15 Fun Things to Do in Destin, Florida: A Complete Guide
Introduction
Nestled along the Emerald Coast of the Florida Panhandle, Destin is a glittering gem famous for its white sandy beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, and an endless array of outdoor activities—a vacationer’s paradise. It’s no wonder this coastal city has earned a reputation as one of the top family-friendly vacation spots in the U.S. Whether you’re into relaxing on pristine beaches or prefer high-octane adventure, Destin offers something for everyone, from sunseekers and nature lovers to thrill-seekers and culture buffs.
In addition to its beautiful natural landscape, Destin is well-known for its world-class fishing, earning the town the moniker “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” However, Destin’s charms aren’t limited to fishing. Tourists flock to its bustling boardwalks, enjoy its wildlife-rich parks, and partake in a variety of water sports. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, Destin boasts incredible activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories. In this guide, we’ll explore 15 fun things to do in Destin, Florida, that cater to all types of visitors.
1. Relax at Henderson Beach State Park
Located on the picturesque Gulf of Mexico shoreline, Henderson Beach State Park is the ultimate escape into nature’s palm-lined paradise. Spread across 208 acres, the park is famous for its sugar-white sands, emerald-green waters, and a stunning array of wildlife. As soon as you step into this oasis, you’re greeted by the scent of salt in the air and panoramic beach views that stretch out in every direction.
Things to Do at Henderson Beach State Park:
The primary draw to the park is—of course—the beach. Families and sunbathers can relax on the soft, powdery sands, while swimmers enjoy the clear, shallow waters perfect for a refreshing dip. Nature lovers are not left out; the park features nature trails that take you through coastal dune ecosystems where you can spot native wildlife, such as shorebirds, sea turtles, and even dolphins off in the distance.
There are no shortage of places to enjoy a picnic either, with designated picnic pavilions and barbecue grills available for use. Hikers will love exploring the 3/4-mile nature trail that winds through the park, offering grandparents and kids alike a fantastic way to soak in Florida’s coastal beauty.
Fees and Amenities:
Henderson Beach State Park charges a nominal entry fee of $6 per vehicle, making it an affordable option for families. The park offers clean restrooms, showers, and even pavilions that can be reserved for larger gatherings at $100 per day. If you’re looking to extend your stay, the park also features 60 campsites, each equipped with water and electricity hookups, starting at $30 per night, making this an affordable way to immerse yourself in Destin’s natural beauty.
2. Explore Destin Harbor Boardwalk
One of the most vibrant and charismatic areas of Destin is the bustling Destin Harbor Boardwalk. A quarter-mile of charm perched right on the water, this boardwalk is the heart of activity in the city, combining a lively atmosphere with an incredible array of experiences.
What to Do at the Destin Harbor Boardwalk:
The boardwalk is packed with cute boutique shops, local art galleries, and a vast number of seafood restaurants that offer the freshest catch right from the Gulf. Whether you’re grabbing a drink at Harry T’s or settling in for a dockside meal at Margaritaville, you’ll find yourself enjoying both delicious seafood and the scenic views of colorful fishing boats going in and out of the harbor.
Waterfront activities are the heart and soul of the boardwalk. Visitors can go parasailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, or jump aboard one of the many charter boats for a relaxed evening dolphin cruise. Fishing charters also abound, giving guests an opportunity to experience why Destin is called “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” There are also visitors who come just to sit, sip a drink, and watch the boats glide across the emerald-green waters.
Seasonal Events and Activities:
During the summer, Destin Harbor is ablaze with energy thanks to weekly events such as fireworks shows and live performances. HarborWalk Village hosts an entire array of festivals throughout the year, including fishing tournaments, seafood festivals, and parades, making any visit to the boardwalk feel like a celebration.
3. Go on a Dolphin Cruise
A trip to Destin would not be complete without embarking on a dolphin cruise, one of the city’s most beloved maritime attractions. Dolphins are frequent visitors to the Gulf Coast, and several companies offer world-class dolphin-watching tours that provide an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
What to Expect on a Dolphin Cruise:
Most cruises last 1-2 hours and provide an up-close view of Destin’s playful bottlenose dolphins. You’ll also have the chance to view other marine life, including pelicans and egrets gliding across the water. Cruises vary in their offerings, with some including glass-bottom boats for enhanced underwater viewing, while others may include group activities, complimentary drinks, or commentary about the local marine ecosystem.
