Destin Pictures

When you're not admiring the beryl-tinted waves from the shore, being out on the water on a boat is the next best thing. Romona Robbins Photography Getty Images

Frequently considered to host some of Florida's best beaches, Destin is home to plenty of white sand and turquoise waters.  Romona Robbins Photography Getty Images

An attraction in itself, the Destin Harbor is a prime spot to catch the sunset, charter a boat or dine on the area's delicious seafood. Courtesy Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

Crystal Beach is frequently praised by visitors for its cool ivory sands and crystal-clear waters, not to mention its cleanliness. Courtesy Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

According to recent visitors, HarborWalk Village on the Destin Harbor is one of the best places to catch a sunset. Scott Beale Flickr

Henderson Beach State Park is ideal for those looking for a lot of white sand without the big crowds that usually come with it. Romona Robbins Photography Getty Images

Scenic Gulf Drive is home to a bevy of vacation rentals. Malcolm MacGregor Getty Images

Much like its Floridian neighbors, Destin and Fort Walton Beach are home to a variety of scenic golf courses.  Emerald Coast Convention Visitors Bureau, Inc

Whether you're looking for a pirate-themed cruise, a romantic sunset sail or a dolphin-spotting excursion, Destin has a boat tour for you.  Emerald Coast Convention Visitors Bureau, Inc

During sea turtle nesting season, The Emerald Coast CVB/Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council offers free nighttime educational beach walks. Spring is the beginning of sea turtle nesting season in Florida. Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

Staying true to its reputation as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," Destin hosts a wide variety of sea creatures, meaning anglers have plenty of hot spots from which to cast off. Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc

Destin Commons is just one of the area's top shopping retreats. In addition to stores and chain restaurants, this complex also offers a movie theater – perfect for those rainy Florida days. Courtesy Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

At the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, you'll have the opportunity to see loggerheads, a variety of freshwater turtles and African spurred tortoises, among other marine life. Courtesy Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island comprise the Emerald Coast. Courtesy Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau

Along with redfish, you could potentially catch flounder, grouper, king and Spanish mackerel, bluefish and sheeepshead, among other varieties.  Carlina Teteris Getty Images

If you or your kids are interested in seeing some Florida alligators up close, head to Gator Beach. Featuring more than 80 alligators, this tourist attraction allows visitors to feed the gators and then head back upstairs to Fudpucker's Beach Bar & Grill to feed yourself. Jason Meredith Flickr

The Mid-Bay Bridge crosses the Choctawhatchee Bay and connects U.S. Highway 98 in Destin to Niceville. JuiceEllis Getty Images