10 Top Things

To Do in Destin

Dolphin Tours

The best way to see the dolphins in Destin is to hire your own catamaran with a private captain. They know all the spots to take you where you can watch the dolphins swim and play. Do some swimming and snorkeling while you are at it.


Crab Island

One of the most photographed places and highest rated attractions in Destin. It has been featured on many TV shows such as HGTV and Good Morning America. There are several tour companies who provide transportation to and from the sandbar.

Sailing Charters

Charter a catamaran with your own private captain. There are many options available for Snorkeling Tours, Sunset Cruises, Moonlight & Fireworks Cruises, and Dolphin encounters. Sailing charters provide your family with a memorable and exciting adventure for a lifetime.

Henderson Beach State Park

Recently voted #13 Top U.S. Beach by TripAdvisor (we know it’s number one). Enjoy 6000 feet of undeveloped natural shoreline or explore a .75 nature trail that winds around the beautiful sand dunes of the park.

Snorkeling in Destin

Destin is one of the best places in the state to go snorkeling. The clear water and white sandy bottom allow for easy viewing of marine life, including large schools of fish, stingrays, seahorses, crabs, anemones, sea urchins, and sea turtles. There are 16 different reef sites along the coast of Walton County, Florida. All are conveniently located near public beach accesses with parking and restrooms.


James Lee Park

James Lee Park is a beach park with 3 pavilions, 41 picnic tables, 9 dune walkovers, a playground, restrooms with changing rooms, and 166 parking spaces. Known by some as the Crab Trap Beach since the restaurant is on the east end of the park.

Fishing Charters

Set out to sea to hook a prize-winning catch on a private charter or do some nearshore gulf fishing, inshore bay fishing, specialized kids fishing, shark fishing, and fly fishing. Enjoy being surrounded by the sea and all the inspiring marine life including sea turtles, dolphins, and even flying fish.

Photo credit: Strictly Business Fishing Charters

Take a Sunset Cruise

Sunset over the Gulf of Mexico is not to be missed. During the summer you won’t actually get to see the sun dip below the horizon due to our beaches facing the south. However, with a few clouds in the sky, you will always have a spectacular show. Destin has several options for a sunset cruise from a floating Tiki Hut in the bay to your own private sailing yacht and everything in between.


Boardwalks & Shopping

Baytowne Wharf

The Village of Baytowne Wharf is host to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. You’ll find weekly movies and concerts on the lawn throughout the spring, summer and fall, perfect for the whole family. There are also a variety of tasty food and wine festivals throughout the year, including the Baytowne Beer Festival and a champagne festival!  Sunset cruises and watercraft rentals are available at the marina.

Destin Boardwalk

The Destin Boardwalk brings together the unique character of the harbor with recreational activities, shopping, restaurants, access to water sports, and so much more. Destin Boardwalk merges into the HarborWalk Village which is a hub of year-round activity and entertainment, and a fantastic place for an evening stroll and watching the sunset. The Destin Harbor hosts many festivals and events. If you’re in town for Christmas, the Destin Christmas Lighted Boat Parade is not to be missed.

Destin Commons

Destin Commons is Destin's favorite shopping mall and dining destination with a great selection of restaurants, quick-serve, and treats. Voted Best Place to Shop by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine

Lazy River at Destin West

Beach Bonfire Setup

End your perfect day of fun in the sun with a relaxing bonfire on the beach! Relax by the fire, listen to the waves crash on the beach, roast a marshmallow or three, and enjoy the company of your favorite people. Let a dedicated professional do all the work for you while you sit back, relax, and enjoy every moment of this awesome beachside bonfire experience!

Big Kahuna's Waterpark

Big Kahuna’s is the favorite place for fun in Destin and has something for everyone; From Lazy River to Speed Slides, our attractions are sure to keep the fun going for hours. Challenge yourself on our Honolulu Half Pipe or a round of mini-golf for added fun and adventure.