A panhandle town with Gulf of Mexico views, Destin draws visitors to northwest Florida with its sugary beaches, quiet nature trails, adventure parks, and golf courses. There's plenty of family fun to be found here at attractions such as the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and Henderson Beach State Park, while outdoor enthusiasts will find a long list of things to do in Destin—from fishing charters, dolphin-spotting tours, and kayaking excursions, to scenic sunset cruises, pontoon rentals, and snorkeling.
Destin’s well-known hangout, Crab Island, is crawling with people throughout the summer months due to the warm weather. No one can deny that summer is a great time to visit and enjoy the beach life—but you should consider other seasons as well. Autumn brings cooler weather and cool festivals, like the Destin Seafood Festival and Destin Fishing Rodeo, to the area. These October events are great ways to savor the local culture without the need to swim or sunbathe.
Destin comprises less than 8 square miles (2.4 square kilometers), so this small beach town doesn’t require a car. Public transportation is limited to bus routes, so the ideal method of travel without a private car is renting a bicycle, moped, or scooter. You can cruise around the beach with ease, especially if you’re staying in a hotel or vacation rental near the shoreline. As for getting to Crab Island, your options include a shuttle boat, private charter, and renting kayaks, pontoon boats, and even floating tiki bars.
You will have no trouble spending days visiting Destin’s outdoor attractions such as Crab Island, Santa Rosa Beach, and Henderson Beach State Park. Crab Island can get crowded, though—so if you want shorelines with fewer sandals, head west to Navarre Beach. The pier is an excellent spot for dropping a fishing line and watching the sunsets. Spend a few hours on the water with a kayak or paddleboard so you can see turtles swimming in the sea. On rainy days, head to the Destin Commons or Village of Baytowne Wharf for shopping, dining, and picturesque strolls.
