Last Updated on July 6, 2025

Planning the perfect girls’ weekend? Look no further than Destin, Florida!
 
This beachy gem on the Emerald Coast is famous for its white-sand beaches, sparkling green waters, laid-back vibes, and a fantastic mix of shopping, sunsets, and seafood.
 
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bachelorette party, or just need a break with your best friends, Destin has all the ingredients for a fun and unforgettable escape.
 
Here’s how to plan the ultimate girls’ getaway in Destin — with the best places to stay, shop, dine, and relax.
 

 

 

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Step 1: Book a Beachfront Stay

When it comes to accommodations, you’ll want a spot with great views and plenty of space to relax together. Here are a few top picks:
 

  • Airbnb Beach Houses – Look for rentals in the Crystal Beach or Miramar Beach area. Many homes come with private pools, beach gear, and large decks perfect for happy hour sunsets.
  • The Henderson Beach Resort – A luxury stay near Henderson Beach State Park, this resort offers spa services, fine dining, and poolside cocktails.
  • Village of Baytowne Wharf (Sandestin) – This walkable area offers charming condos, shops, and restaurants, perfect if your group wants everything within reach.

 
Pro tip: Book early if you’re going during spring break, summer, or a holiday weekend — this area fills up fast!
 

 

Check out these awesome places to stay in Destin!

Scenic view from a wooden boardwalk leading down to a white-sand beach with beachgoers relaxing and swimming in the emerald-green Gulf waters under a partly cloudy sky

Step 2: Plan Your Beach Days

You’re here for sun and sand, so spend your days beach-hopping and enjoying the Emerald Coast’s clear waters.
 

  • Miramar Beach (near Pompano Joe’s) – Great for watersports and action, with lots of nearby restaurants.
  • Henderson Beach State Park – One of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in the area, perfect for a morning walk or a quiet afternoon.
  • James Lee Park – Located near Crab Trap restaurant, this beach has restrooms, shaded pavilions, and easy parking.

 
Pack a cooler, bring the Bluetooth speaker, and don’t forget a cute matching towel or beach hat for the photo ops.
 

Busy pedestrian street at HarborWalk Village in Destin, Florida, with people walking past colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants under a clear blue sky in the late afternoon sun

Step 3: Shop ‘Til You Drop

Destin offers a surprisingly good mix of boutiques, outlets, and local shops.
 
Whether you’re hunting for deals or browsing for coastal fashion, shopping is a must.
 

  • Destin Commons – An open-air shopping center with Sephora, H&M, Lululemon, and cute spots like Kendra Scott. There are also restaurants and a movie theater if you want to wind down with a chick flick.
  • Silver Sands Premium Outlets – Located in Miramar Beach, this outlet mall has huge discounts on name brands like Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and Coach.
  • HarborWalk Village – A great mix of souvenir shops, art, jewelry, and beachy boho boutiques. It’s also a fun spot to walk around with a drink in hand (yes, it’s open container-friendly!).

 

Plate of Southern-style food featuring a fried oyster po' boy sandwich topped with lemon, shredded lettuce, a side of cheesy twice-baked potato, and a bowl of creamy coleslaw on a wooden restaurant table

Step 4: Eat All the Seafood

One of the highlights of any Destin trip is the incredible seafood. From fresh-caught grouper to jumbo shrimp and oysters on the half shell, there are so many delicious options.
 
Here are some top places to eat:

  • Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House – Right on the harbor, this place is always a hit with its seafood platters, craft cocktails, and waterfront views.
  • The Back Porch – A Destin classic, right on the sand. Try the amberjack sandwich or crab-stuffed shrimp.
  • Louisiana Lagniappe – A more upscale spot with a Creole twist. Great for a celebratory dinner.
  • Dewey Destin’s Harborside – Laid-back and casual with unbeatable sunset views. Order the shrimp basket or fish tacos.
  • Pompano Joe’s– Another laid-back spot right on the beach with great food.

 
Get there early and be prepared for a wait, especially during peak season. Many of the restaurants in Destin do not take reservations.
 

Sunset view over a quiet beach with soft waves, beachgoers, and tall sea oats along white sand dunes, with a high-rise building in the distance under a colorful, cloud-filled sky

Step 5: Watch the Sunsets

No girls’ weekend in Destin is complete without a few good sunset moments. Here are the best ways to catch the show:
 

  • Beach Picnic at Sunset – Head to the beach with a blanket, snacks, and wine or mocktails. The colors over the Gulf of Mexico are unreal.
  • Sunset Cruise – Book a private catamaran or hop on a public cruise from Destin Harbor. Some cruises offer champagne and music.
  • HarborWalk Village – Grab a cocktail and watch the boats come in while the sky turns gold and pink.
  • Crab Island Sandbar – If you’re doing a boat rental or floating party during the day, the ride back during sunset is magical.

 

Dozens of boats anchored in the clear, shallow turquoise water at Crab Island in Destin, Florida, under a partly cloudy sky with large cumulus clouds towering in the distance

Step 6: Add a Little Adventure

While lounging on the beach is perfect, adding in one or two fun activities can make your trip extra memorable.

  • Snorkeling or Paddleboarding – Rent gear at Norriego Point or head to Crab Island for shallow, clear water perfect for paddling.

  • Spa Day at The Henderson – Book a massage, facial, or mani-pedi. Some packages include champagne!

  • Parasailing or Jet Skiing – Get a little wild and see the coastline from above or hit the water at full speed.

  • Dolphin Tour – Relax on a boat and spot dolphins playing in the waves. Great for all ages and energy levels.

Colorful neon sign for AJ's Club Bimini in Destin, Florida, advertising it as a top nightclub in the USA with the phrase 'Step Up and Party Down,' located outside a multi-level beachside venue with a casual, coastal design

Step 7: Hit the Town (or Keep It Cozy)

Whether your crew loves to dance the night away or prefers wine and games in your PJs, Destin has you covered.
 
For Nightlife:

  • AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar – A lively spot with DJs, dancing, and drinks. It’s right on the harbor and always a good time.
  • Tailfins Ale House – Great drinks, harbor views, and often live music.
  • Club Bimini at AJ’s – A rooftop bar with ocean breezes and an awesome party vibe.

For a Chill Night In:

  • Plan a charcuterie board night with wine and beachy rom-coms.
  • Do a DIY spa evening with face masks and essential oils.
  • Bring board games or card games like What Do You Meme? or For the Girls.

Final Tips for the Best Girls’ Trip to Destin

  • Coordinate Outfits for Photos – Matching swimsuits, color themes, or cute sundresses make for adorable pics.

  • Use a Shared Folder for Planning – Google Docs or group chats are great for organizing budgets, links, and ideas.

  • Pack Smart – Don’t forget sunscreen, a good beach bag, and flip-flops you can rinse off. Also bring a light sweater for breezy nights.

View across the harbor at HarborWalk Village in Destin, Florida, featuring colorful high-rise buildings, waterfront restaurants, and docked boats under a cloudy sky with reflections on the calm water.

Ready to Go?

Destin is the ideal spot for a girls’ weekend — it’s beautiful, fun, and full of beachside charm.
 
With a little planning, your trip will be full of laughter, tan lines, amazing meals, and memories you’ll talk about for years.
 
So grab your besties, pack your bags, and get ready for a weekend of shopping, sunsets, and seafood in sunny Destin, Florida!
 

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Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?  

If so, we have you covered.  Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!

Top Tours in Florida – Viator 

Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com

 Looking To Get Around In Florida

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