Destin, Florida is a popular vacation destination known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant recreational opportunities. Located on the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Panhandle, Destin is a mecca for water sports enthusiasts, anglers, and sun-seekers but also a fantastic vacation destination with something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the beach, catch some waves, or explore the local attractions, there is no shortage of things to do in Destin. From world-class fishing to water parks, shopping, and dining, there’s never a dull moment in this Gulf Coast paradise.
Here are 30 of the best attractions in Destin:
1. Tiki Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
The Tiki Harbor Sightseeing Cruise is a unique and entertaining way to explore the scenic beauty of Destin, Florida. This 1-hour cruise takes visitors on a relaxing tour of the Destin Harbor and its picturesque surroundings aboard a colorful Tiki boat. It's a fun and laid-back way to enjoy the stunning views and learn about the history and culture of the area. The tour begins at the Destin Harbor, where guests board the Tiki boat and meet their friendly and knowledgeable captain. As the boat sets sail, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the harbor, the Gulf of Mexico, and the surrounding coastline. The captain provides fascinating commentary about the area's history, wildlife, and attractions, including the stunning homes of the rich and famous that line the harbor.
2. Crab Island Jet-ski Dolphin Tour
On this two-hour tour, you'll board a jet-ski and head off across Destin Harbor and the Santa Rosa Sound in search of playful dolphins. You'll be riding a powerful, Yamaha jet-ski seating two people, with a professional guide to lead you to Crab Island. Once you've found Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, you can watch them feeding and interacting in the water with their characteristic grace. You could also spot a variety of other marine wildlife.
3. Jet Ski Ride & Dolphin Watch
During this experience you’ll take a large jet ski boat ride and dolphin watching tour in Destin. Your cruise will leave the Destin Harbor on board a Hydrojet, from where you’ll head out into the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll then travel down the beach where you'll encounter a host of local wildlife, including dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, sting rays and manatees.
4. Sunset Cruise in Destin
On this cruise, you’ll get to see sunset views of Destin from a tiki boat. You’ll be picked up from the harbor and taken into the sea for this experience. A cooler, ice and cups are provided on the boat, so you can carry your own drinks and make the most of this excursion. You’ll have time to take in the city views while sipping on your drinks. As the sun sets, you can click several pictures of the surroundings, which will serve as souvenirs of your trip.
5. Maximum Magic Show
With this admission ticket, you will be able to watch the iconic Maximum Magic Show at HarborWalk Theater. During the 90-minutes of the program, you will be able to see world-class illusions by Noah and Heather Wells. Both artists have received the Merlin Award and Entertainers of the Year (2017) award. Once the show begins, it will include comedy, mentalism, special effects and audience participation.
6. Marine Life Cruise from Destin
During this one-hour cruise in Destin, you will be able to travel through Destin Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico to witness scenic ocean views. You will also be able to watch for marine life, including dolphins, sharks, stingrays, turtles and more. Your captain will also travel past Crab Island for a chance to see the aquatic creatures up close.
7. Destin Harbor Night Cruise
With this experience, you’ll enjoy a small-group night cruise in Destin Harbor. You’ll board the boat from the Destin Harbor Boardwalk to begin the cruise. You can enjoy views of the harbor lights reflecting off the water. You can also view the buildings around the harbor from the boat. Additionally, you can bring your own drinks to enjoy during the cruise. You’ll be provided with ice and a cooler for your drinks.
8. Private Dolphin Cruise
This excursion will allow you to explore Florida's breathtaking sea and marine wildlife. On board a speedboat, you’ll cruise through Destin Harbor, Choctawhatchee Bay, East Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. As you enjoy the gentle sea breeze, you’ll have an opportunity to see dolphins, sharks and sea turtles. During the cruise, you’ll have a chance to admire Destin’s skyline from the water and learn more about local marine biodiversity.
9. Terry Stokes Comedy Hypnosis Show
With this ticket, you’ll have the chance to see a one-hour performance from Terry Stokes and his comedy hypnosis show. After making your way to the venue, you’ll take your seat in the audience and see Terry Stokes perform a variety of hypnosis tricks. Throughout the show, you’ll also be able to watch, or maybe join in, as viewers are plucked from the audience to assist Terry with his show.
