Enjoying Your Vacation to Destin, Florida

Ways to Help Make Sure You Enjoy Your Trip to the Emerald Coast

Aric Eckart
Destin, Florida is one of the more popular tourist stops on the Emerald Coast. With amazing beaches, great fishing and exciting night life there's little more that you could want out of your vacation. Here are some tips from a local for great things to do while you're in town.

Firstly, if you're old enough, experience the night life. With clubs like The Swamp, Club Overboard, and AJ's, which all feature live music many nights out of the week, you won't find yourself lacking options for night time entertainment. And if you're looking to dance, then you can't pass up Night Town, one of the most popular Dance clubs in the region.

Second, go to the right beaches! There are many beaches to choose from, but try and make sure you choose ones that are on the Gulf itself and not on the bay. The water is much cleaner and clearer on the Gulf Coast than in the bay. My recommendation for a beach that's great if you want to avoid the crowd is Princess Beach on Okaloosa Island.

Third, don't miss out on the water park, Big Kahunas! The best way to enjoy the Florida sun without having to deal with the sand. Even if you love the beach, the rides at Big Kahunas are worth checking out. Trust me, you'll have a great day riding their rides. Don't forget the sunblock though, nothing is less fun than having a sunburn on your vacation.

And if you get a chance, take a day to visit the Destin Commons, by far the finest shopping mall available in Okaloosa County, The Commons has it all. Fine dining at places such as the Hard Rock Cafe and Johnny Rockets, shopping for souvenirs, clothes, gifts, and many other items at the various stores, and who could forget Rave Motion Pictures? The Rave is a great cinema, with stadium seating, and convenient show times for all of the latest movies. All in all, the Destin Commons is a worthy stop for any vacation, whether you be alone, a couple, or even a family.

As far as food goes, you can find any sort of cuisine you are looking for. Creole, Italian, Greek, Mexican, Destin has it all! Most restaraunts also sell Fresh Fish dishes, with fish that were just caught locally that day and never saw a freezer. Many restaraunts also feature live music, so expect to be entertained while you eat.

Destin is not one of those towns that makes you want to stay in your Hotel room. Get out, experience the entertainment and culture, and relax. Make the most out of your time here, and remember the places you liked the most for the next time you visit!

Published by Aric Eckart

I live in Northern Florida, on the Panhandle. I'm married to the woman of my dreams, and I plan on living with her for the rest of my life.  View profile

  • Immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Don't spend all your time in the Hotel. Get out and see what the city has to offer!
  • If you need help finding something, just ask a Local. They'll be glad to help.
The Truman Show was filmed in the Watercolors neighborhood in Sandestin, just down the road from Destin.

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