Destin takes on a whole new personality in the fall. The beaches are quieter, the temperatures are delightful, and the calendar is packed with fun festivals. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or an extended stay, this Google Map Itinerary highlights some of our favorite places to eat, shop, and experience during one of the Gulf Coast’s most enjoyable seasons. Use it as a full-day adventure or a collection of recommendations to enjoy whenever the mood strikes!
Your Destin Fall Itinerary at a Glance
James Lee Park Public Beach Access
3510 Scenic Highway 98
Hours of Operation: Daily from dawn to dusk
Camille’s
2931 Scenic Highway 98
Hours of Operation: Breakfast from 7 am-11 am/Lunch from 11 am-5 pm/Dinner from 5 pm-9 pm
Destin Commons
Address: 4100 Legendary Drive
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat from 10 am-9 pm/Sunday from 11 am-7 pm
Norriego Point
Address: 343 Gulf Shore Dr.
Hours of Operation: Daily from dawn to dusk
McGuire’s Irish Pub
Address: 33 East Highway 98.
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat from 11 am-2 am | Sunday from 10 am-2 am
Harborwalk Village
Address: 10 Harbor Blvd.
Hours of Operation: Vary by business
The Track Family Fun Park
Address: 1125 Highway 98 East
Hours of Operation: Daily from 10 am-9 pm
Boshamp’s Seafood and Oyster House
Address: 414 Harbor Blvd.
Hours of Operation: Daily from 11 am-10 pm
Shakes Frozen Custard
Address: 1065 Highway 98 East
Hours of Operation: Mon-Thur from 11 am-10 pm | Fri-Sun from 11 am-11 pm
Your Destin Fall Itinerary
Start the Day with a Sunrise Walk and a Light Breakfast
There’s no better way to ease into a fall morning in Destin than with a peaceful walk along the beach. While there are several beach access points in Destin, we’ve included James Lee Park Public Beach Access in this fall itinerary for its beautiful shoreline, ease of parking, and convenient location. With public restrooms and convenient outdoor showers, you can rinse off and freshen up before heading to Camille’s, a cozy neighborhood cafe that’s become a favorite with locals and visitors alike.
Treat yourself to a fresh pastry or avocado toast paired with a handcrafted coffee. If you should miss breakfast here, swing back by for dinner for a sushi roll, widely considered some of the best in Destin.
Unwind on the Beach and Enjoy a Hearty Lunch
Next stop? Norriego Point, a beautifully renovated beach park overlooking East Pass and the Destin bridge. Expanded parking, a boardwalk, public restrooms, and shallow tidal pools make it an excellent choice for families with toddlers. The calm waters and panoramic views create the perfect setting for a few memorable photos.
When it’s time for lunch, head to McGuire’s Irish Pub, a Destin institution known for heaping portions and a diverse menu featuring everything from Angus-steak burgers and slow-cooked ribs to pork chops and Irish rack of lamb. Be sure to request a table upstairs on the open-air deck, where views of Crab Island make lunch even more memorable. And before you leave, add a signed dollar bill to the walls. With more than a million dollars on display, it’s one of McGuire’s most beloved traditions.
Join the Festivities at a Destin Fall Event
Fall is festival season on the Emerald Coast, so if your visit lines up with one of these Destin events, be sure to add it to your itinerary:
Burgers, Bourbon, and Beer Festival: September 19
Destin Seafood Festival: September 25-27
Destin Fishing Rodeo: October 1-31
Toast on the Coast: October 5
The Market Shops Bloody Mary Festival: October 10
Baytowne Beer Festival: October 16-17
Eggs on the Beach: November 7
Head to Harborwalk Village for a Crab Island Cruise
Browse locally owned shops, watch the fishing boats come and go through the harbor, or let the kids enjoy the family-friendly attractions while taking in the views at Harborwalk Village. It’s also the launching point for many of Destin’s most popular excursions, including fishing charters, tiki boat cruises, dolphin tours, and sunset cruises, making it the perfect place to end your afternoon or begin your next adventure.
Hit The Track Family Fun Park and Dinner at Boshamps
The Track Family Fun Park is a great stop if the kids still have some energy to burn. With go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats, and more, there’s something for every age! For dinner, we suggest Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House, where waterfront views and delicious Gulf seafood create the perfect setting for a leisurely meal.
Top the Night Off With Frozen Custard
Top the Night Off With Frozen Custard End the day with a sweet treat at Shake’s Frozen Custard, serving up rich, creamy frozen treats made in-house. It’s a great way to end a fabulous fall day in Destin. And don’t worry if you didn’t make it to every stop on this Destin fall itinerary, because there’s always tomorrow!
