THINGS TO DO IN DESTIN
Top Things to Do in Destin, FL: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Sights and Experiences
Whether it’s your first visit to Destin, Florida, or your hundredth, there’s no shortage of exciting activities and top sights to explore. From pristine beaches to thrilling adventures, Destin has something for everyone, including families, seniors, and young kids. We’ve curated a list of the best experiences in Destin to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful coastal paradise.
Beach Parks: Relax and Enjoy the Views
Destin is home to some of the top sights in the area, and its beach parks are no exception. These scenic spots offer a mix of relaxation and recreation, with pavilions, gazebos, and ADA-accessible wooden dune walkovers. Among the must-visit beach parks are Henderson Beach State Park (208 acres of stunning beachfront), Wayside County Park (the “Boardwalk”), Beasley County Park, and James Lee County Park—all located along the picturesque beaches of Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island. Each park provides unique views, making them perfect spots for a family picnic or a peaceful day by the sea.
Snorkeling and Diving: Discover Underwater Wonders
When it comes to things to do in Destin, FL, you can’t miss the world-class snorkeling and diving experiences. Just a mile off the coast, the waters are teeming with marine life, thanks to the underwater 100 Fathom Curve. This natural wonder creates a rich ecosystem of vibrant coral reefs and sea creatures. From colorful angelfish to majestic manta rays and protected sea turtles, there’s plenty to discover beneath the waves. The area also boasts an array of rare marine life, such as striped cowries and four-foot basket sponges. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, Destin’s waters are a must-see for underwater adventurers.
Dolphin Cruise: Sail Into the Sunset
A Dolphin Cruise is one of the top experiences in Destin. Hop aboard the Southern Star Dolphin Cruise, a glass-bottom boat that offers an up-close look at marine life in its natural habitat. The cruise is perfect for families, as kids can steer the boat and even feed the birds while watching playful dolphins leap and splash in the water. As the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico, the beautiful views make this a truly memorable experience. With a Hall of Fame Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular activities in Destin.
Pirate Cruise: Family Fun on the High Seas
For a fun and unique family adventure, don’t miss the Pirate Cruise with The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise. This two-hour journey takes you and your little buccaneers on an exciting voyage, where you’ll raise the pirate flag, hunt for treasure, and engage in sword fights and water gun battles. The high-energy pirates also lead singing and dancing for both kids and adults. For those 21 and older, enjoy a grog cocktail as you sail the waters of Destin. Ranked with a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, this pirate-themed cruise is perfect for the whole crew.
Freshwater Fun: Explore Northwest Florida’s Natural Beauty
If you’re looking for more outdoor adventure, Northwest Florida offers pristine wilderness areas like Blackwater River State Forest and Eglin Reservation. These areas are perfect for tubing, canoeing, hiking, and camping along crystal-clear rivers. For families seeking amusement park fun, The Track and Big Kahunas are two popular destinations, offering thrilling activities like dune buggy races, water slides, bumper boats, and putt-putt golf.
Conclusion: Top Sights and Experiences for All Ages
Whether you’re soaking up the sun at one of Destin’s serene beach parks, diving into the clear waters, or embarking on a fun-filled pirate cruise, there’s no shortage of top sights in Destin, FL that promise unforgettable memories. With activities perfect for every age group and interest, Destin truly offers something for everyone. From exciting water adventures to peaceful nature escapes, plan your trip to this beautiful coastal gem today!