Destination: Destin, Florida
Plan your escape to Destin, Florida with Scenic Stays! With its pristine coastline and sugar-white sands, it’s no surprise Destin was named the #6 Best Florida Beach by U.S. News, but that’s only one reason to fall in love with Destin.
Why We Love Destin, Florida
Destin, the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, has blossomed into a world-renowned beach destination packed with family-friendly activities. Prepare to be dazzled by miles of sugar-white sand and sparkling emerald green water upon arrival.
While you’re here, explore a wide array of water activities and outdoor adventures, or check out the many boutiques, shops, and restaurants in the area. Destin, Florida, knows how to host a crowd and has built a reputation for creating memories for all who visit!
Where is Destin?
Destin is located in the Florida panhandle along Highway 98 between Panama City and Pensacola. A five-hour drive from Atlanta, four hours from New Orleans, and a two-hour drive from Mobile, visitors from surrounding states often make the drive; many dropping in for long weekend trips several times a year.
Flying into Destin, Florida, is easy! The area is serviced by carriers including Southwest, Delta, American, and United, flying into the area’s regional airports, including Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, just 20 minutes from Destin in neighboring Fort Walton, along with the Pensacola International Airport and Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, about an hour away in Pensacola and Panama City, respectively. Additionally, Destin Executive Airport is situated in the heart of Destin and available for chartered flights.
Things to do in Destin
Destin’s climate is perfect for any outdoor activity, and you’ll find plenty of options. The beach is the biggest draw, and with twelve access points, you’ll quickly find your toes in sugar-white sand in no time. Henderson Beach State Park offers one of our favorite beach access points, a protected stretch of coastline in the heart of Destin.
For days off the beach, shop, eat, and drink at nearby entertainment districts like the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and Destin Commons, or hit the Silver Sands Premium Outlets in neighboring Miramar Beach. Don’t forget to check out Holiday Isle and Crystal Beach, too!
Water Activities in Destin
There’s no better way to spend a warm, sunny day in Destin, Florida, than in or on the water. Water activities are plenty, ranging from dolphin cruises and charter fishing trips to kayak and paddleboard rentals. However, you choose to experience Destin water activities, make sure you pack plenty of snacks and sunscreen!
Crab Island
Southerners know how to have a good time. And if they can’t find one, they’ll create one! Crab Island, a sandbar near the Destin bridge, is an experience like no other and a must-do for anyone traveling to the area. Bring your boat or rent one and join in for a day of fun in the sun!
Family-Friendly Activities in Destin
Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” fishing is certainly a favorite pastime for locals and visitors alike. Catch pompano or king mackerel at Okaloosa Island Pier in nearby Fort Walton Beach, or head offshore and cast for snapper, grouper, or cobia. With over 150 charter boats, you’re sure to find one to suit your needs. If golf is your game, get in a round at one of 20 courses in the Destin area, each catering to different skill levels and abilities.
Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park
A great family fun spot is Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park, a hit with visitors and locals alike. Primarily a water park with over 40 water attractions, the park boasts both kiddie rides and thrill rides, including the Sky Coaster and Cyclone Twister. With activities for all ages, it’s a fun time for everyone!
The Track
The Track Family Fun Park is an excellent place for an afternoon outing with mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, bumper boats, kids rides, and an arcade.
Gulfarium Marine and Adventure Park
The Gulfarium Marine and Adventure Park on neighboring Okaloosa Island features marine life exhibits, shows, demonstrations, and animal encounters. Kids and adults alike will love the up-close and personal interaction with dolphins, seals, and penguins, to name a few.
Where to Eat in Destin
Fresh seafood, casual environments, and dining with a view are Southern staples, and Destin restaurants check all the boxes. Experience the flavors of the Gulf at every meal, with menus showcasing the freshest catch alongside traditional Southern specialties. Our favorite local catches include Grouper, Snapper, and Cobia (available seasonally).
Can’t decide where to eat in Destin? We’ve compiled a list of a few of our favorite Destin restaurants:
Crackings - for breakfast, lunch, and a brunch that features benedicts, omelets, and scrambles, with lobster gouda grits and “croisseignets”, a must-try.
Harry T’s - for lunch, dinner, or a weekend brunch with great food and gorgeous views.
