Summer in Northwest Florida is all about endless days of surf and sun, so we’ve put together a Google Map Itinerary to help you chase the waves, find the best beaches, and sample the freshest seafood straight from the Gulf. Follow the map exactly for a full-on Emerald Coast experience, or pick and choose your favorite stops along the way!
Your Northwest Florida Summer Itinerary Checklist
Calhoun Beach Access Point
Address: 979 Hwy 98 E.
Hours of Operation: Wed-Sun from 7 am-2 pm
Crackings
Address: 979 Hwy 98 E.
Hours of Operation: Wed-Sun from 7 am-2 pm
The Track
Address: 1125 Highway 98 E.
Hours of Operation: Hours vary by season
Big Kahuna’s
Address: 1007 Highway 98 E.
Hours of Operation: Waterpark and Adventure Park hours vary by month
James Lee Park Public Beach Access
Address: 3510 Scenic Hwy 98
Hours of Operation: Sunrise to sunset
Destin Commons
Address: 4100 Legendary Dr.
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat from 10 am-8 pm/Sun from 11 am-7 pm
Kilwin’s
Address: 4142 Legendary Dr.
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat from 11 am-9 pm/Sun from 12 pm-8 pm
Harborwalk Village
Address: 10 Harbor Blvd.
Hours of Operation: Hours vary by shop
Louisiana Lagniappe
Address: 775 Gulf Shore Dr.
Hours of Operation: Daily from 4 pm-10 pm
The Donut Hole
Address: 635 Harbor Blvd.
Hours of Operation: Daily from 6 am-10 pm
Your Northwest Florida Summer Itinerary
A Casual Stroll and Breakfast
One of the best ways to start a summer day in Destin is with a casual beach stroll. We suggest parking at the Calhoun beach access point, as it offers plenty of parking, showers, and public restrooms. Then head to Crackings, a local favorite known for its delicious twists on classic breakfasts. From Rajun Cajun omelettes to crawfish eggs-toufee, you’re bound to find something you’ve never tried before. The kids will love the mini doughnuts and cinnamon rolls, and it’s a great place to fuel up before heading out!
The Track and the Beach
Kick off the morning with a stop at The Track, a popular amusement park with go-karts, mini golf, and bumper boats. If the heat is already kicking in, try Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park instead, a great place to cool off! Once you’ve had your fill, head to the beach to unwind. James Lee Park public beach access offers plenty of parking, public showers and restrooms, and wide-open stretches of sand that give everyone room to roam.
Ice Cream & Shopping
After the beach, swing by the Destin Commons for some afternoon shopping. You’ll find plenty of stores to pick up cute cover-ups, stylish sandals, sun hats, and anything else you might need for your summer vacation in Destin. While there, treat the kids to a scoop of summer-inspired ice cream at Kilwin’s. Nothing like a scoop of creamy vanilla bean, strawberry swirl, or refreshing mint chip to complement a warm summer day in Destin!
Harborwalk Village and Crab Island
Next up? Head to Harborwalk Village, rent a boat, and make your way to Crab Island, a famous submerged sandbar accessible only by water. Spend a few hours wading in the waist-deep water, floating with friends, and soaking up the sun while listening to your favorite playlist. Return your boat to the harbor and keep the fun going with a zipline adventure over the harbor, taking in stunning views of the boats, waterfront, and sparkling Gulf waters.
Dinner and Dessert
We can’t think of a better way to wrap up any summer visit to Destin with a delicious dinner at Louisiana Lagniappe, serving fresh Gulf seafood, Creole-inspired dishes, and Southern favorites in a beautiful waterfront setting. After dinner, swing by the Donut Hole and grab one of their famous key lime pies to take back to your vacation rental. (Trust us, you’re going to want more than one slice of this creamy goodness!) It’s the perfect way to end a sun-soaked, adventure-filled summer day in Destin!
