Things to do in Destin, FL

A popular destination for beach travel in the south, Destin, FL, is perfect for any occasion from family trips to romantic getaways. While deep sea fishing is one of the top things to do in Destin, Florida, other must-do watersport activities include parasailing, snorkeling, and dolphin sightseeing cruises. Off the water, hot spots like the Destin Harbor, Destin Commons, and Sandestin Outlets highlight the city's world-class seafood dining, shopping, and entertainment scene.
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Featured Destin Activities

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Mar 19 - Mar 25
Dolphin-Watch-and-Destin-History-Cruise

Daytime Dolphin Watch & Sunset Cruises - Tour East Pass, Harbor, Crab Island

10,998 ratings
1 Hr.
Set out to sea in search of dolphins aboard the Hannah Marie. Destin Dolphin Watch and Crab Island Sightseeing Cruise is complete with a spectacular glass-bottom, snack bar, and a climate-controlled cabin. This family-friendly trip is the perfect recipe for maritime bliss. Take in scenic views of the Destin, Florida Harbor and learn about the history as you enjoy the fresh ocean air. Both convenient and comfortable, these tours depart daily and provide plenty of seating for the whole crew. Book your experience today!
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Booked 13 times in last 48 hrs
Dolphin-Cruise-Aboard-the-Original-Sea-Blaster

Destin Dolphin Cruise Aboard The Original Sea Blaster

3,421 ratings
1.5 - 2 Hrs.
Climb aboard a Destin classic on this fun and exciting dolphin cruise aboard the Original Sea Blaster. A family-friendly excursion perfect for any occasion, this is your chance to explore the emerald waters of Destin, FL in all of its glory in search of playful dolphins splashing and playing among the waves. From water gun fights on daytime cruises to some truly stunning sunsets in the evenings, this trip has something for everyone. Don't miss the boat... literally. Book now!
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Booked 6 times in last 48 hrs
Gulfarium-Marine-Adventure-Park-Admission-Tickets

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park Admission Tickets

1,632 ratings
Get ready for a day filled with education and entertainment at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. See trained animals, like dolphins and sea lions, perform shows by dancing and jumping for you throughout the day. Animal exhibits throughout the park will captivate your attention between shows. See penguins, sharks, sting rays, pelicans, dolphins, and sea lions. Located on the beach in Fort Walton and just a few minutes from the Destin Harbor, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is the place to spend a relaxing afternoon with marine animals. Get your ticket today!
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Booked 4 times in last 48 hrs
Deep-Sea-Fishing-Party-Boat-in-Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Party Boat in Destin

2,692 ratings
6 - 10 Hrs.
Embark on an unforgettable offshore Deep Sea Fishing Party Boat in Destin Florida. Party boat fishing provides a unique opportunity to castaway and fish, chat with family and friends, and learn from fellow fishermen from all across the country. Your experienced captain and crew will help you every step of the way, including filleting your catch so you can bring home dinner! Reel in this fishing deal and book today!
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Booked 2 times in last 48 hrs
Destin-Parasailing-Adventure

Destin Parasailing Adventure

2,194 ratings
90 Min.
There is nothing like the thrill of parasailing! It is a breathtaking way to see the spectrum of color and spectacular views over gorgeous Destin, Florida. Get a bird’s eye view of the beaches and jetties, the Gulf, sea turtles, dolphins, and more. With your professional captain and crew, you can expect breathtaking takeoffs and super smooth landings right from the boat deck. Create memories that will last a lifetime and book your parasailing trip today!
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Private-Sailing-Tours-with-Fair-Winds-Sailing

6 Passenger Private Day Time Sailing Cruise

96 ratings
2 - 4 Hrs.
Climb aboard an authentic sailing cutter for an experience to remember on this Private Sailing Tour in Destin, Florida. Cut through the clear water of the Destin Harbor and along the stunning Emerald Coast spotting dolphins, sightseeing, and enjoying the warm salty breeze. An entertaining tour guide and sailing captain will teach you all about the history of the area as you explore. Put some wind in your sails and customize your private sailing tour today! Book yours now!
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Destin-X-Jet-Ski-Waverunner-Rentals-Departing-From-Destin-Harbor

Destin X Jet Ski/Waverunner Rentals - Departing From Destin Harbor

689 ratings
1 - 8 Hrs.
Take in the beautiful sights Crab Island or cruise the Choctawhacthee Bay with a stylish and high-speed jet ski. Destin X Jet Ski/Waverunner Rentals are versatile and sleek and allow for 2 passengers to ride along. Zip through the waves, look for dolphins, or coast to Crab Island for an action-packed day of waves, fun, friends and the sun. Take off from Destin Harbor and enjoy the local attractions. Book your ticket to adventure and fun in the sun today!
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Booked 3 times in last 48 hrs
MAXIMUM-MAGIC-Theater-Featuring-Noah-and-Heather-Wells

