Unique Attractions In Destin Florida

An Overview of Destin

Destin is a resort city located in the Florida panhandle, known for it’s pristine weather, excellent swimming waters and beautiful coastline. The city a long, famous series of eateries and golf courses, most of which follow the main road and the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. The coastline is also dotted with palms, pines and oaks, eventually leading to bright beaches. The area is famous for being a major fishing destination, since the community is close to the edge of the Continental Shelf where grouper, amberjack, king mackerel and blackfin tuna thrive. With it’s numerous golf courses, beaches, swimming areas, wide dunes and water parks, there are many unique attractions in Destin.

Unique Attractions In Destin

Henderson Beach State Park

This is a Florida State Park following a long, white beach along a natural shoreline with emerald green waters drifting in the Gulf of Mexico. The State Park costs a small fee to enter and overnight camping is available.

Destin Harbor Boardwalk

Stretching for nearly a quarter mile along the shore, this is a bustling entertainment district known for boat tours, fishing, dining options, entertainment venues and bars.

Crab Island

Crab Island in a submerged sandbar which creates a low wading area where a couple of buildings are able to stand on stilts, emerging from the sea. The island can’t be accessed without a boat, kayak or watercraft. The small eatery serves seafood dishes, Tiki drinks, wraps and salads.

Seacrest Wolf Preserve

Located an hour driving outside of Destin, this is a non-profit organization dedicated to education and animal conservation. The preserve has a large natural habitats which protect Gray, Arctic and British Columbian wolves. The unique site provides hands-on education regarding animals native to North America, including wolves, foxes, skunks, raccoons, possums and more. When visiting the preserve, a reservation must be booked prior to arrival with only one tour at 9 AM each day. Bear in mind the preserve only accepts cash and shiny objects, such as jewelry and reflective sunglasses should be left in the car.

The Village of Baytowne Wharf

This is a dining and shopping area on the Choctawhatchee Bay which serves as a quieter location to enjoy leisure time near Destin. The The Village of Baytowne Wharf is always free to enter and open to the public. It’s an especially popular location for holiday decorations and events.

Destin Pier

Found along the beaches of nearby Okaloosa Island, this is an excellent area to enjoy fishing or watching the sea. There’s a small fee to walk along the pier and a secondary fee for those wishing to fish.

Eglin Beach Park

This is a gorgeous protected beach area with white sugar sand and clear waters. Visitors can spot swirling schools of minnows in shallow areas. There’s a small parking fee for the beach as well as another small fee for umbrella and chair rentals. Keep in mind that Elgin Beach Park is exclusive to military ranks, retirees, their family members, federal employees and their guests. A DOD ID Card is required to enter, making this a very quiet and rarely-crowded stretch of shoreline.

Norriego Point

This beach is known for clear blue waters and snorkeling areas. There are many interesting views near Norriego point, making this a good place to watch passing ships.

Mattie Kelly Park and Nature Walk

Located near Joes Bayou, this is a long set of boardwalks over bayou wetlands preserve. The area is popular for people who wish to enjoy fishing, crabbing and picnics.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Heading East from Destin allows visitors to explore numerous parks and wildlife areas. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is one of the closest and most accessible with secluded beaches, dune lakes, multiple campsites and fishing points.

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