10. City Scavenger Hunt
During this unique scavenger hunt, you’ll embark on a handcrafted quest through Destin. You’ll play in a team and drive through the city streets, stopping at various checkpoints, solving clues and tackling challenges designed to push you out of your comfort zone. You’ll visit both indoor and outdoor locations and send photos to your remote host to document your progress. You’ll even be tasked with interacting with locals to figure out your clues and uncover hidden gems along the way.
11. Jet Ski Adventure Tour
On this thrilling tour, you'll get to cruise around the waters of Destin on a Jet Ski. Following an experienced guide, you'll set off from Fort Walton Beach and skim over the turquoise waters towards Destin Harbor and Crab Island. You'll have a chance to hop off your Jet Ski at picturesque Okaloosa Island to take some photos and you'll return to your starting point over the open sea.
12. Panama City E-Bike Tour
During this guided e-bike tour, you will learn about the culture and history of the St. Andrews neighborhood. After a safety briefing and training, your Road Captain will lead you to see points of interest in Panama City. Along the way, you will see sights, murals and historic sports in St. Andrews, including farmers market The Market at St. Andrews, Oaks by the Bay Park, and gallery, studio and public art complex Floriopolis, St. Andrews Arts & Culture Metropolis.
13. Full-day Standup Paddleboard Rental
This rental will allow you to explore the beautiful waters of the Emerald Coast on a standup paddleboard during sunrise, sunset or an entire day. Basic instructions for using the standup paddleboard will be provided to ensure that you feel comfortable. You’ll have the chance to discover well-known places near the city like Norriego Point and Crab Island. Alternatively, you'll also be able to paddle to Destin Harbor, clear springs and nearby beaches.
14. Pontoon Boat Rental
This pontoon boat rental will serve as your vessel as you sail across the pristine waters of Florida. Along with your friends and family, you'll get to enjoy a day of sun and sea as you commandeer the 24ft boat to the scenic Shell Island and St. Andrews Bay. The boat is also pet-friendly, so you can feel free to bring a furry companion on board as well.
15. Surf Lesson on Okaloosa Island
During this lesson, you'll get the opportunity to surf Florida's Gulf Coast waters alongside a professional instructor. The class will begin with a group introduction followed by a report of the current wind and water conditions. Afterwards, you'll learn about water safety and surfing etiquette, followed by some stretching. While on land, your instructor will teach your about prone positioning, paddling techniques, how to pop up on your board and the proper way to stand on your board. When ready, your group will head out onto the water with the instructor, and you'll be able to test your new skills at surfing the waves.
16. City Tour on a Pontoon Boat
On this city tour on a pontoon boat, you'll take a privately chartered cruise with a captain to explore Destin. The captain will take you across the city to see its attractions and points of interest. As you cruise on the water, you'll have a chance to snorkel, watch dolphins and hang out. Along the way, you'll discover Destin's attractions, including Heron Harbor and other local landmarks. You'll also get the right equipment for the tour, including hangouts, lily pads, floats and paddleboards. Additionally, you'll be able to access a slide when you get to Crab Island.
17. Dolphins, Fishing and Swimming Family Tour
This family-friendly tour will give you the chance to enjoy water activities in Destin. You'll first be able to go fishing and watch dolphins in their natural habitat. You can use rods and baits to fish or simply relax on board and take in the scenic views. After that, you'll have the opportunity to visit Crab Island, swim in the turqouise waters and sunbathe on the beach.
18. Personal Photoshoot
This experience will offer you the chance to capture memories of your time in Nice, with a professional photographer taking a selection of photos of you. Your photographer guide will know all the best spots to capture amazing images and will offer you tips for posing as well as recommendations for places to visit during the rest of your stay.
19. Destin Sailing & Snorkel Adventure
Get out on the water for an adventure and experience some of the best spots that Destin and the Choctawhatchee Bay have to offer. On this Destin Sailing & Snorkel Adventure, you will have the opportunity to see some amazing ocean life like sea horses, dolphins, stingrays, crabs, fish, and more. This experience will take you to see the unknown underwater world of sea life large and small.
20. Street Legal Golf Cart Rental
Enjoy the fresh Gulf air as you cruise the Emerald Coast in style with either a 4, 6, or 8 passenger street legal golf cart. Easily zip about and no matter where you end up, make parking a breeze. Make your vacation transportation simple and easy with these gas-powered golf carts! Choose from 2 days up to 7.
