Things to Do in Destin, FL

Welcome to the sparkling shores of Destin, where adventure awaits at every turn! Nestled along the breathtaking Emerald Coast of Florida, Destin beckons travelers with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and boundless opportunities for excitement and exploration. 

Destin offers a treasure trove of activities to delight visitors of all ages, from thrilling water sports and exhilarating outdoor adventures to tantalizing culinary delights and vibrant cultural experiences. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to dive into the endless possibilities that await in this charming coastal paradise.

Popular Destin, FL, Activities 

Beach Activities

Destin’s pristine beaches are the city’s crown jewels, beckoning visitors to unwind and soak up the sunshine. Whether you prefer to lounge on the sand with a good book or take a refreshing dip in the Gulf waters, there’s no shortage of beach activities. Beachcombers can spend hours scouring the shoreline for seashells and treasures washed ashore by the gentle waves.

Relaxation and Sunbathing

Visitors can expect to unwind and bask in the warm Florida sunshine on Destin’s pristine beaches. Spread out a beach towel or set up a comfortable beach chair and let the gentle sound of the waves soothe your soul. With miles of soft, powdery sand stretching along the coastline, there’s ample space to find your secluded spot and enjoy quiet relaxation.

Swimming and Snorkeling

Those looking to cool off can take a refreshing dip in the clear, warm waters of the Gulf. With its calm waves and gentle currents, Destin’s beaches offer ideal conditions for swimming. Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore underwater and discover diverse marine life off the shore. Strap on your snorkel mask and fins and venture into the crystal-clear waters to encounter colorful fish, vibrant coral reefs, and other fascinating creatures.

Destin’s beaches feature designated snorkeling areas with shallow, protected waters perfect for beginners and families with children.

Beachcombing and Shell Collecting

Beachcombers can spend hours wandering along the shoreline, searching for treasures washed ashore by the tide. Destin’s beaches are known for their abundance of beautiful seashells, including conch shells, sand dollars, and starfish. Stroll along the sand and look for unique and unusual shells to add to your collection. Whether you’re a seasoned shell collector or just enjoying beachcombing, you will find plenty of treasures to take home as souvenirs.

For an extra memorable experience, visit the beaches early in the morning after a high tide or storm, when fresh shells are often deposited on the shore.

Water Sports

Dive into the exhilarating world of water sports along the sun-kissed shores of Destin, Florida. With its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Destin offers the perfect playground for jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking adventures. Soak up the sunshine and experience the ultimate aquatic thrills in this picturesque coastal paradise.

            Jet Skiing and Waverunner Rentals

      Feel the thrill of skimming across the waves on a high-speed jet ski or waverunner. Rent a jet ski and race along the coastline, feeling the wind in your hair and the ocean spray on your face. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-time adventurer, jet skiing offers an adrenaline-pumping experience that’s sure to get your heart racing.

            Parasailing Adventures

Soar high above the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico on an unforgettable parasailing adventure. Strap into a harness and take to the skies as you’re towed behind a boat, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of Destin’s coastline. Feel the adrenaline rush as you glide effortlessly through the air, taking in panoramic vistas of the sparkling sea and sandy shores below.

            Stand-up Paddleboarding

Experience the serene beauty of Destin’s waterways from a new perspective with stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Glide along calm bays and inlets, soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the tranquility of the water. Perfect for all skill levels, stand-up paddleboarding offers a fun and relaxing way to explore the coastline and get a full-body workout simultaneously.

            Kayaking and Canoeing

Set off on a kayaking or canoeing adventure and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Destin’s coastal ecosystems. Paddle through mangrove forests, shallow lagoons, and secluded inlets, encountering native wildlife. Whether seeking a peaceful paddle through serene waters or an adrenaline-fueled journey through choppy seas, kayaking and canoeing in Destin offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Fishing Excursions

Destin offers a fishing adventure to suit every angler’s preference, whether seeking the adrenaline rush of deep-sea fishing, the tranquility of pier fishing, or the excitement of crabbing and shrimping.

Deep-Sea Fishing Charters

Embark on an unforgettable deep-sea fishing adventure aboard a charter boat. Head out into the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico, where you’ll have the chance to reel in various prized catches, including snapper, grouper, mahi-mahi, and even billfish.

                        Expert-Guided Deep-Sea Fishing Adventures 

Experienced captains and crew members will guide you to the best fishing spots, sharing their expertise and helping you hone your fishing skills. With state-of-the-art equipment and spacious vessels, deep-sea fishing charters in Destin offer an unparalleled fishing experience for anglers of all levels.

Pier and Shore Fishing

For a more relaxed fishing experience, cast your line from Destin’s many piers or shoreline spots. Whether you’re fishing from the iconic Destin Harbor Boardwalk or one of the area’s scenic beaches, you’ll have the opportunity to catch various coastal species, including pompano, redfish, and flounder. Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks, set up your fishing gear, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while waiting for the fish to bite. Pier and shore fishing in Destin is perfect for anglers looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the coastal scenery.

Crabbing and Shrimping Tours

Experience the thrill of catching your seafood on Destin’s crabbing or shrimping tour. Join experienced captains and crew aboard specialized vessels as they take you to prime crabbing and shrimping grounds in the local waterways. Learn the art of baiting traps, setting lines, and pulling in your catch as you search for blue crabs, stone crabs, and shrimp. These interactive tours offer a hands-on experience for the whole family and provide a unique glimpse into the local fishing culture of Destin.

Family-friendly Attractions

Gather your loved ones and embark on an unforgettable adventure. From thrilling water parks to captivating marine attractions, this vibrant coastal paradise offers no shortage of family-friendly fun.                

Water Parks and Amusement Centers

Treat the family to a day of fun and excitement at Destin’s water parks and amusement centers. Splash around in thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, providing endless entertainment for kids of all ages. From adrenaline-pumping rides to kid-friendly play areas, these attractions offer something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Let the laughter and joy of a day at the water park create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Dolphin Shows and Marine Aquariums

Dive into the fascinating world of marine life with dolphin shows and visits to marine aquariums. Watch in awe as majestic dolphins perform acrobatic feats and learn about their behaviors and habitats. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing a variety of aquatic species, from colorful fish and sea turtles to playful otters and sharks. These family-friendly attractions provide an educational and entertaining experience that will captivate visitors of all ages.

Miniature Golf Courses and Arcade Arcades

Put your way through themed miniature golf courses and challenge the family to friendly competitions. Navigate through whimsical obstacles and tricky holes, providing hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike.

Step into the nostalgia of arcade arcades, where classic and modern games await. Test your skills at pinball, air hockey, and video games, earning tickets and prizes along the way. With endless gaming options, arcade arcades offer fun for the whole family, rain or shine.

Discover the Fun and Adventure of Destin, FL 

Discover the vibrant, fun, and exhilarating adventures awaiting you in Destin, Florida. From crystal-clear waters to sandy beaches, this coastal paradise offers endless opportunities for exploration and excitement. Whether it’s snorkeling in colorful reefs, deep-sea fishing, or simply lounging by the shore, Destin promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler. 

Visit our Happy’s Crab Island Watersports blog to learn more about rentals and more while visiting Destin, FL.