Travel Guides
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- Title
- IHG’s Complete Guide to Destin Hotels & Adventures
- Description
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Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," Destin is a picturesque coastal town located along the Emerald Coast in the Florida Panhandle. With its stunning white sandy beaches, emerald green waters, and abundance of outdoor activities, Destin is a popular vacation destination for travelers of all ages. This guide will provide you with an overview of the top things to do, transportation options, travel tips, nearby cities, and restaurants in Destin.
IHG Hotels in Destin
Across from Silver Sands Premium Outlets and walking distance from the beautiful, white sand Miramar Beach, Evoke Destin Hotel offers complimentary breakfast to all guests, and features an on-site fitness center, an outdoor pool, and parking. The hotel is comfortable, convenient, and charming, with big, bright rooms that are made for relaxing. If traveling as a family, book a king suite or two-queen suite, which both come with sofa beds.
While not technically in Destin, the Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach is just 15 minutes by car from the area and is located directly on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. The beachfront hotel is unexpectedly luxurious and features upscale amenities, large guest rooms, and gorgeous coastal views. Relax by the pool, dine at Riptides Bar & Grill overlooking the beach, or head to the beach for some fun in the sun. Near attractions like the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, the family-friendly Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach has a lazy river pool, an indoor heated pool, a hot tub, a game room, and a kids club. Use it as a place to rest your head or take advantage of all the property has to offer — whatever you do, just make sure to enjoy your vacation to the fullest!
Things to Do
Destin offers a wide range of activities to keep you entertained during your visit. Heading to the beach is a must as it’s one of the areas biggest attractions and draws for travelers. Henderson Beach State Park and Crystal Beach are popular spots for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. If you’re up for a little more adventure, sign up for thrilling water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. Rent equipment from local vendors to experience the Gulf of Mexico in a new way. Destin also offers excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities, if that is of interest. Book a fishing charter for a chance to catch red snapper, grouper, and other species.
Visit Crab Island, a popular sandbar where visitors can anchor their boats and enjoy floating on inflatables, swimming, and snorkeling in the shallow waters. And explore the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Take a stroll, rent a pontoon boat, or go on a dolphin-watching cruise.
Destin boasts several golf courses with beautiful views of the coastline. Go golfing at Kelly Plantation Golf Club or Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club — both are highly recommended.
Traveling with children? Visit the Gulfarium to learn about marine life and watch live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and more.
Trip Extras
Are you an IHG One Rewards member? Book tours, activities, and things to do in Destin and earn points toward future travels. Some fun ones include a tiki boat cruise, an Everglades airboat ride and nature walk, a family-friendly snorkeling and dolphin tour, and a small group kayaking experience.
Where to Eat and Drink
Destin is an amazing town for seafood, thanks to direct Gulf of Mexico access and the largest commercial fishing fleet in the nation.
Sexton’s Seafood Market is family-owned and operated, and is open daily, year-round. Order the catch of the day, and make sure to bring cash. Located on the Destin Harbor, Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House offers Gulf-to-table comforty-style seafood dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. Order a fresh fish with collard greens and pimento cheese.
McGuire’s Irish Pub of Destin is fun when you’re craving a steak or burger (plus beer brewed in copper kettles). And the more upscale but still family-friendly Louisiana Lagniappe features the tastiest Cajun and Creole cuisine. Try the shrimp and grits, Louisiana crab cakes, or the Mardi Gras shrimp.
Getting Around
Getting around Destin is relatively easy, with several transportation options available, including renting a car, which is the most convenient way to explore Destin and the surrounding areas. Several rental companies operate in the city. You can also opt for taxi or rideshare services. The Okaloosa County Transit (OCT) system operates bus routes throughout the area, providing an affordable option for getting around, and Destin is bike-friendly, with bike rental shops available for those who prefer to explore on two wheels. Walking is also a pleasant option along the beach and boardwalk.
Travel Tips
To make the most of your visit to Destin, keep these travel tips in mind: Destin has a subtropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen for your trip. Pay attention to the beach warning flags, which indicate water conditions. Follow local safety guidelines when swimming or participating in water sports. Destin is a popular vacation spot, so book accommodations, tours, and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
And stay hydrated! This might seem like a no-brainer, but the Florida sun can be intense, so be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade. Destin's natural beauty is home to diverse wildlife. Of course, always respect the wildlife, which includes observing animals from a distance and avoiding feeding them.
Take a Day Trip from Destin
Destin is surrounded by several charming nearby cities worth exploring, like Fort Walton Beach (beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and a vibrant downtown area), Niceville (known for its scenic views and proximity to the Eglin Air Force Base, the city is a great spot for nature lovers), and Miramar Beach (located east of Destin, the town features stunning beaches, shopping at Silver Sands Premium Outlets, and golf courses). Panama City Beach is also about an hour away, but worth visiting if you have some extra time and a car.
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