Destin, FL is a stunning beach town that looks like something on a postcard. With beautiful white-sand beaches, golf courses for Dad to explore, and plenty of shopping for Mom, this coastal city is the perfect spot for your next family vacation. 

Located along the Gulf of Mexico in the northwestern corner of sunny Florida, Destin is famous for the bright white sands and emerald waters. The perfect place to get a tan, Destin features world-class resorts, luxury hotels, exotic restaurants, and a wide range of boutiques that are sure to test your budget. 

Active Things to Do in Destin!

When looking for some active and adventurous things to do in Destin during your next vacation, there are no shortages of outdoor activities that will help you keep off those holiday calories. 

Cruise on a Banana Boat Tour

Rent a private Banana Boat tour for you and the family, cruising around on a high-speed, inflatable banana to get a different point of view of the picturesque Destin. If a banana isn’t your style, don’t fret – speed along the Gulf of Mexico on one of the many large jet ski boat rides. 

Snorkel With The Fishes! 

If you love getting in the cool water after baking in the sun, try snorkeling with Emerald Coast Scuba when looking at the best things to do in Destin. Swimming underwater and spotting nurse sharks, sea turtles, and colorful coral might just be the highlight of your vacation! All you have to worry about is bringing your swimsuit – the trusted rental and adventure company will take care of everything else. 

Relax During Your Much-Needed Vacay

Sometimes when researching things to do in Destin, you may just want to take in the sights, soak up some sun, and read a good book. Luckily for you, this coastal town has no shortage of sandy hideaways from the crowded masses. 

Mozy Down Destin Harbor Boardwalk

Before soaking in the sunshine, head to the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and walk a few laps, passing by candle-lit restaurants, boats on the marina, and sky-high hotels during your stroll. On your walk, keep an eye out for where you want to go for dinner that night – there is no shortage of decadent food options for you and the family in Destin! 

Soak In The Sun

Head to Henderson Beach State Park to go for a swim, set up an umbrella, and keep reading the latest Twilight book you promised yourself you’d finish one day. For a change of scenery the next day, head to Crystal Sands Beach, a relaxing spot to kick back and watch the crashing waves on the shore. 

Don’t forget a souvenir…

If you want a souvenir and special gift to bring back home for a friend, Destin has plenty of boutique, budget, and expansive shopping options for you!

Explore Grand Boulevard Sandestin

When looking up the best things to do in Destin, this shopping mall is always at the top of locals’ and visitors’ lists – and for a good reason. With expansive dining and shopping options, you can take a relaxing lunch break while shopping for the ideal trinket for your BFF. 

Scope Out Silver Sands Premium Outlets

If you can’t seem to find the perfect gift, try walking to the Silver Sands Premium Outlets, a factory outlet center that is home to over 110 designer and name-brand stores. For shopaholics researching the best things to do in Destin, Silver Sands will surely not disappoint. 

Do It All At Destin Commons

The last shopping option is Destin Commons, a shopping metropolis located on Mid-Bay Bridge road. Catch a movie at AMC cinemas after finding the perfect gift for your friend (or outfit for dinner out on the town tonight). 

Conclusion

Destin might not be the #1 spot on your ‘must see’ vacay list – but it should be. Destin has something for everyone on your next vacation with activities for the whole family, like high-speed boat cruising, boardwalk games, white-sand beaches, and boutique shopping.