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27 Best Things to Do in Destin (By a Local)
👉 Jump to: Best Things to Do | Free | Family-Friendly | Outdoor Activities | Hidden Gems | Museums & Culture | Rainy Day Activities
There are a ton of things to do in Destin, Florida. The white-sand beaches are some of the most pristine I’ve ever seen, and I love how the city blends small-town charm with the convenience of big-city amenities.
I’ve been lucky enough to live in Destin, Florida, for the last five years with my husband and am proud to call the Emerald Coast home. In this guide, I’ll be sharing my top Destin recommendations for must-visit sites, restaurants, and family-friendly activities. You’ll find some hidden gems here, too!
Before we get into it, bookmark my guide to where to stay in Destin to read next.
Best Things to Do in Destin
Crab Island
Boat to this iconic sandbar in Destin and party with locals and tourists alike.
📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free | 👉 4 Hour Destin Harbor Crab Island Excursion
One of the most iconic things to do in Destin is visit Crab Island – a submerged sandbar located just minutes from the Destin shore. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Crab Island attracts hundreds of boaters to swim, float, drink, and enjoy the party-like scene.
For the best experience, you should visit Crab Island during high tide for crystal-clear waters in the summer months. You can only reach Crab Island by boat, and it’s recommended you either rent one during your visit or book a water taxi. There are plenty of great places to rent a boat right in Destin, and it’s just a short journey to Crab Island. Pontoons are the most popular choice!
👉 Local Tip: Consider renting one of the Cruisin’ Tikis if you’re visiting Crab Island for a special occasion, such as a bachelorette party or milestone birthday. These floating tiki huts are super fun, and you’re provided with a boat captain so you don’t have to worry about driving.
Scenic Highway 30A
Explore charming towns or bike scenic trails on this famous coastal highway.
I had never heard of the Scenic 30A Highway before moving to Destin. Now, it’s one of my favorite ways to spend a Saturday!
30A is a 26-mile stretch of scenic highway along the beach that’s lined with quaint coastal towns. I love starting my day in Rosemary Beach and leisurely heading west to Destin on 30A, stopping at the charming towns along the way.
Some of my must-visit restaurants include Great Southern Cafe in Seaside (for half-off mojitos during happy hour) and Scratch Biscuit Kitchen in Watercolor (for the best buttermilk chicken tenders). Finish your day at The Bay for sushi and happy hour, or swing by North Beach Social across the street for a casual dinner on the beach.
👉 Local Tip: Most of the beach access points along 30A are considered private entrances, which can be frustrating for first-timers. Try Ed Walline for public beach access, or skip the beach and enjoy the towns instead.
Henderson Beach State Park
Experience untapped nature, walking trails, and sugary-white sand beaches.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 837-7550 | Website | Hours: 8:00 am to Sunset daily | Entrance: $6 per vehicle
As Destin’s popularity has skyrocketed, much of our coastline is lined with private property signs and condo buildings, but not Henderson Beach State Park.
This protected strip of beach showcases the natural landscape with soft, sugary-white sand and uninterrupted views of the sea. There is also a pet-friendly walking path, campsite, and facilities.
This park is extremely popular in the summer months, so locals tend to visit during the winter. If you visit in the summer, arrive as early as possible or closer to sunset.
👉 Local Tip: Head to the rooftop bar at the Henderson Beach Resort for a stunning view of the state park and enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset. You don’t need to be a guest to visit the rooftop bar, and it’s one of the best vantage points in Destin.
Sunset Dolphin Cruise
Spot dolphins in the wild during a scenic sunset cruise around Destin Harbor.
👉 Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise in Destin Harbor
Dolphins can be seen in Destin year-round, but they’re usually most active in the winter months and during high tide. If you’re determined to see dolphins in the wild, book a sunset dolphin cruise for a memorable vacation experience.
There are many different local vendors that offer these sunset cruises, and it’s an affordable evening activity that your entire family will enjoy.
