10 Best Things to Do in Destin, Florida with Kids

Tucked away along the stunning Emerald Coast of Florida, Destin is a hidden paradise that beckons families with kids from all over the country, promising an unforgettable mix of relaxation, adventure, and cherished moments. With its soft, white sand beaches, warm emerald waters, and welcoming community, Destin is more than just a vacation spot; it’s a haven where families can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

This enchanting city, often called the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” offers a unique blend of natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and mouth-watering culinary experiences that make it an ideal destination for all members of the family seeking adventure and tranquility.

As the sun rises over the Gulf of Mexico, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, Destin awakens to the laughter of children building sandcastles, the serene rhythm of waves crashing onto the shore, and the promise of new memories. Every day is an opportunity for families with kids of any age to explore the wonders of the coast, from the thrill of spotting dolphins on a cruise to the joy of finding the perfect seashell along the shore.

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Destin’s charm lies in its ability to offer something for everyone. It ensures that whether you’re seeking the adrenaline rush of parasailing or the peace of a sunset beach stroll, your kids’ vacation will be filled with memories of pure bliss.

Yet, what truly sets Destin apart is its commitment to being a destination that families can enjoy without stretching their budgets. From accessible public beaches where the only footprint left behind is your own to affordable attractions that provide entertainment without a hefty price tag, Destin proves that the best family vacations don’t have to come with a luxurious price tag.

Destin, Florida, stands out as a paradise destination for family vacations and shares some top recommendations for affordable activities that promise fun for the whole family. Join us as we explore this coastal paradise, where every visit is an adventure, and every moment is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

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Destin, A Picturesque Family Destination

There are many reasons why families with kids might choose to visit or live in Destin, but here are some of the top selling points to consider about this family-friendly region:

1. A. A Paradise for Outdoor Adventures: Destin is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities to suit all ages. From the thrill of parasailing and water parks to the serenity of dolphin cruises and beach days, there’s no shortage of ways to make memories under the sun.
2. B. Beaches That Are Beyond Compare: Destin’s beaches are arguably among the most beautiful in the country. Their sugar-white sand and crystal-clear waters beckon families for picnics, sandcastle building, and simply basking in the beauty of nature. Henderson Beach State Park and James Lee Park are favorites for their pristine conditions and family-friendly amenities.
3. C. Delicious Dining for Every Taste: Destin’s culinary scene is as vast as its coastline, offering an array of dining options that cater to even the pickiest of eaters. From fresh seafood to international cuisines and casual eateries, families can enjoy delicious meals with stunning views​.
4. D. Accommodations for All: Whether you’re looking for the luxury of a beachfront condo or the convenience of a vacation rental home, Destin offers a variety of accommodations to fit any family size and budget. Many vacation rentals provide the comforts of home, such as kitchens and living spaces, making them a practical choice for families.
5. E. Creating Lasting Memories: Destin isn’t just a destination; it’s a backdrop for creating lasting memories with your family. From its stunning natural beauty to the wealth of activities and accommodations, Destin caters to families looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Planning a family vacation to Destin promises many experiences and the potential for an affordable getaway. By prioritizing free and low-cost activities, families can enjoy all Destin offers without overspending, proving that a memorable vacation doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

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The 10 Great Things to Do in Destin with Your Kids

Destin also offers numerous opportunities for families to enjoy themselves without breaking the bank. Here are ten fun activities that you and your family might enjoy:

1. 1. The Village of Baytowne Wharf

2. The Village of Baytowne Wharf is the heart and soul of the Sandestin Beach and Golf Resort, presenting an unforgettable experience for families visiting Destin. This vibrant, open-air marketplace and entertainment hub offers something for every family member, from bustling boutiques and dining options to an array of live entertainment and nightlife.
4. Picture walking through the village’s cobblestone streets, where each turn brings into view eclectic shops selling everything from the latest fashion to charming souvenirs that encapsulate the spirit of Florida’s Emerald Coast. It’s a place where children can marvel at magic shows, embark on an adventure golf course, or spend hours in the playground while adults explore art galleries, sip on cocktails at waterfront bars, or enjoy live music under the stars.

5. 2. The Track

6. The Track in Destin is a beacon of fun, offering many activities to delight families with children of all ages. This amusement park is a cornerstone of family entertainment in the area, featuring various attractions that range from high-speed go-karts and miniature golf to bumper boats and a bungee jumping tower.
8. Imagine the thrill of racing around on the slick track as you outmaneuver your family members or the joy of sinking a hole-in-one on a challenging mini-golf course that’s as fun as it is frustrating. The Track is a place where laughter fills the air, and friendly competition brings families closer together. For the younger adventurers, the Kiddie Karts and the Carousel offer just the right amount of excitement without overwhelming, making sure that all family members have a memorable experience​.

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1. 3. Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone

2. Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone offers an exciting mix of attractions that tap into the imagination and adventurous spirit of every family member, setting it apart as a must-visit destination in Destin. Located on Okaloosa Island, this family entertainment center combines the prehistoric allure of dinosaurs with modern-day fun, featuring everything from a treetop ropes course to an expansive arcade filled with the latest games.
4. The centerpiece, a “T-Rex Island” mini-golf course, is an adventure, allowing families to putt through a land of animatronic dinosaurs that roar and move, adding an element of thrill and wonder to each stroke. The laser maze and 4D movie experience further enhance the park’s diverse offerings, providing interactive and immersive experiences that captivate young and older visitors alike​.

