Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin offers pristine beaches, plenty of outdoor activities near Choctawhatchee Bay, shopping at Destin Commons, and local attractions such as Henderson Beach State Park and the Destin History & Fishing Museum.
But did you know there are also many fantastic day trips from Destin that you shouldn’t miss?
Destin is my favorite city in the Florida Panhandle and what makes it so great is all the things to do nearby, too!
From charming coastal towns to state parks, these Destin day trips in the Florida panhandle will add extra fun and adventure to your Florida vacation.
In this post, we look at the best places for day trips from Destin Florida.
Grayton Beach State Park, Florida
For a peaceful escape from the bustle of Destin, head to Grayton Beach State Park. This beautiful state park offers plenty of activities to enjoy.
Spend the day relaxing on the sugar-white sand beach and taking a dip in the warm Gulf waters.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the waters of Western Lake. Or hit the trails for some hiking or biking adventures.
Additional outdoor activities include wildlife viewing, camping, and fishing in the nearby coastal dune lake.
You can hop in the car and take a 4-mile scenic drive through the park and also make your way to the charming town of Grayton Beach.
Distance from Destin: 23 miles
Okaloosa Island, Florida
The barrier island of Okaloosa Island boasts pristine beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
It’s a great place to spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the clear waters, or trying water sports like parasailing or jet skiing.
Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park to interact with dolphins and other marine animals.
At this location, you’re less than one mile from the Indian Temple Mound Museum. And Fort Walton Beach is just 2.5 miles away.
And you’ll find great local seafood at the island’s popular restaurants.
Distance from Destin: 6.4 miles
Seaside, Florida
Seaside, Florida, is a charming coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of things to do.
Stroll through the iconic pastel-colored houses and browse the unique boutiques and art galleries. Then head to Seaside’s pristine beach for some sunbathing and swimming.
For food, check out the Seaside Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce and local goods. And for lunch, grab a delicious bite from one of Seaside’s many food trucks or restaurants.
End your day with a relaxing sunset walk along the beach and take in the charming sights of this picturesque town.
Distance from Destin: 24.4 miles
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores, Alabama, is popular with beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a place to enjoy quality time.
Spend your day soaking up the sun on the white sandy beaches or dip in the warm Gulf waters.
If you’re feeling adventurous, dolphin cruises will let you get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures.
You can also rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the calm waters of the Gulf Coast.
For family-friendly fun, visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, home to over 600 exotic animals, including lemurs, kangaroos, and tigers.
History lovers may want to drive over the Pensacola Beach Toll Bridge to visit nearby Fort Pickens.
And no trip to Gulf Shores is complete without trying fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants. You’ll find delicious dishes from oysters to shrimp that satisfy any seafood craving.
Distance from Destin: 80 miles
Want to know more about Gulf Shores? Check out this blog post.👇
Pensacola, Florida
Pensacola is a historic city with plenty to offer for a day trip. Start your day by exploring Pensacola Bay and taking in the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Then, head to downtown Pensacola to visit the National Naval Aviation Museum to see over 150 restored aircraft and learn about the history of naval aviation.
Next, go to the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum for stunning views from the top of the lighthouse and a glimpse into its rich history.
Try some delicious seafood at one of Pensacola’s many waterfront restaurants for lunch.
Afterward, head to Pensacola Beach for relaxation on the white sandy beaches or try water activities like snorkeling or diving.
You also have access to some of the best fishing in the Florida panhandle at Pensacola.
End your day by catching a beautiful sunset over the Gulf and enjoying the vibrant nightlife and live music in downtown Pensacola.
Distance from Destin: 47.5 miles.
Looking for an amazing day tour in Pensacola?
Check out this top-rated boat tour 👉 Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour 🐬
Pier Park- Panama City Beach
Pier Park in Panama City Beach offers all sorts of fun things to do including outdoor shopping and an entertainment complex with various activities for a great time.
Explore the many shops, from popular retailers to unique local boutiques.
The best things to do here include catching a movie at the Grand IMAX theater or enjoying some mini-golf at the Skywheel putt-putt course.
When you get hungry, there are plenty of dining options, including seafood restaurants, burgers, and pizza joints. And there are many sweet treats at the ice cream parlors or candy stores.
The beach is steps away from Pier Park, where you can relax or rent jet skis for water sport adventures.
Distance from Destin: 41.7 miles.
Gulf Breeze, Florida
Gulf Breeze, Florida, is a quaint town located directly across the Pensacola Bay Bridge from Pensacola.
One of the top things to do in Gulf Breeze is at the Gulf Breeze Zoo, where you can see over 900 animals.
For a more active day, head to Shoreline Park for hiking or biking trails, fishing piers, and picnic areas with stunning bay views.
You can also rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm waters of Santa Rosa Sound.
The best way to complete your day out at Gulf Breeze is by visiting one of its many beautiful beaches, such as Gulf Islands National Seashore or Pensacola Beach.
Distance from Destin: 41.5 miles
Navarre Beach, Florida
Navarre Beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing day trip, just a short drive from Destin with plenty of activities and things to do to try.
