Finding activities to appease the whole family can be difficult, especially when there are multiple people, interests, and personalities to accommodate. Luckily, Destin is overflowing with activities to make even your most timid travelers and avid thrill-seekers happy.
So, what is there to do in Destin, Florida, for kids, you ask? Keep reading for the 10 best things to do in Destin, Florida with kids to make the most of your vacation.
1. Dolphin cruises
A Destin dolphin cruise is an unforgettable experience, and should definitely be at the top of your Destin to-do list. Wave hello to Flipper and friends as they jump the wake of the boat and frolic in the beautiful, emerald waters. Also, be sure to look out for other incredible Destin marine life such as:
- Sea turtles
- Stingrays
- Sea birds
- Sharks
With so many dolphin cruises in Destin to choose from, you have the option to take it slow, relax, and enjoy the scenic views or embark on a high-speed dolphin adventure. Whatever you decide, expect an incredible trip through the Destin Harbor, Choctawhatchee Bay, and beyond. With the success rate of finding dolphins on a dolphin tour at just under 100%, you can rest assured that the whole family will leave with memories that will last a lifetime!
2. Crab Island excursions
Visiting Crab Island is one of the top things to do in Destin Florida with kids. Crab Island is a giant sandbar located where the Choctawhatchee Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico. This is a great option for the whole family, as Crab Island yields:
- Delicious food and snacks
- Drinks
- Games
- Music
- Kid-friendly activities
- Inflatables
Crab Island is only accessible by watercraft, but with plenty of boats departing from the Destin Harbor, it takes only minutes to get there. This shallow, clear, and beautiful area makes for the perfect day out on the water!
3. Pontoon boat rentals
Renting a pontoon in Destin is another great way to get to Crab Island, but offers a more intimate experience. With just you and your party on board, explore these popular locations at your own pace:
- Crab Island
- Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Choctawhatchee Bay
- Destin Harbor
Rental options vary in duration and capacity, making it easy to find a rental in your budget that can accommodate your needs. It is recommended to book your pontoon in advance, as they do have a tendency to sell out during the warmer months.
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4. Fishing
They don’t call Destin, “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” for nothing! Spending your family vacation in Destin, Florida, is the perfect time to pick up a rod, and reel in the big one! There are many different types of fishing excursions to choose from, accommodating anglers of all skill levels including:
- Kid-friendly fishing charters
- Party boat fishing charters
- Shark fishing charters
- Kayak fishing charters
- Bowfishing charters
- Inshore fishing charters
- Deep sea fishing charters
…and that’s just to name a few! The ability to customize and tailor a trip to accommodate your group is just one of the many reasons fishing is a must in Destin, Florida, for families. That, and the delicious, fresh fish you will be bringing home with you for dinner!
5. Magic shows
From seeing dolphins on a dolphin cruise to reeling in a magnificent Grouper on a fishing charter, there is a lot of magic to experience when in Destin, FL. The most magical experience of them all, however, is at MAXIMUM MAGIC Theater with Noah and Heather Wells! This world-renowned act includes audience participation, mystifying illusions, and incredible magic to impress the children and adults alike!
6. Aquariums
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park on Okaloosa Island is the pinnacle of family fun! With exciting marine exhibits, unforgettable animal encounters, trainer chats, interactive displays, an aquarium, and more, the amount of fun to be had at the Gulfarium is practically endless! The Gulfarium is open year-round, and is a great family-friendly activity that won’t break the bank.
7. Snorkeling
Destin, Florida, is the perfect place to take the family snorkeling! The water is so clear, you won’t have any trouble seeing the incredible wildlife that inhabits Destin’s waters. Most Snorkeling Charters include the snorkel gear, making this an easy and affordable activity the whole family will love!
8. Kayak and paddleboard
Kayak and paddleboard rentals are a great way to have an intimate experience with nature. Just imagine yourself paddling around Crab Island and seeing dolphins in the water right next to your kayak! Great for all ages, this family activity is the perfect way to sit back, relax, and see what, “island time” is really all about!
9. Beach bonfire
Take a short trip to 30A for a bonfire set up just for you right on the beach! This is a perfect end to a perfect day in Destin. Choose the package that works best for your family, with many including the following:
- Fire-building supplies
- Seating
- Tables
- S'mores
- Permit
There are not many places in Florida that allow bonfires on the beach, so making forever-memories will be easy when spending quality time around a bonfire located at one of the most beautiful beaches in the South!
10. Hit the beach
Lastly, it’s not truly a trip to the Emerald Coast without hitting the beach! Destin’s famous sugar, white sand and crystal-clear waters are definitely something you don’t want to miss. With that being said, pack up your cooler, your car, and your favorite people, and discover why Destin, Florida, is the perfect vacation destination for families.
There’s something for the whole family in Destin
Whether cruising on the water, or flying hundreds of feet above it, Destin is a spectacular place to try something the kids. This list covers the top 10, but finding what to do in Destin, Florida, for the whole family isn’t all that tough! You can head down to the Destin Harbor, visit the beach, or stop into the local bait shops to discover even more incredible activities for ages 0-100!
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