From beautiful beaches to attractions at places such as HarborWalk Village, Baytowne Wharf, and Okaloosa Island Pier & Boardwalk, there are plenty of activities for both adults and kids.
Let’s dive in and discover why Destin is one of Florida’s best family vacation spots!
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1. The Beaches
Perhaps the best thing to do in Destin with your family is to go to all of the awesome beaches.
Henderson Beach State Park in Destin offers one of the most pristine beach experiences on the Emerald Coast, with soft white sand, nature trails, picnic pavilions, and incredible sunsets.
It’s a peaceful escape that still feels close to the action.
James Lee Park, located along Scenic Highway 98, is another local favorite. It’s known for its easy beach access, big parking lot, and amenities like picnic tables and restrooms — plus it’s steps from The Crab Trap restaurant.
Norriego Point, tucked away near Destin Harbor, is a quieter beach known for snorkeling and peaceful views of the harbor and East Pass.
It’s the perfect spot to relax away from the larger crowds.
Miramar Beach, just a short drive from Destin, delivers that classic Emerald Coast feel.
The main public beach near Pompano Joe’s is great for parasailing, water activities, and simply relaxing in the sun.
There’s plenty of parking, though it fills up quickly during peak times.
Further east along scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach offers a more relaxed, small-town experience.
The Ed Walline Beach Access has restrooms, picnic areas, free parking, and a second-story viewing platform — perfect for spotting dolphins or watching the waves.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park in Santa Rosa Beach is a hidden gem with a quieter stretch of beach and a mile-long paved trail to the shore.
The park offers a tram service, camping, and one of the most tranquil beach settings in the region.
For more of the beaches in Destin and nearby, go here
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2. Crab Island
If you’re looking for an activity to do with the whole family or a group of friends while in Destin, this is it!
Crab Island is amazing with its crystal clear, emerald green water.
It’s close to Destin Harbor and one of the best things to do in Destin, Florida!
Crab Island is a popular sandbar hangout and a floating city with water slides, food boats, and drink stands.
You can also rent paddleboards and other toys here.
While they sell plenty of fruity drinks out on the island, the stores out at Crab Island don’t sell alcohol.
You can bring your own alcohol with you, though. We were able to bring some with us on our boat guided boat tour that we did.
The Best Ways To Get To Crab Island Are By Jet-Ski, Kayak, Paddleboard, Or Boat.
My family and I booked a pontoon ride with Crab Island Cruises. They took us around the harbor and showed us the area. However, there are plenty of other good local companies.
We went through the East Pass (at the Hwy. 98 bridge) and to a beach area across from Norriego Point, as part of our boat cruise.
Our group got off the boat and checked out the stunning beach, before heading to the sandbar.
We even saw some dolphins on the trip. I highly recommend a guided boat charter with a captain since they know the area waters well and will ensure you have a safe and entertaining trip.
They also bring many of the toys with for your day out on Crab Island so it eliminates that hassle.
3. The Boardwalk On Okaloosa Island Beach And Pier
A little further into Fort Walton Beach than Beasley Park and National Seashore is one of my favorite public beaches near Destin, Florida- The Boardwalk Beach and Pier on Okaloosa Island!
As mentioned, Fort Walton Beach is about 10 minutes from Destin.
This place has everything for a day of fun, from the nice beach to the pier, to shopping and restaurants!
The Boardwalk hosts family-friendly events (like Pirate Shows!) throughout the summer.
The public beach is free, and there is a playground, sand volleyball, water sprinklers, and restrooms nearby.
Enjoying the view from The Okaloosa Pier
It’s $2 to walk the pier. The pier has a store with fishing supplies, soft drinks, and candy.
Fishing off the pier is $8 for adults and $5 for kids, 6-12 years old. Kids 5 years old and younger can fish for free.
Popular fish to catch here include Red Drum, Black Drum, Spotted Seatrout, Amberjack, and even Atlantic Sharpnose Shark!
From Memorial Day weekend until August, they have fireworks at the pier every Wednesday night.
My family and I stayed for a quick fireworks show while we were here.
Enjoy one of the best attractions in Destin, Florida, at the Boardwalk of Okaloosa Island!
The Boardwalk Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Looking for an activity in Fort Walton to do with family or friends?!
Try a Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour where you can see these creatures in their natural environment.
4. See The Attractions At Harborwalk Village
We all know that Destin, Florida has some of the best beaches, but did you know that it also has great shopping and activities?!
Harbor Walk Village is a bustling waterfront attraction in Destin, Florida, with nice shops, fishing charters, boat rides, rentals, concerts, and more.
It also has its share of activities for the whole family. Mini-golf, a mirror maze, a rock climbing wall, an escape room, axe throwing, caricatures, zip line, free fall, and a 7D virtual experience!
Some of the shops and stores include The Fudgery (ice cream and fudge shop), Moonshine BBQ Products, Naples Soap Company, Kitty Hawk Kites, and plenty more. There are also several clothing/gift shops.
