While most people visit Destin for the beach, that’s not all this town has to offer. Between the attractions, shops, restaurants, and more, there are tons of fun things you can do in Destin that don’t involve the beach. Check out some of our favorite non-beach related activities in Destin, Florida.
1. Crab Island
While still located in The Gulf of Mexico, Crab Island is technically not the beach. Visitors travel from all over the world to experience a day in the emerald waters on the sand bar– also known as Crab Island. Rent a pontoon charter for the day and kick back, relax, and explore crab island!
2. HarborWalk Village
HarborWalk Village is an action packed destination for days and evenings away from the beach. For those who still want to be on the water, away from the crowded beaches– paddleboard, kayak, pontoon, and jet-ski rentals are all available from the HarborWalk. Dolphin cruises, pirate-ship excursions, and world-class fishing options are also located on the Harbor! Not to mention, HarborWalk Village is a one stop destination for live music, weekly firework shows, events, and delicious food options. You can check out their calendar of events here: HarborWalk Village Event Calendar
3. Dine Local
Escape the chain restaurants and dine out at a local Destin restaurant while in town. Destin is known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” so it is no surprise that the seafood in Destin is incredible. Restaurants like Boshamps offer waterfront dining with incredible seafood and oysters. Plus, the environment is family friendly!
4. Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park
Big Kahunas Adventure Park officially opened up for the season on March 12th and the water park will follow with the opening day on April 16th. If you’re looking for a fun activity that involves swimming without the sand and waves, Big Kahuna’s is the perfect beach alternative. Big Kahuna’s is the largest waterpark on the Emerald Coast. The waterpark has over 40 different water play areas, tons of waterslides, and a lazy river. The Adventure park on the other hand offers tropical mini golf, a sky coaster, and the Honolulu Half Pipe. Between the kiddie areas and thrilling rides, Big Kahuna’s is sure to have something for everyone in your party!
5. The Track
For an adventurous day out in Destin- The Track is a great and exciting option for families. With five Go-Kart Tracks, two Mini Golf Courses, Blaster Boats, Bumper Cars, Kids Country Rides, the high flying SkyFlyer, the spinning Hurricane 360, and Fat Daddy’s Arcade, there is something for all ages at this amusement park!
6. Destin Laser Tag
Destin Laser Tag is the perfect place to check out if it’s raining or simply too hot to be outside. With a 4000 sq. ft. laser tag maze accommodating up to 40 people at once, Destin Laser Tag is the perfect indoor activity to try out. In addition to the laser tag maze, Destin Laser Tag also features Destin’s only indoor, air-conditioned, blacklight mini golf course as well as an arcade. Between the laser tag, mini-golf, and arcade games, there’s something for everyone at Destin Laser Tag!
7. Escapology
Escape Rooms are one of the nation’s newest trends. Rain or shine, Escapology is the perfect group activity to check out in Destin. Escapology is open every day from 1 pm to 10 pm and visitors can choose from a variety of different games to play that all involve finding clues, solving puzzles, and picking locks in order to escape from the room. Rooms accommodate up to six people, which makes Escapology a great activity for families visiting the area. You can book your game here!
All in all, while the beaches in Destin are beautiful, there’s actually a lot more to do here. From the Emerald Coast’s largest waterpark to luxury spas, Destin has a lot to offer. Be sure to check out these fun activities in Destin that don’t involve the beach the next time you’re in town. Start planning your next trip today!
8. Rock Out Climbing Gym
Rock Out Climbing Gym is a bouldering gym in Destin that’s fun for all ages. No ropes or harnesses are required, so you don’t need to worry about anything but climbing. This is not only the perfect rainy day alternative to the beach but also a great activity for anyone looking for something new and fun to try while they’re in town. Adult day passes are just $16 and kid day passes are only $10.
