Visitor Guide

Destin Area Vistors Guide

Destin Area
Visitors Guide

Welcome to the Emerald Coast gem, Destin, Florida! As a local, I’m thrilled to introduce you to the paradise we call home. Nestled along the pristine Gulf of Mexico, Destin offers a unique blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and endless activities that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation on our sugar-white sandy beaches, adventure on the water, delectable seafood dining experiences, or a taste of our vibrant local culture, Destin has it all. In this comprehensive visitors guide, I’ll be your trusted guide, sharing insider tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your stay.

So, pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to uncover the treasures that make Destin an exceptional destination. From our breathtaking sunsets to the thrill of reeling in the “big one” on a fishing charter, Destin awaits your discovery. Welcome, and let’s explore this coastal paradise together!

Get to know our area!

Things to do around the Emerald Coast?

Destin, Florida is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant atmosphere.
Here is a detailed list of things to do in and around Destin:

Things to do around the Emerald Coast?

Destin, Florida is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant atmosphere.  Here is a detailed list of things to do in and around Destin:

On the Beach

  • Enjoy the Beaches: Spend time relaxing on the pristine white sandy beaches that Destin is famous for. Popular beaches include Henderson Beach State Park, Crystal Beach, and Miramar Beach.

  • Water Sports: Try various water sports activities like jet-skiing, paddle boarding, snorkel, parasailing, and windsurfing. Rentals and guided tours are available.

  • Fishing:  Destin is known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” You can charter a boat for deep-sea fishing, or fish from the Destin Harbor or the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier. 850 Charters is fantastic.

  • Scuba Dive: There are some artificial reefs off the coast in Walton County

  • Sandcastle Building Lessons: Sandcastle Rockstars or Beach Sand Sculptures

  • Boating and Yachting: Rent a boat, jet ski or yacht to explore the coastline or go on a sunset cruise. Destin Harbor has many options for boat rentals and charters.

  • Cruisin Tiki: Take a Cruise on a Tiki Boat

  • Dolphin Cruises: Take a dolphin-watching cruise to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Several tour companies offer dolphin cruises. “Buccaneer Pirate Cruise” is on my favorites. Lots of fun for the kids & adults. They also do late cruises to see fireworks as well.

  • Beach bonfire: Great but only allowed in Walton County

  • Sailing: Take a ride on a sail boat or take lessons.

  • Relax and Enjoy the Sunset:  End your day by watching the stunning sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

  • Relax and Grab some Food:  Take a look at the list below of great beach front dining options.

Off the Beach

  • Shopping: Explore the shops and boutiques at Destin Commons, Silver Sands Premium Outlets, Grand Blvd., Pier Park and HarborWalk Village for souvenirs, fashion, and more.

  • Jump Park: Urban Air (Destin), Surge (Mary Ester) & Just Jump (Panama City)

  • Art: The Shard Shop (Grayton Beach) Make art with Glass

  • Marine Park: Gulfarium (Destin/Okaloosa Island) & Gulf World (Panama City Beach) Get up close & personal with all kinds of marine life. Dolphins, sharks, turtles, etc.

  • Arcade: Fat Daddy’s, Thrillers Laser Tag & Arcade, Rainforest Black Light Golf/Arcade

  • Adventure Zones: Wild Willy’s, The Track, Baytowne Village

  • Water Park: Big Kahuna’s (Destin) & Ship Wreck Island (PCB)

  • Go to the Spa: The Henderson Park Inn Spa, Emerald Grande Spa & Hilton Sandestin Spa

  • Bowling: Hurricane Lane, Uncle Buck’s The Fish Bowl

  • Rock Out Climbing Gym (Destin)

  • Escapology (Destin & Sandestin)

  • Play Golf: Kelly Plantation, Indian Bayou, Regatta Bay, Emerald Bay, Seascape, Sandestin, Santa Rosa Beach Golf Club, Camp Creek, Watersound Origins, Sharktooth, etc.

  • Play Tennis: Seascape, Sandestin, Hidden Dunes, Topsl, Rosemary Beach

  • Gulf Breeze Zoo:  If you’re traveling with family, visit the Gulf Breeze Zoo, a short drive from Destin, to see a variety of animals.

  • Nightlife: Experience the nightlife at HarborWalk Village & Baytowne Village (In Sandestin) with live music, bars, and clubs.

  • Attend Events:  Check the local events calendar for festivals, fireworks displays, and special events that might coincide with your visit.

  • Helicopter Tours: Get a bird’s-eye view of Destin and its beautiful coastline with a helicopter tour.

