The first time I visited Destin, I didn’t expect much beyond another Florida beach town. I’d seen the pictures pretty, sure but I figured it would be like any other sunny coastal spot. But then I crossed the bridge into town, glanced out the window, and did a double take. The water wasn’t just blue it was emerald. Like, actual emerald. Clear as glass, sparkling under the sun, with boats floating over it like they were suspended in air.
Later that day, I found myself ankle-deep in that same water at Crab Island, standing on soft sand that had vanished beneath the tide. The whole place had this easy, playful energy families tossing frisbees from boat decks, someone grilling burgers off the side of a pontoon, a guy strumming a guitar while perched on a cooler. It felt more like a secret summer lagoon than a tourist destination.
That first sunset in Destin caught me completely off guard. I was sitting on the harbor wall, ice cream dripping down my hand, watching the sky go from golden to lavender to full-on watercolor. It wasn’t just beautiful it was calm. Easy. Familiar, somehow. Like I’d stumbled into a vacation I didn’t know I needed.
If you’re dreaming of a beach escape that’s as laid-back as it is fun whether you’re craving paddleboard adventures, family-friendly thrills, or just hoping to eat your weight in fresh seafood (guilty) Destin delivers. Here’s everything I loved about it, and everything you should definitely add to your list.
Top 10 Things to Do in Destin, Florida
1. Paddleboard or Float at Crab Island
Crab Island isn’t technically an island it’s a shallow underwater sandbar just north of the Destin Bridge. But don’t let the name fool you it’s hands-down one of the most iconic, can’t-miss experiences in Destin.
I paddled out early in the morning, just after high tide, when the water was glassy and clear. The water was so shallow I could see fish darting around the sand beneath me, and the only sounds were birds overhead and the gentle slap of water against my board. It felt like a secret lagoon all to myself.
By midday, it transformed completely. Boats began to arrive from every direction, anchoring and tying up in little clusters like a floating village. Music played, people lounged on inflatables, and food boats started rolling in serving everything from BBQ to frozen drinks. I even saw a floating ice cream vendor paddle by.
Zee Tip: You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or pontoons from nearby marinas. If you’re not confident paddling out, a boat rental with an anchor makes the experience much easier and more relaxed especially for families or bigger groups.
Best time to go: Mid-morning during high tide for calm water and better visibility. Avoid windy afternoons unless you’re experienced paddling in chop.
What to bring: Waterproof bag, reef-safe sunscreen, floaties, snacks, and cash or card for the floating vendors.
2. Join a Dolphin Cruise at Sunset
If you’ve never seen wild dolphins surf the wake of a boat, Destin is the place to make it happen. We booked a sunset dolphin cruise through one of the local operators at HarborWalk Village, and it was the most peaceful, unexpectedly emotional part of our trip.
The boat ride itself was relaxing we passed luxurious homes, sailboats, and fishing charters heading in for the day. Then, just before sunset, the captain slowed the boat as we entered the open Gulf. Within minutes, a small pod of dolphins appeared alongside us, playfully diving in and out of the water. At one point, two swam right under the bow so close we could hear them breathe.
Some cruises also include snorkeling, glass-bottom viewing, or even pirate-themed tours for kids. The one we chose served snacks and played acoustic music over the speakers. Between the glow of golden hour and the sight of dolphins swimming free, it honestly felt like a dream.
What I loved: The simplicity. No loud crowds, no over-the-top touristy stuff just a slow ride, soft music, and the kind of sunset you wish you could bottle.
Book in advance if you’re visiting during spring break or summer weekends.
Bring: A light jacket, binoculars if you have them, and a camera with good zoom. Dolphins tend to surface quickly and unpredictably!
3. Eat Fresh Seafood with a View
One of my favorite things about Destin? The food tastes like vacation. There’s something about digging into just-caught seafood with salty air in your hair and a sunset in the distance that makes every meal feel special even if it’s served in a plastic basket.
Dewey Destin’s is as local as it gets. The fish tacos were simple but unforgettable, and the view from the dock pelicans perched on pilings, boats cruising past was pure Gulf Coast charm. Boshamps is a bit more upscale, with a beautiful multi-level deck and live music. I ordered the grilled grouper, and it was so buttery and fresh I almost asked for a second plate.
