smiling boy holding up four popsickles outside a ice cream shop in destin, florida

6 Ways to Beat the Heat this Summer in Destin

July 18, 2024

Sunshine’s beaming, temperatures are rising—it’s officially summer in Destin! This sun-drenched season transforms our community into a hub of activity with visitors eager to spend their days outside. While you’ll no doubt want to hit the beach, we have a few other activities to help keep you cool while exploring this beautiful coastal city.

Here are some of the best ways to chill out and maximize your summer in Destin!

Check Out Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park

Visiting Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park is a must-do for anyone looking to cool off on days away from the beach. This family-friendly park features an array of water attractions, including thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and wave pools. There’s even a dedicated kids’ area with smaller slides, kiddie pools, and splash playgrounds to entertain the littles!

Beyond the water park, Big Kahuna’s also offers fun activities on land, perfect for those looking to stay dry while still having a blast. Families of all ages will enjoy playing a round or two of mini-golf, while adventure seekers will love riding on the Skycoaster, a thrilling bungee ride offering incredible views. After a day full of excitement, relax and enjoy a meal at one of the parks’ eateries. While the kids are devouring pizza and burgers, you can cool off with a refreshing frozen drink. Big Kahuna’s ensures a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal spot to cool off this summer in Destin!

Plan an Excursion to Crab Island

Craving a double dose of summer fun? Head to Crab Island, located just north of the Destin bridge. This scenic sandbar offers a fun and refreshing way to spend your day in the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay. Crab Island is only accessible by water, so you’ll need to rent a pontoon boat, ride a water taxi, book a tour, or paddleboard or kayak your way out to the island.

Once there, you’ll find a vibrant scene with floating vendors, water playgrounds, and the occasional local musician playing tunes. Visitors anchor their boats and wade around in waist-deep waters, soaking up the sun. The environment is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or simply lounging with family or friends all day. While it’s bustling with activity, it’s still a pretty laid-back spot where you can mingle, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of the Emerald Coast!

Hit the Beach

Every trip to Destin should include spending time on our beautiful beaches. Numerous beach access points, each with a different vibe and amenities, offer easy ways to get in and on the water. Some popular spots in the area include Miramar Beach, Henderson Beach State Park, Crystal Beach, and James Lee Park. Wherever you choose to go, all of Destin’s beaches are perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing with a good book. With crystal-clear waters just steps away, you can cool off as needed in the Gulf of Mexico!

For the best experience, plan your beach outings in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the day’s peak heat. This way, you can enjoy the sun without the warmer midday temperatures. Bring an umbrella for shade and chairs for lounging, and pack a cooler with ice-cold drinks and snacks to keep you refreshed. With all the essentials close by, you can create a picture-perfect beach day on our sandy shores!

Get on the Water

Destin is a hub for watersports adventures, so you’ll have endless opportunities to cool off while having a blast. Kayaking and paddleboarding are relaxing ways to explore Destin’s serene bays and coves at your own pace. Snorkeling in the clear waters is a fun way to see artificial reefs, colorful fishes, sea turtles, and other marine animals. Zoom across the water on a jet ski, see dolphins swimming, and catch scenic views of Choctawhatchee Bay and Destin Harbor. If you’re up for an adventure, you can also try kite surfing, parasailing, or spearfishing. Whether you’re a thrill seeker or a quiet explorer, you’ll have an unforgettable experience this summer in Destin. 

Cool Down with Frozen Treats

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a sweet treat—even better if it’s frozen or icy! Indulge in delectable ice cream while exploring the harbor, or sip a fruity smoothie while soaking up the sun. Enjoy hand-crafted ice cream, milkshakes, shaved ice, frozen custard, and more in one of the city’s charming local spots. From classic flavors to unique concoctions, Destin’s dessert spots offer something for everyone.

Enjoy authentic Italian gelato at Pino Gelato in Miramar Beach or Frozen Dune’s delicious rolled ice cream in tantalizing flavors, including Peach Bliss and Tropical Twist. Swing by Kwench Juice Cafe for refreshing tropical smoothies, while Pink Coyote Dessert offers a healthy twist on cool summer treats. From Shake’s Frozen Custard to Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Destin provides an array of frozen treats to quench your thirst during the warm days of summer!

Book a Vacation Rental with a Pool

After a day exploring Destin, there’s nothing like returning to your private oasis to cool down and relax. Booking a vacation rental with a pool can be a game-changer for your summer stay in Destin. Having a pool gives the whole family a place to relax, play, and cool off just steps away. Whether you choose a home with a private pool or a condo with a community pool, everyone will appreciate having easy access to a refreshing dip before or after the beach! 

Ready to plan your vacation this summer in Destin? Scenic Stays offers a wide selection of vacation rentals that offer comfort, convenience, and quick access to all the Destin fun. Book your stay with Scenic Stays to find the perfect accommodation for your next Destin getaway!

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