Destin Florida Beaches

 

Top 10 Things to do in Destin

There are so many things to do and places to explore in Destin that we’ve listed our Top Ten Destin Things to do (in no particular order).

  1. Fishing at Henderson Beach State Park
    They don’t call this the Luckiest Fishing Village in the World for nothing. Bring a cooler and your fishing gear and just toss your line in the Gulf from here and enjoy the sunset.

  2. Golfing at Emerald Bay Golf Club
    Emerald Bay is our personal favorite Golf Course but certainly a number of others in and around Destin will do. There are a number of garden views in addition to alot of water features so be sure to bring extra balls!

  3. Snorkeling at the Destin East Jetty
    There is public beach access near the Jetties but prepared to arrive early as parking is limited. You will have to walk about 20 minutes to reach the actual rocks, but the underwater scenery is well work the walk. This is also one of the best fishing spots in town so bring a rod as well. Depending on the season you’ll be able to catch Bluefish, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, Redfish or Cobia.

    Directions: Turn south on highway 98 (across from Target) onto Gulf Shore Drive. Find a spot to park along near the O’steen Beach entrance or on the street or in the lot at the end of the street. Parking on the street will reduce the amount of walking needed to reach the rocks.

    Caution: the tides change daily and the rocks can be slippery so be careful if heading out on the rocks!

  4. Pontoon Rental and Crab Island
    If you are on a vacation with a group of 8-12 people, then a half day Pontoon Rental is a great way to spend an afternoon. Cruise around the Destin Harbor and explore the area. Be sure to stop off on Crab Island to hang out with the local partiers. Bring tunes, food, drinks, snorkeling and fishing gear and just enjoy a day in the sun. We recommend just the half day as a full day in the sun can be a bit extreme in the summer months! Read more about Crab Island here..

  5. Cocktails at the Sand Bar
    You can access the Sand Bar via the June Decker Beach access area. Walk left when you get to the beach and you can’t miss the bar on your left. The folks are friendly and is a great place to chat with fellow travelers or get the inside scoop from the locals. Don’t be surprised if you see dolphins swimming by to say hi around sunset. Getting a picture of them is nearly impossible so just enjoy them while they are there!

  6. Shopping at Silver Sands
    Okay I have to admit that shopping at Silver Sands is pretty cool. It’s the largest retail outlet mall in the US and there is something for everyone (yes guys as well).

  7. Visiting Baytowne Wharf
    Baytowne Wharf is a unique fairy-tale like town dropped into the middle of the Sandestin Resort. Spend a few hours just walking around or head there for dinner.

  8. Deep Sea Fishing
    If you’re visiting with a group then charter a boat and head out for some full-day or half-day fun. There are trips designed for all fishing levels and you’ll be sure to catch something and just have an awesome day out on the Gulf.

  9. BBQ at The Shed
    Offering award winning southern barbeque at this newly opened restaurant and bar near the Harborwalk Village in Destin. There is live music nightly and is a great option for a night out. Trust me, this is some serious barbeque.

  10. Night Dolphin Cruise
    This is something that everyone should do once. We had a fabulous time on this sunset cruise that included drinks and plenty of dolphin viewing. Great activity for the kids as well.