7 Things You Need to Know Before you Visit Destin in 2024
Destin, Florida is the self-proclaimed “Luckiest Fishing Village in the World,” and sits in the heart of the Emerald Coast. What once was a little sleepy fishing village, is quickly becoming an international vacation destination spot.
What do the Flags mean at the beach?
Sadly, it seems every year there are drownings and multiple water rescues. There is nothing sadder than going home from a vacation with one less family member. Please, please learn what the flags mean and abide by them. It could save your life or a loved one’s life.
Here are a few resources to help you with Beach Safety:
Airports Near Destin
There are three major airports near Destin. Destin/Ft. Walton Beach is the closest. However, the other two are only about an hour away. You can read more about all three airports here>>
Destin/Fort Walton Beach Airport
Destin – Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is the closest airport to Florida’s Gulf Coast and is an excellent option if you want to make every second count.
Please allow extra time to go through TSA during the summer months. This is a small airport and can get very busy.
Airlines:
- Allegiant
- American Airlines
- Delta
- Southwest
- Sun Country Airlines
Hurricane Guide
Hurricanes are a fact of life in Destin. Hurricane season is June 1 through November 30. Be sure to download the hurricane guide and have it with you if traveling during this time. It is always advised to purchase travel insurance as you don’t know when you will need it.
Jet Ski Rules and Regulations
Speed and reckless navigation are two of the biggest causes of accidents. Summer and holidays are extremely busy in the marina and bay area. Your rental provider should provide you with information regarding wake zones (slow speed) and other important rules. Please be mindful of them. It could save your life or the life of someone else.
Boating Navigation/Rules
Parking in Destin
If you haven’t visited Destin recently, one of the big changes you will notice is it will cost you to park in most public areas. Parking spaces are on a first-come, first-served basis, and patrons are not guaranteed a spot if they leave and come back within the paid time frame. Extended overnight parking is prohibited.
You will need an app to pay for parking as the spots are not metered. Get the app here.
Here is a list of parking districts and details.
Crab Island
Due to a new ordinance, vendors are no longer allowed to anchor overnight. That means the original inflatable waterpark is no longer there.
Taxis or shuttle boats are no longer allowed to take you out to Crab Island and drop you off. They must stay with their passengers.
Be sure to read our 10 Safety Tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable time. Read more>>
Festivals and Events
Destin has a variety of festivals and events all year long. Everything from the family-friendly Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival to the Annual Destin Seafood Festival. 2024 update TBD
Me and my kids have been there once and we liked it. I’m sure I will like it better when I learn the roads better.
Parking is nearly impossible so why make it even more difficult and stressful. I understand restaurants staying overnight at crab Island what to get rid of the shuttles is really sad as many people cannot afford to rent a boat for a full day so now they’re making this an exclusive Location for rich people only.
What airport is there and if I’m coming from Michigan can I come southwest or aleigant?
Hi Dawn, Allegiant flies into Destin (VPS). Southwest begins service to Destin (VPS) beginning May 1, 2021