Harborwalk Village is one of the most fun things to do in Destin, Florida, and best of all, it’s free to walk around. However, it is $20 for parking.
Harbor Walk Village
34 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
5. Go On A Deep Sea Fishing Charter
As Destin is known for the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle, it’s also known as the “World’s luckiest fishing village” so getting on a fishing boat is one of the most popular things to do here!
The peak season for fishing in Destin is from late May to November. Choctawhatchee Bay in Destin is a great place for fishing, even in the winter months.
Amberjack, grouper, mackerel, sheepshead, tarpon, cobia, tuna, blue marlin, and shark are all common catches in Destin!
There are so many fishing charter companies in the area to choose from, but I recommend this one that includes fishing and a dolphin tour.
6. Get Out On The Water! Jet Ski, Kayak, Parasailing, Misc. Rentals
As you can imagine, water sports and activities are very popular in Destin!
From Destin Harbor to Crab Island to Choctawhatchee Bay to the Gulf, there are so many good spots in Destin to take out paddleboards, kayaks, or jet skis for a day of fun!
Crab Island typically has floating stores where you can rent water toys and Harborwalk Village has lots of these rentals, too.
7. Visit Destin Commons
If you’re looking for more shops and restaurants in the Florida Panhandle, Destin Commons is another place worth checking out on the other side of the city.
There are several clothing and athletic stores, and a movie theater.
Destin Commons also has a World of Beer where you can sip on beers from all around the world.
Get some chocolate and fudge at Kilwins or grab a Category 5 milkshake next door at Gulf Coast Burgers!
Trying to eat a little healthier while on vacation? Check out Formula Fresh, where you can get green juices, smoothies, and acai bowls!
Destin Commons is a perfect activity for the whole family and it’s free to walk around.
Destin Commons
For More Shopping Near Destin
Silver Sands Premium Outlets is an outlet mall in Miramar Beach with several name-brand stores and restaurants.
8. Dine At The Restaurants
Destin has excellent waterfront dining options, and there are many other great family-friendly restaurants throughout the city worth trying!
As mentioned, HarborWalk Village is a nice area to visit for restaurants on the water! Pictured above is Lulu’s in Destin.
Dewey Destin’s is popular in the area and has 2 locations in Destin. They are known for their large seafood and fish selection.
If you’re looking for a barbecue joint, Moe’s Original BBQ has some of the best-smoked meat, pulled pork, ribs, and seafood. Moe’s even does catering and deliveries.
For a full list of the best restaurants in Destin, go here!
9. Play Arcade Games At Fat Daddy’s
Located right next door to Fudpucker’s and Gator Beach, Fat Daddy’s in Destin is a perfect spot for a rainy day activity with the kids or to escape the Florida sun for a bit.
They have more than 120 arcade games and several different packages you can buy.
Fat Daddy’s is one of the best indoor and family-friendly activities in Destin!
20009 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, FL 32541
10. Grab Pizza At McGuire’s Irish Pub
After getting your fill of the best beaches and activities with the kids, be sure to get a drink or food at McGuire’s!
It’s right by the Harbor and is a well-known Irish Pub and steakhouse.
McGuire’s claims to have one of the biggest restaurant wine cellars in the world.
Come for a glass of wine or one of their brewed beers, like McGuire’s Irish Red Ale, and listen to some traditional Irish music!
For the best live music and entertainment in Destin, visit McGuire’s Irish Pub!
You may want to bring the kids a little earlier in the night, as it’s kid-friendly until around 9 pm.
McGuire’s Irish Pub
11. Take The Family To Big Kahuna’s Water Park
Cool off from the Florida heat with a day of water activities at Big Kahuna’s!
One of the most well-known attractions in Destin, Florida, Big Kahuna’s has a wave pool, lazy river, slides, and other water attractions for you to enjoy.
They also have amusement park attractions with mini-golf and thrill rides, like the Cyclone Twister, which is 140 feet in the air and spins you around at 50 miles per hour!
Big Kahuna’s is another top-notch place for family-friendly fun and entertainment in Destin!
Big Kahuna’s Water Park
12. See Alligators At Gator Beach
Come see the gators at Gator Beach! Gator Beach is located outdoors at Fudpucker’s restaurant in Destin, and next door to Fat Daddy’s Arcade.
It’s free to come up and walk around, and you don’t have to be a Fudrucker’s customer to check out the gators!
Gator Beach opens at 11 am, and they have daily Alligator shows at 12, 2, 4, and 6 pm. The show times may vary throughout the year.
They also have paid VIP passes that you can get to get a little closer to the alligators.
With the VIP pass, you can get a picture with a gator, feed one, and learn more about them.
VIP passes range from $75-99.
See why they say this is one of the most exciting things for the family to do in Destin, Florida. The kids will also love lunch here.
Gator Beach at Fudpucker’s
13. Chase Thrills At The Track
The Track in Destin is an outdoor family entertainment center that offers fun and excitement for all ages.
Both the kids and adults will love the bumper cars, mini-golf course, thrill rides, and blaster boats at The Track.