Where Should We Eat on the Emerald Coast?

Where Should We Eat on the Emerald Coast?

The Destin and 30A areas in Florida are a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse array of dining options. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, gourmet cuisine, or casual beachside eats, there’s something for everyone. From upscale restaurants with stunning ocean views to cozy local cafes and vibrant food trucks, the region boasts an eclectic mix of flavors and experiences. Embrace the opportunity to taste locally sourced ingredients, indulge in fresh catches of the day, and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Florida’s Gulf Coast. For specific recommendations and a deeper dive into the culinary scene of Destin and 30A, it’s best to explore local guides or food blogs dedicated to the area.

These are just a few of my personal favorites!

Beach Front Dining

  • The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House:

    • Address: 1740 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541
    • Known for its fresh seafood and stunning beachfront location

  • Pompano Joe’s Seafood House:

    • Address: 2237 Scenic Gulf Dr, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
    • Offers seafood dishes and beachfront dining with a Caribbean flair.

  • Beach Walk Café:

    • Address: 2700 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541
    • Fine dining experience with Gulf views and a diverse menu.

  • The Whale’s Tail Beach Bar & Grill:

    • Address: 137 Fisherman’s Wharf, Destin, FL 32550
    • Casual beachfront dining with a variety of seafood and drink options.

  • The Crab Trap:

    • Address: 3500 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541
    • Offers fresh seafood and a spacious outdoor deck overlooking the beach.

  • AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar:

    • Address: 116 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
    • Located on the Destin Harbor, this restaurant offers seafood and live music with waterfront seating.

  • The Surf Hut:

    • Address: 551 Scenic Gulf Dr, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
    • Casual beachfront dining with a menu featuring seafood and Southern favorites.

  • Bud & Alley’s:

    • Address: 2236 E County Hwy 30A, Seaside, FL 32459
    • A beloved institution with a rooftop bar and restaurant overlooking the Gulf. Offers a variety of seafood and coastal dishes.

  • Vue on 30A:

    • Address: 4801 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
    • Located in Santa Rosa Beach, Vue on 30A offers stunning Gulf views and a menu featuring seafood and Southern flavors.

  • Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar:

    • Address: 1875 S County Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
    • Offers beachfront dining with an emphasis on oysters, seafood, and a lively atmosphere.

  • Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar:

    • Address: 74 Town Hall Rd, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
    • Pescado offers upscale seafood dining on the rooftop with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy fresh seafood and creative cocktails in a sophisticated setting.

  • The Bay & North Beach:

    • Address: 24215 US-331 S, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
    • While not directly on the beach, The Bay is a bayfront restaurant offering a diverse menu and beautiful water views.

American / Southern

  • Chanticleer Eatery – Grayton Beach

  • Craft Bar – Destin & Grand Blvd (Sandestin)

  • Beach Camp – Grayton Beach & Destin

  • Great Southern – Seaside

  • Chringo – Grayton Beach

Italian

  • Pazzo Italiano & Pizza – Destin & Santa Rosa Beach

  • Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano – Destin & 30A

  • Pizza by the Sea – 30A & Santa Rosa Beach

  • Amici 30A Italian Kitchen – Rosemary Beach

  • Bruno’s Pizza – Watersound

BBQ

  • Back Beach BBQ – Panama City Beach, FL

  • Beach Camp – Grayton Beach & Destin

  • Lucille’s Music Hall – Miramar Beach

Breakfast

  • Big Bad Breakfast – Rosemary Beach & Miramar

  • Scratch Biscuit – Watercolor

  • Another Broken Egg – Grand Blvd (Sandestin)

  • Cracklings – Grayton Beach

Fine Dining

  • Cafe Thirty-A – 30A

  • Marina Cafe – Destin

  • Edward’s – Aly Beach

  • Pescado – Rosemary Beach

Steak

  • Ruth Chris – Destin

  • McQuire’s – Destin

  • Fleming’s Steak House – Grand Blvd (Sandestin)

  • Restaurant Paradis – Rosemary Beach

Seafood

  • Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House – Destin

  • Cast Dave’s On the Gulf Seafood – Destin

  • Stinky’s Fish Camp – Dune Allen / 30A

  • Louisiana Lagniappe Seafood – Destin, Florida

  • Louis Louis and/or Red Bar – Santa Rosa Beach & Grayson Beach

  • FOOW – Watercolor

Ice Cream / Sweets

  • Dewey’s New Orleans Snoballs – Destin Harbor

  • Kilwins – Rosemary Beach & Grand Blvd (Sandestin)

  • Smallcakes – 30A & Destin

  • La Crema Tapas & Chocolate – Rosemary Beach

Mexican

  • Red Fish Taco – Blue Mountain Beach 30A

  • Cantina Laredo – Grand Blvd (Sandestin)

  • El Jalisco – Destin Commons

  • Amigos 30A – Rosemary Beach

**If you are from TX don’t waste your time, there is nothing close**

Asian / Sushi

  • Sushi Moto – Miramar Beach

  • Harbor Docks – Destin Harbor

  • Nanbu Noodle Bar – Grayton Beach / 30A

  • Rock N Roll Sushi – Destin

Where Should We Stay on the Emerald Coast?

