Are you looking for a mellow, relaxing vacation where you can lay on white sandy beaches, read a book, and listen to the tranquil sounds of the rolling wave? If so, then, Destin, Florida, is the place to be, with some of the region’s most luxurious beaches situated in the northwest area of the state known as the Panhandle. In addition, it is known to have the most beautiful coastline on the Gulf of Mexico.
Even though I grew up along the coastline of Texas, I had no idea how gorgeous this area of the Gulf of Mexico could be. This place will make you think you are in the Caribbean. The sand is so white that if the blue water weren’t in the background, you would think it was snow. The green seagrass standing tall out of the dunes and the clear turquoise blue water made for a dreamy place to spend my holidays.
In addition to relaxing on the beautiful beaches, Destin has plenty of things to do:
DESTIN HARBORWALK VILLAGE
In the heart of Destin Harbor overlooking the bay is the HarborWalk Village, home to dozens of gift shops, boutique clothing stores, restaurants, and more. In addition to shops and restaurants, face painters, carnival games, and zip lines are strewn across the walkway for your entertainment. In addition, Destin’s top watersport companies can be located in HarborWalk Village to book parasailing, dolphin cruises, jet ski rentals, and a trip to Crab Island.
CRAB ISLAND
One of the most popular excursions is a visit to Crab Island, although it is not an island but a sandbar where boats gather for food and drink at one of the on-site floating restaurants and some fun water activities.
HENDERSON BEACH STATE PARK
Henderson Beach State Park is one of the best public beaches in the area. We were lucky enough to stay in a hotel nearby, giving us full access to the beach whenever we wished! The sparking water and fluffy white sand run for miles along the coastline.
We were fortunate to witness the release of rehabilitated Leatherback Sea Turtles from the Gulfarium Sea Turtle C.A.R.E. Program back into the Gulf of Mexico. The C.A.R.E. Program promotes the rehabilitation and release of stranded sea turtles species. I have a big heart for sea turtles, as I once participated in a rescue and release exhibition for Diamondback Terrapin Turtles.
FISHING
Destin was once known as a fishing village. It has become a world-class destination for inshore, nearshore, and deep-sea excursions. Here you will have many options if you are an avid fisherman or want to experience the sport of fishing. TripAdvisor offers some excellent fishing charter and tour options.
BOAT TOURS
There are many options, like a speed boat tour, dolphin boat tours, catamaran, or glass-bottom boats. In addition, some boat tours offer jet skis or pontoon boat rentals.
The most popular boat excursions are Sunset Cruises to enjoy the colorful sky as the sun goes down or the Dolphin Cruises to see the playful bottlenose dolphins that play about near the water.
SNORKELING
Dip in the crystal-clear waters and snorkel the Gulf’s coastal waters. This activity is great for all ages as you will snorkel through the bay’s shallow waters.
DINNER CRUISE
A great place to see the sunset on the horizon with an unforgettable evening is on a luxurious dining cruise that departs from Baytowne Warf, offering visitors a three-course meal complete with drinks and dancing.
WATER SPORTS
Destin has many options for water sports, such as parasailing, jet skis, sailing, flyboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, banana boat rides, and more. All these water sports activities can be booked at HarborWalk Village or on TripAdvisor.
WATER PARK
Suppose you are looking for waterslides, tube runs, a mini golf course, and more than look no further than a visit to Big Kahuna’s Waterpark. If you are an adrenaline junkie or need a place to entertain your children, hitting the local waterpark might be the place.
SHOPPING
The premier shopping in Destin is at the Silver Sands Outlet Mall. From designer outlets like Asics, Coach, and Off 5th to decadent sweets at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, it is definitely worth taking a break from a day on the beach to check it out.
BEST PLACES TO EAT
The Panckery (Breakfast)
Boshamps Oyster House (Cajun/Creole, Seafood)
The Back Porch (Seafood)
McGuire’s Irish Pub (Pub, Steakhouse)
Mimmo’s Ristorante (Italian)
Tuscany Bistro (Italian)
Donut Hole Bakery (Breakfast)
WHERE TO STAY
Henderson Beach Resort
The luxurious Henderson Beach Resort is located along the Emerald Coast, adjacent to Henderson Beach State Park. It is a lovely seaside resort with coastal architecture on 200 acres of pristine nature preserve that comes with a private beach, four restaurants, two pools, a fitness center, and a children’s activity zone. All rooms feature views of the pool, garden, or the Gulf of Mexico.
Destin, Florida, is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Destin is sure to exceed your expectations. Its unique charm and endless attractions make it a must-visit destination that will leave you with lasting memories.
Enjoy your travels! Please read my blogs about other exciting places around the world at Traveling Lens Photography.
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Happy Travels!
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