aerial view of several boats at crab island in destin, florida

Top 5 Things to Do This Spring in Destin

January 26, 2024

Spring in Destin is an outdoor lover’s paradise. From March to May, daytime temperatures hover around the mid-70s to 80s, and this gorgeous paradise emerges, brimming with activity and excitement for longer days and plenty of sunshine. While every season has its advantages (and we think there’s never a wrong time to plan a beach trip), there’s something extra special about spring days spent in the “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village!”

Hit the Beach

What’s the first thing you should do on a warm, sunny spring day in Destin? Hit the beach, of course! With over 24 miles of stunning coastline, Destin offers a selection of beautiful beaches, each with a unique charm. With amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and restroom facilities, it’s easy to enjoy a fun-filled day with the family and quick and easy access to the pristine sandy shores and emerald waters. Jump on the opportunity to bask in the sun, take refreshing dips in the emerald waters, and indulge in fun water sports. Here’s a rundown of our local beaches:

Henderson Beach State Park

With over 6,000 feet of stunning shoreline, Henderson Beach State Park is a must-visit during spring in Destin. Take in the park’s natural beauty, including sand pines, scrub oaks, and dune rosemary, and stroll on the pet-friendly nature trails. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s pavilions at Henderson Beach, one of our favorite places to enjoy spring in Destin!

James Lee Park

With a playground for the little ones, covered picnic tables, restrooms, and abundant parking, James Lee Park is an excellent choice for a fun-filled beach day with your family. Swing by Lulu’s afterward for food and fun! Sip on a cool drink, plan tomorrow’s adventures, and let the kids burn off that last bit of energy playing on the ropes course!

Shores at Crystal Beach Park

Enjoy a picnic lunch under the covered pavilion, or soak in the sun on the sugar-soft sands at Shores at Crystal Beach Park. Parking is limited, so get there early to enjoy this peaceful stretch of solitude this spring in Destin. Build sandcastles, collect seashells, then cool off with an over-the-top cone at The Yard Milkshake Bar. (The kids will thank you for this one!)

June White Decker Beach Park

Are you looking for easy beach access for a low-key beach day? Open from dawn until dusk, June White Decker Beach Park offers that and more, including bike racks, restrooms, and plenty of parking. All you need to bring is your beach chair! Make a full day of it, then head to the Destin Commons for shopping and dinner!

Check Out Crab Island

Crab Island is one of the most iconic attractions in Destin, and for good reason. This submerged sandbar in Choctawhatchee Bay transforms into a bustling aquatic playground during spring and summer.

Accessible only by boat, this spot became even more well-known as visitors and locals began sharing images and videos on social media showcasing Crab Island’s shallow, crystal clear, emerald-green waters. Once the warmer weather hits, you’ll see clusters of boats anchored up and ready to enjoy this stunning recreation area. Spend at least one day hanging out at Crab Island this spring in Destin and see what makes this spot so popular with locals and visitors!

Catch a Sunset on the Destin Harbor

After a day at the beach, it’s time to change out of your beach attire and head for a night out on the town at Destin Harbor! This vibrant waterfront entertainment district filled with local shops, restaurants, and live entertainment is the perfect spot to catch a sunset you’ll never forget! Be sure to swing by The Boathouse, an iconic Destin hotspot, to enjoy the catch of the day, raw oysters, and scratch-made dishes in a cozy spot that feels like home (with a view).

Enjoy Water Sports at Norriego Point

While laying on the beach and basking in the Florida sun is an activity in and of itself, there are also many other ways to enjoy those emerald-green waters! Norriego Point, a sandy beach near the end of Holiday Isle, is the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful swim or engage in various water activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing. Its calm waters and scenic views make it a perfect spot for adventurous sports enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a relaxing dip in the water.

Take in a Festival

While known for its famous beaches, Destin offers plenty of other activities for those looking for another way to experience local culture. The pleasant spring temperatures and sunny skies make the perfect backdrop to take in one of our area’s family-friendly festivals!

Mac & Cheese Festival

Destin Commons hosts this family-friendly festival each March, and it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon. Come out, sample chef-inspired varieties of our favorite Southern staple, and cast a vote for your favorite. Your ticket purchase includes unlimited food samples, a drink ticket, and a T-shirt to commemorate the day!

Sandestin Wine Festival

Enjoy plenty of wine, food, and fun at the Sandestin Wine Festival, a local favorite, at the Village of Baytowne Wharf each April. Enjoy some of the finest food and wine our area offers and celebrate all things Gulf Coast at this fun-filled four-day festival!

Tequila and Taco Festival

Tequila and tacos—need we say more? Enjoy tequila, margaritas, tacos, live music, a strolling mariachi band, and more at the Tequila and Taco Festival in May at the Village of Baytowne Wharf. Trust us – this is an event you don’t want to miss!

After a long winter, many of us are ready for an adventure. What better way to celebrate the fresh start of a new season than by booking a spring getaway to Destin? Book your stay with Scenic Stays today, and enjoy exceptional hospitality in your home-away-from-home as you explore our little piece of paradise on the coast!

Top 5 Things to Do This Spring in Destin

Hit the Beach

Check Out Crab Island

Catch a Sunset on the Destin Harbor

Enjoy Water Sports at Norriego Point

Take in a Festival

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