When you ask locals about the best things to do in Destin, Florida, you’ll quickly realize this beach town is more than sugar-white sand and clear emerald water. It’s charter boats leaving at dawn, fresh-caught grouper at sunset, dolphin cruises through the East Pass, and family-friendly thrills just minutes from serene nature trails. As a longtime local real estate resource, Todd Siegrist at Todd Siegrist helps clients not only find homes and investments—they rely on his insider knowledge to live like a local from day one. Use this guide to plan your perfect days, whether you’re visiting, relocating, or exploring where to invest.
Destin sits on a unique slice of the Emerald Coast where the Gulf of Mexico meets Choctawhatchee Bay. That geography delivers crystal-clear water, miles of accessible beaches, and a protected harbor filled with recreation. Year-round sunshine, a lively harbor district, and a calendar of events—from fishing tournaments to outdoor concerts—mean there’s always something to do.
Todd’s take: Destin’s variety is what makes it such a strong lifestyle and investment market. In summer, the beaches and harbor buzz. In spring and fall, the weather is ideal for golf and festivals. Even winter offers mild days, value dining, and empty beaches for sunrise walks.
Destin’s beaches are the main event, and each area has its own personality.
Beach tips from Todd: - Check Destin’s beach flag system each morning—safety first. - In late spring and summer, “June grass” (a harmless seaweed) can appear; if one area is grassy, try another beach a mile or two away. - Bring a soft-sided cooler and reef-safe sunscreen. Tents are allowed in some areas but follow posted rules.
If you’ve heard of Crab Island, you know Destin’s shallow sandbar is a can’t-miss during warm months. Rent a pontoon with a slide (or book a captained charter if you’re new to boating) and spend the day floating, listening to music, and enjoying the waist-deep water. The sandbar sits just north of the Marler Bridge, and the current can shift, so heed safety guidance and watch your anchor.
Other water must-dos: - Dolphin cruises: Boats depart from the Destin Harbor and often spot pods playing in the East Pass at sunset. Morning trips are calmer for little ones; evenings deliver golden-hour photos. - Snorkeling and shelling: Try the jetties near the East Pass; the rocky edges attract fish, especially on clear days. - Kayaking and paddleboarding on Choctawhatchee Bay: Calmer than the Gulf and a great place to see herons, stingrays, and mullet jumping. - Parasailing: The views of the Emerald Coast from above make for unforgettable photos. - Jet ski eco-tours: Follow a guide through the bay’s backwaters and look for dolphins and sea turtles from a respectful distance.
Todd’s take: Water access is a major lifestyle factor and a driver of property value. Homes on Holiday Isle and canal-front properties offer private docks and quick harbor access—ideal if boating is central to your routine.
Destin didn’t earn its nickname by accident. The continental shelf is unusually close here, meaning deep water and abundant fish within easy reach.
Todd’s advice: Book reputable captains early in peak seasons, and if you’re thinking about owning a rental, properties near the harbor are in high demand with anglers during Rodeo season.
Beyond the beach, Destin makes it easy to keep kids smiling.
Pro tip from Todd: Plan active attractions in the morning, hit the beach mid-afternoon, and then meander the harbor at dusk for a relaxed, crowd-friendly rhythm.
Seafood is the star in Destin. Look for restaurants that buy directly from local boats.
Todd’s tips: - Ask about “Gulf-to-table” menu items to ensure your fish is local. - For sunset, arrive early—golden hour is prime time and worth the wait. - If you’re investing in a vacation rental, proximity to popular dining can lift occupancy and nightly rates.
Whether you’re browsing or buying, Destin brings options.
Signature events to plan around: - Destin Fishing Rodeo (October): Daily weigh-ins and community fun. - Weekly summer fireworks over the harbor: A family favorite—arrive early for parking. - Holiday boat parades and light shows: Festive and photogenic.
Golfers and outdoor lovers have plenty to do in Destin, Florida.
Nature escapes: - Topsail Hill Preserve State Park (nearby): Pristine dunes, rare coastal dune lakes, and quiet trails. - Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park (Niceville): Kayaking, hiking, and shaded picnic areas under towering pines. - Jolee Island (Sandestin): A peaceful loop for families and birdwatchers.
Todd’s note: Golf-course communities like Kelly Plantation and Regatta Bay offer strong lifestyle value and excellent neighborhood amenities if you’re considering a primary or second home.
Rain happens—and so do cooler winter days. Destin still delivers.
Off-season perks: - Fewer crowds mean quicker dinner seating and open beach parking. - Sunset colors can be spectacular on crisp winter evenings. - Rental rates dip, making it an affordable scouting trip if you’re exploring neighborhoods with Todd.
Todd’s tip: Pair free experiences with one “splurge” each day—like a dolphin cruise or a Gulf-to-table dinner—to balance the budget without missing the best of Destin.
Choosing your base shapes your experience—and matters even more if you’re buying.
What Todd watches for: - Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA—know them before you buy. - Flood zones and insurance: Understand elevation, wind mitigation credits, and construction standards. - Walkability and access: Proximity to beaches, the harbor, and dining can boost occupancy and resale value.
There are countless things to do in Destin, Florida, from lounging on powdery sand to cruising to Crab Island, reeling in red snapper, or tasting the freshest seafood on the Gulf. Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend, planning a family vacation, relocating, or scouting an investment property, the right local guidance makes every day here better.
Todd Siegrist at Todd Siegrist blends deep community knowledge with practical, boots-on-the-ground insight into neighborhoods, lifestyle fit, and rental performance. If you’re ready to map out an itinerary tailored to your interests—or to match those interests with the perfect home base—reach out to Todd. He’ll help you experience the best of Destin today and invest confidently in your tomorrow.
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