Thinking about making Destin your home? From sunny weather and world-class fishing to family-friendly living and vibrant local events, here are seven reasons why year-round life on the Emerald Coast is a brilliant idea.
Have you ever thought about living in your vacation destination? Making a move to Breckenridge, Colorado, to stay close to the mountains, or to the Outer Banks in North Carolina to soak in the beach vibes twenty-four seven, sounds like a dream come true.
If Destin lives in your imagination as a place you'd love to call home, this blog is for you! Frequent visitors have already made the move, bringing a permanent vacation vibe into their everyday lives. Beyond the beach-centric lifestyle, there are plenty of reasons why people see Destin as a great place to live year-round.
Just a little taste of what's ahead:
- Destin residents enjoy fantastic weather across all seasons.
- You'll have nature and outdoor activities at your doorstep.
- Destin offers a plethora of entertainment for all tastes.
- The city offers a family-friendly environment and community.
- Destin is the site of several annual events, so there's never a dull moment.
- Destin is one of the best places to go fishing in the world.
- In Destin, you have great golf all year round.
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 walk you through seven reasons you and your family should consider calling Destin home for the long term. If moving to this paradise is in your future plans, you'll find plenty of reasons here to start planning.
Let's jump into the details!
Reason 1: Destin residents enjoy fantastic weather across all seasons.
Let's be real, people don't just visit Destin for the views. The weather is a major draw, and it doesn't disappoint. Think long, sunny summers and surprisingly mild winters that make outdoor living a year-round thing. You can hit the golf course in November, stroll the beach in December, and soak up salty breezes pretty much anytime.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Year-Round Sunshine: Destin delivers extended summers and loads of warm, sunny days.
- Beach Days in Winter: It's not rare to spot people sunbathing or walking the beach in December.
- Mild Winters: From December to March, expect cool but pleasant temps, perfect for outdoor fun.
- Ocean Air Perks: Sea breezes keep the heat in check, and the Gulf is always ready for a refreshing dip.
- Golf Nearly All Year: You can tee off for 40 to 45 weeks out of the year. Not too shabby.
- Storm Safety: While storms can happen, Destin isn't hit hard every year, and safety measures are always in place.
Reason 2: You'll have nature and outdoor activities at your doorstep.
Imagine wrapping up your day with a swim in clear Gulf waters or catching a jaw-dropping sunset right from the beach. In Destin, that's not a vacation fantasy; it's just how life works. Living here means you're always close to the water, always near nature, and never short on things to do outdoors. From morning hikes to afternoon paddleboarding, the Emerald Coast becomes your backyard.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Beaches Every Day: Pristine sands, warm waters, and picture-perfect sunsets are just a short ride away.
- Active Living: Swimming, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing, take your pick.
- Nature On Your Doorstep: Local favorites like Henderson Beach State Park and Norriego Point offer trails, wildlife, and fresh air galore.
- Golf with a View: Hit the links at spots like Emerald Bay Golf Club, great for all skill levels.
- Weekend Adventures: Destin puts you close to places like Pensacola, Navarre, Fort Walton Beach, and Mexico Beach for even more outdoor fun.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Parks, trails, and peaceful boardwalks make it easy to get outside with the whole crew.
Reason 3: Destin offers a plethora of entertainment for all tastes.
Destin may be laid-back, but don't let the relaxed pace fool you. This beach town knows how to have a good time. From beach bars and nightclubs to top-tier seafood spots and buzzing boardwalks, there's no shortage of ways to unwind, meet locals, and enjoy a night out. It's small-town living with big energy where it counts.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Buzzing Social Scene: Beach bars, lounges, pubs, and clubs give Destin an unexpectedly lively vibe.
- Culinary Delights: From fresh fish tacos to upscale Gulf-to-table dining, Destin's food scene brings the flavor.
- The Boardwalk Beat: The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is packed with bars, restaurants, shops, and killer views.
- Live Music & Good Vibes: Many spots offer live tunes and a chance to mingle with locals over great drinks.
- Shop & Stroll: Coastal boutiques and open-air shopping areas make for easy, breezy browsing between meals.
Reason 4: The city offers a family-friendly environment and community.
With under 14,000 residents, Destin has a strong sense of community and a neighborly vibe that makes it easy to feel right at home. From raising a family to starting fresh, the city offers great schools, welcoming neighborhoods, and plenty of ways to get involved.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Tight-Knit Community: Friendly locals and a social atmosphere make it easy to connect.
- Great for Families: Highly rated public and private schools, plus strong support for student success.
- Top Schools Recognized: Several local high schools have earned spots in national rankings.
- Neighborhood Variety: From condos to luxury homes, there's something for every lifestyle.
- Kid-Friendly Lifestyle: Parks, outdoor activities, and educational programs make Destin perfect for growing minds.
