Attractions in Destin Florida are not limited to white sand beaches, azure waters, and seemingly endless golf courses, although these are some of the chief draws. The city enjoys an idyllic location on a peninsula that separates the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay. The Emerald Coast of Florida takes its name from the sterling, pristine waters and white-sand beaches that mark this portion of the coastline. Many of the most popular tourist attractions in Destin are related to water sports and activities. The climate throughout the year is such that you can visit Destin from early spring to middle/late fall and enjoy favorable weather conditions and the beaches. The best Destin Florida attractions include dolphin watching cruises, fishing excursions in the Gulf of Mexico, golf at championship quality courses, as well as recreation and amusement park areas for the entire family to enjoy.

As many activities as there are to enjoy in the city and along the Emerald Coast of Florida, the main attractions in Destin are the beaches. There are twelve public access points for beaches in the city as well as four newly renovated beachfront parks, including Beasley Park, Wayside Park, James Lee Park, and Marler Memorial Park. Whether you are interested in bronzing in the sun, snorkeling or diving, fishing, or just having fun with the kids while they construct sand castles and search for seashells in the finely ground sand that is derived from Appalachian quartz, you are guaranteed to find a beach that suits you in Destin.

Many of the hotels, condos, and vacation rentals are located along the beautiful beaches, affording guests of this one-time fishing village an opportunity to enjoy views of some of the most picturesque beaches in the southern United States. Areas such as Rosemary Beach, Crystal Beach, and Henderson Beach are places where you can take part in everything from swimming and kayaking to parasailing and snorkeling. The tourist attractions in Destin are built into the very landscape of this alluring resort beach and fishing community.

Destin Map

The area golf courses are also some of the best Destin Florida attractions. From resorts and hotels like the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort to private courses like the Indian Bayou Golf and Country Club, there are courses to suit all levels of play. Ambitious golfers will find no shortage of challenging courses in this city. When you are finished hitting the links, you may want to think about one of the many ocean cruises that are available in and around Destin and the Emerald Coast. There are dolphin watching cruises, sunset tours, glass bottom boat tours, fishing charters, and dinner cruises. This is such a beautiful part of Florida and the Gulf Coast that you will want to be sure to bring your camera or camcorder to capture the breathtaking sunsets and riveting vistas of the ocean. Dolphin tours and Gulf Coast sunset cruises are some of the most popular attractions in Destin for good reason.

Other tourist attractions in Destin include the Track Recreation Center, a place where families and groups of friends can enjoy thrill rides, go-karts, enjoy some miniature golf, and much more. Divers and snorkelers will find plenty of opportunities for excursions and lessons and there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs in the city as well.