Taking off right after the holidays may seem a little unconventional to some, but January is a GREAT time to visit Destin. With condo rentals dropping like the mercury in Colorado and the beaches and piers less congested, you may have found the perfect time to enjoy a Florida vacation along the Emerald Coast. And if the short lines at our fine restaurants and strolling along the less-crowded beaches aren’t enough to entice you to book a vacation rental with us, we’ve got 10 more reasons you should come to Destin in January:
1. The Gorgeous Weather – Whether you’re traveling from the icy chill of the Rockies or the snow-covered streets of Boston, there’s nothing like leaving your winter gear behind for shorts and T-shirts. Unlike the humid temperatures of the summer season, the winter high’s average in the low 60’s, making it perfect for enjoying a day out on the links or a sunset cruise on the Gulf.
2. Shopping – The Destin area has some of the best outdoor malls and outlet stores for bargain hunters. With the holidays behind them, store owners are looking to empty their shelves of inventory so they can restock for the summer season. Shoppers will find clearance sales and will be able to fill their bags to overflowing at a fraction of the high-season cost.
3. Great Eating/No Waiting – With so many types of restaurants to choose from, you can’t go wrong with a night out enjoying the local fare. Even better, the winter months mean you aren’t forced to make reservations or stand in long lines. Many restaurants also offer winter specials, such as dinner specialties or buy-one-get-one-free meals to entice diners to walk-in and enjoy.
4. Water Fun – Some of the water parks are shut down for the winter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the water. Many of our condo rentals have pools that are perfect for relaxing in the sun or taking an invigorating swim. And many visitors from the north tell us the ocean waters at the beaches of Destin in the winter are warmer than back home in the summer!
5. Plenty of Adventures to Enjoy – Whether you’re looking to hike nature trails, bike along scenic roadways or paddleboard on the emerald green waters of the Gulf, Destin has many businesses just waiting to offer you an adventure to remember. Take a trip to the historical fishing museum, enjoy the dolphins at the Gulfarium or relax in the sun on the sugar white sands of Ft. Walton Beach—your adventure is waiting.
6. Cultural Shows and Art Exhibits – With symphonies, ballet performances, touring musicians and Broadway productions, the arts are at the heart and soul of Destin. Without the bustling crowds of summer, winter is the perfect time to take in a cultural show or walk along Harbor Village and enjoy an art exhibit.
7. Time for “Tee” – Destin has plenty of stunning golf courses where you can enjoy the temperate weather and beautiful sunshine of the Florida panhandle at a fraction of the rates charged during the summer months. With the added benefit of fewer people and cooler temperatures, a day on the greens may just be the perfect reason to vacation in Destin.
8. Fishing for Dinner – If you enjoy casting a line and filling your cooler with fresh fish for dinner, then Destin is the perfect vacation spot for you. Whether you’re looking to surf cast from the beach with your toes in the sand and the wind in your hair or enjoy the thrill of a deep-sea fishing expedition, the winter months offer some great discounted rates. Flounder, red snapper, grouper and cobia are a few of the fish species inhabiting the Gulf in the winter.
9. Just Relax – With the holidays now in the memory books and the crowds of summer still months away, Destin just seems to find a slower rhythm. The beaches are less crowded, the upscale boutiques are not so jammed with shoppers, restaurants are definitely less chaotic, and even the sunsets seem a little more picturesque in the winter months. Just sit back, breathe easy and enjoy the quieter side of Destin.
10. Condo Rates Drop with Temperatures – Fewer people vacationing in January and February mean condo and resort rental prices are at their lowest. With the Emerald Coast relatively empty compared to the busy summer season, many companies are looking to fill their rentals, meaning a significant savings for you. Give us a call today and we’ll help you find the perfect rental at a great winter rate!
Ten Fun Things to do on a Rainy Day in Destin
So you’re on vacation and your plans for the day have been washed away by rain. Yes, Florida is the sunshine state, but why let some gray clouds dampen your vacation spirit. Think of a rainy day as another opportunity to enjoy something a little more laid back, but just as fun! Here’s a list of TEN exciting activities to do on a rainy day in Destin.
Abrakadoodle – A little paint, some clay and a WHOLE lot of hands-on creativity is what this art center offers kids 20 months thru elementary school age. With art classes offered throughout the day, it’s the perfect place to get out of the weather and immersed in the fun!
Emerald Coast Science Center – Play an invisible harp. Use your hand as a battery. Feel the wind power of a category 5 hurricane! It’s all available to you to experience at the Science Center. Since it’s education wrapped in a whole lot of fun, your kids won’t even know they’re at a museum and learning new things about their world. With many hands-on exploratory exhibits, this is a great place for the whole family.
