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Summer is the perfect time to visit Destin, as there are simply TONS of fun summer activities you can enjoy during your vacation. Read on, as we explore 10 of the best summer activities in Destin to enjoy with your little ones!
1. Crab Island
Crab Island is an underwater island just North of the Destin Bridge.
Now featuring floating restaurants, bars, and even a floating playground, you won’t run out of fun new things to experience while wading in waste-deep water for hours this summer. Visitors can relax and spend the whole day anchored at crab island and enjoying the water, sun, and all of the activities that Crab Island has to offer.
The only way to get there is by boat, so make sure to book yours well in advance to secure a spot on one of the most sought-after destinations on the coast!
Check out some of these local pontoon boat rental companies to book your boat in advance:
2. Jet Skiing
The Gulf may be too choppy for jet skis, but Choctawhatchee Bay and the Destin Harbor are perfect places to rip and ride on some jet ski’s and enjoy your summer! Ride around with dolphins in the Destin Harbor and enjoy views from the best spot in town — on the water!
Jet ski’s can be rented at the Harbor or at any of the following rental companies, but it’s first-come first-serve, so be sure to book your rental in advance.
3. Kayaking and Paddle Boarding
Destin and 30A are full of places perfect for enjoying the great outdoors, and kayaking and paddle boarding can be fun activities for kids and parents alike.
Whether you’re looking for a calm summer day in the Gulf, or take to the many dune lakes located on 30A, the scenery is sure to be exceptional! Take a calm, serene trip on the water and enjoy the view. Kayak with friends or go solo. The possibilities are endless!
Check out some of these rental companies to book your kayak or paddle board in advance and lock in your adventure:
4. Big Kahuna’s Water Park
Big Kahuna’s Water Park is a local staple! Located right in the center of Destin, this newly renovated attraction features a lazy river, kids play area, and waterslides galore! Looking for a dry adventure? Check out the adventure park with tropical mini golf and a slingshot ride to take to up high and view the city from above. You can even grab a delicious meal at one of the Big Kahuna’s restaurants when you need a break.
Guests can purchase tickets at the park or purchase them ahead of time online here. You and your children will have the time of your lives at Big Kahuna’s.
5. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Take the whole family on a marine adventure at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park! Study tropical fish, experience amazing dolphin and seal shows, and let the kids get their hands on some sanddollars and starfish in the interactive pools. Other marine life include sea lions, penguins, and stingrays! Guests can host birthday parties or pay for animal encounters including swimming with dolphins. Not only can visitors experience all of the animal interaction that the Gulfarium has to offer, but since this hotspot is Gulf front, you can head out for a beach day right after! Local eateries are also within walking distance, making this the perfect event for any day out. Buy tickets online ahead of time as they go fast!
6. The Track
Race or game your way to the number one spot at The Track in Destin! This family-friendly go-kart track and arcade combo has something for everyone including a small child area with rides galore, a full arcade, a ferris wheel, and multiple adventure activities like go-karting, swinging, and bumper cars! You can also grab some food here to recharge your batteries before getting back out there!
Set aside an entire day and get your game on and play all of the games The Track has to offer!
7. Sandcastle Lessons
You read that right! Did you know that you can book actual sandcastle building lessons? Our area has local businesses that are experts in the architecture of magnificent works of art created right here on the beach. Guests can build their own masterpiece for photographic memories to look at later in life and you get to see the look on your family’s face as they create beautiful artistry with their hands while spending quality time with the family. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach and you can make an entire day out of this activity.
See below for some companies to book with in advance as spots go fast!
8. Parasailing
Parasailing is one of the best ways to see Destin from above, but this bucket-list activity is certainly not for the faint of heart. If you enjoy heights and gorgeous views, than this one is for you! Take a trip high in the sky with a parachute strapped to you while a boat pulls you around the Gulf of Mexico!
Here, you can view the entire local area, including the city and beaches, as well as the marine life below! While the sound of being up so high might sound frightening, the views and the experience are truly breathtaking (in a good way). Here are some local spots to book for a parasailing trip if you’re feeling brave!
9. Helicopter Rides
Another high-flying adventure that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping is a helicopter ride above Destin! Take a few brave friends with you and enjoy the views from above while getting the experience of a lifetime. You can go during the day, or choose a sunset tour and watch as the sun sets over the beautiful emerald waters of Destin. If you can stomach the ride, this activity is a MUST!
10. Beach Days Galore
We can’t forget the most obvious activity for the whole family and that’s just a trip to the beach! Our beaches here are among the most beautiful beaches in the world. With white sand and crystal-clear waters, the view alone is enough to instantly relax the mind and body. Bring your chairs and umbrella (or rent some on-site), read books, and basically spend the whole day taking in the fresh salty air and dipping in the emerald waters to cool off.
Along our roads are plenty of beach stores with toys, souvenirs and anything else you may need for a successful beach day. Take a quick stroll to any of the Gulf front restaurants for a quick bite to eat or grab some fro-yo or ice cream on those extra hot days. You can never go wrong with a beach trip! After all, isn’t that what vacation is all about?
Summer Safety and Enjoyment Ideas: Make Your Destin Adventure One to Remember
There are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind during your Destin summer vacation. These tips will help you and your kids have the best time possible and avoid accidents:
- Make food part of the fun. Definitely make sure your kids get nutritious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but leave time for treats and snacks like ice cream and roasted marshmallows too!
- Don’t forget the sunscreen! Florida’s summer sun can be brutal, so make sure your kids slather on the SPF.
- Consider an educational activity during your vacation. Summer is supposed to be fun, but there are plenty of fun educational activities you could enjoy. For example, you could build in a little time to complete fun projects or complete a scavenger hunt on the beach.
- Emphasize beach and water safety with your children. Whether your kids are strong swimmers or not, it is vital that you teach them to stay safe around the water.
- Make a list of summer beach ideas beforehand. Time always flies when you’re having fun with your little ones, so spend some time brainstorming and jot down every fun idea you have.
Fun Summer Activities in Destin: Your Adventure Awaits!
If you’re looking for a short getaway during the summer, check out some of our amazing rentals with lower nightly minimums during peak season! Contact us today to schedule your rental!