You’ll typically sail through the Destin Harbor and East Pass to see playful dolphins and a breathtaking sunset. Daytime dolphin-spotting tours are available too, but I highly recommend booking a sunset tour. Nothing beats the beauty of a Destin sunset!
Destin Beaches
Soak up the sun, swim in the emerald-colored ocean, and unwind on the soft white-sand beaches.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 837-4242 | Website | Hours: Sunrise to Sunset Daily | Entrance: Free
You can’t come to Destin and not plan a visit to the beach! Our beaches along the Emerald Coast are open all year. Even if you come during the winter months, you can still enjoy our soft, white sand and emerald-colored waters. As a local, winter is my favorite time of year with cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Of course, summer is the most popular time to visit the beaches, and there are multiple public access points along the Destin coast. Parking is a minimum of $20 for four hours, unless you get lucky with a free spot. I’d recommend parking at the nearby Shoppes at Paradise Isle in Destin and walking a few blocks to Crystal Beach. There are bathrooms here, too.
Free Things to Do in Destin
Baytowne Wharf
Stroll through the shops, listen to live music, or soar on the zipline at this popular Destin spot.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850)-267-8000 | Website | Hours: Open Daily | Entrance: Free, but activities are extra
Nestled along the shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay, Baytowne Wharf is a unique attraction within the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort area. You don’t need to stay in the resort to visit, as it’s open to the public and perfect for a family-friendly outing.
This open-air village has local boutiques, restaurants, bars, and thrilling activities for the whole family. During the day, kids can enjoy the Baytowne Adventure Zone for an obstacle course and zipline. In the evenings, RumRunners has live music and dancing into the night for adults.
In my opinion, the restaurant scene is nothing to rave about, so stick to having drinks, grabbing a snack, or ending the night with ice cream (Moo La-la Ice Cream is the best).
Destin HarborWalk Village
Eat fresh seafood with waterfront views or browse the shops along the scenic harbor boardwalk.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 965-7092 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 9 pm daily | Entrance: Free
Although Destin isn’t known for its wild nightlife, we do have some lively nighttime entertainment. Destin’s HarborWalk Village is a popular spot to visit at night, and it has a fun ambiance with scenic views of the East Pass harbor.
The boardwalk is lined with restaurants, bars, shops, and family-friendly activities. It’s a fun area to walk around and take in the ocean view or sunset. Walking around is free, but kids can enjoy activities like the zipline and trampoline park for an extra cost.
Fudpucker’s Alligator Show
See 100+ alligators up close, learn about local wildlife, and watch an entertaining show.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 654-4200 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: Free
One of the quirkiest must-do activities in Destin is a visit to Fudpucker’s to see live alligators at Gator Beach Alligator Park. I’ve never heard anyone rave about the food at the restaurant, but the daily alligator show is a must, especially for kids. Even better, it’s completely free to visit!
You can see nearly 100 alligators in the park and watch live gator shows, which typically take place every two hours. You can pay extra to feed the gators and hold a baby alligator for a photo op. Prepare for crowds, though, as the park tends to get busy during the summer months.
Family-Friendly Activities in Destin
Buccaneer Pirate Cruise
Climb aboard a massive pirate ship for a voyage through Destin Harbor that your whole family will love.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 269-0896 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 4 pm daily | Entrance: $44, adults, $34 children
Set sail in Destin Harbor aboard the famous Buccaneer Pirate Cruise, one of the best family-friendly attractions in the area. This interactive, one-of-a-kind adventure takes place aboard their 100-foot Buccaneer sailboat, under the command of Captain Steve and his mates. This isn’t just for kids, either, as adults absolutely love this nautical experience, too.
You can choose between a few different experiences, including the Family Pirate Cruise, Sunset Pirate Cruise, or Firework Pirate Cruise. The ship departs right from the marina at HarborWalk Village with multiple sailings each day.