The MAXIMUM MAGIC Show Starring Noah & Heather Wells

564 ratings
90 Min.
Don't spend another night in your condo with nothing to do! Head to HarborWalk Theater for some family fun! "Entertainers of the Year" and "Illusionists of the Year,” Noah and Heather Wells present MAXIMUM MAGIC, Destin's only magic show with mind-blowing illusions, hilarious comedy, special effects, unbelievable mentalism, and more! This family friendly, fast-paced, 90-minute show with audience participation is perfect for all ages. Experience the magic today!
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Destin-X-Parasailing-Departing-From-Destin-Harbor

Destin X Parasailing - Departing From Destin Harbor

842 ratings
1.5 Hrs.
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. Create memories with Destin X and book this exciting adventure today!
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Booked 2 times in last 48 hrs
Destin-Pontoon-Boat-Rental-with-Gilligan-s-Watersports

12 Person Pontoon Rental on the Destin Harbor

1,005 ratings
4 - 8 Hrs.
Get out on the water with this 12 Person Pontoon Rental on the Destin Harbor. See the sights around Choctawhatchee Bay and Destin Harbor. Visit the popular Crab Island or even try your luck at some inshore fishing in one of the area's popular bayous. Whether you are looking for family-friendly adventure or to create memories with friends. Spend a carefree day on the water, have a few drinks, soak up the sun, and leave your worries behind. Don't miss the boat, book your pontoon rental today!
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Sandestin-Destin-Fine-Dining-Dinner-and-Dancing-Cruise

Sandestin (Destin) Fine Dining Dinner and Dancing Cruise

754 ratings
3 Hrs.
Get out on the water for dinner and enjoy the area's only fine dining entertainment yacht. This stately yacht features fresh Gulf seafood, prime beef and much more all prepared in a full service galley. Live entertainment and a full bar is available to enhance your experience. Book your spot on Sandestin's premier fine dining dinner and dancing cruise today!
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Booked 2 times in last 48 hrs
Xtreme-H2o-Destin-Crab-Island-Waverunner-Dolphin-Tour

Crab Island Jet Ski Dolphin Tour

262 ratings
1.5 Hrs.
Enjoy a unique Destin adventure on a Crab Island jet ski dolphin tour from the Destin Marina. With no idle time, an expert guide will lead you and your group out into the Choctawhatchee Bay to the best "dolphin hangout" spots in town. After exploring, your guide will set you free to crank it up and explore the shimmering water of Destin and Fort Walton Beach. Set the pace for your experience but make sure to bring a waterproof camera to snap some amazing shots of dolphins up close. Book your tickets today!
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Booked 3 times in last 48 hrs
HarborWalk-Village-Parasailing-Adventure

HarborWalk Village Parasailing Adventure

15 ratings
1 - 1.5 Hrs.
If you think the view of Destin is beautiful as you cross the Marler Bridge, then just wait until you see it from 800 feet in the air! Whether you are a kiddo ready for a new adventure or an adult scared of heights and ready for a challenge, parasailing is an experience you cannot pass up. Soar through the skies over Destin and get a bird's eye view of the stunning colors of the Gulf of Mexico, surrounded by the sugar-white sand. Get the chance to see dolphins, turtles, sting rays, and other marine life as you glide through the air with only a faint whisper of wind passing by you. Enjoy the calm and stillness as you create lifelong memories with family and friends! Book your parasailing adventure today!
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Booked 4 times in last 48 hrs
Gilligan-s-Watersports-Waverunner-Dolphin-Tour

Small Group Waverunner Dolphin Tour Departing From Destin Harbor

252 ratings
2 Hrs.
Join in on a Small Group Waverunner Tour and see wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins up close and in their natural habitat from the comfort of your own jet ski. From up close, you will be able to hear the sounds they make and see how much fun they have playing among the waves. Feel the cool splash of the ocean and smell the fresh air as you race through the scenic emerald waters of Choctawhatchee Bay. Book your Small Group Waverunner Dolphin Tour today and prepare for the ride of your life!
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Xtreme-H2o-Destin-Crab-Island-Jet-Ski-Waverunner-Rental

