The 37+ Top Things To Do In Destin Florida With Kids You Can’t Miss (2024)

Destin, Florida is a popular destination for families looking to enjoy a fun-filled vacation by the beach. With its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundance of family-friendly attractions, there is no shortage of things to do in this charming coastal town. From thrilling water sports and outdoor adventures to interactive museums and local eateries, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Destin. In this guide, we have compiled a list of the 37+ best things to do in Destin, Florida with kids, ensuring that your family will have a memorable and exciting experience in this beautiful beachside paradise.

Top 37+ Things To Do In Destin Florida With Kids

1. Visit Henderson Beach State Park – Enjoy the white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters at this beautiful state park.

2. Go on a dolphin cruise – Take a boat tour to see dolphins in their natural habitat.

3. Visit Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park – Enjoy water slides, lazy rivers, and other fun activities at this popular water park.

4. Explore the Destin Harbor Boardwalk – Take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy shops, restaurants, and live entertainment.

5. Go fishing – Destin is known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing excursions.

6. Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park – See dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals up close at this marine park.

7. Go on a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure – Explore the underwater world of Destin with a guided diving excursion.

8. Visit the Destin History and Fishing Museum – Learn about the history of Destin and its fishing industry at this museum.

9. Go paddleboarding or kayaking – Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the tranquil waters of Destin Bay.

10. Visit the Emerald Coast Science Center – Explore hands-on exhibits and interactive displays at this science center.

11. Play mini-golf – Have a friendly competition with your kids at one of Destin’s many mini-golf courses.

12. Go parasailing – Soar high above the Gulf of Mexico with a thrilling parasailing adventure.

13. Visit the Track Family Fun Park – Enjoy go-kart racing, bumper boats, and other fun activities at this amusem*nt park.

14. Explore the Destin Harbor – Take a walk along the harbor and watch the boats come in and out.

15. Go beachcombing – Search for seashells and other treasures along the beautiful beaches of Destin.

16. Visit the Air Force Armament Museum – Learn about the history of aviation and military weapons at this museum.

17. Go on a sunset cruise – Enjoy a picturesque sunset over the Gulf of Mexico while on a relaxing cruise.

18. Visit the Village of Baytowne Wharf – Explore shops, restaurants, and live entertainment at this charming waterfront village.

19. Go on a zip line adventure – Experience the thrill of zip lining through the treetops at a local adventure park.

20. Visit the Silver Sands Premium Outlets – Shop for discounted designer brands at this popular outlet mall.

21. Go on a deep-sea fishing charter – Spend a day out on the open water fishing for big game fish like marlin and tuna.

22. Visit the Destin Commons – Shop, dine, and catch a movie at this outdoor shopping center.

23. Go on a helicopter tour – See Destin from a bird’s eye view with a thrilling helicopter tour.

24. Visit the Destin Library – Check out books, attend storytime events, and participate in other educational activities at the local library.

25. Go on a horseback riding adventure – Explore the beaches or trails of Destin on horseback with a guided ride.

26. Visit the Mattie Kelly Arts Center – Enjoy concerts, plays, and other performances at this cultural center.

27. Go on a bike ride – Rent bikes and explore the scenic trails and paths of Destin.

28. Visit the Okaloosa Island Pier – Go fishing, enjoy a stroll, or watch the sunset at this historic pier.

29. Go on a sailing excursion – Relax on a sailboat cruise and enjoy the serene waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

30. Visit the Destin Dog Park – Bring your furry friend to this dog park for some off-leash fun.

31. Go on a banana boat ride – Hold on tight as you ride a banana boat across the waves of the Gulf.

32. Visit the Destin History and Nature Center – Learn about the wildlife and ecosystems of Destin at this educational center.

33. Go on a seafood tasting tour – Sample fresh seafood dishes at the many restaurants and eateries in Destin.

34. Visit the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge – See rescued and rehabilitated animals at this wildlife refuge.

35. Go on a pirate cruise – Embark on a swashbuckling adventure with a themed pirate cruise for kids.

36. Visit the Destin Seafood Festival – Attend this annual festival featuring live music, arts and crafts, and, of course, delicious seafood.

37. Go on a scavenger hunt – Explore Destin with a fun and educational scavenger hunt for the whole family.

Our Recommendation

When visiting Destin, Florida with kids, there are plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Some recommended things to do include visiting the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, exploring Henderson Beach State Park, taking a dolphin cruise, enjoying water sports at Crab Island, and playing mini-golf at one of the many courses in the area. Additionally, families can relax on the beautiful beaches, go shopping at HarborWalk Village, or indulge in delicious seafood at local restaurants. With so many options, there is sure to be something to please every member of the family in Destin.