If you're looking for a vacation for the books, look no further. Destin/30A is literally home to the most beautiful beaches in the United States. One of 30A's own, Grayton Beach, was named Best Beach in the U.S. for the second year, this year. But the beaches aren't the only thing worth getting on the road for. Here's the best seven things to do in Destin/30A this Summer.
1. Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park
Kick your vacation off with a splash at Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park! The largest water park on the Emerald Coast, Big Kahuna's is known for its water play areas, tube rides, speed slides, pools, and its lazy river. The park features more than 40 attractions and even offers season passes. The Adventure Park is home to a mini-golf course and other thrill rides. Tickets are sold separately.
2. Grayton Beach State Park
For the second time since the creation of the award, Grayton Beach was named the Number One Beach in America, by Stephen “Dr. Beach” Leatherman. Leatherman is a coastal scientist and professor at Florida International University, who ranked Grayton Beach Number One another time, in 1994. Grayton Beach State Park will give you views of the beautiful beach, coastal forest full of scrub oaks and magnolias, and you can even stay overnight.
3. Destin Golf Courses
Emerald Coast Convention Visitors Bureau, Inc.
For the second time since the creation of the award, Grayton Beach was named the Number One Beach in America, by Stephen “Dr. Beach” Leatherman. Leatherman is a coastal scientist and professor at Florida International University, who ranked Grayton Beach Number One another time, in 1994. Grayton Beach State Park will give you views of the beautiful beach, coastal forest full of scrub oaks and magnolias, and you can even stay overnight.
4. Crab Island
Crab Island Sandbar Adventure
Charter a boat, rent a pontoon, kayak, or paddle board out to one of Destin's most popular attractions. On any given day there are dozens of other boaters anchored on the sand bar. It's shallow enough to walk around, snorkel, and swim up to the floating restaurants. Book a pontoon with La Dolce Vita and head on out for a day in the sun.
5. Fishing
Emerald Grande
Destin is known as the World's Luckiest Fishing Village and it lives up to its reputation. Destin Harbor Charters is Destin's Highest Rated Fishing Charter and if you're looking for private fishing charters they're your best bet! Enjoy heading out into some of the Gulf's richest waters look forward to catching Red Snapper, Grouper, Mahi, Mingo Snapper, Cobia, Wahoo, Triggerfish, Amberjack, King Mackeral, Spanish Mackeral, Swordfish, Sailfish, & Tuna. Your catch depends on how far you're willing to head out, but regardless of the length of your trip, you're sure to catch something!
6. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Bring the family out for a day of learning at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. You'll catch the dolphin show, see a cool penguin exhibit, get to touch sea stars, and get a close-up encounter of crocodiles all in one trip and more. And it's for a good cause. The Gulfarium has been active in marine animal rescue and rehabilitation for many years. The C.A.R.E. Center was developed in 2015 as a non-profit to facilitate and further our continued coastal conservation efforts. Your visit will help continue the Gulfarium's work to keep our wildlife thriving!
7. Shopping
When you're all beached out, you'll have a smorgasboard of shopping options to choose from to keep you busy. Whether you're looking for local boutiques, big brands, or discounted prices, you'll have plenty of opportunity to score what you're looking for. We suggest: Destin Commons, HarborWalk Village and Downtown Fort Walton Beach, but If you love a good deal, Silver Sands Premium Outlets is sure to deliver. Visit each location's website for more information on hours and stores.
We have plenty of suggestions on things to do here in Destin. Be sure to click on our "Activities" category to browse them all. We hope to welcome you to visit us soon, and if you're looking for a place to stay, you know to book your stay with Five Star Properties today!