Looking for the best things to do in Destin, Florida? Destin affectionately calls itself the world’s luckiest fishing village. It has grown from a small, quiet place to one that attracts most visitors to Florida’s Emerald Coast. People come for the beaches—no wonder these stretches of white sand easily rival those in the southern United States. The Sunshine State has much more to offer, including many things to do in Virginia Beach and crystal-clear spring waters. There are also culturally rich cities, historical attractions reminiscent of the Old days, and exciting festivals and events. You can also visit impressive museums and discover some of Florida’s best things.
Things To Do in Destin, Florida
1. Destin Harbor Boardwalk: A Morning Stroll with Stunning Views
Walk the Destin Harbor Boardwalk in the morning to see this coastal treasure. The Gulf of Mexico’s fresh air and stunning sights greet you at morning. At almost a quarter mile, the port front boardwalk is a nice place to stretch your legs and start your day away from the nightlife.
This area is great for morning walks or sightseeing, making it one of the best things to do in Destin, Florida. After resting, try The Breakfast Table or The Doughnut Hole Bakery Cafe for a substantial breakfast. Both have early openings and are great for fuelling up before Destin trips.
2. Henderson Beach State Park: A Natural Wonderland
Destin must-sees include Henderson Beach State Park. This park has over 6,000 feet of beach and is great for a day out. Lounging on the white sand beach and swimming in the beautiful Gulf waters are great ways to see aquatic life. The coastal shrub is uncommon and maintained.
The park has beautiful pathways across the guarded dunes for environment lovers. Don’t want to leave? The park provides camping so that you may sleep beneath the stars. Natural beauty lovers will appreciate this Destin destination, whether you’re resting by the beach or exploring the area.
3. Explore Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks: Discover Local History
Tarpon Springs is the Sponge Capital of the World, an older experience. This lovely Greek village has a long history related to the 1880s sponge diving business. Walkers along the sponge docks on the Anclote River may see Gulf of Mexico divers still operating. By 1905, over 500 divers harvested natural sea sponges from 50 boats. Discover sponge fishing and buy a local sponge at the docks, which are bustling with this unique activity.
After seeing the docks, get a Greek lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants. Hellas Bakery & Restaurant in Mykonos serves baklava, kataifi, and kourabiedes. The scent of salted fish improves beachfront dining. With sponge docks and Greek food, Tarpon Springs takes you to Florida’s beachfront fishing town.
4. Glass-Bottom Boat Ride at Silver Springs
Silver Springs glass-bottom boat cruises are a must-do for unique Florida adventures. Historic trips have drawn travelers since the 1870s and show central Florida’s splendor. The Silver River’s pure waters reveal the widely available fish and magnificent springs below. Spanish, Native American, and Hollywood underwater movie props will be found along the journey. A 30-minute boat trip or a 90-minute extended period excursion showcases the area’s beauty.
Silver Springs State Park offers a unique Florida experience. However, these excursions typically purchase out, so get tickets early to prevent disappointment. Kayak tours from Viator are more adventurous. Casual and daring guests may see Florida’s natural beauty on Silver Springs’ glass-bottom boat tours.
5. Dolphin sunset cruise: A Top Thing to Do in Destin, Florida
Dolphin sunset cruises are a top Destin attraction. These excursions are perfect for seeing the sunsets of the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay. Operators provide open-topped and glass-bottomed boats to see bottle-nosed dolphins and other wonderful animals in their natural environment. Sunsets make boating or resting memorable.
Summer trips are popular, although they’re offered year-round. A harbor tour precedes dolphin hunting in open water. You’ll see Destin from a new angle when you observe these joyful animals. Anyone visiting this gorgeous seaside town should take the trip to see dolphins, which is likely.
6.HarborWalk Marina: A Fun Day by the Water
HarborWalk Marina in downtown Destin is a great place to start the day by the Gulf. Boat trips and beautiful cruises are great starting points for water activity. The sea wind will chill you as you watch dazzling boats bobbing. Romantic settings are available along the marina for a stroll or dinner with your partner. HarborWalk Marina is enjoyable to visit since seafood restaurants and souvenir shops surround it. No site is better for a spectacular celebration. Choose a neighboring restaurant for dinner for the most excellent Destin date night.
7. Explore Winter Park
Winter Park, a few miles north of Orlando, provides peace. You may find prominent restaurants and attractive shops on tree-lined Park Avenue. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art and Rollins Museum of Art are outstanding in this town.
Outdoor enthusiasts will adore the many parks and green spaces available for a day of adventure. The hour-long guided Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour around the town’s network of lakes is a must-do, with sights of alligators lazing in the sun. It’s a unique way to see Winter Park’s splendor as you float by waterfront houses.
8. Crab Island
Crab Island, a haven just outside Destin, is the ideal place to savor the Emerald Coast’s magnificence. Formerly an island, it has been degraded into an underwater sand bar with shallow, wadeable water for enjoyment.