Captain Leonard Destin Park
Relax like a local at this family-friendly Destin park and swim in the calm harbor overlooking Crab Island.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 654-5184 | Website | Hours: 6 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: Free
Considered a favorite by locals, the Captain Leonard Destin Park is a lovely 3.42-acre park that overlooks Crab Island and the Choctawhatchee Bay. You can find an accessible beach area for swimming and a boardwalk, a kids’ splash pad, and a playground. There is also a launch for paddle boards and kayaks.
Destin locals love visiting Captain Leonard Destin Park for the convenient location and clean facilities. The beach here has a calm, gentle current, making this park an ideal choice for families with toddlers who want to enjoy swimming without big waves.
👉 Local Tip: Take a short walk to Pink Coyote Dessert Co. for some of the best locally made ice cream in Destin. My favorite is the Speculoos Avalanche milkshake!
Big Kahuna Water and Adventure Park
Beat the Florida heat and splash around this adventure-packed water park that’s fun for the entire family.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 837-8319 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm water park, 12 pm – 10 pm for adventure park. Open April – September, Closed Mondays | Entrance: $59.99 ages 3-59, $46.99 ages 60+
While not necessarily the biggest waterpark, Big Kahuna Water and Adventure Park is jam-packed with fun for the whole family. It may seem small from the highway, but the park is surprisingly spacious once you’re inside.
You can find waterslides, a wave pool, two lazy rivers, and toddler areas for water playtime. Attractions include a surf simulator, a sky coaster, and miniature golf. Big Kahuna is a popular place to spend an afternoon in the summer, especially for families, so expect crowds during peak season.
Destin Commons Shopping
Discover shopping, dining, and family fun at Destin’s best outdoor lifestyle center.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 337-8700 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Sat; 11 am – 7 pm Sun
Looking for the perfect family-friendly afternoon activity? One of my favorite places to visit for shopping is the Destin Commons. This open-air, outdoor mall has everything from national retailers to local boutiques.
You can find an entire area for kids to play, including a playground and splash pad – both are free to use. Destin Commons is also lined with restaurants, although our favorite spot is across the street at Craft Bar. There is a movie theater located in the Destin Commons, which is one of the main theaters in the city and the best option for moviegoers.
Outdoor Activities in Destin
The Island Pier
Stroll above the emerald waters on this iconic boardwalk in Okaloosa Island & watch for dolphins at sunset.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 244-1023 | Website | Hours: open 24 hours | Entrance: $2 for entry, $8 for adults fishing, $5 for child fishing, Free for under age 5
Perhaps the most iconic pier in Destin, The Island Pier (formerly known as the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier) is a must-do. The pier stretches out 1,262 feet above the emerald waters and the white-sand beaches. If you want to fish, you can bring your own gear or rent equipment.
You will need to pay a small fee to walk the pier, typically only a few dollars per person. The 0.25-mile walk over the ocean is worth it, and there’s a good chance you’ll see some wildlife from above!
Golfing
Tee off with stunning views of the bay.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate Destin’s wide selection of top-tier courses. The coast is lined with excellent options, and courses are open all year.
As you might anticipate, golfing in Destin isn’t cheap, so don’t plan to skimp on your budget if golfing is on your agenda. Some of the best courses, according to my golf-loving husband, include Kelly Plantation, Emerald Bay, and Sandestin Golf Course.
Deep Sea Fishing
Venture from the Destin shore and cast your fishing reel deep into the sea for local catches.
If you’re looking to do some fishing while visiting Destin, you’re in luck! The Emerald Coast is known for having excellent deep-sea fishing, including red snapper and cobia. You can fish year-round, but summer is the prime time.
You’ll head out into the Gulf for either full or half-day tours, typically from a charter company in the local area. If you’re prone to seasickness, be sure to bring some Dramamine or Bonine.
Firework Shows
Marvel at the dazzling fireworks illuminating the sky over Destin’s coast.
🕒 Hours: 9 pm Mondays and Thursdays, Summers | Entrance: Free
Evenings in Destin are best spent watching the sunset or staying up late for the fireworks. There are multiple fireworks shows over Destin Harbor throughout the summer, although you can also find fireworks displays over spring break and holidays.
