If you’re looking for a beach destination, Destin is the place for you. This city is famous for its fishing spots, golf courses, and pristine beaches. Outside the leisurely outdoor activities, there are other fun things to do in Destin as well. It has everything from a water park with 40 different attractions to waterfront entertainment, restaurants, and bars. Continue scrolling to find hidden gems, tourist attractions, top things to do today, and more.
If you’re looking for the authentic Destin experience, look no further. Some of the best things to do in Destin include taking a walk down at beautiful HarborWalk Village or cooling off at Big Kahuna’s water park.
For more of the best things to do near Destin, review the following:
HarborWalk Village: offering waterfront entertainment, restaurants, and activities
Big Kahuna’s: a water park opened in 1986 with 40 different water attractions
Destin History and Fishing Museum: learn everything there is to know about the history of Destin
Henderson Beach State Park: scenic shoreline with overnight camping
James Lee Beach: a playground for the kids and miles of sand
There are many landmarks and tourist attractions that display Destin’s history and culture. The Mid-Bay bridge takes almost 4 miles across the Pensacola Bay. For something scenic, the Okaloosa Island Pier provides a picturesque view of the city from the water.
Popular attractions near Destin include:
Fort Pickens: a historic United States military fort offering tours of the facilities
Mid-Bay Bridge: a 3.6 mile long bridge just above the water
Okaloosa Island Pier: Expansive concrete pier known for its saltwater fishing and birdwatching
Emerald Coast: the stretch of Florida connecting five counties around the Gulf of Mexico
Destin Harbor Boardwalk: bars, restaurants, shops, and views of the bay
Destin’s nightlife is one to remember. From dinner cruises to nightclubs and wine bars, there’s never a lack of things to do in Destin at night. Start your night off at the Coyote Ugly Saloon, where patrons can dance on the bars.
Nighttime activities near Destin include:
The Other End: one of the most popular spots in Destin with nightly drink specials
AJ’s Seafood & Ocean Bar: offers a catch of the day, live music, cocktails
Coyote Ugly Saloon: offers lively atmosphere with bartop dancing
Red Door Saloon: a down-home bar offering drinks, hot dogs, steamed sandwiches & more
Bric a Brac: an upbeat restaurant and bar with an eclectic American menu
Featuring many nautical-themed options, Destine is a popular town for family-friendly activities. Pretending to be pirates and discovering marine life are just some of the amazing things do in Destin for kids.
Family-Friendly things to do near Destin include:
The Track: bumper cars and boats, go karts, and mini-golf
Amusement USA: water spheres, bungee jumping, and much more
Barefoot Pirates Treasure Quest: an interactive kid friendly pirate adventure
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park: the park has been stunning audiences with marine animal shows since 1955
Wild WIlly’s Adventure Zone: a family fun center with mini-golf, indoor arcade, and prehistoric decor
For a break from the beach, Destin has many things to do indoors. Experience live music and delicious food at Hog’s Breath Saloon or learn about the origins of the area at the Indian Temple Mound Museum.
Destin things to do indoors include:
Hog’s Breath Saloon: offers seafood, southern grub, and live music
Family and Friends Day Spa: a day spa offering a wide array of relaxing services
Hammerheads Bar and Grill: eat seafood and burgers overlooking Fisherman’s Cove
Indian Temple Mound Museum: ceramic artifacts dedicated to nearby tribes
Louisiana Lagniappe: offers creole seafood and steaks overlooking a harbor
For fun outdoor activities, look no further than Destin. The white-sand beaches and numerous natural areas offer hours of exploration and nature-viewing opportunities.
Active things to see in Destin include:
Eglin Beach Park: get time on the beach without the crowds
Golf Sandestin: 4 courses, each with their own unique challenges
Redneck Beach: snorkel and swim under the Destin Bridge
Meigs Park: a waterfront park with picnic terraces and grills
Grayton Beach State Park: one mile of sugar-white sand