Six Facts About Destin, You Might Not Know
While Destin may be one of Florida’s most popular tourist destinations, how much do you really know about the ‘World’s Luckiest Fishing Village’? Here are six facts you probably didn’t know about your favorite vacation spot!
1. Destin is named after the fishing captain who settled here between 1845-1850, Leonard Destin.
Captain Leonard Destin first settled in the area from New London, Connecticut. Moreover, his descendants inhabited the Emerald coast for decades. Additionally, some of the architecture in Destin is still reflective of its New England roots. Did you know this fact about Destin?
2. Destin actually used to be an island.
Today, Destin is located on the peninsula in between the Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. However, the peninsula used to stand alone as its own island before hurricanes changed the landscape over time.
3. The white sand is really ground quartz crystal from the Appalachian Mountains.
Everyone wonders how the sand on our beaches is so white. Interestingly enough, it’s actually finely ground quartz crystal from the Appalachian Mountains. Who knew Crystal Beach had such an accurate name? This is one of our favorite facts about Destin!
4. Crab Island Isn’t an Island
Crab Island is a sandbar located on the north side of the Destin Bridge at the southern entrance of Choctawhatchee Bay. You may have noticed this piece of paradise while driving over the Destin bridge, where boats gather and visitors spend all day in the sun! Drop anchor on the outskirts of the sandbar and enjoy a day of fishing, snorkeling, rafting, or zipping down the inflatable slide. In addition, Crab Island is completely free to visit!
5. Destin didn’t become an official city until 1984.
Even though people had been vacationing and living in the area since 1845, the city didn’t actually become a city until 1984.
6. Destin’s actual community is pretty tiny.
Despite the fact that Destin is the most popular tourist destination on the Emerald Coast, not a lot of people actually live here year-round. In fact, the estimated population is only 14,247, making it a pretty small town.
In addition to the town’s beautiful beaches, stunning homes, and laid-back atmosphere, it also has a pretty rich history. Now you know a little bit more about the place so many people call “paradise.”
