Posted on 8/8/2014By the Ocean Reef Editorial Team

You and your family have finally arrived for your beach vacation in paradise along Destin's Emerald Coast. Our team at Ocean Reef Resorts has helped you find exactly the kind of wonderfully distinctive vacation rental accommodations you were searching for. Now that you are here we thought we would share 5 fun things to do on the beach in Destin.

Things to Do in Destin #1: Do Nothing

Now that you have arrived, believe it or not the first thing you can do is nothing. Think about it. You're on vacation with no stress, no schedules and no critical "to do" lists. How nice to be able to relax just enjoying the sugary white sands of Destin's beautiful beach, listening to the soothing sound of the surf, floating in the refreshing luminescent emerald green waters and feeling the warm rays of the sun as you get a golden Florida tan like the locals! Such relaxation invigorates your soul and makes you aware of life's precious simple moments that can be shared with loved ones away from the hustle and bustle of stressful everyday distractions.

Now that you are relaxed, here are some other fun diversions that are unique to Destin and the beaches of neighboring South Walton.

Things to Do in Destin #2: Go Surfing

Yes, put on your favorite old Beach Boy songs and try "Surfing USA" or at least our Emerald Coast version of the same. Although it's not exactly Hawaii we still have certain favorable conditions that can offer some fairly decent surfing, especially for beginners. If you have never tried this sport before, you might consider trying it out with the Ride On Surf School which are in daily operation from 9am to 4pm starting May 24th and running through August 27th. At other times of the year they are available by appointment. Ride On Surf offers private instruction, group lessons, surfing camps and even surf parties. Surf boards, wet suits and other equipment are provided along with instruction. More information is available at 850.240.7822.

Things to Do in Destin #3: Try Surf Fishing

Since you are probably residing at one of our wonderful Destin beach homes or nearby, try your luck at fishing right on the beach. This is called surf fishing since you cast your line from the shore right into the outer banks of the sandbars there. With the right equipment you can catch Pompano, Red Fish or King Fish to enjoy your own savory fresh caught seafood feast!  You can find more information in our early article at Destin Surf Fishing.

Things to Do in Destin #4: Have a Beach Bonfire

If you are staying anywhere along Scenic 30A or nearby in South Walton you may enjoy the ultimate experience of having a big bonfire on the beach. Imagine watching the spectacular sunset fade to dusk as the fires are lit while you and your family get ready to enjoy such a fun unique experience. One of our affiliates, La Dolce Vita can make all the arrangements on your behalf which includes providing all the labor to bring in the firewood, build a fire pit, set up fifteen chairs and some tables around it and set up a stereo system so you can hear your favorite beach music. They even bring all the ingredients for Smores. You can of course bring other goodies along with your favorite adult libations to insure a remarkably memorable evening. More information is available on this at Destin Beach Bonfires.

Things to Do in Destin #5: Family Beach Photos

Soon your awesome time in Destin will be a wonderful memory so you definitely should have a souvenir of this happy trip which can include a family or group photo. After all a pretty picture of the spectacular scenery here is not really complete unless your loved ones are included. Anyone can have a post card but a professional photo will probably remain in your family for years which will invoke warm memories of your trip. This is especially true for special events like weddings, anniversaries or reunions. Three great local photographers are available and offer special discounts to Ocean Reef Resort guests. Two are known as Expressions and Two Lights Photography. They are both professional and have a popular following among other patrons who have had their group photos taken on the beach. Both photographers offer Ocean Reef Resorts guests a free 8 x 10 professional photograph with any session purchased. You may schedule an appointment at 850.226.1412 for Expressions or 850.684.0206 for Two Lights.  An additional high-quality fine art photographer offers our guests $20 off their creative fee.  You can reach them online at Pure 7 Studios.  

Now beside playing on our championship golf courses or tennis, trying some water sports, dining at favorite seafood restaurants, enjoying seasonal festivals, attending free musical concerts, having fun at lively tropical bars or power shopping- you now have some other ideas for Things to do on the Beach in Destin. Enjoy your vacation!

The Ocean Reef Editorial Team leads the market in vacation rental, real estate, and coastal lifestyle content, with decades of Destin & 30A expertise behind every story. As the area's largest locally owned and longest continually operating vacation rental company, we welcome over 200,000 guests each year and reach millions who dream of the beach. Our guides serve travelers, homeowners, and locals alike, sharing authentic knowledge you can trust-because this coast isn't just where we work, it's where our story began, and where we'll continue to welcome generations to come.