Then there’s The Back Porch, an old-school beachfront seafood shack that still manages to feel cool. I ate fried shrimp with my toes literally in the sand while kids played frisbee in front of the deck. And for something sweet? Donut Hole Bakery Café is legendary. Their pies are big enough to share but you won’t want to.
Zee Tip: Many restaurants don’t take reservations, so go early (especially for dinner with a view).
Other local favorites: Harbor Docks for sushi and seafood, and East Pass Coffee for a light breakfast near the marina.
Must-try dishes: Blackened grouper, Gulf shrimp, hush puppies, and anything served with remoulade.
4. Spend the Day at Henderson Beach State Park
If you’re looking for a beach that feels both wild and well-kept, Henderson Beach State Park is your spot. I arrived around 9 AM, paid the small entrance fee, and followed the wooden boardwalk over the dunes. What I saw on the other side was stunning powdery white sand stretching for miles and barely a crowd in sight.
The water was calm and unbelievably clear. I set up under a shady umbrella and just stayed. I watched pelicans glide inches above the surf, walked the shoreline collecting tiny shells, and even took a short walk on the nature trail that loops through the coastal vegetation behind the dunes.
There’s something about this park that feels slower than the rest of Destin. No noisy spring breakers, no music blasting just nature doing its thing. Whether you’re with kids, your partner, or solo like I was, it’s the kind of place that invites you to just… be.
Facilities: Clean restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic pavilions, and parking close to the beach entrance.
Cost: Usually around $6 per car totally worth it for the peaceful atmosphere alone.
Pack: Plenty of water, snacks, beach gear, and a small cooler if you plan to stay a while.
5. Walk, Eat & Shop at HarborWalk Village
HarborWalk Village is the kind of place that feels alive the moment you step into it. I wandered in on my first evening, not expecting much maybe a few restaurants and souvenir shops. But what I found was a buzzing waterfront scene that pulled me in and kept me coming back every night.
There’s something happening on every corner: live music drifting from patios, street performers juggling fire or painting portraits, and families walking hand-in-hand with frozen daiquiris and cotton candy. The marina glows at sunset, with boats returning from deep-sea fishing trips and dolphins sometimes trailing behind.
I grabbed dinner at a second-story restaurant, then strolled past twinkling string lights while checking out the little boutiques and food carts. It’s also the main hub for activities you can book dolphin cruises, parasailing, paddleboard rentals, and more right here.
Zee Tip: Come at golden hour, stay for dinner and the views, and if you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss the Thursday night fireworks. They light up the harbor and make for an unforgettable end to the evening.
6. Ride Go-Karts and Play at The Track
Don’t let the family-friendly branding fool you The Track is just as fun for adults as it is for kids. I initially stopped by to scope it out for my niece, but next thing I knew, I was buckling into a go-kart and gunning it up a wooden spiral ramp with zero shame.
There are multiple tracks some for little kids and others that get pretty competitive. There’s also bumper boats, mini golf, a massive arcade, and those classic carnival rides that make you feel like a kid again (hello, Tilt-a-Whirl). It’s loud, chaotic, and full of joy just the way it should be.
Best time to go: Late afternoon or early evening when it cools down. Most rides are lit up after dark for extra fun.
Perfect for: Families with kids, groups of friends, or couples looking for a silly date night activity.
7. Take a Pirate Ship Cruise with the Kids
If you’re traveling with little ones, the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is basically a floating playground. The entire experience is themed right down to the crew dressed like pirates, complete with accents, eye patches, and over-the-top jokes that had both kids and adults laughing.
There are water cannon battles, treasure hunts, songs, and even a secret “pirate oath” ceremony. And while the kids are fully engaged in the chaos, you get to sit back and enjoy the coastal views with a cold drink in hand. Win-win.
What I liked: It’s one of those rare kid-focused attractions that doesn’t feel exhausting. It’s fun, well-run, and just the right length (~2 hours).
Zee Tip: Book a sunset cruise for the best light and cooler temps. The views alone are worth it.