They also have the Skyflyer & Hurricane 360 attractions, kiddie rides, an arcade, and 5 go-kart tracks!
The Track offers several points packages online for purchase, which range from $50 to $350.
If you’re looking for fun attractions to visit in Destin, Florida, with the whole family, this is it!
The Track
1125 Highway 98 East, Destin, FL 32541
14. Explore The Village Of Baytowne Wharf
The Village of Baytowne Wharf is an entertainment and shopping destination just minutes from Destin.
There are lots of things for you and your family to do at this waterfront attraction in Miramar Beach, including shops, restaurants, galleries, and more!
Kids’ attractions include Adventure Land Playground, a zipline, carousel, arcade and laser maze, ropes courses, tower climb, and more!
But Baytowne Wharf isn’t just for kids; there are concerts, shopping, restaurants, beer festivals, and bars for adults to enjoy!
Restaurants and bars here include Rum Runners, Marlin Grill, Hartell’s, Fat Tuesday, Slick Lips, Seaside Sweeteries, Roberto’s Pizzeria, Village Door, Hammerheads, Crazy Lobster, and Drunken Goat Saloon.
Its beautiful waterfront location on Choctawhatchee Bay makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Miramar Beach.
The Village of Baytowne Wharf
15. Watch Dolphins and Sea Life At Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
The Gulfarium is located right next to the Okaloosa Pier. It’s an aquarium like no other.
You can see dolphins and other marine life swimming right next to you. They also have Siamese crocodiles!
The Gulfarium offers several different animal encounter packages where you can get up close to the dolphins, stingrays, seals, reptiles, penguins, sea lions, alligators, and turtles. See their website for costs.
Their team works every day to make sure visitors have the best time possible when they come through the doors.
If you’re looking for a break from the beaches and a fun, family-friendly attraction in Destin, Florida, be sure to check out what’s going on at Gulfarium!
Gulfarium
16. Play Mini Golf And More At Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
If you’re looking for a little more excitement for the kids, Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone is just across the highway from The Boardwalk.
They have go-karts, laser tag, restaurants, and more. We played mini-golf and arcade games, and everyone loved it.
Don’t forget to grab some frozen yogurt at Yogo Mogo’s while here. It’s right next to Wild Willy’s.
Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
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Palms Of Destin & Hyatt Place Are Great Places To Stay In Destin
On my first trip here, my group stayed in a condo at the Palms of Destin Resort.
These condos have a full kitchen and balcony. The resort has a fitness center, coffee shop, large outdoor pool, restaurant, and bar.
Also, we were able to see an awesome 4th of July fireworks show from our balcony!
The only thing I didn’t like about the hotel was the parking since you have to park in a parking ramp.
Other than that, the place is great.
From the Palms of Destin, you’re just a couple minutes’ walk from local attractions, such as Big Kahuna’s and The Track (family race track).
2 of the best public beaches in Destin, Florida- June White Decker Beach and Henderson Beach State Park are both just a short drive away.
For restaurants, the Palms is right by Wingstop, Hooters, Bubba Gump Shrimp, Merlin Pizza, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, and The Back Porch.
There’s also a Walmart just a block away for your shopping and grocery needs.
My sister and her family stayed in Miramar Beach, just a couple of blocks from the public beach and Pompano Joes Restaurant.
There are nice condos and resorts in this area too.
On my most recent trip, I stayed at Hyatt Place in Miramar Beach. It’s a little further from the beach (Miramar Public Beach), about a 10-minute drive, but still a nice place.
It has an outdoor pool, free parking and they do a free buffet breakfast, too.
The Hyatt is just a few minutes to The Village at Baytowne Wharf. It’s a great place to stay to do all the best things in Miramar Beach and is about a 15-minute drive to Harborwalk Village and Crab Island in Destin.
Here Are A Few More Fun Things
To Do With The Family In Destin, Florida!
Destin History and Fishing Museum
Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill
Final Thoughts
As you can see, Destin is one of the best places in Florida to visit with families!
From food and entertainment at HarborWalk Village to the emerald waters of Crab Island, it’s a perfect destination for the entire group to enjoy!
Safe travels!
Booking a last-minute trip to Destin?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Destin
Crab Island Sandbar Adventure (Crab Island has been my favorite experience in Destin!)
Crab Island 12 Passenger Pontoon Boat Rentals (Half or full-day rentals)
Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise (one of the most beautiful cities to catch a sunset)
Tikis Harbor Lights Cruise (Fantastic Destin Harbor Nighttime Cruise)
Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Ride (Dolphin Watching Off The Coast of Gulf Mexico)
Top Hotels In Destin
Hotel Effie Sandestin – (Top Rated Hotel With Lots Of Activity Options)
The Grand Sandestin – (Best Rated Hotel In Destin)
Hyatt Place Sandestin – (Hotel Near Miramar Beach Destin)
Holiday Inn Express Destin E – (Highly Rated Budget To Mid Range Hotel)
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