Where Should We Stay on the Emerald Coast?

Deciding where to stay on Florida’s picturesque Emerald Coast involves choosing among its enchanting locales like Destin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Inlet Beach. Each offers distinct experiences, atmospheres, and activities. Here’s an in-depth look to help guide your decision:

Scenery and Activities:

  • Destin: This bustling city is a paradise for those who love the ocean. Renowned for its deep-sea fishing, Destin offers a plethora of water activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling. The area is also home to several top-rated golf courses and family-friendly attractions like water parks and adventure zones.
  • Seaside: A quintessential beach town, Seaside is famous for its quaint charm and idyllic setting, featured in the movie ‘The Truman Show.’ It’s a haven for those who enjoy leisurely activities like bike rides, beach picnics, and browsing through unique art galleries and boutiques.
  • Rosemary Beach: This upscale community is distinguished by its striking architecture inspired by the West Indies. Rosemary Beach is perfect for those seeking a luxurious getaway, offering fine dining, elegant shopping, and high-end spa experiences. The town’s walkable design invites leisurely exploration of its cobblestone streets and hidden boardwalks.
  • Inlet Beach: As one of the less developed areas on the Emerald Coast, Inlet Beach provides a serene and natural setting. It’s ideal for those looking to escape the crowds, offering miles of unspoiled beaches, nature trails, and a more relaxed pace of life. The nearby Camp Helen State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.

Seasonal Considerations:  The Emerald Coast offers distinct experiences throughout the year. Destin and Seaside are bustling with energy during the summer months with beach activities and festivals. In contrast, the off-season offers a quieter, more intimate experience, particularly in Rosemary Beach and Inlet Beach, where the cooler months bring a peaceful solitude to the shores.

Cultural Atmosphere:

  • Destin:  This area is a mix of high-energy activities and relaxed beach life. It’s diverse, offering both family-friendly and adult-oriented entertainment, including vibrant nightlife.
  • Seaside/Watercolor: Known for its community-focused and artsy vibe, Seaside regularly hosts outdoor events, film screenings, and farmers’ markets, fostering a strong sense of community.
  • Rosemary Beach: Offers a refined, cultured atmosphere, often hosting wine tastings, art exhibitions, and live music events, appealing to those with sophisticated tastes.
  • Inlet Beach: Maintains a low-key, laid-back environment, focusing on the natural beauty and tranquility of the coast. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat.

Accessibility:

  • Destin: Easily accessible via the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, with numerous accommodations close to the airport and beach.
  • 30A, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Inlet Beach: Best reached by car, these areas are within a short driving distance from each other, offering the opportunity to explore multiple communities during your stay.

Accommodations and Amenities:

  • Destin: Offers a wide range of options from luxurious beachfront resorts to affordable vacation rentals.
  • Seaside: Known for its charming cottages and bed-and-breakfasts, providing a cozy, home-away-from-home experience.
  • Rosemary Beach: Features upscale accommodations, including boutique hotels and high-end rental properties.
  • Inlet Beach: Offers a mix of beachfront houses, condos, and smaller hotels, catering to those looking for a more secluded stay.
  • Alys Beach: In order to shoot on property you MUST be a home owner or be staying on Alys Beach property

Budget: Each area caters to different budgets. Destin and Rosemary Beach generally cater to a higher-end market, while Seaside and Inlet Beach offer a range of options that can be more budget-friendly.

Personal Interests: Reflect on what you’re seeking: vibrant nightlife, quiet beach days, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures. Each area on the Emerald Coast caters to different preferences and lifestyles.

Combine Destinations: For a comprehensive experience, consider a road trip along the coast. Each area is unique, and exploring several of them can provide a diverse and enriching experience of what the Emerald Coast has to offer.

Your choice will ultimately depend on the type of experience you desire, the time of year you plan to visit, and your personal preferences. Each destination along the Emerald Coast has its unique allure, promising an unforgettable stay.

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