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What to do in Destin Florida on a Weekend

What to do in Destin Florida on a Weekend

This post may contain affiliate links. (Disclaimer here) And if you wonder why some images are marked AbbysPlate or TheWingedFork, it's because some posts were once a part of my older blogs.

Any fan of the sun and the sand will be a fan of Destin, Florida. With endless white beaches and sparkling gulf waters, it’s a beachgoer’s paradise. Located about 360 miles west of the popular St. Augustine, this destination also has many places to explore and activities to participate in. Destin is the perfect beautiful backdrop for a memorable weekend getaway.

People relaxing on the white sand beach.
Path leading out to the beach in Destin, Florida

First and foremost, tourists come to Destin to enjoy the beach. Sunbathe, play in the sand, and maybe even play a few games of beach volleyball. This area is also amazing for thrill-seeking water sports like jet skiing, just like at Vero Beach on Florida’s Eastern Coast. For those looking for a more low-key experience, try kayaking in Destin Harbor and the Crab Island area.

Wildlife is an exciting feature of this city, and it can be a thrilling experience to see sea life up close. A dolphin cruise is a magical way to explore the waters around Destin. Guides in these parts also know the best places to find fish, so a snorkeling tour is a fun choice as well.

Known as the “luckiest fishing village,” Destin is an excellent place to take a family-friendly fishing adventure. There are many fishing charters available in town, or visitors can take try their luck on their own. Okaloosa Island Pier is known to be a great fishing spot for the likes of Black Fin Tuna and Ladyfish, among others.

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There are so many things to do in Henderson Beach State Park. It’s one of the best places to explore when visiting Destin. The beach here is amazing. There’s a nature trail to walk, areas for picnics, and even a playground for the kids.

Crystal clear water at Henderson Beach.
Water at Henderson Beach State Park in Destin, Florida

Ghost crabbing is a popular and entertaining pastime here. The white crabs are difficult to spot against the sand during the day, but late-night expeditions with a flashlight in hand will showcase crabs scurrying across the sand!

Ghost crabs, sea shells and white sand at Henderson Beach State Park.
Ghost crab on the beach at Henderson Beach State Park

For travelers interested in camping during their stay in Destin, Henderson Beach State Park is an excellent place to do so. Camping is a great way to unplug, enjoy nature and reconnect with family. Best of all, campsites at this state park are very inexpensive. They are some of the cheapest in all of Destin.

James Lee Park is another outdoor oasis to enjoy in Destin. It’s a beautiful stretch of beach that has convenient pavilions for picnics and on-site restrooms. Visitors can swim here, but it’s also a popular place for fishing. It’s also home to another entertaining playground area.

Shops at the Destin Harbor.
Shops at the Destin Harbor Boardwalk

When it’s time to take a break from the water, wander over to the green. Destin is home to some fantastic championship golf courses. Travelers who enjoy the game will love playing through Kelly Plantation Golf Club, Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club, and Burnt Pine Golf Club, among others.

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For a uniquely Floridian experience, travelers can check out Gator Beach in Destin as well. This alligator park is a great attraction for people traveling on a budget, as there is no admission fee. This location allows visitors to view and sometimes interact with alligators in a controlled environment. A visit to this park is much safer than attempting to approach an alligator in the wild. With hundreds of alligators to see, visitors of all ages will enjoy feeding them, holding them, and watching them perform in the park’s alligator shows!

The Destin Harbor Boardwalk area offers both water and land-based activities. Many tours depart from this area, and it’s also a popular place for parasailing. It’s also the heart of Destin’s dining and entertainment scene.

Seafood, fries, corn, rice served on plates at a restaurant in Destin.
Seafood dinner

This spot to visit for stellar oyster bars, shopping, and a kid’s fun zone is sure to keep the littles busy for hours. The boardwalk itself is also a fun place to stroll and peacefully take in the beauty and ambiance of the city.

In short, there are weeks worth of action-packed and relaxing activities to consider when visiting this area. When planning your packed itinerary, don’t forget to find the perfect place to stay during your weekend in Destin. For the ultimate experience, it’s fun to stay at one of Destin’s best hotels on the beach.

When planning a weekend getaway, definitely keep this sunkissed city in mind. Whether it’s water sports or relaxation, no matter how the time is spent, Destin is a magnificent and fun place to explore. Enjoy the sun and sand!

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Bio: Candice from Exploring the Gulf

Candice from Exploring the Gulf
Candice from Exploring the Gulf

Candice and her family spent their time traveling throughout the United States in their RV. They love visiting the beaches along the Gulf Coast of Mexico as well as the national parks. She enjoys hiking, swimming at the beach, and planning her next adventure. Follow Candice at Exploring the Gulf.

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Pinterest images of Ghost crab on Henderson beach and Seafood variety served at the restaurant.
Pinterest images of White sand beach and shops and restaurants in Destin.

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