Gulfarium – No one likes getting wet in the rain, but jumping in the water to get up close and personal with bottlenose dolphins or stingrays is nothing but fun! With opportunities to have “discovery” adventures with turtles, penguins, gators and other reptiles, this aquarium is sure to become a vacation favorite. Not interested in an animal encounter? No problem. There are plenty of displays, exhibits and even shows that are included in your general admission.
Bowling – Available at Hurricane Lanes and Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill . Hurricane Lanes has 26 lanes, 12 pool tables and an arcade. With reasonable prices and bowling until midnight, there’s hours of fun waiting for you! Uncle Buck’s lanes will take you right to the beach with “dock” wooden lanes decorated with underwater scenery and custom bowling balls looking like mermaids, octopuses
and camouflage. Casual family dining is available as well as an island themed bar guaranteeing hours of indoor fun for everyone.
Ripley’s Believe it or Not Odditorium – Housed in a sinking Titanic boat in nearby Ft. Walton, this museum of quirky oddities and collections of unusual artifacts has a little something for everyone. Speed through Ripley’s impossible LaseRace or experience their 7D movie theater. With 13 galleries and many hands-on interactive exhibits, no doubt this could be one of the highlights of your Destin vacation.
Destin Commons – If spending the day searching for bargains is more your pleasure, then a rainy day in Destin is the perfect opportunity to enjoy shopping at Destin Commons’ 90+ stores. Offering the best in outlet shopping, dining and entertainment there’s hours of bargain-hunter nirvana waiting for you. With a miniature train offering rides for the kids and plenty of restaurants, there’s sure to be something to keep everyone happy.
Indian Temple Mound – Florida is rich in Native American history. With over 1,000 artifacts of clay, bone and shell as well as one of the finest collections of prehistoric ceramics in the Southeastern US, this museum is the perfect stop for anyone who has an interest in historical cultures and relics.
Destin History & Fishing Museum – If the thought of holding an antique split bamboo rod with an original Penn reel sets your heart racing or viewing trophy-winning game fish displayed as if they were swimming in the Gulf of Mexico makes you giddy with fishing fever, then this may just be the perfect place for you to spend a rainy afternoon. Marking its 10th anniversary this month with free admission, Destin History Museum with 5,500 square ft of exhibits is perfect for anglers of all ages.
Fired Up Seaside Paint-Your-Own Pottery – The perfect place to add some sunshine to a rainy day, this family-friendly art center allows you to pick your own piece of pottery and use your imagination to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Decorate a puppy in rainbows and flowers. Choose a dolphin as a memento of your vacation. Or put the baby’s handprints on a platter. The staff is super friendly and will offer idea books, stamps, stencils and plenty of encouragement. No reservations are needed and pieces finished by 2pm are generally ready for pickup within 24 hours.
Fat Daddy’s Arcade – Smiles, giggles and squeals of delight abound at this indoor arcade. Play skee ball and win tickets for prizes. Challenge your kids to a Guitar Hero showdown. Shoot basketball free throws or race each other on the digital racing course. There’s plenty of interactive games (and even some live alligators) for hours of entertainment for the whole family. Offering a great selection of food from pizza to sandwiches and salads, you won’t even need to go out in the rain when it’s time to feed the troops.
And if you’re looking for a day to relax, a rainy day might be the perfect opportunity to kick back and lounge on the comfy couches of your vacation rental, pour a glass of wine and enjoy a movie on the big screen television. Whatever you enjoy doing, there’s always something to do when the rain changes your outdoor plans in Destin.
AUTUMN EVENTS IN DESTIN FLORIDA AND SURROUNDING AREA
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the Emerald Coast. Every month the Destin area is hopping with plenty of family-friendly live concerts, arts and crafts shows, wine tasting, dance performances, food festivals and great theater. With the heat of the summer behind us, it’s a great time to enjoy being outdoors again and attend some of the local festivals and special events offered during September and October.
Baytowne Art Walk – Friday Sept 4 thru Sept 6
Located within the gates of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort on the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, the Baytowne village features an array of galleries, restaurants and nightlife. Open 5pm-10pm, with free admission, the art walk is the place to be to enjoy live music while you stroll the streets enjoying local art and participating in the live painting competition.
Labor Day Concert Celebration at the Emerald Grande Hotel – Sept 5 & Sept 6, 7pm – 9 pm
Located in HarborWalk village, the Emerald Grande Hotel is ending the summer with a bang! With lots of family fun this is the place to enjoy live music by The Springs, a versatile duo singing southern rock and traditional country favorites on Saturday and The Village Belles on Sunday. Fireworks will end the weekend’s festivities on Sunday night.
Bluegrass At the Beach – Sept 12, 11 am to 10 pm
A family-friendly event taking place at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, presents a celebration of music and culture. With seven award-winning bluegrass bands, a Kids’ Art Village, a Pickin’ & Paintin’ area, plenty of food and beverages, it’s a day for the whole family to enjoy the Florida sunshine and warm ocean breezes of Destin.
