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Summer Escape | Things to Do in Destin, Florida

Every summer, families across the country pack their bags and set off on unforgettable getaways. If you’re still making plans for this year’s escape, plan a trip to Florida’s Emerald Coast with Gulf Tide Vacations. With vacation rentals in some of the most sought-after beach communities, including Destin. With its sugar-white beaches and activities for every kind of traveler, this is an ideal place to make lifelong memories. Keep reading to learn more about some of the best things to do in Destin on your Florida summer vacation.

9 Activities to Enjoy on Your Florida Summer Vacation

Whether your ideal getaway includes long beach days, sunset dinners along the harbor, or family-friendly adventures, Destin offers the kind of coastal escape that keeps visitors coming back year after year. To help you create your summer vacation bucket list, we’ve put together this guide with nine of our favorite experiences.

  1. Enjoy a beach day at Henderson Beach State Park, often considered one of the prettiest spots in Destin. Here, you can go swimming in emerald waters or go for a sunset walk along nature trails.
  2. A must-do summer experience in Destin is visiting Crab Island. Rent a pontoon boat from Double Fun Pontoon Rentals or book a shuttle with Crab Island Company to this shallow sandbar.
  3. Go on a dolphin cruise. Outings with Sea Blaster are both great for enjoying the water and looking for these playful creatures.
  4. Cast your line on a deep-sea fishing outing. Destin is known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” and is home to a number of charter options, including Charter Boat Stelluna and Silver Line Charter Fishing.
  5. For a different type of aquatic adventure, visit Big Kahuna’s Water Park. The whole family will love the water slides, wave pools, and lazy river.
  6. Captain your own adventure by renting paddleboards, kayaks, or jet skis. Set off on rentals from Destin Kayak Rentals or Boogies Watersports in the early morning to enjoy calm waters on the harbor, Gulf, or bay.
  7. Say hello to the animals that call the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park Home. The popular attraction is a great place to feed dolphins or touch a stingray.
  8. See what you can find at HarborWalk Village. Not only is this a great place to go shopping and enjoy harbor views, but it’s also the perfect place to grab a bite to eat.
  9. End your day with a beach bonfire. If you plan on having a fire on the beach, you will need to purchase a permit or contact a company that sets up the fire for you, like Destin Bonfire Company.

Find Your Dream Destin Vacation Rental

The pool at a vacation rental in Destin, Florida, close to things to do on a summer vacation.

A key to being able to enjoy all the fun things to do in Destin, Florida, on your summer vacation is having a peaceful place to call home. When you turn to Gulf Tide Vacations, you’ll have access to some of the best vacation rentals Destin has to offer. While all of our luxury vacation homes have the comforts of home, each is unique. Whether you’re looking for a Destin house rental with a pool or a home with stunning ocean views, we have it all. Let our team of experienced reservationists help you find your perfect fit by calling 866-990-4853.