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Whether it’s your first trip to Destin or your family returns every summer, one thing’s for sure: there’s never a shortage of things to do in this Gulf Coast gem. Known for its sugar-white sand beaches, emerald-green waters, and laid-back charm, Destin, Florida is packed with outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, family fun, and relaxing escapes….

What Makes Destin, Florida So Unique? A Local’s Guide to the Emerald Coast’s Most Magical Town Destin isn’t just another beach town — it’s a coastal anomaly. A place where powdered-sugar sand meets glowing emerald surf, where dolphins leap through the horizon and locals still wave as they pass. So what makes Destin, Florida so…

Written by Nicole Atwell    The allure of fireworks is universal. The crackle, the burst of colors against the night sky, the collective “oohs” and “aahs” of the crowd—they all create a magical atmosphere that transcends age and culture. Nowhere is this magic more palpable than in Destin, Florida, where the night sky comes alive…

How to Eat Like a Local in Destin, FL By Rebekah Permenter — Originally published April 30, 2024 | Updated July 2025 Visiting Destin and wondering where locals eat? From breakfast gems to dinner treasures, here’s my insider guide to authentic restaurants that will make your vacation meals unforgettable. I’ve lived here long enough to…

Beach Vacation Check List It’s time to start thinking about your beach vacation. While Santa checks his list in December, you’re going to want to update your packing list with must have items before you head to the Emerald Coast. Whether you’re coming for a week or a weekend, you’ll need everything on the list!…

When comes to advocating for and protecting the environment, kids are leading the way. Actively fostering environmental stewardship today will lead to a cleaner, greener, tomorrow, and there are a number of ways families can positively impact the environment- even when on vacation. Leave Nothing Behind: We have all heard the proverb, “Take nothing but…

The heartwarming tale of Winter and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium brought significant and well-deserved attention to the non-profit’s mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing marine life, including dolphins. Organizations like these are dedicated to responding to marine emergencies and work with agencies like NOAA and use guidelines established by the Marine Mammal Protection Act,  to…

No matter how long locals have lived along the Emerald Coast or how many times the tourists have come to visit, catching a glimpse of a dolphin, or pod of dolphins playing in the emerald green waters never fails to delight. The Emerald Coast is home to  both Atlantic spotted dolphins and bottle nose dolphins…

According to the World Wildlife Federation, climate change is quickly becoming the biggest threat to bottle nose and Atlantic spotted dolphins, the species most often seen along the Emerald Coast.  Changing sea temperature, the freshening of sea water from melting ice, increase rainfall, and decreased krill are all effects of climate change and are making…

#1 – Annual Passes for a Family-Friendly Cruise Near Destin Harbor Southern Star EcoTour Dolphin Cruise Located right in the vibrant Destin Harbor, adjacent to the famous HarborWalk Village, our Southern Star Dolphin Cruise is a fun activity for all ages. Starting at $149 for adults, our dolphin cruise annual passes offer numerous opportunities…

It’s hard to find a more Instagram worthy area in Florida than 30-a. Each little beach town along the scenic highway has its own feel and flair, so whether you’re curating a cool, retro feel, or a bright, modern vibe, you’re sure to find the perfect backdrop along 30-a. Your first stop in Grayton Beach…

It’s all about the ‘gram these days. If you don’t document it on social media, did it even happen? Lucky for us, Destin is full of carefully curated, insta worth locations that are designed to make the biggest impact to your social feeds. We provide the backdrop, you provide the smiles!  You might not be…