Destin residents can access beautiful beaches with sparkling white sand and emerald-green waters. Explore the water by kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling to experience marine life. Discover your ideal beach paradise by checking homes for sale in Destin, including condos, cottages, and luxury homes, offering stunning ocean views and the perfect place to settle down. Here are some exciting activities you can enjoy in this city:
Things to do in Destin: Discover local hangouts
The beaches attract numerous tourists, but there are several local spots where you can eat, drink, and socialize with locals. Try breakfast or brunch at Another Broken Egg Cafe, Mezcal Mexican Grill, or Sunnyside Cafe. Check out local favorites like The Funky Flamingo or La Paz for laidback lunches; when it’s time for sunset and drinks, head to popular hangouts like Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, Boat House Oyster Bar or Dewey Destin’s Harborside. Cheer on sports teams at Tailfins Alehouse on weekends for beers and wings, fostering a sense of community and familiarity.
Explore less-visited areas
Take advantage of the area’s abundant nature, parks, and attractions. Drive less than an hour north to hike or mountain bike at Point Washington State Forest or camp and kayak around Eden Gardens State Park. Go birdwatching in the Choctawhatchee Bay area or take a day trip to Deer Lake State Park. Enjoy the walking paths and scenic views at James Lee Park or Morgan Sports Center & Destin Sports Complex in Destin. Take a class at one of the area’s many pottery or painting studios. Discover the community’s hidden gems to help you appreciate everything the city offers.
Support local businesses
One great way to get to know a community is by supporting locally-owned businesses, from restaurants to shops, farms, and craftspeople. Seek out farmers’ markets to buy from regional food producers and artisans. Frequent the area’s family-run restaurants like Old Bay Steamer instead of chains. Check out boutiques like Frill Seekers Gifts or SoZo Kids Destin that offer unique wares. Buy local art from studios like Artful Things or J.Leon Gallery + Studio. Destin offers local music and theater venues like the Mattie Kelly Arts Center for night outs, fostering connections with business owners and shaping the local business landscape, making it feel more like home.
Destin real estate
Destin’s real estate market is driven by second-home buyers and investors seeking beachfront properties or condos with gulf views. Home prices in Destin are among the highest in the Florida Panhandle, with the median sale price around $650,000. New construction and development continue at a rapid pace to meet demand. The Destin real estate market is strong, and inventory remains low due to high demand from buyers needing a piece of paradise.
Living in Destin
Destin residents enjoy spending time at the beach, boating, fishing, and participating in water sports. The cost of living is high but worth the laidback lifestyle. There’s always something to do, from beach bars and seafood restaurants to water parks and shopping. Destin offers a picturesque slice of beach life.