Landmarks in Destin

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Destin - Things to do in Destin

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Destin. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

Top Attractions

1. Henderson Beach State Park – A protected natural area with pristine beaches, walking trails, and picnic spots offering a peaceful retreat. 2. Destin Harbor Boardwalk – A lively waterfront area filled with shops, restaurants, and opportunities for dolphin watching and fishing charters. 3. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park – A popular water park featuring slides, lazy rivers, and family-friendly attractions. 4. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park – An interactive marine park showcasing dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life with educational shows. 5. Crab Island – A unique shallow sandbar area accessible by boat, famous for its floating parties, snorkeling, and water sports.

Popular Activities

Visitors to Destin can enjoy a wide range of activities including deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Cultural experiences include visiting local art galleries and attending seasonal festivals. Recreational options extend to golfing at nearby courses and exploring nature trails. Unique experiences include sunset cruises, dolphin watching tours, and sampling fresh seafood at waterfront eateries.

Filter Tours

Activities

Water
Tours
Sports
Cultural

Features

Quality
Special

Other

General

265 Available Tour Excursions in Destin

Free Cancellation
(97 reviews)

Captain Rob Hansill is a Florida native and U.S. Marine (retired). He is the father of two sons and lives in Niceville with his wife of 25 years. Rob holds a Masters endorsement on his Merchant Mariner Credential, Title 46 U.S. Code, and is certified by The United States Coast Guard National Maritime Center. Captain Rob’s passion is to help people find their joy and manage grief. One day on the water can break a cycle of sadness. Families touched by tragedy, cancer-survivors, and combat veterans have priority. Purple Heart recipients and Wounded Warriors fish for free (Please call ahead for coordination). All are welcome for a day “at EASE”.

Price: $500.00

Duration: 4 hours

Book Now
(95 reviews)

B BY THE SEA ADVENTURES lets you choose what is best for your family/crew. There are options for people of all ages. By letting Captain Brittany know your interests, we can furthermore enhance your experience. The boat will have a cooler on board for any food/drinks you want to bring. The cooler will have ice and water bottles for everyone. PLEASE NO GLASS BOTTLES. Broken glass can result in a hazard. The boat is spacious with good amount of storage. Bring a bag for your personal needs (towels, sunscreen, clothes, etc.)

Price: $350.00

Duration: 2 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(81 reviews)

Our cruise is a private tour to see Destin's sunset as you want to see it. We can look for Dolphins, or watch the sunset from classic Destin Locations Crab Island and Norriego Point. Our boat includes a cooler with bottled water and ice so you can bring your favorite drink to relax with. Bluetooth speakers are on board as well so you can be the DJ!

Price: $249.99

Duration: 1 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(60 reviews)

Embark on a premium tiki boat tour with Top Shelf Tikis, where luxury meets relaxation on the water. Our beautifully crafted tiki boat offers a unique experience, complete with a full-service toilet on board, ensuring your comfort throughout the journey. Enjoy a stress-free day as you cruise through picturesque waters, sip your BYOB drinks, and soak in the sun. With attentive service and an inviting atmosphere, our tour provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories with friends and family. Indulge in the ultimate tiki adventure where every detail is designed for your enjoyment!

Price: $59.00

Duration: 1 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(50 reviews)

THE MOST POPULAR BOAT IN DESTIN, FLORIDA: Full of fun! Play Basketball, Ax Throwing, Volleyball, Bra Toss, Football, relax on the hammock, play Frisbee Tipsy Toss & other games. Snorkel the beautiful waters. Try your skills at Paddle Boarding. Work on your tan from our upper deck, or sing Karaoke to Crab Island. We provide a full range of fun & set it all up for you so you can relax and enjoy everything this Back Porch Style Pontoon has to offer. Ice chest & bag of ice included. This is THE ONE BOAT you will want to rent when adventuring to Crab Island. Bring snacks & water. BYOB - No alcohol is sold on Crab Island so BYOB for your trip. No glass containers. Children & babies count in passenger count. 6 passengers total allowed. Children under 6 must wear lifejacket when the boat is in motion. (Not provided by boat. Please bring an appropriately fitted lifejacket for your children under 6)

Price: $419.00

Duration: 6 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(49 reviews)

Experience the difference with your very own PRIVATE dolphin tour as you cruise St Andrews Bay and The Gulf of Mexico on the "Reel Lady". Cruise in comfort as you enjoy a smooth ride out to the Gulf. Enjoy the open back deck or an air conditioned cabin with a private restroom and your own personal guide. Make memories you will forever cherish with your family while on vacation in Panama City Beach. Price is for up to 6 people! Complimentary Drinks and Snacks provided.