Destin Crab Island Jet Ski Rental

208 ratings
1 - 8 Hrs.
Experience the thrill of a lifetime with Destin Crab Island Jet Ski Rental. Jet through the sparkling water of Destin Harbor on a premium Yamaha Jet Ski. You also can enjoy the convenience of having one of the closest departure location points to Crab Island! Feeling adventurous? This is an experience like no other, you can search the Choctawhatchee Bay for happy dolphins or cruise through the miles of open water until your heart is content. Bring up to two friends for a total of three riders and explore Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and beyond! Book your Destin Crab Island Jet Ski Rental today!
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Destin-24ft-Pontoon-Boat-Rental-with-Wet-N-Wild

Crab Island 24ft Pontoon Boat Rental (12 Person Max)

479 ratings
4 - 8 Hrs.
Enjoy the perfect set up for a fantastic day in the emerald green and aquamarine water of Destin, Florida and just 300 yards from Crab Island! Rent a pontoon and be in control of your own adventure as you cruise the Destin Harbor and pass or just hang out on Crab Island and chill like a local. If you are looking for some fun and a great way to have an unforgettable day in Destin, book this Crab Island 24-foot Pontoon Boat Rental for up to 12 passengers.
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Booked 3 times in last 48 hrs
Destin-X-Double-Decker-Pontoon-Rental-Departing-from-Destin-Harbor

12 Passenger Double Decker Pontoon Rental Departing from Destin Harbor

83 ratings
4 - 8 Hrs.
Enjoy the captivating Emerald Coast in a 12 Passenger Double Decker Pontoon Rental departing from Destin Harbor. There is no better way to venture out into the festivities of Crab Island than aboard a double-decker pontoon with a slide and plenty of shade below. Enjoy a day at this sandbar with family and friends as you soak up some Florida sun. Conveniently located on the Destin Harbor, this rental includes everything you need to have an awesome day on the water: slides, shade, sun, and a whole lot of fun with up to 12 people. Anchors away, book today!
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Private-Gulf-of-Mexico-Sunset-Sail

Private Gulf of Mexico Sunset Sail

28 ratings
2 Hrs.
Discover the relaxing beauty of an Emerald Coast sunset while sailing along on the gentle breeze. This Private Gulf of Mexico Sunset Sail offers guests a breathtakingly beautiful cruise around Destin and is the perfect way to spend your vacation. Cruise the waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay, Destin Harbor and Gulf and relax as you cast the what-ifs away. Witness dolphins jumping near and far and an unbeatable cotton candy sky as you enjoy this unique way to spend time with the love of your life or with your crew. A sunset sail on the waters off Destin is something you'll never forget. So, hop on the catamaran and sail off into the sunset today with this Private Gulf of Mexico Sunset Sail!!
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Destin-Glass-Bottom-Boat-Tour

Destin Glass Bottom Boat Tour

132 ratings
2 Hrs.
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. Don't miss the boat! Book your spot today!
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Jet-Ski-Waverunner-Rental-with-Power-Up-Watersports

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is traffic like?

Highway 98 is the only major road in and out of Destin and Fort Walton Beach. Destin isn’t considered a major metropolitan area so there are no byways, exit ramps, etc. The highway is continuously undergoing construction from Panama City Beach to Pensacola so visitors that have reservations for activities, tours or dinners should be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak times like lunch and dinner which can cause visitors to be late. It’s suggested to leave for your desired destination very early and confirm arrival times with your provider.

2. Is Crab Island open?

Crab Island is open year round because it’s a sand bar beneath the water. Many area visitors have heard of Crab Island and assume it’s a real island. It once was years ago, but now it’s just a fun shallow spot for boats to anchor and visitors to swim and wade. There are floating businesses out there throughout the Spring and Summer but they do not have set operating hours. You can visit Crab Island by boat rental, on an excursion, or even on a Destin dolphin cruise

3. How do we know if the beaches are open or closed?

It’s best to check the city’s website for information regarding the beaches because they will have up to date information about rip currents, beaches with lifeguards, beach flags, marine pests like jellyfish, etc.

4. Does Destin have any special events or festivals that we could coincide with our vacation?

The harbor area does sponsor different events throughout the year including the Destin Fishing Rodeo and the Destin Seafood Festival. There are also big celebrations during holiday weekends like Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. These events usually include art and craft vendors, food vendors, booths with local businesses, walking parades, live music, and more! The harbor restaurants and bars all participate so you can expect drink and food specials as well! Since these events are all extremely popular you can expect there to be large crowds and people and traffic delays.

5. What is the best time to visit Destin?

Destin is open year round, however many activities or tours may only be open during peak season. Peak season is March through October. This is also when the weather is at its warmest as is the water so any water related activities will be best to experience during these times. During off peak season, the rates for lodging and activities are typically lower. However, the weather is typically rainer and windier which affects the availability of activities.

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