5. 4. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

6. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park provides families with an unforgettable interactive experience with marine life while promoting education and conservation for local wildlife. Situated on the shores of the stunning Emerald Coast, this facility has been delighting visitors of all ages with its up-close encounters with dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of marine species.
8. Beyond merely showcasing these magnificent creatures, the Gulfarium emphasizes education through engagement, offering informative shows, demonstrative feedings, and hands-on encounters that inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation for the marine environment. This commitment to education and conservation makes a visit to the Gulfarium not just a fun day out but a meaningful one, where visitors leave with a heightened awareness of the fragile marine biodiversity and the importance of its preservation.

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1. 5. Sea Blaster Dolphin Tours

2. Sea Blaster Dolphin Tours is a highlight for families visiting Destin, promising an exciting and intimate encounter with the Gulf of Mexico’s playful inhabitants. These tours are renowned for their high-energy, fun-filled expeditions across the emerald waters, where guests are not only spectators but become part of the aquatic world.
4. Aboard the Sea Blaster, families can enjoy a variety of experiences, from thrilling speedboat rides that slice through the waves to serene sunset cruises that showcase the Gulf’s natural beauty. Each tour offers ample opportunities for dolphin sightings, where these graceful creatures often come close to the boat, performing their aquatic ballet in the wild.

5. 6. Gator Beach at Fudpucker’s

6. Gator Beach at Fudpucker’s in Destin is a unique attraction that combines dining with an unforgettable wildlife experience, making it a must-visit for families exploring Florida’s Emerald Coast.
8. Situated within Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, Gator Beach provides visitors with the rare opportunity to observe and interact with live alligators in a safe and educational environment. Guests marvel at the sight of numerous alligators, learn about their habits and habitats from informative displays, and even participate in live gator shows where experts demonstrate handling techniques and share fascinating facts about these ancient creatures.

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1. 7. Enjoy Destin’s Beaches

2. Destin’s beaches are often the highlight of any visit to this picturesque Florida destination, revered for their stunning white sand that feels soft underfoot and the clear, emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico that stretch out to the horizon. Each beach has its own charm, from the bustling atmosphere of Henderson Beach State Park with its nature trails and picnic spots to the quieter, more secluded stretches of sand where families can enjoy a day of tranquility away from the crowds.
4. These beaches offer the perfect backdrop for a variety of activities, from the simple joys of building sandcastles and paddling in the shallows to more adventurous pursuits like windsurfing and kiteboarding. The accessibility of amenities such as showers, restrooms, and lifeguard services at many of Destin’s beaches adds to the convenience, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.

5. 8. Parasailing

6. Parasailing in Destin offers an unmatched opportunity to experience the beauty of the Emerald Coast from a breathtaking aerial perspective. This popular activity combines the thrill of flight with the serene beauty of the ocean, providing families, couples, and adventurers with a memorable experience. Imagine gently lifting off from the deck of a boat and soaring up into the sky, where the hustle and bustle of the beach fade away, leaving only the sound of the wind and the panoramic views of Destin’s sparkling waters and sandy shores.
7. Parasailing is not just an activity; it’s an opportunity to witness the Gulf of Mexico and its surrounding beauty in a way that few other experiences can offer, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Destin.

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1. 9. Maximum Magic Show

2. The Maximum Magic Show, hosted at HarborWalk Theater in Destin, offers an evening of enchantment and amusement that captivates audiences of all ages. Featuring the incredible talents of illusionists Noah and Heather Wells, the show combines mind-bending magic, comedy, and interactive audience participation, making it a standout attraction in Destin’s entertainment scene.
4. The duo’s chemistry and charm enhance the experience, creating a memorable night out for families, couples, and groups. Whether making objects disappear, reading minds, or executing sophisticated illusions, Noah and Heather ensure that each performance is filled with wonder and surprises, leaving audiences baffled and delighted​.

5. 10. Sandcastle Lessons on The Beach

6. Sandcastle lessons on the beach in Destin transform a simple beach activity into an extraordinary experience for families, groups, and individuals alike. These lessons offer a unique opportunity to learn the art of sandcastle building from professional sand sculptors who share techniques and secrets that go far beyond the basic bucket and shovel creations.
8. Participants are introduced to the tools and methods that can turn a pile of sand into a stunning piece of art, making these lessons fun and a creative and educational experience. The joy of watching a mound of sand turn into a detailed castle, complete with towers, walls, and moats, under the guidance of an expert, is unmatched. It’s an activity that combines outdoor fun with a touch of creativity, suitable for all ages and skill levels.

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Conclusion

Destin has something for every family member to enjoy, from thrilling adventures in the air or on the water to engaging with marine life and enjoying the beautiful beaches. Whether you’re exploring the Village of Baytowne Wharf or parasailing above the ocean, these activities are sure to make your family trip to Destin memorable.

Destin stands out as a family-friendly and budget-conscious vacation destination. Its unparalleled beaches, array of activities, and dining options ensure that families can enjoy a break from the routine and make cherished memories together.