Harbor Docks - a fabulous local hangout with a varied menu of seafood, steaks, sushi, and a few Thai dishes thrown in to round out the menu.
Louisiana Lagniappe - for beautiful views and casual, family-friendly dining specializing in fresh-from-the-Gulf, creatively prepared seafood.
McGuire’s Irish Pub - known for traditional pub fare and strong drinks, but the menu is surprisingly varied. Be sure to sign a dollar bill to add to their collection of over a million.
Boshamps Oyster House - for lunch, dinner, signature cocktails, and all things seafood, including oysters, fish, lobsters, and shrimp.
Beachwalk at Henderson Park Inn - for fine dining with a “Toes in the Sand Package” available for parties up to six. Dine on the sand overlooking the Gulf of Mexico with service by a waiter designated for your private party.
Destin Events
Given the gorgeous year-round climate and picturesque setting, it’s no wonder Destin, Florida, is home to an array of festivals and events. Join in the fun and attend one or all of them!
Spring and Early Summer Events
The Sandestin Wine Festival attracts wine novices, connoisseurs, chefs, and industry enthusiasts each year. This four-day event showcases hundreds of international and domestic wines for sampling, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the wide variety of flavors. The Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival starts at the Fort Walton Beach Landing with a pub crawl, followed by a pirate landing and downtown party, culminating in a torchlight parade. The Emerald Coast Poker Run, a charity event, has been going on for 25 years and is one of the largest poker runs in the country.
Fall Events
The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation hosts a series of outdoor concerts and events throughout the year. Bring a lawn chair and a tasty beverage, and enjoy the show while the kids play on the sprawling lawn. Tap into the Annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival featuring over 40 craft brewers, beers, tastings, and seminars. Anglers from all over compete for prizes at the month-long Destin Fishing Rodeo, and everyone seems to enjoy the daily weigh-ins. The Destin Seafood Festival, a three-day event, remains a favorite among the locals. Enjoy live music, great seafood, and an afternoon of shopping at vendor booths along the Destin harbor.
Destin Vacation Rentals
Finding the right place to stay in Destin will make it easy to enjoy everything this beautiful beach town has to offer! Scenic Stays offers a variety of vacation rentals throughout Destin and the surrounding areas of Holiday Isle, Crystal Beach, and Miramar Beach, from beachfront condos to spacious homes ideal for families and groups!
SunDestin
Located in the heart of Destin, SunDestin offers a mix of comfort, convenience, and beachfront access. This centrally located resort property offers indoor/outdoor pools, a hot tub, a fitness center, and on-site dining, making it easy to enjoy your beach vacation without ever straying far from your home base. Plus, proximity to restaurants, shops, and attractions, SunDestin puts you close to everything that makes Destin so popular!
The Crescent
Located in Miramar Beach just east of Destin, The Crescent offers a more upscale, boutique-style beachfront experience. Known for spacious layouts and a quiet setting, this Gulf-front property features direct beach access, an expansive beachfront pool, a fitness center, EV charging, and a furnished library. With easy access to Scenic Highway 98, Silver Sands Premium Outlets, and nearby dining, The Crescent is ideal for travelers who want a refined coastal escape while still being close to Destin’s best attractions.
Emerald Towers
Situated along the Gulf in the heart of Destin, Emerald Towers offers a relaxed beachfront setting with easy access to Destin’s top attractions. Featuring cozy accommodations, direct beach access, tennis courts, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool overlooking the sugar white sand. Conveniently located near dining, shopping, and entertainment, Emerald Towers is a great choice for guests seeking a laid-back beach vacation without sacrificing proximity to the action. Beyond these prime resort destinations, we also offer a variety of additional condo properties throughout Destin to suit different travel styles and group sizes:
Destin Weather
Florida is known as the “Sunshine State” for a reason, and Destin is no exception. Days are pleasant and warm overall, with the hottest month being August and the coldest being January. While temperatures vary throughout the year, warm Gulf water extends summer, keeping the water warm through early fall, with average temperatures peaking near 88°F in July. No matter when you visit, what brings you here, or how long you stay, you’ll find friendly people ready to welcome you to Destin’s coastal playground.