Price: $549.00

Duration: 2 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(47 reviews)

Experience Destin and Fort Walton Beach from the water on the newest and largest Double-Decker pontoons on the Emerald Coast! Our 14-person boats are spacious and comfortable, with room for large groups and all your gear, including coolers, towels, bags, and water toys: • Cruise to Crab Island in 15 minutes • Plenty of free parking and a fully stocked ship's store with ice, floats, and any other gear you'll need to have a great day on the water • Enjoy a huge shaded area, two sun decks, two waterslides, and wraparound luxury seating on the lower deck • Fully equipped and ready to go: Bluetooth sound system, two waterslides with reliable “Turbo Pump” hand pumps, a full tank of fuel, and all required Coast Guard safety gear are included with every rental • Trusted by over 65,000 guests each year: Come experience what others have raved about being “literally the best day we have ever had at the beach!”

Price: $529.65

Duration: 4-8 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(33 reviews)

Grab your crew, and hop aboard for our 3 hour excursion to Crab Island! This shallow, crystal clear sandbar is the perfect spot to float, play, relax, celebrate, and create long lasting memories with family & friends. We’ll take from 2 to 6 passengers, so you’ll have plenty of space to relax & have fun on our 22’ luxury pontoon boat. Captain Chuck will find the perfect spot to anchor (middle of the action or a little more chill — your choice, your vibe), so you can either kickback, explore, or party! Destin Bay Hopper has EVERYTHING covered at no extra cost: Floats, Bote Chairs, Lily Pad, Paddle Board, Basketball Hoop, Footballs, Frisbees, Water Blasters, Snorkel Masks, Crab Nets, Cooler/Ice, Water Bottles, & Bluetooth Speaker, & Karaoke Machine! Just bring the essentials: Drinks (BYOB) Food/Snacks, Towel & Sunscreen Our trips depart from the East Dock in Destin, making access to Crab Island easy & convenient. We’ll also watch for dolphins! *USCG licensed vessel & captain

Price: $74.90

Duration: 3 hours

Book Now
(30 reviews)

With a private chartered tour, you can explore Destin like a local! Your captain will be able to take you where you want to go, including places like Crab Island where you can spend the day relaxing in a beautiful sandbar. We have paddle boards, lily pads, and more! Or, you can snorkel or do a dolphin watch while touring the Destin Harbor. NOTE: 2 hour tours DO NOT include Crab Island. Crab Island is closed from November-February.

Price: $999.00

Duration: 2-8 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(28 reviews)

We offer private, all-inclusive, and fully customizable boat cruises accommodating groups of up to 6. Choose your preferred trip duration, and we will accomplish all you wish to do! Whether you’re looking to spend the day at Crab Island, cruise up close and personal with the Dolphins, Snorkel with the real locals, watch the Sunset from the best view in town and even catch the amazing fireworks shows, our born-and-raised local knowledge will ensure that your group's preferences are met in the best way possible with unmatched hospitality! We will have a cooler stocked with ice and water for you to add whatever you wish, along with Stand-Up Paddle Boards, a 10ft BOTE water hammock, Snorkel Gear, a Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker, and a Local Captain to show you the ropes! We suggest you bring what you'd typically like to pack to the beach. *Note* We suggest the 4-hour booking for any trips including Crab Island. Please call with any questions.