8. Explore Mattie Kelly Park and Nature Trail
After a few beach days, I found myself craving a bit of quiet. Mattie Kelly Park was the perfect place to reset. It’s tucked away just north of the main beaches and felt like a hidden pocket of calm.
There’s a wooden boardwalk that winds through marshes and pine trees, with lookout spots over the bay and benches where I just sat and breathed for a while. A few families were fishing or kayaking, but mostly, it was peaceful. Birds fluttered overhead, and the breeze carried the scent of salt and pine.
Bring: Bug spray if you go in the evening, and a picnic if you want to stay a while.
Why I recommend it: Destin has a lot of energy, but this place reminded me that stillness is part of a good trip too.
9. Jet Ski Through Choctawhatchee Bay
This was my adrenaline fix. I rented a jet ski from a small marina near the bridge, and within minutes I was out on the open bay, bouncing over waves with the wind in my face and absolutely no thoughts in my head besides “this is so fun.”
What I loved most was the freedom. You can explore at your own pace zip fast across the water or slow down and take in the views. I even saw a dolphin surface nearby, which made me stop and just float in awe.
Safety first: Pay close attention to no-wake zones and channel markers there’s a lot of boat traffic, especially around Crab Island and the harbor.
Rentals available: By the hour or half-day. Most places offer brief safety training before you ride.
10. Catch Fireworks Over the Harbor
The first time I saw the fireworks show at HarborWalk, I hadn’t planned on it. I was just walking around after dinner when the first burst of light exploded over the water and the whole crowd around me paused to look up.
The fireworks reflect off the marina, casting bursts of color across the water and the boats bobbing gently in the harbor. Kids scream, couples hold hands, and for about 10 minutes, everyone is collectively in awe.
When: Thursday nights during summer (check the local schedule for updates).
Best spots: Grab a drink and watch from a second-story patio, or head down to the docks and sit with your legs dangling over the edge. It’s a moment that feels like a perfect period at the end of your day.:
More Fun Things to Do in Destin
These extra experiences may not have made my top 10, but they’re still 100% worth adding to your Destin itinerary especially if you’re staying for a few days or just love discovering the little things that make a place memorable.
Rent a Pontoon and DIY a Bay Day
Renting a pontoon boat was one of the most relaxing and freeing things I did in Destin. We picked it up from a marina near the Destin Bridge, loaded it with snacks, towels, and a speaker, and cruised into Choctawhatchee Bay like we owned the place.
Once we reached Crab Island, we dropped anchor and turned the boat into our own private lounge. There were people tossing footballs between boats, others just floating on giant inflatables, and a few vendors paddling by selling everything from ice cream to grilled sandwiches.
Why I recommend it: You control the pace swim, nap, snack, sunbathe, repeat. Plus, it’s great for groups or families who want to explore the bay without a rigid schedule.
Need to know: Most pontoons seat 8–12 people and don’t require a boating license for short-term rentals, but bring your ID and listen closely to the safety instructions.
Visit the Destin History & Fishing Museum
This museum isn’t big, but it packs a surprising amount of charm. I wandered in during a hot afternoon and ended up staying longer than I expected. The walls are lined with black-and-white photos of early fishermen, stories about Destin’s transformation from a sleepy fishing village to a major vacation spot, and even a replica fishing boat.
There are glass cases full of vintage gear, preserved fish specimens, and quirky local artifacts that really gave me a new appreciation for Destin’s identity.
Tip: It’s air-conditioned, rarely crowded, and only takes about 30–45 minutes to explore perfect for a break from the sun or to wait out a summer rain.
Don’t miss: The 100-year-old mullet net display and the old-school photos of Destin before the high-rises.
Try Local Coffee & Sweet Treats
I don’t know if it was the salt air or vacation brain, but everything sweet in Destin just tasted better. I started my mornings at East Pass Coffee Co., a cozy little spot near the harbor with strong cold brew, almond croissants, and just enough seating to linger for a bit.
But the real star? Donut Hole Bakery Café. The cinnamon rolls are as big as your face, and the key lime pie is the perfect mix of tart and creamy. One morning I had pie for breakfast, and honestly, no regrets.
