TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN DESTIN, FLORIDA
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.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the top sights and experiences in Destin, FL, all curated to help you plan the perfect beach vacation.
Top 5 Things to Do in Destin, Florida
- Soak Up the Sun at Family-Friendly Beach Parks
- Snorkel and Splash in Destin’s Crystal-Clear Waters
- See Dolphins Up Close on a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
- Pirate Cruise: Set Sail with Singing Pirates and Water Cannon Battles
- Float a River, Hike a Trail, or Cool Off at a Water Park
🏖️ Relax at Destin’s Beautiful Beach Parks
Destin is home to some of the most scenic beach parks in Florida. These spots are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, beach walks, and family picnics, with pavilions, gazebos, and ADA-accessible dune walkovers.
Top beach parks in Destin include:
- Henderson Beach State Park: 208 acres of protected shoreline and coastal scrub trails
- Wayside Park (The Boardwalk): A local favorite with easy access and Gulf views
- James Lee County Park: Great for family gatherings with grills and beach pavilions
- Beasley Park: Located on Okaloosa Island, with beautiful dunes and boardwalks
Whether you’re looking for calm waters for the kids or a quiet morning stroll, these beach parks offer a peaceful break from the crowds.
🐠 Snorkeling & Diving: Explore an Underwater Paradise
Destin sits near the 100 Fathom Curve, a deep underwater drop-off that fuels an incredibly diverse marine ecosystem. Just a mile offshore, snorkelers and divers can encounter:
- Colorful tropical fish
- Sea turtles
- Angelfish and parrotfish
- Rare basket sponges and striped cowries
- Majestic manta rays
Several tour operators in Destin offer snorkeling trips and beginner-friendly diving excursions. If you’ve ever wanted to explore beneath the surface of the Gulf, Destin is the perfect place to do it.
🐬 Dolphin Cruise: One of Destin’s Most Iconic Experiences
One of the most iconic things to do in Destin, the Southern Star Dolphin Cruise offers an unforgettable way to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
Hop aboard Destin’s largest glass-bottom boat for a 90-minute narrated ecotour through Destin Harbor, Choctawhatchee Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll spot playful bottlenose dolphins, seabirds, and marine life — all while enjoying island music and panoramic views.
Highlights include:
- Guaranteed dolphin sightings
- Educational narration and photo-worthy moments throughout
- Fun for all ages
Want something extra magical? Book the Sunset Dolphin Cruise to watch dolphins dance across golden Gulf waters during the most beautiful hour of the day.
🛥️ Consistently ranked as one of the top family-friendly tours in Destin.
☠️ Pirate Cruise: Family Adventure on the High Seas
If you’re looking for a high-energy, family-friendly experience that’ll keep the kids entertained (and the adults smiling), the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is a must-do in Destin.
This 2-hour interactive cruise transforms your family into a crew of swashbuckling buccaneers aboard a real pirate ship and includes:
- Pirate sword fights and treasure hunts
- Water cannon battles
- Singing, dancing, and pirate games
- Grog cocktails for adults 21+
The crew stays in character the entire time, making it one of the most immersive family-friendly attractions in Destin.
Want to wind down the day with some pirate fun? The Buccaneer also offers sunset departure times, combining all the pirate action with golden-hour views over the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the perfect mix of photo-worthy skies and full-throttle adventure.
⚓ Whether you’re 4 or 44, this is one Destin experience the whole crew will remember.
🛶 Explore Freshwater Fun & Natural Florida
Beyond the beach, Destin is surrounded by lush forests, rivers, and trails that showcase Florida’s inland beauty.
Top picks include:
- Blackwater River State Forest: Crystal-clear rivers perfect for tubing and canoeing
- Eglin Reservation: Over 250,000 acres of protected land with hiking and wildlife viewing
- The Track: Family amusement park with bumper boats, go-karts, and mini golf
- Big Kahuna’s Water Park: Water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones
Whether you’re hiking through pine forests or sliding down a water flume, Destin’s inland activities offer something for every energy level.
📝 Things To Know Before You Go
- Time Zone: Destin is in the Central Time Zone
- Dolphin Sightings: Year-round, best viewed on a guided dolphin cruise
- Crab Island: Accessible only by boat, great for floating, paddleboarding, and relaxing
- Family-Friendly: Most tours and attractions cater to kids and multigenerational groups
- Best Seasons: Spring and fall offer warm weather with fewer crowds
❓ FAQ – Top Questions About Destin, FL
What is Destin best known for?
Destin is famous for its sugar-white sand beaches, emerald-green waters, and incredible dolphin watching opportunities.
Can you swim with dolphins in Destin?
You can’t swim with dolphins in the wild, but dolphin cruises offer close encounters. You’ll often see them jumping, swimming, and playing near the boat.
What’s the best family activity in Destin?
The Southern Star Dolphin Cruise is one of the best-rated family activities: educational, fun, and interactive.
What is Crab Island, and how do you get there?
Crab Island is a submerged sandbar near the Destin Bridge. It’s only accessible by boat, kayak, or pontoon rental, and it’s a popular spot for floating, socializing, and soaking up the sun.
What are the top things to do in Destin besides the beach?
Top non-beach activities include dolphin cruises, pirate cruises, snorkeling, hiking at Blackwater River, and visiting HarborWalk Village.