Start your day by soaking up the sun on the pristine white sandy beach and dipping in the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
For some adventure, head to Navarre Beach Marine Park, where you can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the peaceful waters of Santa Rosa Sound.
You can also try fishing off the Navarre Beach Pier, one of the longest piers on the Gulf Coast.
After a day of fun in the sun, grab a bite to eat at one of Navarre Beach’s many delicious seafood restaurants or enjoy a picnic on the beach while watching a beautiful sunset.
End your day by walking along the beach and admiring the stunning views of this hidden gem on the Gulf Coast.
Distance from Destin: 23.9 miles
Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach is known for its sugar-white beaches and emerald-green waters. It is the ideal spot for soaking up some sun and enjoying various water activities like jet skiing and parasailing.
For those seeking a more laid-back experience, stroll along The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a 15-mile trail system that winds through the natural habitats and scenic lakes of Orange Beach.
Orange Beach is also home to The Wharf, a family-friendly entertainment district featuring restaurants, shopping, and live music events.
Foodies will enjoy trying fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
If you enjoy amazing sunsets, stick around until the evening. Then, continue your day out by enjoying the vibrant nightlife before returning to Destin.
Distance from Destin: 73 miles
Photo credit – Wikimedia
Topsail Hill State Park
Topsail Hill State Park offers a peaceful and scenic escape from the busy beaches.
The park is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse wildlife.
For nature lovers, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and birdwatching along the park’s many trails.
You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the park’s coastal dune lakes and unique ecosystems.
For a relaxing lunch, pack a picnic and enjoy the beach while taking in the stunning views of the Gulf. You can also try fishing from one of the park’s three dune lakes.
End your day by watching a spectacular sunset over the Gulf and roasting marshmallows at one of the park’s fire pits.
Distance from Destin: 13.9 miles.
St. Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This 1,260-acre park boasts stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse ecosystems.
For a day at the beach, head to the Gulf side of the park, where you can soak up some sun on the white sand beaches or swim in the calm waters of the Gulf.
For a more active day, explore one of the park’s hiking or biking trails that wind through various habitats, such as salt marshes and pine flatwoods.
You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore Grand Lagoon, an estuary home to dolphins and other marine life.
End your day by watching a beautiful sunset over the Gulf and enjoying a picnic at one of the park’s many picnic areas.
Distance from Destin: 52.3 miles
Perdido Key
Perdido Key is a barrier island offering stunning white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and many activities to enjoy.
Start your day by exploring the Perdido Key State Park, where you can hike or bike along nature trails and spot various bird species.
Then head to one of the picturesque beaches, such as Johnson Beach or Perdido Key Public Beach, for sunbathing and swimming.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the bay’s calm waters.
End your day by watching a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf and enjoying a seafood dinner at one of Perdido Key’s many waterfront restaurants.
Distance from Destin: 63 miles.
Shell Island Catamaran Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable adventure by taking a Shell Island Catamaran Cruise for a day trip from Destin, Florida.
Cruise to the beautiful Shell Island, a secluded and pristine barrier island accessible only by boat.
As you sail along the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the waves.
Once you reach Shell Island, you can spend your day swimming in the crystal clear waters, exploring the island’s natural beauty, and collecting shells along the shore.
Bring your camera, as your boat ride offers stunning Gulf and Shell Island views, making it a perfect place for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Distance from Destin: 54 miles
Planning on a Shell Island Catamaran Cruise?
Check out this top-rated tour 👉 Shell Island Snorkel And Dolphin Catamaran Cruise With Island Tour 🛥️
Tallahassee
Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, offers a rich history, beautiful parks, and vibrant culture.
Start your day with a visit to the Florida State Capitol building and learn about the state’s political history.
Then, head to one of the city’s many museums, such as the Tallahassee Museum or the Museum of Florida History.
For nature lovers, stroll through one of Tallahassee’s many parks, like Cascades Park or Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, hike to the top of nearby Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park, or visit some of the spectacular beaches nearby and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
For lunch or dinner, try some of Tallahassee’s famous southern cuisine at one of its many restaurants featuring fried chicken and collard greens.
Distance from Destin: 159 miles
Photo credit – Wikimedia
Port St. Joe
For a unique and tranquil day trip from Destin, consider visiting the charming coastal town of Port St. Joe.
Start your day by taking a stroll along the historic downtown area, where you can browse through quaint shops and stop for a coffee or ice cream at one of the local cafes.
For some outdoor fun, head to St. Joseph Peninsula State Park and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking in the Gulf waters.
You can also rent a bike and explore the park’s many trails or try your luck at fishing from the pier.
End your day by watching a gorgeous sunset over the water and indulging in fresh seafood at one of Port St. Joe’s waterfront restaurants.
Distance from Destin: 91.7 miles.
In Conclusion
With so many charming towns and beautiful beaches just a short drive away, there are many options for best day trips from Destin, Florida.
Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, you’ll find many options in this part of Northwest Florida to make memories of your day’s adventure from Destin for the entire family.
Additional Destin Travel Posts
My son and I hanging out at the beach on one of my recent trips to Destin!
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15 Fun Indoor Activities In Destin Florida!
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