Top Dolphin Cruise Service Providers:
- Southern Star Dolphin Cruise boasts a 98% success rate in terms of dolphin sightings, making them a trusted provider of these exciting excursions.
- Olin Marler Charter Boats offers a unique glass-bottom boat option so you can see the underwater world as well as the surface.
- AJ’s Water Adventures combines a dolphin cruise with added fun by offering free drinks and an upbeat atmosphere.
Prices for dolphin cruises average around $30 for adults and $20 for children, making them a cost-effective family adventure.
4. Visit Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park
If you’re traveling with children or are a thrill-seeker at heart, Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park is a must-visit. A sprawling water park packed with over 40 water slides and pools, this is adventure central for hot Florida days.
What to Expect at Big Kahuna’s:
Big Kahuna’s caters to all ages with a variety of attractions. For the adventurous, grab a mat and race down the Kowabunga Racer, or twist and turn down the Monkey River for a jaw-dropping water slide experience. For a more laid-back vibe, float along the Lazy River, a perennial family favorite that takes visitors on a relaxing journey through the park.
When guests need a break from the water, the adjacent adventure park offers mini-golf, a sky coaster, and go-kart racing. This all-in-one entertainment hub is guaranteed to keep visitors entertained for hours.
Tickets and Seasonality:
Big Kahuna’s is open during the summer months when the heat is at its peak and the refreshing water slides hit just right. Tickets are priced at $54.99 for a one-day pass, and if you book online in advance, there are frequent discounts available.
5. Spend a Day at Crab Island
Crab Island has rapidly become one of the most iconic attractions in Destin. Contrary to its name, Crab Island is actually a submerged sandbar located at the mouth of Choctawhatchee Bay, making it more like a floating playground than an island. The crystal-clear waist-deep water is the perfect setting for an unforgettable day of fun in the sun.
How to Get to Crab Island:
This popular destination is not accessible by car—you must take to the water! Most visitors rent a pontoon boat from one of the various service providers in the area. Rentals typically range between $200 and $400 per day, depending on the season, and they offer an unmatched level of freedom and fun. Alternatively, you can catch a shuttle boat to Crab Island, offering a no-hassle option for those who don’t want to captain their own vessel. Shuttle boat tickets range from $45 to $65 per person.
Activities on Crab Island:
Crab Island offers a variety of water-based activities including paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Pop-up vendors also bring floating restaurants like Reef Burger, where burgers and cold refreshments are delivered straight to your boat.
While weekends on Crab Island tend to draw a young, party-centric crowd, weekdays are quieter and more family-friendly as you find groups lounging on floats or kids chasing schools of fish.
6. Discover Gator Beach at Fudpucker’s
For a uniquely Floridian experience, head to Gator Beach, located at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill. Gator Beach offers free admission and houses more than 100 live alligators—including a rare albino alligator named Pearl.
Activities at Fudpucker’s Gator Beach:
The highlight of the Gator Beach experience is the opportunity to feed the alligators, which can be done for a small fee ($5), or for the brave, hold one of the baby gators for a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity ($15). Daily gator shows take place multiple times (12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM, and 6 PM), where you can observe these fascinating creatures up close and personal while learning about their habits and importance to the local ecosystem.
What’s more, since Gator Beach is located at Fudpucker’s, you can follow up your alligator encounter with a delicious meal at this family-friendly restaurant, famous for its seafood and funky décor.
7. Zipline at HarborWalk Village
Thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline boost should head to HarborWalk Village and zipline over the vibrant marina. The dual zipline, stretching nearly 1,000 feet over the harbor, offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and the city below.
For even more adventure, check out HarborWalk’s other attractions, including a free-fall tower and LED-lit rock climbing wall. These attractions make for a fun-filled day of adventure and physical activity, easily accessible for those of all ages.
Pricing for zipline adventures will vary, with several combo options available for visitors who wish to participate in multiple activities.