21. Destin X Parasailing
Join in on the excitement with the Destin X crew in Destin, Florida for a parasailing adventure. Experience the thrill of flying high while admiring the emerald green waters below. The crew has flown thousands of happy passengers in the past decade. You will see why parasailing is one of Destin's top activities.
22. Private Destin Banana Boat Excursion
Bounce across the waves of the Gulf or the Bay for a laughing good time on a Private Banana Boat Ride. You are not only in for the ride of your life, but also abundant belly laughs and stories that you will remember for years to come. This is the only company in Destin that pulls you with the power and safety of a boat! The captain and crew provide your favorite music and a thrill or chill experience, your choice. You can also purchase photo packages to capture this awesome experience.
23. Destin Fireworks Cruise
Experience a guided cruise in Destin, Florida and watch the beautiful Harbor Fireworks that happens every Thursday night during the summer! Board a 24-foot luxury pontoon boat and let your licensed captain take the wheel as you admire a stunning sunset and fireworks all in one cruise. See the fireworks light up the harbor sky!
24. 3 Hour Crab Island Adventure Excursion
Are you looking to get out on the water with your bride tribe or special crew? Do you wanna enjoy some fun in the Florida sun while cruising and sipping to your heart's content? If so, then come and enjoy the sights and sounds of colorful Destin, Florida from a completely unique and fun point of view. This 3 Hour Crab Island Excursion on a Tiki Boat is a one-of-a-kind experience on a 32-foot custom tiki boat. See the sparkling hues of emerald water and maybe even see a friendly dolphin or two. Don't miss your chance to float around in style on your own tiki boat.
25. The Ratchet Hatchet Axe Throwing
Experience a rare opportunity to practice the age-old art of axe throwing at the Ratchet Hatchet. Take aim at a variety of different targets, try out different axes, and have a blast trying to hit the bullseye. The perfect venue for a group outing, grab some friends and unleash your inner Viking!
26. Destin Wakesurfing Experience
Similar to surfing an ocean wave, wakesurfing is just riding a wave that the boat creates. Much easier to catch and control, wakesurfing is a great way to get out on the water and try something new, or if you're an old pro, get back out there and show off your stuff, wildthing! During your wakesurfing experience you will be given customized instruction, top of the line equipment, and U.S. Coast Guard approved safety gear. Ease into some fun with an expert crew who will ensure you have the opportunity to ride a continuous wave and experience the thrill of surfing.
27. Electric Kick Scooter Rental
Don't explore your next vacation destination by car! There is a much more exciting way to get around the back roads and beautiful beaches, restaurants, and shops. Feel the Gulf breeze in your hair, avoid traffic congestion, and beat the heat! These electric kick scooter rentals will help transform the way you and your family experience this summer's vacation. Keep calm and ride on, baby!
28. Dolphin Tour Thrill Ride Aboard the Screaming Eagle
Calling all thrill-seekers, the Screaming Eagle is for you! This exhilarating dolphin cruise and thrill ride will be narrated with fun facts and speeds reaching up to 35mph. Look for dolphins and take in the beauty of the Emerald Coast. Expect to laugh, scream, and create an amazing memory that will last a lifetime!
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29. Destin Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Hop aboard a Glass Bottom Boat for this narrated Bay, Harbor, and Gulf tour! Admire the panhandle's natural beauty as you cruise the coastline. Enjoy underwater viewing, have crab trap discussions, and so much more! Be on the lookout for dolphins swimming beneath the water or having fun chasing the waves. Enjoy a day cruise when the sun is bright and shining or a sunset cruise when you can take in the pleasure of witnessing a beautiful Florida sunset.
30. Emerald Coast Science Center
Discover a world of hands-on learning at the Emerald Coast Science Center. Step outside of the box and experience science firsthand in an interactive museum including a STEAM Makerspace, over 45 exhibits, over 30 animals, and more! From robotics to chemistry, engineering to light, exhibits bring numerous scientific principles to life. The Science Center is also the 3rd museum in the entire country to house SMALLab Learning -- a groundbreaking exhibit that places guests at the center of all the science action, essentially playing on a room-sized iPad!