Posted by Michael Fisher, TripShock
Destin, FL has grown from a secluded fishing village, to a world-class beach destination. Though the city has changed significantly over the years, one thing remains as beautiful as ever… the Destin sunset. Travelers come from far and wide wondering where to see the best sunset in Destin, FL.
From the picturesque Destin Harbor to the white sand beaches of Crystal Beach, keep reading to discover the best places to watch the sunset in Destin!
Where to Watch the Sunset in Destin, FL
No matter when you visit, you can enjoy the stunning Destin sunset. Though you can see the sunset from most condo balconies, there may be factors that hinder your view. These factors may not just be sights, but sounds that can make your perfect sunset a little less than perfect. This includes…
- Tall condo/resort, hotel, or office buildings
- Busy roadways
- Local attractions and landmarks
- Noise from beachgoers and high-traffic areas
Whether you’re a first time visitor, or long time Destin veteran, gazing at the colorful sunset never gets old. It makes for the perfect Destin activity for the whole family, or an unforgettable date night for couples young and old.
Here are all the locations where you can see the best sunset in Destin, FL!
In the Destin Harbor
The Destin Harbor is a long-standing landmark in Destin, Florida, and beyond. The harbor serves as the departure point for a legion of fishing boats both commercial and recreational. Along with a vast fleet of fishing vessels, the Destin Harbor is home to activities, attractions, shops, lodging, and some of the finest seafood restaurants in the world.
One of the best parts about visiting Destin Harbor is dining, shopping, and taking part in an activity during sunset hours. From almost anywhere in the harbor you can clearly view the harbor waters, Marler Bridge, and Choctawhatchee Bay to the backdrop of the Destin sunset.
If you can’t get a great view from the street, most restaurants offer a stunning view through large windows and spacious patios. This makes the harbor a perfect destination during dinner time!
Destin Harbor Location: The Destin Harbor is located on the west side of Destin just before the Marler Bridge (when heading west). HarborWalk Village, the heart of the Destin Harbor, is located at 10 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541.
Aboard a Sunset Boat Cruise
If you’re going to take a boat cruise while in Destin, it may as well be during sunset! Start the cruise in the early evening, and finish it out to the backdrop of the setting sun.
Sunset cruises come in all shapes and sizes. Ride aboard a private yacht or sailboat with your closest friends and family, or opt for a larger vessel and share the experience with dozens of other travelers.
If you want to add to the stunning sights, try a dolphin sightseeing cruise in Destin. Cruise the harbor during sunset in search of wild dolphins, sharks, seabirds, sea turtles, and more!
Where Can I Take a Sunset Cruise in Destin?
Almost all Destin boat cruises depart from the harbor. You can either walk the harbor and ask around at the many vendor booths and info centers, or check out a website like tripshock.com offering online activity booking in Destin.
From the White-Sand Beach
Norriego Point is a public beach on the west end of Destin. From here, you can see the harbor, bridge, jetties, and Destin Pass. This beach is not only large, clean, and typically less crowded than other beaches, but it offers spectacular views during dusk. There is free parking available, but since there aren’t a lot of spots available during peak season, many people take a taxi, rideshare service, or walk/bike (if staying on Holiday Isle).
Norriego Point Location: 277 Gulf Shore Drive, Destin, FL, 32541
On the Rocks of Destin Jetty East
The Destin Jetties are best known for a prime fishing spot. Anglers climb the giant rocks in hopes of reeling in popular Gulf sportfish including redfish, bluefish, mackerel, and cobia. What most don’t realize is that these same jetties are a perfect place to see the best sunset in Destin, FL.
The Destin east jetty is located on Holiday Isle along Norriego Point. It is OK to climb the rocks, but this is not recommended for small children. The jetty can be slippery and a fall could be dangerous. People love to hang out and watch the sunset, or snorkel and swim in the water immediately next to the jetty while enjoying the views.
Dewey Destin (Bayside)
Dewey Destin is a long-standing seafood restaurant located in Destin. Now with several locations throughout Northwest Florida, Dewey Destin started with a bayside location serving some of the best fish sandwiches and baskets you ever tasted. That same bayside location offers unbeatable views of the sunset over Choctawhatchee Bay and the Crab Island sandbar.
Dewey Destin (Bayside) Location: 9 Calhoun Ave, Destin, FL 32541 (Visit Destinseafood.com for more information)
What Time Does the Sunset in Destin, FL?
It’s important to know when the sun sets so you can plan your afternoon and evening activities. Depending on the season in Destin, it may take longer to get to your sunset-watching destination. You’ll want to plan accordingly if you want a stress-free experience.
According to timeanddate.com, here are the average Destin sunset times depending on the month:
Month | Approximate Sunset Time |
January | 5:07pm |
February | 5:33pm |
March | 6:54pm hrs shift because clocks move fwd |
April | 7:13pm |
May | 7:33pm |
June | 7:49pm |
July | 7:49pm |
August | 7:27pm |
September | 6:50pm |
October | 6:14pm |
November | 4:48pm hrs shift because clocks move bckwd |
December | 4:47pm |
The times in the table above are in CST and taken from the 15th day of each month. For more exact times, visit Time and Date
