Make the most of your beach day in Destin with five smart tips. From breakfast spots and beach gear to water sports and evening fun, here's how to enjoy every moment on Florida's Emerald Coast.
Imagine miles of sugar-white beaches boasting turquoise waters, all embraced by the warm Gulf breeze and the rhythmic lull of waves. Sounds like a perfect beach day, doesn't it?
We agree that Destin's beaches are undeniably stunning. But to truly elevate your experience, a little planning goes a long way! A beach day in Destin involves more than just spreading out your towel or lounge chair. With so much to discover along this captivating coastline, how can you make the most of it?
Here's a little sneak peek at what's coming your way:
- Start with a Hearty Breakfast: Fuel up at Another Broken Egg Café before hitting the beach.
- Pack Smart with Essentials and Extras: Sunscreen, cooler, waterproof speaker, and Tommy Bahama chair.
- Choose the Right Beach Spot: Henderson Beach for families, Crystal Beach for quiet time, and Jetty East for fishing.
- Add Water Activities: Try parasailing, SUP, jet skiing, or a boat rental.
- Unwind with Evening Entertainment: Head to HarborWalk Village, dine with a view, or catch live music.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I'll share 5 amazing tips for a perfect day on the beach in Destin so you can make the most of this Florida paradise.
Ready to unlock your own sun-kissed bliss by the shore? Let's dive in!
1. Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel a day of beach excitement.
Destin's beaches promise endless fun: swimming, building sandcastles, beach volleyball, exploring tide pools, the list goes on! But all that energy expenditure requires proper fuel.
That's why we recommend starting your beach day with a delicious and satisfying breakfast. A happy and full crew makes for a much more enjoyable adventure! But with so many great options, where do you begin your Destin breakfast journey? Here's the locals' favorite:
One of the best places in Destin to have a substantial breakfast is Another Broken Egg Cafe on Legendary Drive. Their extensive menu featuring traditional breakfast dishes will please everyone, as will the great atmosphere, reasonable prices, and extremely friendly service.
After an egg-cellent breakfast fix, you're ready for all the adventures the Emerald Coast has to offer!
2. Pack the beach must-haves and playtime boosters to enhance your beach fun.
Before hitting the shores, it's always a good idea to give some thought to the essentials and nice-to-haves that will make a difference in your experience.
Let's start with the essentials. In Florida, sun protection is key, so make sure to have sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Trust me, "sunburns aren't fun! Also, bring some water for extra hydration, especially if you're planning to spend the whole day at the beach.
Now let's cover the fun boosters:
A cooler
A cooler is the ultimate vacation enhancer. The hot sun can quickly turn your refreshing drinks lukewarm and ruin your delicious snacks, so a cooler keeps everything chilled. Besides, bringing your own meals means you're not limited to what's available at the beach.
Waterproof phone pouch
A waterproof phone pouch is another valuable addition to your beach day. This one gives you peace of mind, meaning you can relax and enjoy the waves without worrying about damaging your phone. A waterproof pouch allows you to take your phone closer to the water without risking damage.
Waterproof speakers
What about some music? Waterproof speakers are great little gadgets with Bluetooth capabilities that allow you to wirelessly stream music from your phone or other devices. Just be sure not to have it too loud; you don't want to bother your beach neighbors!
Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair
Finally, you need to sit comfortably and in style. The undisputed champion of seaside lounging is the Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair. These chairs have conquered the sands from coast to coast and are easy to transport and carry around. Plus, they are very stylish!
Once you have most of these, it's all about relaxing and enjoying the day. If you want more ideas, check out this blog on gifts to give a Destin-loving friend. There's a lot of cool stuff in there.
3. Pick the perfect place on the beach to suit what you're looking for.
Destin beaches offer the usual suspects: sand, water, waves, and seashells. But look closer, and you'll see each stretch of sugar-white sand here has its own personality, attracting different kinds of people.