8. Try Your Hand at Fishing
As the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” it would be remiss to visit Destin without engaging in at least one fishing adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there are opportunities galore to cast a line and reel in the big one.
Deep-Sea Fishing Charters:
Destin’s waters are teeming with fish of all varieties, including Red Snapper, Amberjack, and King Mackerel. Numerous deep-sea fishing charters depart from the harbor daily, offering half-day or full-day trips ideal for those looking to tackle larger species. Many charters operate on a “no fish, no pay” basis, so you’re almost guaranteed to come home with something!
Pier Fishing:
Visitors who prefer to stay on land can try pier fishing at Okaloosa Island Pier, just a short drive west of Destin. This pier is popular year-round and is an excellent option for catching Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, and Speckled Trout.
Fishing in Destin is also highly seasonal, with different species targeted depending on the time of year. Summer months are perfect for Red Snapper and Amberjack, while the fall can be excellent for Mahi Mahi.
9. Explore the Destin History & Fishing Museum
To understand the soul of Destin, drop by the Destin History & Fishing Museum to explore the city’s deep maritime roots. Here, visitors can browse through exhibits showcasing the development of Destin from a small fishing village into the vacation destination it is today.
Exhibits at the Destin History & Fishing Museum:
The museum’s highlight is its impressive collection of antique fishing gear, including a fishing reel that once belonged to the famous American novelist Ernest Hemingway. One particularly extraordinary exhibit is the Primrose, the oldest seine boat still in existence in Florida.
Through the museum’s artifacts, photos, and displays, you can learn about the founding families of Destin and gain an understanding of why the city holds the title of “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”
Admission prices are reasonable at $5 for adults and $4 for seniors and military. The museum is a quiet, engaging stop for those looking to learn more about the history that shaped Destin’s unique culture today.
10. Enjoy Mini Golf at The Track
Mini-golf is a great entertainment option for families and friends of all ages, and The Track, located in the heart of Destin, offers one of the best mini-golf experiences in the area. This family-friendly center boasts a fun, jungle-themed mini-golf course, packed with obstacles, caves, and water features.
What Else is There to Do at The Track?
In addition to mini-golf, The Track has a ton of other exciting activities, including go-karts, bumper boats, and amusement rides like a Ferris Wheel and kiddie karts for younger children. Whether it’s racing around the multi-level go-kart track or putting hole-in-ones with your family, The Track is bound to be a hit for kids and adults alike.
Due to the variety of attractions, pricing at The Track can vary, but combo tickets are available, allowing visitors the opportunity to experience multiple attractions with discounted rates.
11. Take a Pirate Cruise on the Buccaneer Pirate Ship
Ahoy, mateys! A family day out on the Buccaneer Pirate Ship is sure to thrill both children and adults alike. Docked at HarborWalk Village, this 2-hour adventure takes you on a pirate-themed cruise complete with treasure hunts, water gun battles, and interactive games for kids.
What to Expect on the Pirate Cruise:
Children will be swept away in pirate lore as actors in full pirate garb lead the crew in various swashbuckling activities. Parents can kick back, relax, and enjoy the stunning coastal views as they sip on drinks from the onboard bar.
This interactive adventure is ideal for families with young children, and tickets range from $30–$50 depending on the age group and season. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as this popular cruise sells out quickly during peak seasons.
12. Snorkel at John C. Beasley Park’s Reef
Snorkeling is a fantastic way to explore the underwater beauty of Destin. One of the best spots for this activity is near John C. Beasley Park, where a series of artificial reefs have turned the area into an underwater playground teeming with marine life.
These reefs are easily accessible from the shore, making them suitable for beginners and families. While snorkeling, you may catch sight of a dazzling variety of fish, crabs, and even the occasional sea turtle.
If you’re new to snorkeling, don’t worry. Many companies in Destin offer guided snorkeling trips complete with equipment rentals, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
13. Build Sandcastles with Beach Sand Sculptures Lessons
What better way is there to spend time on one of Destin’s gorgeous beaches than by tapping into your inner artist? Beach Sand Sculptures offers sandcastle building lessons, where professionals teach you how to construct intricate, towering works of art with nothing more than sand and water.