4th Annual FWB BBQ Festival – Sept 18 & 19, 4 pm to 10 pm
Located at The Landing in Fort Walton Beach, this two day family-friendly festival is sponsored by Okaloosa Gas and the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce. Don’t miss this annual event that features a BBQ cook off with a People’s Choice Award and a cash prize and trophy for the grand prize winner. There will be plenty for spectators as well, with live entertainment, delicious food, a variety of craft beers, and plenty of activities for the kids.
Hispanic Fest – Sept 26, 11 am – 9 pm
Taking place at the Emerald Coast Convention Center in Fort Walton Beach, this FREE family-oriented event showcases the very best of Hispanic culture. Featuring the flavors and aromas of Hispanic cuisine, folklore, music, dances, a “Happy World Kids’ Zone”, and over 60 pieces of art from local artists and art students, this family-friendly educational and cultural event offers something for people of all ages.
7th Annual Kitty Hawk Kites Festival – Sept 26 & Sept 27, 10 am – 4 pm
Located at Kitty Hawk Kites in HarborWalk Village in Destin, this two-day festival is a FREE family-friendly event. Enjoy larger-than-life kites, kite making classes, professional stunt kite flying demonstrations, candy drops, kite flying lessons and special activities at the Kitty Hawk Kites store. Saturday night’s activities end with a fireworks display over Destin harbor at 9 pm. Free shuttle boat service for festival attendees from the docks of HarborWalk Village to Norriego Point.
Destin Seafood Festival – Oct 2 thru Oct 4
Enjoy fresh, local seafood at this year’s 37th annual festival. Located at the Emerald Grande Hotel at HarborWalk Village, this FREE event continues to grow. With three music stages hosting local and coastal musicians, live entertainment hits a perfect note from rock and Reggae to Country music. A family-friendly event, there are 3 separate Kid Zones providing activities for all members of your group.
Baytowne Beer Fest – October 16 & 17
Over 40 breweries, offering domestic and international beers are part of this popular event. Held in the charming village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach resort, Baytowne Beer Fest features on-site craft brewers, beer samplings, seminars, live music and the ever-popular beer bingo.
Pumpkin Palooza – Oct 30 & 31
Taking place at the Emerald Grande Hotel at Harborwalk Village this not-so-spooky Family Fun Fest offers live entertainment for witches, ghosts and comic book heroes of all ages. Children can trick-or-treat among the merchants all day, enjoy pumpkin decorating, free crafts and face painting as well as a costume contest. The evening hours feature thrilling and chilling entertainment and an adult costume contest, with the most creative costume winning a prize.
Trick-or-Treat Street – October 31, 6 pm – 8pm
Located in the village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach resort, bring your ghouls and goblins to trick-or-treat among the merchants. With great music playing on the Events Plaza Stage and Ben Merrell, performing in the lagoon on his fly board, it’s a great place for the whole family. A spooky fireworks display at 8 pm will end the evening’s festivities.
The Emerald Coast has beautiful beaches and gorgeous scenery. But it’s so much more than just a great place to sightsee. If your family loves adventure, then Destin is your destination for nature parks, beautiful hiking and biking trails, amusement parks and so much more. Come and enjoy these year-round outdoor activities available to you during your Florida vacation!
SandCastle Lessons offers tips and techniques on building the perfect sandcastle during their 2-hour lessons. Classes are limited to small groups and they provide all the tools and equipment to create your own sandcastle masterpiece.
Ride On surf school is now open in Destin! Located on the beach behind Captain Dave’s restaurant on Hwy 98, they offer surf lessons for everyone who knows how to swim! They provide all the equipment from surfboards to wetsuits and tents for shade and a variety of lesson plans for all skill levels. Groups or private lessons available.
RACETRACKS, BUMPER CARS and MORE
The Track in Destin, is a great time for the whole family! Adventures at their Bungee Jumping Tower, Skyflyer and Kid’s Country are waiting for you! With go-karts, kiddie rides and mini-golf, this is a great place to spend a day enjoying the sun and fresh air! Located near the hotels and the beach, they offer group and party packages as well as single price credits.
Amusement USA, located in Harbor Village in Destin, offers hours of entertainment for the whole family. Their bungee trampoline is safe for all ages. With a harness system that allows visitors to experience a worry-free adventure, everyone enjoys somersaults and high-flying jumps. Other amusements include their duel mechanical surfboards and their aqua spheres that allow you to run on water in a bubble ball.
With over 40 different play areas, Big Kahunas offers a variety of water slides for the kids and shaded Cabanas for parents. Better than a day at the beach, this park has a giant wave pool, mini golf and kiddie rides. From the action-packed rides and slides to the relaxing Lazy River this amusement park offers a little something for the entire family.
