Destin, FL is one of the most popular vacation spots in the Southeast, attracting around 3.6 million visitors each year! Destin is known for its beaches, water sports, boat tours and gorgeous harbor. To help you make the most your next vacation, Sandpiper Cove has put together a guide to some of the top hidden gems in Destin, FL.
Destin Harbor Boardwalk
Stretching nearly a quarter of a mile along the Destin Harbor, the Destin Harbor Boardwalk provides easy access to the waterfront and features a range of local restaurants and gift shops. Enjoy the beautiful photo opportunities or watch the fishing boats come in, as the area serves to preserve the harbor’s unique character. It’s also where the annual Destin Seafood Festival and Destin Fishing Rodeo events are held.
Destin History and Fishing Museum
Destin has a rich history as a fishing village, something locals know well. At the Destin History and Fishing Museum, visitors can get a better sense of what life was like in this Florida city before electricity arrived in the 1930s.
Crab Island
Crab Island, Destin’s famous sandbar, is a go-to spot for anyone looking to have fun. Play volleyball or drink a beer in the shallow waters of the city’s most social destination.
Rent Boats Destin
Sometimes even locals like to do the touristy stuff. At Rent Boats Destin, you can participate in a wide range of water activities, from riding Jet Skis, paddle boards to pontoon boats. No matter what you decide to do, you’re bound to get an adrenaline rush.
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park has been delighting marine life enthusiasts since 1955, as it’s a historic aquarium that features a variety of unforgettable animal encounters. You can watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins from a submerged platform, feed an African penguin, or introduce yourself to gentle seals and spunky sea lions. The little ones will delight in the Kids Reptile Safari, where they can come face-to-face with turtles, lizards, snakes and alligators.
Destin Pass
Wakeboarding and surfing are obligatory activities for true Destin locals. Try your hand at these fun aquatic sports at the Destin Pass, otherwise known as the East Pass. All you need to do is rent a boat and some gear, and you’re good to go.