Things to do in Destin
Northwest Florida is a hidden gem along the Gulf Coast, offering white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant cities, and small beach towns brimming with local charm. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, our area is packed with endless things to do—from water activities and outdoor adventures to fine dining and live entertainment. The area encompasses Pensacola, Navarre, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, the 30A communities, and Panama City Beach, each with its own distinct personality.
In today’s digital age, there are numerous websites and platforms to help you discover activities, entertainment, and dining options throughout Northwest Florida. From tourist websites to social media, these online tools can make planning your trip or weekend easy and fun. Below, we’ll break down the best resources for exploring this coastal region, followed by a top-five list for each area as suggested by our local real estate experts.
1. Visit Florida Website
The Visit Florida website is the state’s official tourism portal, offering comprehensive information about things to do, places to stay, and dining options across Florida, including Northwest Florida. You can filter results by cities or regions and find specific activities, restaurants, and entertainment options.
2. Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau
For an in-depth guide to the Emerald Coast region, which includes Fort Walton Beach, Destin, and Miramar Beach, the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau is a go-to resource. The site provides recommendations for attractions, events, and outdoor adventures, as well as lodging and dining choices. It's especially helpful for those looking to explore family-friendly activities, watersports, and eco-tourism.
3. 30A. com
The 30A website is a must-visit for those interested in the beautiful stretch of coastal towns along Scenic Highway 30A. This site features up-to-date information on events, dining, shopping, and outdoor activities in communities like Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Grayton Beach. It also has a calendar of local events, from concerts to farmers' markets.
4. Visit Pensacola
If you're heading to Pensacola or the surrounding areas, the Visit Pensacola website is the best source for local information. It includes guides for the top things to do in Pensacola, including museums, art galleries, historical tours, and outdoor activities. You’ll also find recommendations for the best places to eat and drink, as well as information on Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key.
5. Navarre Beach Visitor Information Center
For a peaceful beach destination, Navarre is a great option. The Navarre Beach Visitor Information Center offers a thorough overview of the laid-back lifestyle and activities available in the area. From fishing and kayaking to beach bars and seafood restaurants, this website helps you find all the hidden gems in Navarre.
6. Eventbrite
Eventbrite is a fantastic resource for finding local events, festivals, concerts, and special entertainment options across Northwest Florida. Whether you're looking for an upcoming festival in Destin or a local food and wine event on 30A, Eventbrite allows you to filter by date, location, and type of event, making it easy to find something exciting to do.
7. Yelp
Yelp is a trusted source for finding dining, nightlife, and activities in any given area, including Northwest Florida. With user-generated reviews and ratings, Yelp can help you discover the best restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment venues in Pensacola, Destin, Panama City Beach, and more.
8. Tripadvisor
Tripadvisor is one of the largest platforms for travel and leisure reviews. It includes user-generated content on hotels, attractions, and dining options in Northwest Florida. With detailed reviews, rankings, and photos, it’s a useful tool for comparing different activities, whether you're planning a sunset cruise in Destin or a visit to the Pensacola Naval Aviation Museum.
9. Facebook Events
The Facebook Events feature is a great way to stay up to date with local happenings in Northwest Florida. Many businesses, organizations, and event planners create public events that you can follow or RSVP to. Whether you're looking for a local art show, live music, or a food festival, Facebook can help you find options specific to your location and interests.
10. Google Maps
Google Maps is often overlooked as a tool for finding things to do, but it can be incredibly useful. By simply typing in a city or neighborhood (such as "Destin" or "Pensacola Beach"), you can see a list of highly rated restaurants, attractions, parks, and entertainment venues nearby. Google Maps also includes user reviews, hours of operation, and photos.
11. Instagram
Instagram is a visual platform that's perfect for finding inspiration for activities and dining in Northwest Florida. Many local businesses and influencers regularly post about hidden gems, outdoor activities, and foodie spots. Searching hashtags like #DestinFL, #30A, or #PensacolaBeach can reveal some of the most popular places and off-the-beaten-path locations in the area.
12. Airbnb Experiences
If you're looking for unique, locally guided activities, Airbnb Experiences offers personalized tours, classes, and excursions. You can book anything from a paddleboarding adventure in Navarre to a cooking class in Santa Rosa Beach. Airbnb Experiences often feature lesser-known, local activities that you won’t find on larger travel websites.
Top 5 Things to Do, Entertainment, and Dining Options for Each Area
Pensacola
Historic Pensacola Village: Explore the rich history of Pensacola through its preserved historical buildings and museums.
Naval Aviation Museum: This free museum is a must-see, offering exhibits on the history of naval aviation.
Pensacola Beach: Spend a day lounging on the sugar-white sands and swimming in the Gulf's clear waters.
McGuire’s Irish Pub: A quirky, famous local pub known for its steaks, craft beers, and dollar bills covering the walls.
The Fish House: Enjoy waterfront dining with an emphasis on fresh Gulf seafood.
Navarre
Navarre Beach: A peaceful, uncrowded beach perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking.
Navarre Beach Fishing Pier: The longest fishing pier in Florida, great for anglers and sunset views.
Navarre Beach Marine Park: Snorkel or scuba dive to explore the artificial reefs teeming with marine life.
Sailor’s Grill and Juana’s Pagodas: A beachside bar and restaurant offering live music and volleyball.
East Bay River: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the scenic waterways.
Fort Walton Beach
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park: Family-friendly attraction with dolphin shows, sea turtles, and interactive experiences.
Air Force Armament Museum: Learn about aviation history with impressive aircraft displays and exhibits.
Okaloosa Island: Gorgeous beaches and access to the Gulf, perfect for a day trip.
The Boardroom Pub and Grub: A local favorite for burgers, live music, and a casual vibe.
Fokker’s Pub: Known for its German food, pizza, and local beers.
Destin
Henderson Beach State Park: A pristine beach with nature trails and beautiful dune landscapes.
Crab Island: Popular for boating, water sports, and floating parties just off the Destin coast.
HarborWalk Village: A bustling area for shopping, dining, boat tours, and live music.
Dewey Destin’s Seafood: One of the best places for fresh, local seafood with waterfront views.
The Back Porch: A beachside restaurant known for its Gulf-to-table dining experience.
30A (Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Grayton Beach, Rosemary Beach)
Seaside: The iconic community where The Truman Show was filmed, known for its beautiful architecture, beach, and local shops.
Grayton Beach State Park: One of the most scenic beaches in the area with opportunities for camping, kayaking, and hiking.
The Red Bar: A lively and funky spot for live music and comfort food in Grayton Beach.
Great Southern Café (Seaside): A Southern-inspired eatery offering fresh, local ingredients with a beachside twist.
Rosemary Beach: Explore the European-style architecture, boutique shops, and fine dining options.
Panama City Beach
Pier Park: A large outdoor shopping and entertainment complex with restaurants, bars, and an IMAX theater.
Shell Island: Take a boat tour to this secluded, undeveloped barrier island for a quiet day of beachcombing and snorkeling.
St. Andrews State Park: Beautiful park for swimming, kayaking, hiking, and bird watching.
Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant: Popular for its seafood, tiki bar, and beachfront views.
Runaway Island: A two-story beachfront restaurant offering fresh seafood, live music, and stunning sunset views.
Wherever your Northwest Florida beach adventures take you, have fun and bring your sun block. If you feel like looking at some of the local real estate opportunities contact us. Our local expert agents are always on standby to assist with sales, property management and handyman services.