DOLPHINS, PENGUINS, & SEALS, Oh My!
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is your stop for a family adventure with the mysterious animals of the ocean. Dedicated to educating and entertaining visitors on preserving marine wildlife, the Gulfarium offers memorable experiences to people of all ages. Opportunities to get up close and personal with dolphins, stingrays and seals make this a “must see” experience.
MINI-GOLF, TRAMPOLINE ADVENTURES and DINOSAURS!
Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone in Fort Walton Beach offers a dinosaur adventure for the whole family. With a fully animatronic mini-golf course, a 60-foot rope course, 4-D movie theater and opportunities to meet baby dinosaurs, this amusement park great for a family adventure.
SCENIC HIKING and BIRDWATCHING
Located in Bristol, Torreya Campground has created a 7.3 mile loop rated as moderated. Open all year round, this trail offers scenic views through the forest, down ravines and rim swamps, with varied wildlife and picturesque river views.
Timberlake Trail, located near Eglin Airforce Base, offers a 6 mile hiking and biking loop, with many side trails. Quiet and shaded, this well-maintained trail is designed for more experienced hikers and bikers.
Florida Trail in Eglin has multiple access points and 5 trailheads. With an old growth forest, these moderate to rugged hikes stretch out for over 100 miles of public land that was once the Choctawhatchee National Forest. Currently used as a military base, the Florida Trail is out of the test zone, but bomb bursts can be heard throughout the trails. A permit is required in advance to use these trails and waters.
When an Island, really isn’t an Island
Long before Destin was a tourist destination, a small island, affectionately called Bird Island by some of the locals, sat on the north side of Destin Bridge. But in 1974, hurricane Eloise swallowed up this tiny spit of land, hiding it under the crystal clear waters of the Gulf. As the years accumulated, ocean tides, hurricanes and passing storms moved more sand and created an ever expanding sandbar. From the air, this sprawling underwater island looks like a crab surrounded by deeper, darker waters. Over time, the warm waters became a favorite spot for the locals to anchor their boats and swim in the aquamarine water. The shape of the sandbar and the myriad crabs that can be found scuttling along the sand have given the area its current name—Crab Island.
Today, Crab Island is a favorite destination of both locals and tourists. Located on the north side of the Destin Bridge at the entrance of the Choctawhatchee Bay, it is only accessible by wave runner, paddleboard, kayak or boat. Due to its distance from shore, strong currents and boat traffic, walking or swimming to this sunken island is not an option. Crab Island has developed into a great spot to anchor your boat and enjoy various live bands, partying with friends in the crystal clear water or simply soaking in the Florida sunshine. This underwater playground also makes a great spot for swimming, snorkeling and fishing.
Though there are crowds who enjoy partying at Crab Island, rest assured that it is a very family-friendly environment. Anchoring away from the more rowdy activities insures you and your children will have a fun-filled and memorable day on the water.
In 2014 a family-friendly Water Park was added to the sandbar for and can be enjoyed by the more adventuresome visitor. This floating obstacle course does require an armband which is purchased at the pontoon boat floating nearby, but you and your family will have hours of fun on their climbing walls, balance beams, slides, swing and their “flipper”, used for bouncing a friend high into the air and into the water.
And don’t forget about food! Crab Island has several floating eateries with a variety of offerings that can satisfy your craving for an afternoon snack or an evening meal. The anchored restaurants offer similar menus, but each has their own distinguishing flair that sets them apart from the rest.
Wrap it Up – This newest addition to the Crab Island scene offers “healthy alternatives” to the usual food faire. The restaurant is open all day, 7 days a week, weather permitting and offers a variety of burgers, wraps and hot dogs and for your sweet tooth—Dippin’ Dots.
Helen Back – This bright yellow barge is always located near the Coast Guard station and is known for its crowd involvement and food giveaways, including drinks and pizza. With a café menu of pizza and burgers, visitors also enjoy the launching of T-shirts, beads and koozies from the restaurant.
Chomp N’ Chill – This floating restaurant offers Cajun-style cuisine as well as a variety of foods including, boiled peanuts, candy, ice cream, nachos, chili cheese dogs, burgers, and the crowd-pleasing New Orleans style snowballs. The owner cooks his own syrups for the snowballs at his house and has added quite a few unique flavors to his menu.
Crab Island Trading Company – The only restaurant in the state of Florida on open water, you can go aboard and eat and with bathroom facilities, many visitors to Crab Island enjoy getting out of the water and sun. Their signature 12-hour slow cooked pulled pork is a crowd favorite, but they also offer half-pound burgers, virgin daiquiris, snow cones and much more. This barge is located in the “family area” of Crab Island and is open every day, weather permitting.
The Sinkin’ Weenie – Grilling all their food fresh to order, this restaurant offers a variety of grilled chicken and grilled Mahi sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers and bratwurst.
