Get Outdoors in Destin: 5 Places You Need to Visit
The beach isn’t the only outdoor attraction that should be on your Destin, Florida to-do list. There are numerous activities and destinations that let you soak up some sun and take in the beautiful scenery. Here are 5 places you need to visit on your next Emerald Coast vacation.
1. Henderson Beach State Park
At Henderson Beach State Park , thirty-foot white sand dunes and emerald water from the Gulf of Mexico set the scene for an unforgettable beach trip. Whether you spend the night at one of the 60 campsites or enjoy a relaxing afternoon sunbathing on the sand, this family-friendly destination offers the ultimate Destin outdoors experience.
The park features fishing areas, a nature trail, picnic pavilions, restrooms and boardwalks leading directly to the stunning white-sand beaches. It’s a great outdoor space for events such as weddings and family reunions. Traveling with your dog? They are allowed in the park, but not on the beach itself.
2. Crab Island
If you want to spend the day on the water, Crab Island is a lively place to visit. Located at the entrance of Choctawhatchee Bay, this gathering spot isn’t actually an island as the name might lead you to believe. It’s an underwater sandbar that ranges from about 2 to 10 feet deep, allowing visitors to walk around in the waist-level water.
Crab Island is only accessible by boat, so it’s best to rent a pontoon boat for the day or take the Crab Island Water Taxi . Once you drop your anchor, you can explore the various food and entertainment options, such as the inflatable obstacle course and floating snack shacks. Boats selling coconuts, boiled peanuts and ice cream will also be cruising around.
Pro tip: visit Crab Island at high tide! This is when the water will be crystal clear. The time changes daily, so check online or download a tide-tracking app to know when the best time is to visit.
3. Mattie Kellie Park & Nature Walk
If you want a break from tourist attractions, Mattie Kellie Park & Nature Walk offers a pretty, peaceful Destin outdoors experience. This 10.13-acre bayou access park features a pier, beach area and picnic area. A majority of the land is considered wetlands and cannot be developed, so it’s a calming escape from the hustle and bustle of Destin, Florida. The nature trail isn’t very long, but it is a great place for pets and kids to expend some energy while learning about the local vegetation and wildlife.
Across the street from the boardwalk, you’ll find a beach along the bayou with a pier where you can watch the boats cruise by. All ages will enjoy this adventure!
4. Destin Harbor Boardwalk
Both kids and adults will enjoy walking around the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. It’s a great place to enjoy views of the water, stroll in the sunshine and take in the sights of the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.
You can watch the fishing boats come in and unload the catch of the day, eat at one of the waterfront restaurants, browse the shops for souvenirs, hop aboard a dolphin cruise or set sail for a parasailing adventure. There are endless entertainment options!
5. The Beautiful Golf Courses
One of the most popular Destin outdoors activities is golfing. With courses that stretch from the beach to the bay, getting out on the greens is a great way to enjoy the stunning scenery.
Destin, Florida golf courses include:
Golf is a way of life on the Emerald Coast and My Vacation Haven wants to make sure your next trip is a hold in one! We have a variety of vacation rentals in Destin, Florida that are just a short distance away from highly rated 18-hole championship golf courses. Guests will also have access to our golf listings , allowing you to save money on your next tee time. Want a golf cart for cruising around the course? Our golf cart units make transportation a breeze!
Are these Destin outdoors activities calling your name? Book directly with My Vacation Haven to guarantee your lowest rate and save hundreds by avoiding third party fees. You’ll also save money on numerous outdoor activities thanks to exclusive discounts from our Added Fun Partners . Our goal is to make sure you have a one-of-a-kind vacation filled with unforgettable experiences!