The best place to watch the fireworks is along the boardwalk of Destin’s HarborWalk Village, as the fireworks illuminate the sky right above the East Pass. Locals prefer heading to the upper levels of Margaritaville, Skybar at The Edge, or Harry T’s. During the summer, you can see the fireworks on Mondays and Thursdays at 9:00 PM.
Beach Sunset
Snap sunset photos over the water as the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery-orange and pink hues.
You’ll be treated to some of the best sunsets when visiting Destin, and there’s no better place to see a sunset than on the beach. Our beaches face the south, so sunsets change throughout the year.
You can only catch the sun setting over the water in the fall, winter, and early spring. Some of the best spots are right on the Destin beaches – my favorite is Crystal Beach.
In the summer, you can catch the sunset over the Choctawhatchee Bay. Some of the top places to watch the sunset here are either Crab Island, Captain Leonard Destin Park, or The Village at Baytowne Wharf.
Hidden Gems in Destin
Tubing at Turkey Creek
Venture to the locals’ hangout in Niceville and tube down the slow-moving creek.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 685-9405 | Website | Hours: 6 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free
For a unique activity, head to Turkey Creek Nature Trail in Niceville. In fact, many of the area’s locals reside in Niceville, which is located across the bay from Destin.
Here, you can enjoy a 2-mile walking trail on a boardwalk that follows Turkey Creek. Locals love to tube down the creek in the summer as well. Bring your own tube and float around Turkey Creek – it’s perfect for families.
Resort Day Pass
Indulge in a daycation with premium amenities at some of Destin’s top resorts with a day pass.
As a tourist destination, Destin is packed with top-of-the-line hotels, condos, and resorts. After moving to the area, my husband and I took advantage of resort day passes to relax like tourists, and we loved it!
If you’re staying in a no-frills accommodation and want to spoil yourself for a daycation, consider purchasing a day pass to one of Destin’s resorts. Some of the top hotels offer day passes where you can use the hotel’s best facilities, including the pools, beaches, bars, and restaurants.
Our top pick is the ultra-chic Ara Rooftop Pool and Lounge at Hotel Effie for its heated rooftop pool and rentable cabanas. You’ll have one of the best views of the bay – it’s perfect to watch the sunset!
Boating to “The Islands”
Skip the crowds and head to these secluded islands in Destin Sound for a quiet afternoon on the water.
If you’re renting a boat while in Destin and don’t want to deal with the party vibes and crowds of Crab Island, consider boating to “The Islands” instead. This is a small group of tiny, secluded islands located west of the Brooks Bridge in the sound, so they are easy to access from Destin.
There are several sandbars where you can relax without battling the congested Crab Island, making them a top pick for locals and tourists wanting a quieter day on the water.
Museums & Culture in Destin
Air Force Armament Museum
Learn about the area’s rich military history and view historic aircraft.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 882-4062 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free
The Emerald Coast has a huge military presence with multiple Air Force bases in the surrounding area. There are three main bases in the Destin region: Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Air Force Base, and Duke Air Force Base. So, consider visiting the United States Air Force Armament Museum during your stay.
This free museum is a hidden gem located adjacent to Eglin Air Force Base near Fort Walton Beach. You can observe 29 different aircraft, including a B-17 from World War II and an F-4 Phantom II jet. The museum inside displays an impressive selection of armaments, such as a gun collection, bombs, and missiles to observe.
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Watch dolphin and sea lion shows at this family-friendly aquarium while also learning about their focus on local animal rehabilitation.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850)-243-9046 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4:30 pm daily | Entrance: $32.95 – $34.95 for adults (aged 13-61), $22.95 – $24.95 for children (under 13), $31.95 – $33.95 for senior (age 62+)
One of the best family-friendly activities in the area can be found at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. The facility is small, but the animals are well cared for and include a variety of dolphins, sea lions, turtles, penguins, and stingrays. You can watch captivating live shows each day with the dolphins and sea lions – a crowd favorite!