Crab Island Online – This restaurant is open all day, 7 days a week and doubles as an entertainment stage, hosting live music as well as a game area for volleyball and basketball. Their menu includes BBQ sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, steamed shrimp and a whole lot more. They like to keep all menu items below $6.50.
And if that’s not enough for you, there are mobile vendors traveling via motorized rafts, delivering food directly to the customer.
So when is the best time to visit Crab Island? The answer depends on what you want to do while you are there. If you have children and want to enjoy the water park, we recommend visiting Crab Island on a weekday during the summer or any time during the rest of the year, with Friday being the least crowded day. For those who want to drop anchor and party in the Florida sunshine, then any weekend in the summer will find the younger crowd enjoying live bands and delicious food. As far as time of day, we recommend consulting a local tide chart and enjoying Crab Island at high tide, when the waist-high water is a mesmerizing aqua green and crystal clear.
But however you want to enjoy Destin, no vacation is complete without a trip out to Crab Island—the island that isn’t an island.
Dog owners wanting to take their precious pets for some fresh air or to socialize have many options in and around Destin. First there are several off-leash dog parks within a short drive, most of which have separate areas for small and large dogs. Additionally well-mannered, leashed dogs can be taken to any Florida state park. Unfortunately dogs are not allowed on area beaches in most cases, without a special permit.
Bark Park
JD Miller Rd and Chat Holly Rd
Santa Rosa Beach, FL, 32550
(850) 625-1097
Bark Park is a two acre off-leash park on J.D. Miller road somewhat near the intersection of highway 98 and state road 331. It has a separate area for small and large dogs, chairs, shade trees, and running water. Owners must clean up after their dog, and it is recommended to bring a bowl if your dog will need a drink.
4100 Indian Bayou Trail
Destin, FL 32541
(850) 837-4242
Destin Dog Park is approximately three acres and includes separate off-leash areas for large dogs and small dogs. Both areas have grass and trees, open spaces and shaded areas, watering stations for dogs and owners, benches, and waste receptacles. Parking available. Open dawn to 10 pm daily. Closed Tuesday mornings from dawn to 10 am for maintenance.
342 Miracle Strip Parkway SW
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
(850) 654-4126
Located in Liza Jackson Park in Fort Walton Beach, this off-leash park is divided into large and small dog areas. It has water fountains and a hose station for the dogs. It is open sunup to sundown.
Highway 85 and College Blvd
Niceville, FL
(850) 279-6436, Ext. 3002
This four acre off-leash dog park is located in Niceville, a short drive from Destin. It features lots of shade, watering stations, picnic tables, and plenty of parking. Open from dawn until 10 pm.
17000 Emerald Coast Parkway
Destin, FL 32541
(850) 837-7550
Though not technically a dog park, this state park allows quiet, well mannered dogs for no additional charge. Dogs must be on a hand held leash of 6 feet or shorter, cleaned up after, and not left unattended for more than 30 minutes at a time. Additionally they are only allowed on the nature trail, in the camp area, or on the sidewalk. They are not allowed to enter the beaches, playgrounds, or buildings.
Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park
4281 S.R.20
Niceville, FL 32578
(850) 833-9144
Another state park that allows quiet, well mannered dogs at no additional cost. Dogs
must be on a hand held leash of 6 feet or shorter, cleaned up after, and not
left unattended for more than 30 minutes at a time. Additionally they are not
allowed to enter swim areas, playgrounds, buildings, or food service areas, and
must not be walked by the water at night.
Dolphin Watching, Cruises, and Animal Encounters
What better way to observe dolphins than in their natural and unrestrained habitat? The cruises provided around Destin allow you to observe these intelligent and gentle creatures, feel the breeze on your face, and listen to the calls of seabirds as they soar around you. Check out the variety of cruises provided in the area.
= Olin Marler Charter’s Boats Dolphin Watch and Destin History Cruise: Enjoy a 1.5 hour cruise while watching dolphins playing in their natural habitat. The Hannah Maria runs cruises daily and features a glass bottom viewing area, restrooms, snack area, as well as an air conditioned/heated cabin.
= Bucaneer Pirate Cruise: An interactive Pirate Ship with an entertaining crew and a memorable experience. Jump aboard for a treasure pirate adventure, storytelling, sword fights, water gun battles, and lifetime memories.
= Southern Star Dolphin Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing 2 hour dolphin or sunset cruise aboard an 80 foot glass bottom boat. This cruise has been featured on both CNN and National Geographic. It offers dolphin watching, music, bird feeding, informative guides, climate controlled environment, and kids get the chance to pilot the boat.
= SunQuest Cruises: The Solaris provides fine dining with chef-prepared meals, a full service bar, and live entertainment while cruising into the sunset. Its perfect for romantic outings, celebrations, and is available for private charter as well.
