and even a few street performers doing their thing. It's a prime location to
go for a walk, people watch, or catch one of Destin's world-famous sunsets.
Sure, it's a bit touristy, but we highly recommend grabbing a drink from Harry T's because it
has one of the best views on the boardwalk but their food is unfortunately mediocre at
best. Before planning your trip, check online to see if the Boardwalk is planning any special
events during your stay. For example, every October, Destin hold's its annual Seafood
Festival – an event that brings in thousands.
Slow Your Roll At Henderson Beach State Parkinson's
Here we have one of the best public beaches in the Destin area. The emerald blue water
and soft white sand run for more than a mile. There is also an excellent nature trail and
playground area where the little ones can let out some energy. You'll also be far away
from the crowded beaches that are right outside of the hotels and resorts, so at least you
won't have to fight for a spot to lay out your beach towel.
If you work up an appetite, there are several decent restaurants nearby but it's also the
perfect spot to pack a basket and have a low-key picnic on the beach. But just keep in mind
that alcohol is not permitted.
Nab A Big One Fishing
It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned fisherman or just want to dip your toes in the water
for a bit, Destin is a stellar location to go fishing because of its marine life biodiversity.
There are a ton of fishing piers, beaches, and jetties to cast your line from, or you
can always charter a boat to go deep-sea fishing if that sounds more like your cup of tea.
Okaloosa Island Pier is one of the most popular fishing piers in Destin, but you won't have
to look long before finding others that are just as good. Several restaurants will even
cook up your cleaned fish as part of the Gulf-to-Table program. What could be easier than that?
Destin History And Fishing Museum
Speaking of fishing, Destin has a rich history of both commercial and sport fishing. This
museum will take you on an informative journey into the rich cultural history of fishing
in the Destin area. Feast your eyes on vintage fishing equipment and photos while reading
stories from the past that will paint a unique picture of Destin's ongoing and historic love
affair with angling. History fanatics will especially be interested in catching a glimpse
of some of the gear that once belonged to great American novelist Ernest Hemingway.
Hit The Links At One Of Destin's Acclaimed Golf Courses
Destin and its neighbor Fort Walton Beach are home to a handful of scenic golf courses.
Four championship golf courses and country clubs can be found in Destin alone and a total
of eight courses are in the surrounding Emerald Coast region.
Kelly Plantation Golf Club, which is situated along the Choctawhatchee Bay, is revered by
both locals and out-of-towners alike. Built on the former site of a historic turpentine
plantation, this 18-hole course boasts miles of waterfront, bayous, and magnolia and palmetto
tree groves.
Emerald Bay, which is located inside a gated community that shares its name, is another
favorite spot to schedule a tee time.
Gulfarium Marine Adventures Park
If you're hoping to spot a dolphin on your next visit to Destin or if you just simply
desire to learn more about some of Florida's marine life, then you might want to swing
by the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Although it does feature daily dolphin and sea lion
shows, the Gulfarium isn't anything like SeaWorld. You won't find any rides or large animals
here, but despite its small size, the park is still a popular destination for travelers
with children.
Not only can you see live Dolphins hurdling through the air, but you can also learn all
about the alligators, reptiles, penguins, sea lions, and stingrays that call the Gulfarium
their home. You can even have a hands-on experience with the dolphins and snorkel with the stingrays
if you want to have a more immersive experience - but if you go that route, prepare to shell
out a little extra dough.
Race To The Finish Line Over At The Track
The Track is home to five go-kart tracks, two mini-golf courses, an arcade, and several
other kid-friendly activities. The Track is certain to please the entire family. The mini-golf
courses are well-maintained and manicured and the park is dedicated to offering fun
for children of all ages.
The park also offers a thrill zone where visitors looking for their next adrenaline fix can
get their kicks. There you will find the Skyflyer and Hurricane 360 thrill rides.
Shop Till You Drop At Baytowne Wharf
The Village of Baytowne Wharf is the perfect spot to fill your shopping bags at its many
boutique shops or enjoy a meal at one of its restaurants. It's also a great place to take
photos with all of the cute buildings that can be found along the lagoon. Every year,
there are several festivals and special events in this area, so be sure to check their schedule
before planning your visit.
Take A Trip Back In Time On The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise
If you've ever wanted to see what Destin might have looked like a couple of hundred years
ago, then you should probably know that Destin's waters once were filled with dastardly pirates
and their ominous vessels. Today, you can still get a taste of what pirate life was
all about on the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise. There are interactive activities geared towards
children like mock sword fights, water cannon battles, and song and dance routines.
But, since this is a popular attraction, you'll want to book early. You can reserve your spot
up to two weeks before your visit.
So, what do you think? Did you find this video to be helpful or perhaps you have a few suggestions
of your own that you'd like to share – either way, let us know your thoughts in the comments
section below.
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