Price: $385.00

Duration: 2-8 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(28 reviews)

Choose from 3, 4, or 6 hour Adventures. FunDestin Adventures will take your vacation to the next level here in Destin. We provide options while on your adventure. (Possible dolphin sightings, snorkeling, seashell searching, football, Tipsy Toss game, paddle boarding, float on our floating dock, sight seeing, or just chilling on Crab Island) (All Included) We want everyone to experience everything Destin has to offer. So come along with us and let us show you a great time. Bring Snacks & BYOB, no alcohol is sold on Crab Island. No glass containers. No smoking on the boat. No drugs allowed. No pets allowed. ***Children & babies count in passenger count & only 6 passengers allowed (life jackets not provided for children & children under 7 must wear one when boat is in motion.)*** These are Coast Guard lawn, not a suggestion based on size of persons. If the date you want is not available search title; 'Most POPULAR UNIQUE way to enjoy Crab Island. Best in Destin'

Price: $419.00

Duration: 3 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(27 reviews)

Discover a different side of Destin on a private inshore fishing charter exploring the area's bays, flats, and protected backcountry waterways. While Destin is famous for deep sea fishing, its inshore waters offer a scenic and accessible way to experience Florida's Emerald Coast. Depending on the season and conditions, target redfish, spotted seatrout, flounder, tripletail, sharks, and other coastal species. Your licensed local captain will customize the trip around tides, weather, and current fish activity. What makes Destin inshore fishing unique is the variety of protected water available throughout the bay system. Flats, tributaries, and backcountry areas provide multiple places to explore as conditions change. Combining personalized guidance, diverse fishing opportunities, and beautiful Emerald Coast scenery, this private charter delivers an authentic Destin fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.

Price: $487.50

Duration: 2-4 hours

Book Now
(18 reviews)

This experience stands out thanks to our unique transparent paddle boards, giving you a clear view into the beautiful spring water below as you paddle. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to explore Cypress Springs and truly connect with Florida’s natural beauty. We provide round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable guide to support you throughout the journey, making the adventure smooth and stress-free. This tour is designed for all skill levels you can sit or stand while paddling, so beginners and experienced paddlers alike can feel comfortable. Escape the crowds of Panama City Beach and discover a more natural side of Florida on this unforgettable outdoor eco-adventure.

Price: $110.00

Duration: 3-5 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(13 reviews)

Sit back, relax and experience the beauty of an amazing Destin Sunset. We offer an onboard restroom, great music, blankets for the cool nights and a great crew. Along the way you will see playful dolphins and other marine life, Destin Harbor and the waters of Crab Island. Join us for a night you won't forget!

Price: $45.00

Duration: 1-2 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(12 reviews)

Want to get to Crab Island without all the hassle, traffic or weather concerns? Your Crab Island adventure begins with Destiny Water Adventures aboard one of our state of the art Pontoons. While cruising on the water, keep your eyes open as you may encounter the occasional pod of bottle-nose dolphins. When you arrive, throw anchor and enjoy the Emerald Coast sunshine and turquoise blue water at the world famous Crab Island. Or explore the beautiful surrounding Spoil Islands, Destin Harbor and Destin Bridge. Destiny Water Adventures is the only pontoon rental in the area that gives you access to secluded islands private beaches, and Crab Island and has frequent dolphin sightings. We are also the only ones to offer: * Free Parking * Free Fuel * Free Cooler *

Price: $509.00

Duration: 2-8 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(10 reviews)

Best place to see the sunset in Destin... Right here with FunDestin Adventures. A FunDestin Sunset & Harbor / Bay Cruise Adventure is the best way to end a beautiful evening in Destin. Complementary Snack included. FREE WINE for those 21 & over. No purchase necessary for wine. Cruise around the harbor canals. Experience an Awww inspiring sunset over the water of the Destin Bay. Cruise back into the harbor and view the lights of the Destin harbor and board walk. Possibly see dolphins, sea turtles, & other marine life. ***All Children & babies count as passengers & must have their own ticket. 6 passengers total allowed (life jackets not provided for children & children under 7 must wear one when boat is in motion.)*** If the date you want is not available search FunDestin Adventures for our other options.