Finding the perfect spot for your Destin beach day depends on what you crave. Let's explore the unique vibes some of the options offer:
Henderson Beach State Park
This popular beach boasts a long, pristine shoreline, perfect for building sandcastles, playing frisbee, or simply relaxing in the sugar-white sand. The calm waves are ideal for young children, and there's a nature trail through the dunes for exploring. Also, there's a concession stand with restrooms and showers for added convenience.
Traveling with the family pet? There's a dog beach at Henderson Beach State Park, a small, designated area that allows dogs to play freely in the sand and water. Keep in mind that they must be leashed when not in the designated zone.
Miramar Beach
This lively beach offers a wide stretch of soft sand and calm waters, making it another great choice for families. Kids will enjoy splashing in the waves, building sandcastles, or participating in water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.
If you're looking for quick dining and entertainment options close by, Miramar Beach also boasts a variety of beachfront restaurants and shops, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat or picking up souvenirs.
Crystal Beach
This secluded beach offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. The sugar-white sand and clear emerald waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with a good book. Crystal Beach is also a popular spot for shelling, as the shoreline is often littered with beautiful seashells.
James W. Mallory Beach, also known as Jetty East Beach
This beach offers stunning views of the Destin Harbor and the jetties, making it a great spot for a scenic beach day. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking. Additionally, there's a fishing pier where you can try your luck at catching a fish.
Heads up: alcohol is not allowed on this beach.
4. Add a splash of adventure with water activities that elevate your beach day.
Relaxation doesn't have to be passive; some water activities can inject a dose of energy into your beach day and create lasting memories.
Let's explore some options to add a bit of thrill to your beach day:
Parasailing
Destin is famous for its parasailing opportunities, meaning you can soar high above the beautiful emerald waters and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. Parasailing is a great activity for thrill-seekers, offering a unique perspective of the beach and a chance to spot marine life.
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Want something a bit more relaxing but still active? Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to get some exercise while taking in the beauty of Destin's beaches. You can paddle along the shoreline, explore nearby coves, or even try your hand at catching some waves. This activity is perfect for all ages and fitness levels, making it a great choice for families or a group of friends.
Jet Skiing and Boating
For an adrenaline rush, jet skiing is a thrilling way to experience the power of the ocean. Destin boasts numerous jet ski rental companies, allowing you to zoom across the waves and enjoy the refreshing sea spray. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, consider renting a boat. Destin also offers a variety of boat rentals, from pontoons perfect for families to high-performance vessels for experienced boaters.
Fishing
Destin is a world-renowned fishing destination, and for good reason! The rich waters off the Emerald Coast are teeming with a variety of fish, making it a paradise for anglers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, there's a fishing experience waiting for you in Destin. You can choose from shore fishing and pier fishing on the Destin Harbor.
5. Unwind after your beach bliss with fun and entertainment.
Your beach fun doesn't have to end at sunset. Destin is a total vacationer's paradise and offers a lot of seaside enjoyment for the whole family after sunset. Wondering where to head after you're done at the beach? Here are some ideas:
Dinner with a View
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy fresh seafood, breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast, and a romantic atmosphere. Destin boasts exceptional restaurants and eateries offering the freshest seafood the Gulf of Mexico can provide. Whether you find yourself in an Italian cantina or a simple beach shack, you can expect nothing short of a mind-blowing meal. To know the best restaurants in town, head here!
HarborWalk Village
Explore the lively HarborWalk Village, a waterfront complex bustling with shops, restaurants, bars, and live entertainment. It's a great place to enjoy street performers, browse unique stores, or grab a drink and people-watch. And it's fun for the whole family, even Fido! HarborWalk Village is dog-friendly.
Live Music at a Bar
For the grown-ups, it's a great idea to enjoy live music at a beachfront bar or a local pub. This is a great way to experience the local music scene and enjoy a fun night out, and who knows, maybe even meet some locals. We've written about Destin's fun nightlife in a special blog, so for more tips on what to do under the stars, head here.
Wondering Where to Stay in Destin?
Stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront houses to luxurious resorts, we offer a wide selection not just in Destin but along the Emerald Coast. All our properties come with top-notch amenities that will make your experience unforgettable.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!