= Nathaniel Bowditch Sailing Adventures: This classic sailing schooner offers elegant adult wine/cheese cruises as well as family dolphin cruises. Here you can enjoy a leisurely 3 hour cruise while enjoying a variety of six fine table wines and seven cheeses selected daily by the captain from over 200 different varieties.
= Destin Snorkel: Dive beneath the waves and discover the underwater world through snorkeling and snuba trips. Scuba is wonderful form of introductory diving. It provides you with swim-fins, diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as with scuba diving, but the war is supplied through a hose from the boat on the surface. This allows you to become a diver for a day without having to complete any certifications.
= Gator Beach: Enjoy dinner while learning and observing and learning about alligators in their artificial wetland pond. Here you have the chance to observe and even feed 80 alligators in a safe and fun environment. Gator Beach even houses a rare albino alligator. Did you know that there are only 50 albino alligators in the entire US?
= Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park: Discover the wonder of the ocean at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Education exhibits and playful animals await to put on a spectacular show. This Marine Adventure Park will be cerebrating its 60th anniversary in 2015, marking at as one of the world’s oldest marine animal parks in operation. Did you know they were the first marine park to perform underwater shows using SCUBA gear instead of the full helmet dive gear used back in the day? They were also the first to record a dolphin jumping 21 feet high and raising a stranded baby bottlenose dolphin.
= Gulf Breeze Zoo & Botanical Gardens: Domestic and exotic animals surrounded by botanical gardens abound at the Gulf Breeze Zoo. Here you will find Gorilla Island, the Farm as well as Japanese gardens, Bengal tigers and more.
Watersports
If your thirsty for adrenaline, speed, thrills Destin meets your needs. Here you will discover an abundance of jet skiing, parasailing, water-sports, and more.
= Wet-N-Wild Watersports Rent jet skies or pontoon boats for adventures out on the water. Wet-N-Wild has it all. Dolphin tours, parasailing, wave runners, pontoon boats and more! From fast action to simply relaxing, give them a call on your trip.
= Mobile Sports LLC: Destin’s Original Banana Boat Ride. This 20 ft speed boot gives rides around local waters and has been ranked #1 for five years in a row. In addition to Banana boat rides, Mobile Sports LLC offers Crab Island tours. This is a fascinating attraction featuring a massive underwater sandbar.
Amusements and Rides
If you need a break from the beach and salt water, Destin offers several amusement/adventure parks, as well as rides.
12. Amusement USA: Features trampolines, Hamster Balls, HarborWalk Village, and so much more. Zipline & Free Fall at World Class Amusements is also found at the HarborWalk Village.
13. Beach Helicopter Tours: Get a bird’s eye view of Destin by taking to the skies and circling the pristine sand beaches and the span of sparkling emerald water.
14. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park: Over 40 water attractions, three tropical mini golf courses, go-karts, and two adrenaline pumping rides for the thrill seekers. The best time to hit this attraction is in the morning before the beach crowd comes in to escape the scorching midday heat.
15. The Track: Discover a thee-tiered go-kart/ roller coaster hybrid or take a 75-foot drop through bungee jumping. The Track has something for all ages including a Kid’s Country zone making it an ideal family activity. This location is sure to provide you with adrenaline. The karts are very close to the ground and extremely aerodynamic. As soon as you start applying the speed you will feel as though you are flying around the bends.
16. Fudpucker’s Fat Daddy’s Arcade: Perfect entertainment center with over 65 of the most popular games. Features racing games, interactive, kids, basketball free throws, Guitar Hero and more. This attraction is great for those rainy vacation days when there is nothing to do in the hotel room.
17. Emerald Coast Science Center: Unique museum with over 250 interactive science exhibits.
18. Ft. Walton Skating Center: Skating rink with 6200 watts of impressive sound, special effects light show, and a skate shop.
15. Ultimate 7D Interactive Movie: Full of excitement, the Ultimate 7D movie allows you to travel on a roller coaster or be part of interactive shooting- all without leaving your seat. Make your next movie night a memorable one by actively participating.
16. Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill: Take bowling to new depths in this underwater themed bowling alley. Custom bowling balls featuring handmaiden murals, mermaids, octopuses, and other underwater creatures.
17. Zip Adventures: Here at Baytowne Adventure Zone you will discover four different experiences at one location. You can soar across the lagoon with an aerial view of the Village, test your balance on the Sky Trail Ropes course, complete the Tower Climb, and Eurobungy.
18. HarborWalk Marina: Admire the variety of luxurious yachts and sailboats or hop aboard one as there are several companies offering dolphin cruises, deep sea fishing, and parasailing.
19. Village Door Nightclub: Has been voted “Best Place to Dance” by both Destin and Emerald Coast Magazines reader’s pools. The Staff is friendly and the music contagious.
