The Sunshine State is starting to reopen after temporarily closing beaches, restaurants, retail stores and other businesses due to COVID19. Phase 1 of this step-by-step approach began on Monday, May 4 th and two additional phases will follow as we find our “new normal.” Many establishments in Destin and on 30A were able to open their doors (with social distancing restrictions), but others remain closed. Here is your guide to what’s up and running in your favorite beach towns right now.
OPEN
Beaches
The beaches in Destin (excluding Henderson Beach State Park and James Lee Park ) are open from dawn until dusk. To prevent further spread of the Coronavirus, social distancing guidelines are still in place. Groups larger than 10 are prohibited and beachgoers must remain six feet apart. All beach activities, such as swimming, boating, sunbathing, fishing and stand up paddle boarding are permitted. Commercial activities such as weddings and beach chair/umbrella rentals are also allowed on beaches owned by the City of Destin.
Henderson Beach State Park is open from 8am to sundown and will allow only 50% capacity at this time. Camping and the playground remain closed. To enter the park, only exact change will be accepted. ($6 for 2-8 people or $4 for 1 person).
Beaches in Walton County (including 30A, Miramar Beach, Sandestin and Santa Rosa Beach) are open without time restrictions. Visitors can enjoy traditional beach activities while following social distancing guidelines, but vending, special events and bonfires on the beach are prohibited.
This article has additional information about all beaches on the Panhandle, from Pensacola to Panama City Beach.
Crab Island
The party hasn’t stopped at Crab Island! Located between the Choctawhatchee Bay and Destin’s East Pass, boaters are still gathering at this submerged sandbar. Several water sports rental companies are open and allow customers to rent pontoon boats and jet skis. With proper social distancing, it’s still possible to have a safe and fun day out in the sun.
Restaurants
During Phase 1, restaurants are open for outdoor dining with tables 6 feet apart and indoor dining at 25% capacity. Many restaurants will continue to offer takeout and curbside pickup as well. Check with your favorite Destin or 30A restaurant to make sure they are currently operating as not everyone is opening at the same time and with the same services.
Retail
Retail can operate at 25% indoor capacity, so you can now go shopping for beach day necessities and stylish spring clothes. Contact your preferred stores to see if they are open with regular hours, offering online orders/pickup or open by appointment only.
Destin Commons
Destin Commons , a popular outdoor shopping center, is open daily from 11am to 7pm. Visitors are able to shop at multiple stores including Lizard Thicket , Pink-N-Blue Avenue and All Dressed Up Boutique . In addition to the plethora of retail options, it’s a great outdoor space where you can walk your dog, check out art murals and grab a bite to eat. There are several restaurants offering takeout and dine-in options. Businesses that remain closed include Level 10 Salonand AMC Movie Theater. Destin Commons has also added COVID19 safety measures such as placing several hand sanitizing stations around the center for guests to use.
HarborWalk Village
Many businesses in HarborWalk Village have also opened their doors. Shop at Naples Soap Company, Aloha Surf Company, Sunglass World and Sunset Lifestyles before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the waterfront restaurants.
As for activities, Southern Star Dolphin Cruises is open for booking. They are running reduced capacity cruises to maintain social distancing. With plenty of room on the ship and a routinely sanitized vessel, dolphin lovers can enjoy the fresh, salty air as they cruise around Destin.
Grand Boulevard
Grand Boulevard ’s Town Center is open and has implemented numerous Coronavirus safety measures. They have increased cleaning in high-touch common areas, placed hand sanitizing dispensers throughout the Center and added signage reminding guests to practice social distancing. A few of the open stores and restaurants include Billabong, Vin’tij, Everkrisp, The Zoo Gallery and their weekly Farmers Market on Saturday from 9am to 1pm.
Rentals for Outdoor Activities
Rent a bike from Salt Air 30A and cruise through the picturesque beach towns or get out on the water by renting a pontoon boat or jet ski from Wet-N-Wild Watersports in Destin. There are a variety of rental business that are open for outdoor activities.
Personal Services: Hair Salons, Massage Parlors & Nail Salons
As of Monday, May 11, hair salons, barbershops and nail salons will be able to accept customers.
CLOSED
Short Term Rentals
Short term rentals are suspended until further notice, so vacationers are not able to check in. Here at My Vacation Haven , we are working closely with our guests to keep them updated and reschedule their vacations as needed. When it is safe to visit, we can assure you that our vacation rentals are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Our team is taking all of the necessary precautions to stop the spread of COVID19.
Bars
As of now, bars are to remain closed. However, there are many restaurants in Destin and on 30A where you can enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine or refreshing beer.
Gyms
Gyms and workout studios continue to remain closed to stop the spread of Coronavirus, but many businesses are offering virtual classes. Plus, there are plenty of beautiful spots to bike, walk and run in Destin and along 30A. You can also get some exercise while enjoying the water by stand-up paddle boarding.
Movie Theaters
Hope you haven’t binge watched everything on Netflix yet, because movie theaters are also closed until further notice due to COVID19.
Life along the Gulf Coast is slowly starting to get back to normal, but restrictions for businesses and social distancing guidelines are still in effect to prevent the further spread of Coronavirus. For additional updates, follow us on Instagram and Facebook . And when the coat is clear, My Vacation Haven is here to help you plan a much-needed beach vacation!