These lessons beautifully combine creativity with outdoor fun, making them a hit with families looking for a unique beach activity. Whether you’re building simple towers or elaborate castles, you’ll leave the experience with sand sculpting skills and memories that will last a lifetime.
Children especially love these lessons, which allow for plenty of hands-on time building in the sand.
14. Go Parasailing Over the Gulf
One of the most exhilarating ways to take in Destin’s beauty is by taking to the skies for a parasailing adventure. Parasailing in Destin offers panoramic views of the stunning coastline, and on clear days, you’ll be treated to vistas that stretch for miles in every direction.
What to Expect:
Most parasailing companies in Destin offer expertly guided tours with strict safety measures to ensure that everyone enjoys the rush in a secure environment. Rides typically last 15 minutes but can be extended depending on the package you select. Destin parasailing companies are known for their reputation for maintaining safety and providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Prices generally range from $65 to $100 per person depending on the company and duration of the ride. Several companies in Destin also offer photos and video packages so that you can remember your adventure from the sky.
15. Visit Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Wrap up your visit to Destin with a stop at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, located in nearby Fort Walton Beach. A great choice for families, Gulfarium combines education with entertainment by featuring a variety of marine life shows and attractions.
What to See and Do at Gulfarium:
Visitors can see marine animals such as dolphins, sea lions, turtles, and stingrays, along with interactive touch pools where children can engage with starfish, sea urchins, and more. Don’t miss out on the famous dolphin and sea lion shows, held daily and offering an intimate look at these remarkable animals.
For those who want an even more immersive experience, Gulfarium also offers animal encounters where visitors can interact with dolphins, sea lions, and penguins. These hands-on experiences range in price but offer a fantastic, up-close opportunity to learn about marine conservation in an engaging and memorable way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fun Things To Do in Destin
What is Destin most known for?
Destin is well-known for its white sandy beaches that consist of smooth, powder-like quartz, along with its reputation as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” due to its abundance of fish and excellent fishing opportunities. There are also various water sports, bustling boardwalks, and family-friendly parks scattered throughout the city, making it a popular vacation destination.
What are some free things to do in Destin?
Destin offers many free activities for visitors looking to explore the area without spending a fortune. A great option is strolling along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, where you can enjoy views of the harbor, window-shop, or attend free events such as fireworks on selected nights. Public access beaches like James Lee Park are also free, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching.
Another excellent free attraction is Gator Beach at Fudpucker’s, where you can view over 100 live alligators, watch gator shows, and even take photos (for an additional fee).
Is Crab Island suitable for families?
Yes! While Crab Island does have a reputation for being a party spot, especially during holidays and weekends, it also offers plenty of family-friendly activities. If you go during non-peak times, the atmosphere is much calmer, and there are kid-friendly activities like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and floating water parks available. Weekdays, in particular, are more family-oriented compared to weekends.
When is the best time to visit Destin?
The best time to visit Destin is either the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). During these shoulder seasons, the crowds are smaller, the humidity is lower, and the weather is sunny and pleasant for beach activities. If you prefer the lively energy of peak season, then summer (June to August) is the best time but expect more crowded attractions.
However, if you’re a fishing enthusiast, be sure to check the local fishing seasons, as Destin’s fishing calendar significantly influences visitation times.
Can you swim with dolphins in Destin?
While you can’t swim directly with dolphins in the wild areas of Destin, you can certainly catch sight of them up close on dolphin cruises. For those looking for a more interactive experience, consider visiting Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, where they offer dolphin encounters that let you interact on a personal level with these fascinating animals.
Conclusion
There’s no denying it: Destin, Florida, truly has something for everyone. From lounging on the white sandy beaches of Henderson Beach State Park to thrilling parasailing excursions over the Gulf, this city offers an unbeatable combination of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly fun. Whether it’s connected to the sea, land, or sky, Destin beckons travelers of all age groups and interests to come and discover everything it has to offer.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to dive into all the fun that Destin, Florida, has to offer. From fishing charters to boardwalk strolls, you’ll find no shortage of ways to create lasting memories in this incredible destination.
