A Family Day Out in Destin

Begin your day with a visit to the Destin History and Fishing Museum. Visitors will see antique fishing equipment, prize fish caught in the area, and more. Learn about life in Destin before electricity and see the oldest seine fishing boat still in existence.

Address: 108 Stahlman Avenue
Phone: 850.837.6611
Hours of Operation: Tues.-Sat. 10am to 4pm
Admission: Adult $5; Seniors & Military $4; Children $3; Children under 6 Free

Take an early afternoon dolphin cruise with Olin Marler Charter cruises. The narrated tour will tell you a little bit about the Destin Harbor and if luck is on your side, you will spot numerous dolphins frolicking in the water. Dolphin and fishing cruises run several times daily. The cabin is air conditioned/heated and snacks are available for purchase. Reservations recommended.

Address: 102 B Highway 98 East
Phone: 850.654.7113
Hours of Operation: Sailing times vary
Admission: Adult $25; Seniors (60+) $20; Child Ages 4-12 $13.50; Child Ages 3 and under Free; Fishing charter prices vary

If you have had enough of the beach, spend the afternoon sliding down water slides, floating in a lazy river and splashing in the pools. When you are done playing in the water, head over to the Adventure Park to play mini golf or drive the racecars. You could certainly spend all day here and, for the price you will pay, you might want to. However, your time might be limited, weather might be bad or the kids might just tire out quickly. If you want to spend more time at the beach, then skip this Point of Interest and head to Henderson Beach State Park (POI #5).

Address: 1007 US Highway 98 East
Phone: 850.837.8319
Hours of Operation: Hours vary throughout summer season. See website for hours.
Admission: Over 48" Water Park Admission $36.99; Under 48" Water Park Admission $29.99; Senior - Water Park Admission $29.99 (Available only at the gate); Ages 2 and under are free; Adventure park admission varies by activity

The Destin Commons is a great place to grab a late lunch or early dinner. Along with shops and restaurants, there is a small playground, a splash fountain and a small train that gives rides throughout the center. There are plenty of restaurant choices including Hard Rock Cafe, Johnny Rockets, Redbrick Pizza and more.

Address: 4300 Legendary Dr
Phone: 850.337.8700
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm; Sun 11am-7pm

Henderson Beach State Park is a gorgeous stretch of beach that is part of the Florida state park system. Camping is available. Visitors can fish, swim or go for a walk. There are picnic areas and a playground for the children. While you are visiting the park look for the different wildlife including dolphins, sea turtles, fish and birds.

Address: 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway
Phone: 850.837.7550
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 8am to sundown
Admission: $6.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle

Once you have worn the family out, make the fifteen minute drive (longer during peak tourist season) down Highway 98 to the Village of Baytowne Wharf. The Village is a wonderful way to close out the day. If you are hungry, choose from seafood, pizza, or BBQ. You could skip dinner and go straight to ice cream, snoballs, or candy for dessert. The Baytowne Adventure Zone will keep the kids occupied with its zip line, ropes course, tower climb, Euro Bungy and playground.

Address: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W
Phone: 850.441.2776
Hours of Operation: Daily 10am to 11pm