Parks
Natural State Parks and preserves allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the beaches, sand dunes, and forests in their unspoiled state. Destin has several natural park and recreation areas with plenty of space, picnic areas, beaches, and hiking trails.
20. Henderson Beach State Recreation Area: This state park covers a span of 208 acres that includes woodlands and coast. There is ample space for swimming along the 6000feet of coast line. Hiking trails and bathhouses are also available as well as picnic tables with grills, and campsites.
21. Topsail Hill State Preserve: 1600 ares that include everything from lakes, pine forests, dunes towering 25 feet tall, and 3.2 miles of secluded white sand beaches. Within this park you will also find three rare coastal dune lakes with amazing freshwater fishing. Fishing here is only allowed from the shoreline where you can catch bass, bream, catfish, and panfish. A tram service provides quick rides to the beach.
22. Eden State Gardens: Encompassing 163 acres of land, the Eden State Gardens contains part of the historic Wesley homestead. The main attraction is the renovated 1897 two story mansion with its historic white columns and wrap around porch. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, stroll through the gardens, enjoy a picnic, or go fishing.
23. Okaloosa Island Boardwalk: Expansive beaches, clubs and restaurants line the Boardwalk. It is often described as a one-stop destination for fun, both day an night.
One of the few benefits still open to military personnel and their families are savings offered by airlines, lodgings and restaurants around the world.
Getting Started
Nearly all of the websites in our guide include travel tips and information about lodging, ground transportation and attractions.
Cost-efficient Travel– Even though the tips here are directed at The Army, they apply to all branches of service. In other words, they are aimed at saving you money on travel expenses.
MilitaryHops.com provides a list of their top 12 websites that relate to issues involved in military travel.
Military Rates.com has links to air, ground and sea travel as well as specials at resorts and holiday packages. There are military travel discounts up-for-grabs for active duty and veteran members– no matter whether you’re planning for a vacation or visiting relatives.
OperationWeAreHere.com is an awesome resource site for the military community and military supporters, alike. Travel resources include links that will help you plan your trip. There is also an updated list for ‘Space-A’ global travel information, including sitting arrangements available in the next 72-hours.
VetTravel is the place for veterans to find deals on airlines, cruises and accommodations–all in one place.
Military Travel Services is a site designed to search for real time discounts on air fares, accommodations, rental cars and cruises.
Military Only Travel claims to be the ‘Ultimate’ website for military travel. With this site veterans and active duty personnel can look for links to companies offering military discounts, including separate stateside and overseas directories.
For Our Veterans with Specialty Needs
In honor of our thousands of injured and disabled veterans we will touch base on some websites that offer tips and information for traveling with wheelchairs and scooters.
In the section below we’ll discuss what to ask and look for when booking accommodations.
TSA Guidelines for Traveling with Wheelchairs or scooters should be reviewed by our veterans who wish to minimize difficulties at the airports
Disabled and Wheelchair offers travel information for anyone with special needs but most of the tips listed out on this website are geared towards our veterans with particular needs.
Paralyzed Veterans of America provides tips, support information and links for vets who are paralyzed and want to travel.
Cruises for Veterans is a fantastic cruise business that offers cruises for all veterans– including those with special requirements.
Disney World Special offers tips and discounts for disabled veterans and their family members right on Disney World Property.
In the Air Info
Find out what rules and regulations apply to your particular situation before you book your airline tickets.
Here are some of the great places to check first.
Military Travel.com is specifically suitable for active duty military and reservists as well as their dependents. You can practically save hundreds of dollars on international and domestic flights with this site.
Off-Duty Army Travel Guide is a helpful site that makes any off-duty personnel vacation the best getaway ever. The website contains links for travel offices offering military discounts– and even military friendly RV and campgrounds.
U.S. Military Off-Duty Resources provides information and resources for the military person, including those off-duty or on leave. The website offers information on space available on flights, special military discounts and attractions offering free or discounted tickets for military personnel.
Travel Links is a site with tons of information, including that of U.S. Embassies worldwide, TSA information with current updates, privately owned vehicle reimbursement rates, baggage allowance details,
Where to Rest Your Head
Military Travel and Lodging Options specializes in taking advantage of many convenient and inexpensive lodging options available around the world for each branch of the service.
Lodging near U.S. Military Bases allows you to find out about hotels, motels, lodges and resorts on or near the U.S. Military bases.
U.S. Government / Military Hotel discount is operated by Best Western Hotels based on U.S. government per diem rates for active duty military personnel.
Military Lodging Facilities provides useful tips and links for lodging and recreation facilities when you are in the market for leisure travel options.
Loans for Travel – Emergency and Pleasure
United Military Travel provides loans for emergency travel situations for our service members and their families. They also have options for low-cost airline tickets that are not offered on ‘space-available’ basis.
