City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Destin, Florida
Situated along the Gulf coast of Florida’s Panhandle, between Panama City Beach and Pensacola, Destin is a water lover’s paradise along the northwest section Florida’s Emerald Coast. The area features emerald green water (hence that jewel-like nickname), a laid-back attitude, tropical trees and sand so white it looks like snow (don’t worry, this white stuff is warm).
Destin is a terrific destination for families, couples, singles and travelers of all ages. Go boating and swimming at Norriego Point, anchor out on the sandbar at Crab Island (just south of Marler Bridge), book adventurous activities on the Gulf of Mexico or just relax on that incredible sand.
You may, at some point, decide to do something away from the resort hotel, marina or private boat dock for rent. It’s hard to believe, but it can happen. Today, we’re going to check out some things to do from a private boat slip rental in Destin. Let’s go.
Destin HarborWalk Village
Photo: Destin HarborWalk (Facebook)
The Destin HarborWalk Village is the place to go to find, book and experience all the watersports activities you can imagine. Whether it’s dolphin and sunset tours, parasailing, and charter fishing trips or glass bottom boats and pontoon and jet ski rentals. you’ll find it here. There are also restaurants, shops and other attractions like an escape room and a 7D interactive movie ride. Just a few of the sites to check out from a private boat slip for rent include Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Harry T’s Lighthouse, Coyote Ugly, Life is Good and Kitty Hawk Kites.
Henderson Beach Park
Photo: Wikimedia
Henderson Beach Park is filled with dunes and forests of pine and oak trees. Boardwalks meander past snow white 30-foot sand dunes, emerald green Gulf coast water and coastal scrub habitats. A boardwalk path leads to the beach. The park has campsites, a nature trail and activities like fishing, swimming, bicycling, birdwatching and wildlife viewing. There’s a picnic pavilion and restrooms, which is a convenient amenity if you’re traveling with small kids from a private boat lift rental.
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Photo: Gulfarium (Facebook)
Learn about penguins, pelicans, sharks, gators and more at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Of course, the dolphins are the highlight of this marine park located near Destin Harbor. Along with friendly dolphins, you can participate in animal encounters with stingrays, reptiles, and harbor seals. The park operates the C.A.R.E. (Conserve, Act, Rehabilitate, Educate) Center, which provides coastal conservation, marine animal rescue and rehabilitation to sick and injured animals.
Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park
Photo: Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park (Facebook)
Splish, splash and slide into fun at Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park. There are more than 40 slides and attractions that include a wave pool, a lazy river and thrilling, racing and tube rides. You can also try your hand at mini golf. Big Kahuna's provides 54 holes on three different courses.
Destin History & Fishing Museum
Photo: Destin History & Fishing Museum (Facebook)
Located by the Destin Bridge, the Destin History & Fishing Museum was founded in 2005. Learn the history of the area’s unique event, the fishing rodeo. The 31-day event is held in October and is the longest running such event in the U.S. You can also explore the history of diving in Destin and view more than 100 fish mounts that were caught in Destin waterways.
We hope you’ve gathered a few ideas for your next Destin vacation. Whether it’s for a long weekend at a hotel, a Florida ICW excursion or an extended stay at a private boat dock for rent, take some time to check out a few of them. Happy travels!
