Planning a family vacation with teenagers can be a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories (and can also require a healthy amount of patience and some creativity to keep everyone happy!) Destin, Florida, with its beautiful beaches and variety of attractions, is a perfect destination for Spring Break 2024, and with so many Tik-Tok-worthy scenes, your teens will be putting on their headphones and loading into the car in no time. Here's an exciting itinerary that balances relaxation, adventure, and family bonding. (Even the most angsty teenager will approve.)
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
- Morning: Arrive in Destin and check into your vacation home. Trying to decide where to stay? We've got a few ideas when it comes to Destin vacation rentals.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Henderson Beach State Park. Its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and volleyball. And bonus points for the perfect backdrop for all those selfies your teens will want to take. Need a beach rental for your trip? Try Coastal Cruisers, Reef Beach Rentals, or the Bearder Beach Hippie.
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at Harbor Docks, known for its fresh seafood and stunning harbor views.
Day 2: Water Adventure
- Morning: Begin your day with a dolphin-watching walk along the beach, taking a moment to gather shells and breath in the sea air. You're here! Take a moment to enjoy it.
- Afternoon: Head to Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park for an afternoon of water slides and lazy river fun.
- Evening: Explore the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Grab dinner at one of the local eateries.
Day 3: Fishing and Shopping
- Morning: Book a deep-sea fishing trip with Destin Charter Fishing for a thrilling experience.
- Afternoon: After the fishing adventure, visit the Silver Sands Premium Outlets or Grand Boulevard in nearby Miramar Beach for some shopping. What teenager can resist?
- Evening: Dine at McGuire's Irish Pub, a Destin staple known for its delicious food and quirky décor.
Day 4: Natural Exploration
- Morning: Take a trip to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park to see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life.
- Afternoon: Visit the nearby Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, a great spot for hiking and encountering local wildlife.
- Evening: Have a casual dinner at Dewey Destin's Seafood Restaurant, famous for its fresh catch and historical significance.
Day 5: Adventure and Relaxation
- Morning: Experience parasailing with Just Chute Me Parasail for breathtaking views of Destin.
- Afternoon: Relax at Crystal Beach, a quieter spot perfect for unwinding and enjoying the sun.
- Evening: Try a sunset dinner cruise with SunQuest Cruises, offering fine dining on the water. You may just see a dolphin or two!
Day 6: Cultural Day
- Morning: Explore the Destin History & Fishing Museum to learn about the town's history and fishing industry. (Or maybe you can learn about the history while your teens scroll through their phones for a while. Either way, everyone's happy.)
- Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Back Porch, a beachfront spot with great views. There's something for everyone!
- Evening: Attend a live performance at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center, showcasing various cultural events and shows. Or head to nearby Grand Boulevard for a live performance from the Emerald Coast Theatre Company. Comedy, laughter, drama; it's entertainment for all ages.
Day 7: Leisure and Departure
- Morning: Spend your last morning relaxing at the pool or taking a final stroll on the beach.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell lunch at one of your new favorite dining spots (and grab a t-shirt!) before heading out on the road or to the airport.
Tips for Traveling with Teenagers
- Include your teenagers in the planning process to ensure the activities interest them.
- Balance structured activities with free time for exploration and relaxation.
- Consider renting a vacation home or condo that has an included pool or golf cart. It makes every vacation more fun (and convenient!)
Useful Links
- Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park: Big Kahuna's Park
- Destin Harbor Boardwalk: Destin Boardwalk
- Destin Charter Fishing: Destin Charter Fishing
- Silver Sands Premium Outlets: Silver Sands Outlets
- McGuire's Irish Pub: McGuire's Destin
- Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park: Gulfarium Park
- Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge: Emerald Coast Wildlife
- Just Chute Me Parasail: Just Chute Me
- SunQuest Cruises: SunQuest Cruises
- Destin History & Fishing Museum: Destin Museum
- Mattie Kelly Arts Center: Mattie Kelly Arts
This itinerary is a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, tailored to keep teenagers engaged and the whole family entertained. Remember, the key to a successful family vacation is flexibility and making time for fun and relaxation. Enjoy your Spring Break in Destin!