Things to Do in Destin, Florida with Kids

Destin, Florida may have a reputation as a party spot for spring breakers, but this city on the Florida Panhandle is actually brimming with kid-friendly activities. Families love the impeccably clean and clear waters of the "Emerald Coast," the unofficial nickname for the 100-mile stretch of beach along the Gulf of Mexico. Yet, the fun doesn't stop at the sand. The greater Destin, Florida area offers plenty in the way of interactive museums, amusement parks, animal adventures, and great restaurants, making it a go-to Florida vacation destination for those with children in tow.

1. Hit the Beach: Travel along Highway 30-A in Florida and you will see mile after mile of beautiful coastline. Not all beaches are public, however, so pick your spot wisely. My family loves the white sands of Miramar Beach in Destin and Ed Walline Beach in Santa Rosa Beach. Both offer free parking, though it is limited. Your best bet is to head out early.

2. Go on a Little Adventure: Destin-Fort Walton Beach offers FREE, expert-led classes at three outposts for kids of all ages and skill levels. Fishing, surfing, and snorkeling are just some of the fun offerings available.

3. Snorkel in Destin's Artificial Reefs: There are more than 100 man-made reefs in the greater Destin area, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Destin jetties, located next to the Harbor Walk Village shopping center, is perhaps the city's most famous location. Visitors have reported seeing sea turtles, crabs, and even an occasional manatee here.

4. Boat for the Day: Island Watersports has a fleet of pontoons, some with double-decker slides, available for four-, six-, or eight-hour rentals. On your day on the water, you might get lucky and see a manatee! There are several locations to pull the boats up to the beach or anchor nearby to snorkel and swim in the surf.

5. Ride on a Pirate Ship: The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is sure to delight your little swashbucklers. Expect plenty of lively entertainment aboard the 100-foot vessel, from pirate stories and face painting to treasure hunts and water-gun battles.

6. Big Kahuna's Water Park: Open March through Labor Day, Big Kahuna's is a Tiki-themed water park with 40 different rides, slides, and pools. Older kids love the Kowabunga Racer, a 4-lane drag strip plunging five stories downhill. Little ones enjoy Buccaneer Cove, a giant splash pad with a pirate motif.

7. The Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island: With restaurants, shopping, and public beach access, this boardwalk has something for everyone. Plus, there's a weekly fireworks show on Okaloosa Island each Wednesday.

8. Experience Nature at the Jolee Island Nature Park: This five-acre nature preserve is perfect for a family hike. There's a pirate-themed playground for children and picnic areas for a quiet outdoor lunch.

9. Visit Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill: This underwater-themed restaurant and bowling alley is a unique experience that will surely amuse the kids.

10. Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park: This marine park offers interactive exhibits and encounters with dolphins, sea lions, turtles, and more. Kids will love learning about marine biology and conservation through hands-on experiences.

11. Go Fishing at the Destin Harbor Boardwalk: Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village", Destin offers plenty of fishing opportunities. Charter a boat or fish off the pier and let your kids experience the thrill of catching their own dinner.

12. Explore the Track Family Fun Park: With bumper cars, mini golf, go-karts, and a kids' country for the little ones, this park is jam-packed with activities for families.

13. Set Sail on a Dolphin Cruise: Many local companies offer dolphin-watching tours, which are sure to delight children of all ages. You may even spot some other marine life!

14. Discover the Destin History & Fishing Museum: Engage with local history and learn about Destin's fishing industry through exhibits featuring vintage photos, antique fishing equipment, and preserved sea creatures.

Destin, Florida offers a vast array of enjoyable activities for families and children of all ages. From its stunning beaches to its interactive museums and amusement parks, this city is a treasure trove of fun waiting to be discovered. Take advantage of the area's natural beauty with a trip to the beach, a snorkeling adventure among the city's artificial reefs, or a boat trip on the clear waters of the Gulf. Get your adrenaline pumping at Big Kahuna's Water Park, or embark on a pirate adventure aboard the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise. For a more relaxed experience, visit the Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island, or enjoy the natural beauty of the Jolee Island Nature Park. And don't forget to top off your day with a fun and unique dining experience at Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill. With so much to see and do, Destin, Florida is indeed a great vacation destination for families.