The Gulfarium also features a sea turtle rehabilitation center and a recently expanded dolphin enclosure. In fact, the aquarium was the first to raise a stranded baby bottlenose dolphin, and continues to rehabilitate various sea turtle species to release back into the wild. You’ll be able to learn about the aquarium’s mission and inspirational conservation efforts during your visit.
Annual Events and Festivals
Participate in lively annual events and festivals that showcase the best of the local culture.
When we first moved to the area, I was pleasantly surprised to find a myriad of festivals and events that take place each year. We attended the annual Mac & Cheese festival during our first spring break living in Destin and loved the cheesy experience.
If you’re heading to Destin, check for any local festivals or annual events that might be happening during your stay. I highly recommend attending one of these events to make the most of your time in Destin, and the funds typically support local causes.
For instance, you can typically find events like the following:
- 30A Songwriters Festival (January)
- Shrimp & Grits Festival (February)
- Brunch Fest (February)
- Mardi Gras parades (March)
- Mac & Cheese Festival (March)
- Gulf Coast Jeepapalooza (March)
- Destin Wine & Food Festival (April)
- Burgers, Bourbon, and Beer Festival (September)
- Destin Seafood Festival (October)
- Destin Boat Parade (December)
Farmers Markets
Support local businesses and bring home handmade goodies.
Whether you’re wanting some homemade bread, freshly-made pie, or some locally-made goodies, Destin has multiple farmers markets throughout the week. These are fun to visit, even if you just want to stroll around and see what’s available. Not to mention, it always feels good to support small businesses.
Most popular farmers’ markets are on the weekend, such as the Grand Boulevard Farmers Market and Seaside Farmers Market. Both run from 9 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. Destin Commons also holds a farmers market on the last Sunday of the month from 11 am to 4 pm, while Destin Community Farmers Market is every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm.
Rainy Day Activities in Destin
Local Coffee Shops
Skip the national chains and try one of the many local coffee shops in Destin to fuel your morning.
One of my favorite things to do in Destin is visit one of our many local coffee shops, especially on a cozy, rainy day. Whether we are spending the day in Destin or just running some errands, there are so many fantastic, locally-owned coffee shops in our area that we enjoy visiting.
Some of my favorite coffee shops include Cafe Destin, East Pass Coffee Co., Causeway Coffee, Bistrology, Beignets & Brews, and 2 Birds Coffee.
Grand Boulevard at Sandestin
Catch a movie, shop at national retailers, and browse the weekend farmers’ markets.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 837-3099 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 9 pm Mon; 10 am – 8 pm Tue-Sat; 11 am – 7 pm Sun | Entrance: Free
There’s no shortage of shopping in Destin, even for higher-end stores. The upscale Grand Boulevard near Sandestin is an outdoor mall with shops, a movie theatre, and restaurants. You can find the more premium national retailers here, including William Sonoma, Lululemon, Anthropologie, Lilly Pulitzer, and more.
Grand Boulevard is a lovely place to walk around, browse the shops, see a movie, or grab a bite to eat. Some of our favorite restaurants are located within Grand Boulevard, including Black Bear Co for a Parisian-style bakery and Vin’Tij Food & Wine for an upscale, romantic dinner. You can spend an entire rainy day here enjoying the shops and restaurants.
Silver Sands Premium Outlet Mall
Shop national brands at steep discounts.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (850) 654-9771 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm Mon-Sat; 11 am – 6 pm Sun | Entrance: Free
As a shopaholic, I love how many shopping centers can be found around Destin. One of my favorite spots to visit is the Silver Sands Premium Outlet Mall when I want to do some retail therapy. There are more than 90 different stores here, and the mall is massive.
Be prepared to walk through, as the mall is very spread out. You can walk under the covered awning, so this is a good activity even if it’s raining. Because of this, you shouldn’t have to worry about parking, which is a plus!
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Thanks for reading my guide on things to do in Destin! I’ve traveled around the world, but Destin continues to be one of my favorite places. Before you go, don’t forget to read my guide to the best hotels & areas in Destin.