Destin is known for its great weather year round, crystal green waters and white sandy beaches. So why not book one of our Destin vacation rentals and see everything this destination has to offer! Vacation rentals make having a perfect vacation easy.
This popular location is also well-known for its abundance of family-friendly activities like deep sea fishing, waterparks, museums, and all kinds of outdoor activities. We found the top 10 activities that we think you will want to try on your next trip! They are our favorites and have lots of variety, so your family will have choices.
When you start planning, be sure to add these to your list. You won’t be disappointed!
Top 10 Activities in Destin, FL
Destin History & Fishing Museum
This museum showcases the importance and history of fishing in the area. They have lots of interesting exhibits including photographs, artifacts, fishing equipment and much more. This is a great family-friendly educational stop on your next Destin trip!
Pro tip: We suggest doing the guided tour. The staff has a lot of information on the local fishing culture and interesting stories about Destin’s history. The museum is also centrally located and typically takes 1-2 hours to get through, so you can definitely plan additional activities in the area as well. Make sure to check out their gift shop on your way out and take a cool momento home with you!
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
This fun place offers amazing dolphin and sea lion shows. You can spend the whole day here learning about ocean life in Florida. They also offer feeding penguins, snorkeling with stingrays and much more. The Dolphin Oasis is a favorite attraction!
Pro tip: For the best experience purchase your tickets in advance and make sure to check the show schedule. There are training shows and interactive animal encounters available daily. There is also a beach nearby that you can visit before or after the adventure park if you are interested in adding to your day!
Big Kahuna’s Water Park
This popular activity is one of the largest water parks in the area. Get ready to have some fun! They have a lazy river and lots of water slides to choose from. There are also cabanas to rent if you are looking for a more laid back experience. Get ready for some fun in the water!
Buccaneer Pirate Cruise
Looking for some adventure and a unique experience? This pirate ship cruise offers imagination, adventure and just an all around fantastic time. Learn about pirates and also become one for a day while setting sail. This cruise is very interactive, so be prepared to get involved with some sword fighting, water gun battles and more. Also keep your eyes peeled for possible dolphin sightings!
Pro tip: Want to make the most of your day? This cruise sets sail from HarborWalk Village, which has lots of shops, restaurants etc to check out before or after your water adventure. Also, make sure to check for special events and themed cruises ahead of time.
Beach Sand Sculptures
Ever wanted to build the coolest sand sculpture on the beach? Or wonder how some people make the incredible creations you happen to walk by? Beach Sand Sculptures will actually teach you in depth how to create something incredible and impressive with sand like a 3 ½ ft. tall sandcastle! How cool is that?!
Gator Beach
Gator Beach is an alligator park with shows, a gator museum and chances to safely get up close with these incredible creatures and even feed them! It is educational and fun. This is a great family friendly activity. Also, if you are hungry the restaurant Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill is located on property and has some tasty eats.
Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
Wild Willy’s is one of the most exciting attractions in Destin with go carts, bumper boats, ropes course, 4D movies and much, much more. Adventure awaits here whether it is rain or shine! Make sure to plan for a full day here – there is so much to do you will want the extra time.
Pro tip: Wild Willy’s is typically less crowded on weekdays if you are looking to avoid the crowds. We suggest the dinosaur themed mini golf. It is a lot of fun and a great activity for all the dinosaur loving kids or adults. Also, make sure to check ahead of time for special events and discounts.
Destin Helicopter Tours
Looking for a little thrill on your next trip? Check out Destin Helicopter Tours! The view is spectacular and it gives you the opportunity to see the area from another perspective. They offer a variety of tours, so make sure to book the right one to your liking. Also, let the pilot know if there are certain things you are interested in seeing.
Pro tip: Arrive at least 15 minutes early to get through paperwork and check in procedures. There is a lot of marine life in the waters here – so be sure to pay attention for dolphins, sharks etc while flying high above the water. Also make sure to bring some extra cash to tip the pilot if you are happy with your experience.
Boogies Watersports
Boogies offers some cool thrills like parasailing and wave runners. They are a premier family entertainment destination. One of their most popular activities is the Glass Bottom Boat Dolphin Cruise. They also have pontoon boats for rent and so much more.
Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge
Get back to nature on your next vacation! This special refuge is located on 2.3 acres in Navarre, Florida. They help conserve, rehabilitate and educate on the ecology of the Emerald Coast and the importance of coexistence with wildlife.
Pro tip: This refuge has specific seasonal hours so make sure to check when they are open in advance. It is important to respect the animals. Be careful when around them of loud noises and make sure to give them their space unless instructed otherwise. Check for special events and volunteer opportunities if you are local.
Looking for more adventure?
These are some of our favorite activites in Destin, but the area is filled with family-friendly options. If you are looking for a great place to stay on your next trip Destin beachfront rentals has lots of terrific options. Stay close to the beach and take in all Destin has to offer!
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