Easy Military Travel is another site that offers loans to military members and their dependents, for both vacations and emergency situations. In addition, you can search for discounts on flights and other related travel arrangements.
Henderson State Park – (850) 837-7550 FREE (850) 837-7550
Located on Emerald Coast Pkwy in Destin.
Pristine white sugar sand beaches and more than 6,000 feet of scenic shoreline border the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Boardwalks provide access to the beach for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing, while protecting the fragile coastal dunes. Hiking along the nature trail provides visitors a rare glimpse of the coastal dune ecosystem and abundant wildlife. Full facility campsites have access to an air-conditioned and heated bathhouse facility, a separate beach access boardwalk with outdoor showers, and a playground. Natural features of the park include sand pines, scrub oaks, and dune rosemary. Campers can enjoy a breathtaking view of dolphins leaping through the Gulf waters at sunset – the perfect ending for a day at the beach.
Website:www.floridastateparks.org/hendersonbeach/default.cfm
Eden State Gardens – (850) 231-4214 
FREE (850) 231-4214
Ancient Moss-draped live oaks dominate the lawns. Camellias and azaleas offer colorful accents to the scene from October through May; enjoy the peak bloom around mid- March. The grounds, gardens and picnic area are open daily from 8 a.m. until sundown. The house is open for hourly guided tours from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday. A nominal fee is charged for tours. A picnic area with adjacent parking is available at the old mill site on Tucker Bayou.
Website:www.floridastateparks.org/edengardens/
Point Washington State Forest – Trail System
Highway 395, running north from Seagrove Beach to Eden State Gardens in Point Washington is near the center of the 15,000 acre State Forest. Hiking and biking trails crisscross the area, once prime habitat for Black Bear and Wild Boar.
Topsail Hill State Park – (877) 232-2478 FREE (877) 232-2478
Located on Scenic 30A just West of Dune Allen Beach and East of Sandestin.
7525 W. Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Topsail Hill State Preserve is named after Topsail Hill, a high, picturesque dune standing 25 feet above sea level. Biking, Swimming, Fresh water fishing, Nature trails, Picnic areas.
Website:www.floridastateparks.org/topsailhill/default.cfm
Grayton Beach State Park – (850) 231-4210 FREE (850) 231-4210
Located on Scenic 30A just East of Grayton Beach.
Facilities available include a pavilion, public restrooms, camping area, picnic areas and a boat ramp to Western Lake. Canoe rentals for lake tours are available.
Website:www.floridastateparks.org/graytonbeach/default.cfm
Children’s Park at Morgan Sports Complex
4200 Two Trees Road
Hours: Daily, 9 am to Dusk
This children’s playground park and equipment were made possible through public and city donations.
Clement Taylor Park
131 Calhoun Avenue
Hours: Daily, Dawn to Dusk
This is a 3.55 acre park. Amenities include a waterfront gazebo, pier, pavilion, beach swim area, playground, and picnic area. The pavilion is available for rental to private organizations and individuals by calling the Community Center at 654-5184. A refundable cleaning deposit is required.
Dalton Threadgill Park
711 Hickory Street
Hours: Daily, Dawn to Dusk
This is a 3.9 acre youth sports facility which includes one major league field, one girl’s softball field, one tee ball field, bleachers, bathrooms and a concession stand. This park is maintained by the Destin Little League.
Harbor View Park
Beach Drive and US Highway 98
Hours: Daily, Dawn to Dusk
This is a low impact facility which includes a waterfront deck area with benches and picnic tables, bike rack and handicap parking. This park opened in August 2000. Future development could include access to the water and a fishing pier.
Joe’s Bayou Boat Launch
800 Beach Drive
Hours: Daily, Dawn to Dusk.
This is a 1.5 acre high-impact facility with five boat launch ramps and parking area. There is a $10 daily launch fee, however residents that live within the City limits of Destin may obtain a free decal by providing proof of residency, picture ID, and boat and trailer registration. For more information please call the Community Center at 654-5184.
June White Decker Park and Beach Pedestrian Walkway
Scenic Hwy 98
Hours: Daily, Dawn to Dusk
This linear park provides public beach access to the Gulf of Mexico from Scenic US Highway 98 adjacent to the Silver Shells Condominiums.
Kell-Aire Park & Nature Walk
874 Kell-Aire Drive
Hours: Daily, Dawn to Dusk
This is a 3.013 acre low impact park which includes a nature walk, benches, swing, and bicycle rack. This park provides the neighborhood a peaceful open space to enjoy nature.
Main Street Park
605 Main Street
Hours: Daily, Dawn to Dusk
This is a .75 acre waterfront park. Main Street Park is a small ADA accessible park that includes a fishing pier and picnic facilities. This parcel has been dedicated parkland since the early 1950s.
Mattie Kelly Park
825 Beach Drive
Hours: Daily, Dawn to Dusk