Destin Travel Tips
Keep in Mind...
- Keep the top down Summer beach traffic in this small community can consume hours. Renting a convertable will let you enjoy the sun even when your stuck in gridlock.
- Park it To avoid the parking lot that is U.S. 98, leave your wheels at the hotel. Without the car, the only line you'll encounter is at the bar.
- Spot celebs Britney Spears and Emeril Lagasse both maintain homes here, so be on the lookout for them as well as other sunbathing celebrities.
Nicknamed the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," Destin has grown into one of the most popular vacation spots on the Florida panhandle. Founded in the 1830s, Destin used to be a sleepy fishing town until a bridge connected the skinny peninsula with Florida's mainland. With a baseline population of 12,000 residents (which inflates to 40,000-plus during the summer), this town retains an intimate, friendly atmosphere. Midwestern and Southern families flock to Destin's beaches each summer for the city's trademark bright white shores, made up of pure Appalachian quartz. This unique sand not only stays cool in the summer heat, but with the sunlight's reflection, it also gives the waters an emerald tint. Golfers traverse seaside bunkers, while kids splash in the water parks. More adventurous visitors snorkel and scuba dive off the coast or charter a boat to try their luck at deep-sea fishing. After all, fishing is an integral part of this peninsular paradise.
How To Save Money in Destin
- Fly Here, Fly There Three medium-size airports (Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola, and Panama City Beach) are within reasonable driving distance of Destin. Explore your flight and rental car options at all three airports.
- May Day May is the best time to visit Destin, when room rates drop and daytime temperatures linger in the 80s.
- Catch of the Day When you visit this fishing village, you will want to indulge in some seafood. The best (and cheapest) will come from your own line. Go fishing, return home with your own catch, and proudly serve a hard day's work.
Destin Dining
Destin has a growing restaurant scene that particularly emphasizes the region's tastiest asset, seafood. Head to top eateries like Fisherman's Wharf Seafood House, where the chef will cook up your caught fish. For traditional American seafood, travelers recommend the Destin Lighthouse Restaurant and Louisiana Lagniappe. You'll also find chain restaurants along U.S. 98.
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