It attracts locals and visitors who rent pontoon boats to swim in the calm water. Seasonal floating eateries like WaterWorld provide seafood and Mexican meals, while ships sell Cajun boiled peanuts and ice cream. Discover Destin, the world’s luckiest fishing hamlet, in its natural state with this hidden treasure.
9. Destin Commons
Enjoy beach vacation shopping at Destin Commons. Large palm palms surround this open-air mall, matching the bright weather and natural beauty. Visit the cinema, eat at one of the numerous restaurants, or let your children play in the play area in addition to the many national retailers.
Spend time at Destin Commons shopping or having fun. Enjoy some retail therapy at Destin Commons on your beach vacation. Large palm palms surround this open-air mall, matching the bright weather and natural beauty. Visit the cinema, eat at one of the numerous restaurants, or let your children play in the play area, in addition to the many national retailers.
10. Siesta Key Beach Day
Siesta Key is home to one of the nation’s most beautiful beaches. A tranquil hideaway with turquoise waters and the warm Florida sun, this 8-mile barrier island has powdery white sand. The practically pure quartz sand feels quite soft underfoot. You may wander along the beach or enjoy the island’s famed wind.
The free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley provides visitors with an island perspective. Ocean Boulevard offers shopping, restaurants, and entertainment in Siesta Key Village. Siesta Key is a great place for beach days or local shopping.
11. Indian Temple Mound Museum
Discover local history at the Indian Temple Mound Museum—Discover Destin’s rich history at this National Historic Landmark, 10 minutes from downtown. An 800-year-old mound supported a temple and the area’s leader’s home. Native Americans ceremonially and residentially utilized this site.
Today, the museum near the mound displays Native American and local historical artifacts. The exhibitions show native life and customs. Indian Temple Mound Museum ties you to Destin and Fort Walton Beach’s core, whether you’re interested in ancient or modern history.
12. Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Ichetucknee Springs State Park at Fort White, 80 miles southwest of Jacksonville, protects 2,700 acres for wildlife lovers. Eight big springs supply the park, which is home to beavers, softshell turtles, wood ducks, limpkins, and other oddities. A National Natural Landmark spring enhances the park’s charm.
Nature trails, geo-hunting, and park beauty are available. The clean river lets you canoe, kayak, scuba dive, swim, and tube. Travelers love this, therefore tourists must see it.
13. Busch Gardens Tampa
You may find thrill and adventure at Busch Gardens in Tampa. This park in Destin offers thrill-seekers rides and unlimited entertainment. The 135-foot Serengeti Flyer, at 68 mph, is the tallest and fastest roller coaster worldwide. This exhilarating journey has tight bends, high-speed twists, and negative-G scenarios.
For the less daring, the park has a 65-acre Serengeti Plain. Zebras, giraffes, rhinos, and antelopes may be seen during a 30-minute off-road park tour. Designed rides and activities for smaller kids will also entertain families. Travelers have commended the park’s well-kept gardens and unusual theme park-safari tour mix, making it one of the best things to do in Destin,Florida.
14. Visit Gator Beach
Gator Beach in Destin is a must-see for unique experiences. This alligator park is one of the best sites to see alligators. Free entrance lets you enjoy an exciting Gator Show and feed these amazing animals in the afternoon. A $5 bag of gator food is ideal for engaging with local legends. Hundreds of alligators will swarm you as you feed them, adding to the park’s excitement. The overall experience is excellent for a family trip or anybody seeking nature and amusement.
Fudpuckers Beachside Bar and Grill awaits after Gator Beach fun. Famous fried dill pickles and Shrimp and Gator Pasta are available here. It’s terrific for eating and watching live music and themed entertainment. Whether lounging on the beach or exploring local sights, Gator Beach and its surroundings make your Florida trip memorable.
15. Baytowne Wharf
Baytowne Wharf in Destin is the right mix of relaxation and entertainment for sand-leavers, making it one of the top things to do in Destin,Florida. Sunset illuminates this quaint town on Choctawhatchee Bay, providing a magnificent environment. There’s something for everyone, from browsing adorable stores to dining at a cozy restaurant.
Live music all night at the Village Door, the area’s leading nightclub, is more vibrant. In the mood for sports? Fat Tuesday Daiquiri Bar provides chilled drinks and a big screen. Relax at Baytowne Wharf after beachgoing. Walk along lovely streets or enjoy the nightlife here. The multitude of choices makes it excellent for both relaxing and having fun.
Conclusion: Best Things to Do in Destin, Florida
Finally, Destin, Florida, offers the right blend of nature, thrills, and history. In this charming coastal town, you may relax on the beaches or explore the marinas and history. Destin offers dolphin cruises, and park walks for everyone to enjoy paradise. Anyone looking to experience Florida’s Emerald Coast’s best fishing, parks, and activities should visit Destin,making it one of the must-see things to do in Destin, Florida.