Destin, Florida

Destin, Florida is the perfect destination for a beach vacation. Located in the Panhandle area of northwest Florida, this unique city boasts 24 miles of white-sand beaches lapped by the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. 

The shoreline is dotted with tall pine and oak trees, creating cool foliage spots and sheltered wildlife habitats. For those looking to explore more than just the beach, Henderson Beach State Park offers several nature trails that wind through its beautiful dunes. 

In addition to soaking up some sun, there are many activities available both onshore and offshore. From fishing and snorkeling excursions to family-friendly theme parks, visitors to Destin have plenty of options for fun. 

The iconic Destin Harbor Boardwalk provides waterfront shopping and dining opportunities ideal for that post-beach relaxation. With its warm weather, stunning beach views and wonderful attractions, Destin is an excellent spot for a memorable vacation.

The area is known for its pristine beaches graced with ivory sands and the vibrant blues and greens of its Gulf of Mexico waves. There's something for every type of traveler to enjoy, from family-friendly theme parks to snorkeling and fishing trips. 

Destin Harbor Boardwalk offers a picturesque view as you stroll along its wooden planks while Henderson Beach State Park boasts beautiful dunes lined with towering oak and pine trees. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway lounging on the beach or an adventure out on the water, Destin has something waiting for everyone.

Things to do in Destin

BEACHES

There are five beachfront parks with amenities and 12 access points. Pick your pleasure from Henderson Beach to Topsail Hill. Or lavish yourself with a Gulf-front resort.

• Okaloosa Island Boardwalk
• Henderson Beach State Park

FAMILY FUN

From amusement parks to watersports, your children will play well, eat well, and sleep well.

• Theme Parks
• Zoos
• Museums

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Calm waters and shallow depths make the perfect runway for kiteboarding, a viewfinder lens for snorkeling, and a playground for first-time paddleboarders. Destin is "the world's luckiest fishing village" because the edge of the Continental Shelf -- the gathering place for blackfin tuna, grouper, amberjack, and king mackerel -- is just 20 miles offshore. 

• Destin Deep Sea Fishing
• Golf
• Diving and Snorkeling
• Yacht Rentals
• Olin Marler Sunset Cruises

SHOPPING

In Destin, it's really shopping-plus. Add dining and entertainment options and make a day of it.

• Destin Commons
• Harborwalk
• Boardwalk on Okaloosa

PLACES TO STAY

Watch sunrises and sunsets from your hotel balcony. Bring the extended family to a vacation home.

• Hotels
• Vacation Homes
• Camping
• Destin Real Estate

FOR THE LOCALS

• Chiropractors
• Dentists
• Eagleview Roofing
• JefCo AC
• Trees Unlimited

Home to the vivid emerald waters of the Gulfs of Mexico, Destin offers unparalleled views and a rich blend of culture that make it an ideal spot for families and outdoor adventurers alike. 

An abundance of outdoor recreation options makes it well-suited for sportsman and fishing enthusiasts; in fact, it's often referred to as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” 

On top of being well worth the visit on its own merits, Destin's location between notable cities like Pensacola and Panama City Beach make exploring even more rewarding. With a deep history dating back to the 7th century, this coastal paradise is sure to captivate everyone who visits.

When was Destin Founded

Founded by Leonard Destin in the mid-19th century, Destin has come a long way from its humble fishing village beginnings. The small city along Northwest Florida's beautiful Emerald Coast now boasts a bustling population of 13,000, with five million people visiting annually. Further proof of Destin’s progress is found in the local Destin-fort Walton Airport which received over one million passengers for the first time in 2017. Its strategic location through Destin's East Pass between Panama City and Pensacola gives Destin a unique charm that can only be seen and experienced firsthand.

Destin, the Luckiest Fishing Village in the World

Destin, Florida is highly sought-after for both domestic and international tourism, making it one of the top beach destinations in the world. 

Located between historic Pensacola and Panama City Beach, also known as the 'spring break capital', Destin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts while also being family-friendly. 

Known amongst locals as ‘The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village’ due to its array of offerings and opportunities to explore, those visiting will be treated to the most stunning Emerald Coast views with beaches surrounded by water on three sides. 

Dating back centuries ago to the seventh century, this area offers much more than just a place to soak up some sun - with its rich culture that tells stories of an area that has been renowned since antiquity.