Destin is a beach lover's dream on the Florida Panhandle. Southern hospitality and Gulf Coast charm greet visitors alongside emerald-green waters that lap powdery beaches. Those brilliantly colored waters are what give this region of Florida its nickname: “The Emerald Coast.” Beyond the beach, find family-friendly attractions, world-class golf, and unspoiled Florida nature. If you have just two days, here’s what to do in Destin, “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” where fresh-caught seafood is best savored in flip-flops.
Arrive in Destin
After a drive or flight, check into Henderson Beach Resort & Spa. As the only AAA Four Diamond resort in Destin, it feels worlds away from the bustling energy of the city yet remains conveniently close to all the action.
This lushly landscaped resort, which is tucked off a quiet road, features a lazy river, multiple pools, a spa, and an on-site restaurants. The resort fee covers entrance to a private beach, kayak and bike rentals, and fitness classes such as sunrise beach yoga. Plus, the property is adjacent to one of the area’s top attractions: Henderson Beach State Park, a protected strip of the Emerald Coast that’s home to 30-foot-high snow-white sand dunes.
After checking in, grab dinner at the resort before taking a sunset stroll on its private beach. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot dolphins.
Day One
Hit the beach
First stop, the beach! Destin beaches are composed of quartz particles, creating powdery-white sand that tends to stay cooler than darker sands—ideal for barefoot beach walks.
Start the day with a gourmet breakfast at the romantic Beach Walk Café. Sitting right on the beach, this upscale restaurant resides in the historic Henderson Inn, which neighbors Henderson Beach State Park. After your meal, meander the trail that winds past the park’s massive sand dunes, one of the last remaining coastal scrub areas in Destin, and admire the wildflowers, pines, and magnolia trees. The park’s quiet stretch of beach is perfect for a morning swim, too.
Enjoy land and sea activities
Destin beaches offer more than a place to sunbathe with a book (although that’s a great activity, too). Hop on a bicycle to James Lee Park for swimming, fishing, and playground fun. The park’s wooden walkway also leads to The Crab Trap. This laid-back seafood restaurant with oceanfront views is perfect for lunch and tropical drinks.
Other memorable activities to fill up your afternoon might include a family-friendly sandcastle building class. Or, if you’re eager to out get on the water, test your sea legs by renting a stand-up paddleboard or kayak.
The Destin Water Taxi—an easy way to get around the harbor when you don’t want to drive, bike or walk—makes stops at nearby Norriego Point. The East Pass side of Norriego Point offers several swimming areas enclosed by jetties and monitored by lifeguards, along with excellent tide-pooling and boat-watching opportunities.
Unwind back at your resort with food and drinks at The Rooftop, which wows guests with panoramic sunset views over Henderson Beach.
Day Two
Have breakfast on the beach
Camille’s at Crystal Beach, located on Scenic Highway 98, is a casual spot for breakfast and smoothies. Grab your food to go and enjoy a morning picnic and beach walk at Shore at Crystal Beach Park.
Take a shopping break
Destin, Florida, has a steady supply of beachy boutiques and surf-style superstores. Among them is the regional chain Alvin’s Island, a true can’t-miss as they’re ubiquitous in Destin. When you need a break from the beach, head to Destin Commons, an open-air shopping complex. It features major retailers such as Bass Pro Shops and Southern Living Store alongside local favorites such as Magnolia Soap and Bath Co., Salty Paws, and Destination Little Donuts.
Stroll the boardwalk
The Destin Boardwalk is a hub for oceanfront activity. If you’re at a loss for what to do in Destin, you could easily spend an entire day here, with options such as dolphin cruises, parasailing, jet ski rentals, snorkeling and charter fishing trips. For those who prefer dry land, there’s unique shopping and dining. The bustling marketplace is also the gateway to Crab Island, a sandbar where boaters swim, play, and socialize.
For dinner, head to Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant Harborside, a local favorite. Don’t let its modest exterior fool you; this “waterside shack” serves up delicious food and great views. From its no-frills counter service window, order the catch-of-the day with fries and slaw. Then watch the tiki boats and action of Crab Island from the dock.
Wrap up your Destin getaway by watching a fiery sunset over Destin Harbor from the docks or aboard a boat. For the perfect ending, pair the view with a treat from local institution Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House’s “shug” (dessert) menu—perhaps a slice of Boshamps’ delicious pecan pie for a sweet ending to your Destin getaway.