Price: $69.00

Duration: 1 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(10 reviews)

Explore the scenic waters of St. Andrews Bay and Shell Island on a private dolphin tour, perfect for families and small groups. Led by a licensed Coast Guard Captain with over 25 years of local experience and has completed over 4000 tours in that time, this tour offers a great opportunity for dolphin spotting, swimming and visiting a secluded beach at Shell Island! Guests can also collect shells and snorkel in the beautiful Gulf waters. Ideal for a fun-filled family outing or a memorable adventure with friends. - Public tour for up to 6 guests, ensuring an intimate experience - Opportunity to swim with dolphins and enjoy beach stops - Includes free parking and restroom facilities - Family-friendly atmosphere with safety measures in place

Price: $71.00

Duration: 2 hours

Book Now
Free Cancellation
(9 reviews)

⭐ Top-Rated Vacation Photoshoots 2025 We’re not just photographers, we’re storytellers capturing your holiday exactly as it feels. With over six years of experience photographing travellers around the world, our small team specialises in authentic, natural photography that truly reflects your trip. In Destin, we combine creativity with local knowledge to show you hidden gems, secret angles, and the best light. You’ll not only get beautiful, professional photos but also insider tips to make the most of your time here. We’re proud to be recognised among the top-rated photography tours of 2025, trusted by travellers worldwide for our relaxed style and stunning results.

Price: $158.05

Duration: 1 hours

Book Now

Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: USD
  • Languages: English, Spanish
  • Climate: Humid Subtropical
  • Timezone: America/Chicago
  • Population: Approximately 14,000 residents
  • Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is from May to September for warm weather and beach activities.
  • Visa Requirements Visitors to Destin, Florida, generally require a valid visa or ESTA authorization depending on their nationality. Citizens from visa waiver countries such as the UK, EU member states, Canada, Australia, and Japan can enter the United States visa-free for tourism or business stays up to 90 days with an approved ESTA. US citizens do not need a visa. Visitors from other countries typically need to apply for a B-2 tourist visa in advance. Visa on arrival is not available. It is important to check the latest US visa policies before travel.

About Destin

Destin, Florida, is a charming coastal city renowned for its stunning white sandy beaches and emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Originally a small fishing village, it has grown into a popular vacation destination that perfectly blends natural beauty with modern amenities. Its unique appeal lies in its pristine beaches, vibrant fishing culture, and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors are drawn to Destin for its relaxed vibe, excellent seafood, and abundant outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports. The city’s harbor is bustling with charter boats and waterfront dining, creating a lively yet laid-back environment. Destin’s accessibility, combined with its scenic beauty and recreational options, makes it an ideal spot for beach lovers, anglers, and families seeking a memorable coastal getaway.

Destin Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Florida
  • Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
  • Group Size: Private or shared tours
  • Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
  • Recommended For: The best time to visit is from May to September for warm weather and beach activities. Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Respect local customs and be mindful of beach safety rules. Use credit cards widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases. Stay hydrated and watch for weather updates during hurricane season (June to November).

Average Tour Price: $65

Lowest Price Tour: $45

Highest Price Tour: $220

Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Destin is from late spring to early fall, especially May through September, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities.

Yes, Destin offers many family-friendly activities including beaches, water parks, dolphin cruises, and fishing trips suitable for all ages.

Absolutely, Destin is known as the "World’s Luckiest Fishing Village" with excellent deep-sea and bay fishing opportunities.

Local Food & Cuisine

Destin’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its coastal location, featuring an abundance of fresh seafood such as grouper, snapper, shrimp, and crab. Signature dishes include fried grouper sandwiches, oysters, and shrimp po’boys. Dining customs are casual and family-friendly, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating overlooking the water. Noteworthy restaurants include The Back Porch, known for its beachfront views and seafood, and Dewey Destin’s, a local favorite for fresh catches and Southern-style cooking.

Getting Around

Destin is accessible via the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport with connections to major US cities. Driving is the most convenient way to get around, with local shuttle services and taxis available. Biking and walking are popular in the harbor and beach areas. Parking is generally available but can be limited during peak season. Transportation costs vary, with car rentals being a common choice for flexibility.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit is from May to September for warm weather and beach activities. Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Respect local customs and be mindful of beach safety rules. Use credit cards widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases. Stay hydrated and watch for weather updates during hurricane season (June to November).

Culture & Customs

Destin’s culture is relaxed and welcoming, reflecting its fishing village roots and Southern hospitality. Social customs emphasize friendliness and politeness. Key local events include the Destin Seafood Festival and the Annual Blessing of the Fleet, celebrating the fishing community. Visitors should observe beach etiquette, respect wildlife, and tip service staff generously as customary in the US.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

We now have our own AI assistant!

She is ready to help you with all your travel-related questions. 

Landed At Adventure