- Nature as a Classroom: Surrounded by natural beauty, kids here learn to love and respect the environment.
Reason 5: Destin is the site of several annual events, so there's never a dull moment.
All year long, the city comes alive with events that bring locals and visitors together, but two stand out as can't-miss favorites: the Destin Fishing Rodeo and the Destin Seafood Festival. From October competitions on the water to plates full of fresh Gulf seafood, these events pack in the flavor, fun, and a whole lot of local charm.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Destin Fishing Rodeo: Held every October since 1948, it's a month-long celebration of the city's fishing roots.
- For All Ages: Open to pros, beginners, and kids, plus fun for spectators watching the weigh-ins.
- Harbor Energy: Even non-anglers love the action at Destin Harbor with music, food, and family-friendly events.
- Seafood Festival: A 3-day feast of fresh dishes from local chefs, with a side of live music and community vibes.
- Local Flavor: Events highlight sustainable seafood, local pride, and the spirit of coastal living.
- Cultural Snapshot: These festivals aren't just fun—they're a great way to connect with Destin's roots and its people.
Reason 6: Destin is one of the best places to go fishing in the world.
There's a reason Destin is known as the World's Luckiest Fishing Village. Its prime location near the deepest parts of the Gulf makes it home to the largest commercial fishing fleet in the U.S. The result? A nonstop supply of incredibly fresh seafood. You can head out to fish yourself or simply sit back and enjoy the catch, grilled and seasoned to perfection. Destin has you covered.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Fishing Paradise: Offshore, inshore, bay, pier, kayak, or surf, there's a spot (and a fish) for everyone.
- Home to Big Catches: Deep waters just offshore mean access to all kinds of prized fish species.
- Largest Fishing Fleet: Destin leads the way nationally in commercial fishing power.
- Try Something New: Even non-anglers often find themselves hooked on fishing here.
- Next-Level Seafood: Enjoy fresh-off-the-boat fish, sometimes within minutes of the catch.
- Easy on the Wallet: Top-quality seafood at local prices? Yes, please.
Reason 7: in Destin, you have great golf all year round.
Golf lovers, take note, Destin is a dream for anyone who enjoys time on the green. From breezy morning rounds to competitive weekend play, the city's golf scene has something for every type of golfer. The scenery's not bad either. If you end up living here, it might become your next hobby!
HIGHLIGHTS
- Plenty of Courses: Destin has several top-rated golf courses, many open to locals.
- For Every Skill Level: Great for seasoned golfers and newcomers alike.
- Gorgeous Scenery: Courses like The Links Golf Club and Raven Golf Club offer stunning views.
- Public Access: Many clubs are open to residents and visitors; no membership required.
- More Than a Game: Golf here is also a way to soak in the coastal beauty and unwind outdoors.
Bonus: Tips for Those Thinking About Moving to Other Cities in the U.S.
- Do a Test Visit First: Spend at least a few days in the city you're considering, ideally in the neighborhood you might move to. Walk around, try the grocery store, see what traffic feels like, and get a sense of the pace and vibe.
- Check the Cost of Living: Compare housing, utilities, taxes, transportation, and even grocery prices. A raise in salary can be quickly offset by rent that's double your current rate.
- Research Neighborhoods Deeply: Look beyond the downtown core. The "right" neighborhood depends on your lifestyle: family-friendly, walkable, close to nightlife, quiet and suburban, etc. Reddit, Facebook groups, and Nextdoor can offer real-world insights.
- Know the Local Job Market: Even if you're moving with a job in hand, it's good to understand the local employment landscape, just in case. Consider the dominant industries and how easy it would be to find work in your field.
- Scout Health & Safety Resources: Research local hospitals, clinics, and emergency care. Also check crime rates (try local police websites or city-data.com) and safety by neighborhood, not just citywide.
- If You Have Kids: Deep Dive Into Schools: School districts can vary block by block. Even if you're looking at private options, proximity and reputation matter. Niche.com and GreatSchools.org are solid starting points.
- Tap Into Community Before You Arrive: Join local Facebook groups, subreddits, or community forums. Ask questions, follow local events, and start building your network before the moving truck rolls in.
- Think About Climate and Lifestyle: A move to Arizona is very different from one to Vermont. Make sure you're ready for the day-to-day reality of the region's seasons, storms, and pace of life.
- Downsize and Declutter: The less you bring, the easier the move. Donate, sell, or recycle anything you don't truly need, especially if you're downsizing or aiming for a fresh start.
- Rent Before You Buy: Renting lets you get a feel for the area without committing. You might love a neighborhood online, only to find it's too loud or too sleepy once you're living there.
Wondering where to stay in Destin?
If you want to experience Destin before making any decisions, there's nothing like staying like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!