This Panhandle hideaway on the Emerald Coast has miles of white-sand beaches and world-renowned fishing.
Set between Pensacola and Panama in the Florida Panhandle, the idyllic Gulf Coast beach town of Destin boasts 24 miles of serene beachfront. There’s a reason Destin belongs to an area dubbed the Emerald Coast: Its sugary sands are actually crushed Appalachian quartz, which creates the surreal hue of its waters. More beachy attractions: Hire a charter boat to see if the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” lives up to its name and explore the giant sand dunes at Henderson Beach State Park.
Explore Destin
- Destin Town Center
- Okaloosa Island
- Sandestin
Destin Town Center
Overview
This family-friendly town center is both Destin’s commercial heart, with shops, bars and restaurants, and an area gateway to beaches, boats, parks and more. If you have a variety of ages in tow, this is a neighborhood you won’t want to miss.
Known For
Beaches, Dining, Water Sports, Theme Parks
Okaloosa Island
Overview
Okaloosa Island is a 3-mile-long paradise in Fort Walton Beach. It’s home to many of the area’s prettiest sandy shores and is also part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, making it a haven for native wildlife.
Known For
Museums, Dining, Culture, Water Sports, Nightlife
Sandestin
Overview
Kick back in this resort community, tailor-made for beachy relaxation. Created with Florida travelers in mind, Sandestin makes for easy living. Get around via the tram or the bike rental system as you hop from the pool to the beach to the golf course and back.
Known For
Beaches, Golf, Resorts
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
Experience Three Days of Gulf Coast Living in Destin, Florida
Spend a Day at the Beach
Pack a cooler with snacks and beverages for a day spent on Destin’s most delightful white-sand beaches in nearby Henderson Beach State Park. Then check out Destin Commons for dinner and some shopping.
Scuba Dive Through Emerald Waters
Begin your morning with a half-day diving class taught by the experts at ScubaTech. You’ll be out in the open waters to explore a natural limestone ecosystem teeming with coral and colorful fish. Then stop by the Norriego Point tide pools before dinner at Dewey Destin's Seafood Restaurant.
Embark on a Deep-Sea Fishing Experience
Learn how Destin earns its nickname, World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, during a private group charter with Destin Fishing Fleet, one of the largest charter fleets in the United States. After you reel in a big one, head to one of Destin’s theme parks before enjoying a sunset boat ride at the HarborWalk Village.