Everyone knows Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando are popular vacation spots for young solo travelers, couples on a romantic holiday, and families who are escaping the harsh winter months to enjoy a few weeks of sunshine. One lesser-known city in Florida that doesn’t get the credit it deserves is Destin – a beautiful coastal town with white-sand beaches, emerald waters, and plenty of activities for everyone.
Destin, Florida, is known as the ‘World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,’ located along the Gulf of Mexico’s crystal clear waters. This small town is iconic for its fishing opportunities, golf courses, seafood restaurants, boutique shopping centers, expansive boardwalk, and views as far as the eye can see.
The Seven Best Beaches in Destin
Miramar Beach
With close proximity to Destin’s center, this is one of the best beaches in Destin due to the cleanliness, expansive space, and lack of crowds compared to the ever-popular Henderson Beach. Work up an appetite boogie-boarding through the waves? Flag down the ice cream truck to get a small cone.
Henderson Beach State Park
Arguably the best beach in Destin, Henderson Beach State Park boasts white sands, clear green water, and plenty of space for thousands of families to find a serene and calming atmosphere.
Crystal Sands Beach
Located by the Silver Sands Outlets – a great spot to go for some post-swim shopping – Crystal Sands is a relaxed and low-key beach that is farther away from the crowds. Head here to rent some gear for watersports, getting out on the warm water, and exploring via paddleboat.
Destin Harbor
After a day of sun tanning and swimming, Destin Harbor offers the perfect escape from heading back to the city center. Walk here to watch the parasailers dot the skies, and the fishing vessels come in after a long day of work.
Crab Island
Head a little farther away from the center of the town to Crab Island, one of the best beaches in Destin that requires some work to get to. Rent a pontoon boat, bring your friends and family, and motor here to enjoy a nautical party.
James Lee Park
Open from sunrise to sunset, James Lee County Park is one of the best beaches in Destin for families. With shallow water that is perfect for toddlers or those learning to swim, this beach/park is a good option for little kids who would not handle the waves of bigger beaches. After running around and chasing your kids all day, head over to Crab Trap restaurant to enjoy some fresh seafood.
John C. Beasley Park
Located right off the boardwalk near Wayside Park, this public space features everything you need for a full day of park activities and playing in the water, like showers, pavilions, and picnic tables. You’ll find the most active people in the city head here for beach volleyball, snorkeling, fishing, and surfing.
Conclusion
Destin, Florida, is one of the best family-friendly choices for your next summer vacation to escape the winter blues. With plenty of outdoor options to escape the town center’s heat and crowds, the seven best beaches in Destin offer the versatility of sunbathing, surfing, snorkeling, beach volleyball, or just enjoying family time in the outdoors.