Local tip: Go early Donut Hole gets busy by 9 AM, especially on weekends. If you see a line, just know it’s worth the wait.
Other favorites: Parlor Doughnuts (layered doughnuts that taste like croissant hybrids) and Capriccio Café (Italian-style coffee and crepes).
Rainy Day Plans: Arcade, Escape Room, or Science Center
Florida weather can be unpredictable, and yes it might rain. But Destin has you covered with some genuinely fun indoor options that aren’t just time-fillers:
- Fat Daddy’s Arcade: Classic and clean, with everything from skee ball and racing games to giant claw machines and air hockey. It’s loud, chaotic, and a total hit with kids.
- Escape Room Destin: I tried one of the pirate-themed rooms with a group and it was surprisingly challenging (in a good way). Great bonding activity for teens or friend groups.
- Emerald Coast Science Center: Perfect for younger kids with interactive exhibits on energy, space, robotics, and local wildlife. It’s educational without being boring.
Zee Tip: These places get busier when the skies open up, so try to go earlier in the day if rain is in the forecast.
James Lee Park & Norriego Point
If the big-name beaches are feeling too crowded, James Lee Park and Norriego Point are local favorites that offer a more laid-back experience.
- James Lee Park: Just off Scenic Highway 98, this beach has ample parking, restrooms, a shaded picnic area, and a beachfront restaurant (The Crab Trap) steps from the sand. Families love it for its playground and wide, soft shoreline.
- Norriego Point: Tucked near the harbor, this spot has gentle, shallow waters and views of boats drifting in and out of the East Pass. I brought a paddleboard here one morning and had the whole stretch nearly to myself.
Why go: Less commercial, more local. Both spots are great for sunset walks, shell collecting, or just zoning out with a book.
Golf at Emerald Bay Golf Club
I’m not a serious golfer, but even I had to pause and admire the greens at Emerald Bay. It’s one of the more scenic courses in the area, nestled between the bay and lush residential neighborhoods.
Friends of mine played a full round and raved about the course’s condition and peaceful setting. If you’re traveling with golfers or just want to sneak in a solo afternoon outside it’s a great way to unwind in a totally different way.
Other options: Indian Bayou Golf Club (more centrally located) and Regatta Bay (high-end, beautifully maintained).
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
This was such a laid-back, surprisingly delightful way to experience Destin’s marine life especially if you’re not keen on snorkeling or swimming.
We boarded a mid-sized boat at the marina, and as we cruised through the clear waters of the bay, the guides pointed out schools of fish, sea grass beds, and even a curious sea turtle that popped up alongside the hull.
The boat had large glass viewing panels in the floor, which kids loved peering through. I just enjoyed the breeze, the occasional splash of saltwater, and the sense that I was seeing a different side of Destin quieter, calmer, and more natural.
Great for: Families with small children, older adults, or anyone who wants to be on the water without getting wet.
Duration: Most tours are 1.5–2 hours and include narration about the bay’s ecosystem and wildlife.
Final Thoughts
Destin was one of those trips that surprised me in the best way. I went in expecting a few beach days and maybe some seafood but what I found was something more memorable. It’s the kind of place where time slows down a little. Where you end up barefoot more often than not. Where every evening feels like golden hour, and you never have to search too hard for something fun to do or not do at all.
One morning I paddled through the clear shallows of Norriego Point and watched dolphins play in the distance. That same afternoon, I was biting into a shrimp po’ boy with the Gulf breeze in my hair and sand still clinging to my legs. And that night? Fireworks over the harbor and a coffee from a local shop I’d found by accident. Every moment felt easy and a little bit unexpected.
That’s the thing about Destin, it’s not just a beach town. It’s a collection of moments: toes-in-the-sand breakfasts, pontoon boat picnics, local history tucked into tiny museums, and sunsets that make you want to come back before you’ve even left.
If you’re planning a trip to Florida’s Gulf Coast, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re bringing the kids, visiting with friends, or escaping solo like I did, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
And if you’re in the mood to keep exploring, check out my post on Things to Do in Anna Maria Island next. It’s got a totally different vibe, but that same kind of magic.