Last Updated on July 23, 2023
Are you looking for the best things to do in Destin, Florida?
Destin is known for its pristine, sugar-sand white beaches and gorgeous Gulf water.
However, did you know that in Destin, you can pretend to be a pirate for a day? Or get up close and personal with some alligators?
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Top Things To Do In Destin, FL
Check out this list of nine fun things to do in Destin: family-friendly and tons of fun.
Chill Out on Crab Island
Crab Island is visible from the bridge linking Ft. Walton Beach to Destin. More of a sandbar and not an actual island, Crab Island is an absolute must when visiting Destin.
This popular family-friendly spot is free. You only need a boat, jet ski, or waterski access.
You can spend hours floating on crystal clear water while the kids play with inflatable waterslides at the Crab Island Adventure Tour.
Bring a cooler, but there are vendors if you forget or are low on space, like if you arrive via jet ski.
Bring cash, and be aware that they do not sell alcoholic beverages. Some say the high tide is the best time to go.
You may want to go to this place multiple times to determine how to have the best experience.
Learn more about Crab Island.
Take a Buccaneer Pirate Cruise
Ahoy, matey! Ever wanted to take a cruise on a pirate ship? Check out the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise.
The captain and mates entertain you for the 1.5-2 hour cruise with singing, dancing, and other fun activities like sword fighting, water gun battles, and authentic cannon fire.
There’s also a bar on board to whet any whistle after a long day of pirating.
All ages are welcome, and ticket prices range from $1-43 depending on age. Military discounts are also offered.
Buccaneer Pirate Cruise Address: 100 Harbor Blvd Unit B, Destin, FL 32541
Looking for other pirate adventures around the Sunshine State? Check out the Best Pirate Tours in Florida.
Explore Gator Beach
Gator Beach advertises itself as “The World’s Greatest Alligator Park .” It’s part of Fudpucker’s Bar and Grill, so if you go for lunch, you can stay and hang out with the gators.
However, if you want an up-close and personal experience with the alligators, you may book a VIP pass and spend the day with the Gator Team.
As part of the team, you’ll get to help open the park for the day, learn how the alligators are cared for, and help feed baby alligators.
Gator Beach Address: 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541
Check out these 8 Florida Alligator Parks You Won’t Want to Miss
Visit the Destin History and Fishing Museum
Want to learn more about Destin’s history while you’re in town? This museum covers the city’s history since its inception as a little fishing village in the 1830s.
An exhibit covers 100 feet of wall space that depicts the Gulf floor.
Fishing buffs love antique fishing rods and reels. There’s even a reel belonging to the famous writer Ernest Hemingway.
Destin History & Fishing Museum Address: 108 Stahlman Ave, Destin, FL 32541
Have you heard of Time Travelers Network? Check out these 32 Florida Museums.
Experience Uncle Buck’s FishBowl and Grill
This is a different kind of bowling experience — Uncle Buck’s has a nautical theme with sharks, mermaids, and many kinds of fish.
The lanes are designed to look like docks, and the theme isn’t just on the lanes; it’s on the ceiling, too, giving you the complete feel of bowling underwater.
The menu is pretty simple, featuring snacks, pizza, and a kids’ menu. And there are cocktails for the adults if they feel a bit peckish after a few rounds of bowling.
Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill Address: 4251 Legendary Dr, Destin, FL 32541
Book a Ride on Cattywampus Catamaran Cruises
If you’ve never ridden on a catamaran, this would be a fun experience. Cattywampus offers snorkeling, swimming, and dolphin cruises in Destin and Fort Walton Beach.
The catamaran provides a canopy for shade on the cruise, with plenty of room to move around.
Because the boat is lower to the water than others, the close-up views of bottlenose dolphins are incredible.
They also offer kiddo activities, including hula-hoops, water gun fights, and hermit crab races. They offer a variety of cruises to fit any interest and schedule.
Cattywampus Catamaran Cruise Address: The Gulf Restaurant, 1284 Marler Ave, Okaloosa Island, FL 32548
Shop at Fort Walton Beach Flea Market
Had all the fun in the sun you can handle for a day or two? Feeling a little bit sunburnt? Then, drive over the bridge to Fort Walton and check out the Fort Walton Beach Flea Market.
This market features over fifty vendors selling everything from books, clothing, and art.
It may be the perfect way to pick up funky new pieces for your home without shopping in souvenir shops. It’s air-conditioned and has food and drink vendors.
It’s also interesting to note that a portion of each sale supports a local wildlife refuge. You can contribute to the local environment while shopping.
Fort Walton Beach Flea Market Address: 125 Eglin Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Eat at the Original Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant
Do not miss the original Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant if you love authentic seafood shacks.
The menu includes grilled and fried baskets (fish, shrimp, sea scallops, or chicken), sandwiches, salads, steamers, and homemade desserts. They will also cook your catch.
Located on Choctawhatchee Bay, it’s one of those places you order at the counter, and they deliver it to your table.
You can dine outside on picnic tables located on the dock.
You’ll have a great view of Crab Island and may even spot a Pirate Ship and/or dolphins.
Original Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant Address: 9 Calhoun Ave, Destin, FL 32541
Drink & Dine at McGuire’s Irish Pub
The green double-decker bus with mannequins is an attention grabber. One step into this 500-seat pub and experience that ‘Turn of the Century New York Irish Saloon’ feel.
It’s such a great place to enjoy dinner and live Irish entertainment. Don’t miss the daily lunch specials (available from 11 am to 3 pm) that include Shepherd’s Pie, meatloaf, fish and chips.
McGuire’s Irish Pub Address: 33 US-98 E, Destin, FL 32541
If fishing is your thing, don’t miss this article: Best Fishing Spots in Destin.
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