Are you looking for a postcard-worthy beach destination that feels like a faraway land, without the hassle of international travel? Destin is a scenic coastal town, located in the Florida panhandle, that's guaranteed to delight any ocean enthusiast. Lovingly known as the Emerald Coast, Destin is world-renowned for its beautiful blue-green water, sugar-white sand beaches, stellar fishing, and laid back vibe. As if the promise of 24-miles of pristine shoreline isn't enough to entice any saltwater savoring soul; here are five reasons why you'll fall in love with Destin, Florida.
1. It's Beautiful Beaches.
Nestled up against the Gulf of Mexico in northwest Florida, this once sleepy fishing village has become one of the most popular vacation destinations on the Gulf Coast. Destin is a beach destination unlike any other, thanks to a surprisingly unique element; it's sand. Destin's soft, sandy beaches are comprised of small quartz particles, which is what gives Destin's shoreline it's brilliant, bright, white hue. Not only does this quartz sand make Destin the perfect place to build an epic sandcastle, but it also renders the ocean with its unique emerald-green glow. To top it off, the Gulf of Mexico's temperate waters and Florida's year-round tropical climate makes Destin an ideal beach destination for travelers in need of a little summer sidestep, any time of the year.
2. It's Southern Charm
If you're a fan of southern hospitality and laid-back living, Destin is the perfect vacation destination for you. Although Destin banks off its tourism industry, you'll find that the welcoming locals are more than happy to share their spectacular little city and bountiful beaches with visitors. From it's white, sun-bleached buildings, to its plentiful palm trees, there is no better place to sit in a rocking chair and sip some sweet tea while soaking up the generous southern sun. Be sure to arrive with the intention of being on island-time, because Destin is the perfect place to take it slow, and go with the flow.
3. It's World-Class Fishing.
Destin was discovered and settled by fisherman in 1835, which means that fishing is more than just a favored pastime in these coastal waters; it's a way of life. This cozy seaside town is famously nicknamed "the world's luckiest fishing village," and for a good reason. Destin is full of opportunities to bait up, no matter what your fishing style. Fisherman (or women!) can enjoy bay-fishing for redfish, trout, and flounder; or take advantage of offshore opportunities to hook some sailfish, mahi-mahi, and king mackerel. There is no shortage of deep-sea fishing charters and plenty of possibilities to cast your pole off one of Destin's many marshy banks; so if you've got an itchin' to go fishin', Destin is guaranteed to light up your line.
4. It's Fresh Foodie Scene.
There's no way the world's luckiest fishing village could be without a foodie scene full of local seafood and southern fried delights. Destin has a multitude of waterfront restaurants, all serving up your favorite fresh-caught fish, shell-fish, and crustaceans. If dinner with a view is your idea of a good time, check out Dewy Destin's, a seafood restaurant with locations in Destin's Crab Island, Navarre Sound, and Destin Harbor. This family-owned restaurant has a history as rich as it's authentic Gulf flavors and serves up only the freshest and most responsibly sourced seafood; all of which is served with a generous side of breathtaking scenery. Not a fan of fish? Destin also boasts a bounteous BBQ scene, with choice cuts of pork and beef cooked slow and low. 98 BAR-B-Q is an award-winning, Emerald Coast BBQ joint that has been in the business for three generations and four decades, making it a favorite for both locals and explorers alike.
5. It's Endless Opportunity for Adventure.
If you like your vacations with a side of adrenaline, Destin has plenty of on and offshore activities that can cater to your wild side. Although Florida's relatively calm Gulf Coast can't gloat about having consistent surf conditions, such as those found on Florida's Atlantic Coast, visitors can still enjoy a multitude of thrilling water-sports and activities such as skim-boarding, paddle-boarding, windsurfing, kayaking, parasailing, snorkeling, jet skiing, dolphin tours and more. Need a break from the beach? Destin is also home to several world-class golf courses, spas, scenic hiking trails, state parks, and family-friendly water parks, zoos and aquariums.
Ready to add Destin, Florida to your list of travel destin-ations? Let us know what spots are on your travel bucket list!
Written By: Sera Ansardi
