Posted on 10/29/2024
Thanksgiving is fast approaching, and there’s no better place to celebrate the season of gratitude than along Destin’s Emerald Coast. With over 40 years of experience welcoming families to this breathtaking area, Ocean Reef Resorts proudly offers insider knowledge on making your holiday unforgettable. For a unique Thanksgiving experience, trade the chill and holiday crowds for warm, sunny days on sugar-white beaches and tranquil Gulf waters. Whether you’re here to relax with family or host an extended reunion, Thanksgiving in Destin blends cherished traditions with a tropical twist—making it the ideal destination for creating lasting holiday memories.
Why Destin for Thanksgiving?
November marks the start of the off-season in Destin, meaning fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxation and fun. The mild weather, typically ranging from the mid-60s to 70s °F, creates a perfect climate for outdoor activities, beach exploration, and al fresco dining—a memorable backdrop for a holiday away from the cold.
How to Spend Thanksgiving in Destin
Destin is brimming with exciting activities and laid-back options for a fun Thanksgiving weekend. Here’s a rundown of what you can enjoy:

Beach Bliss
Give your Thanksgiving a tropical twist by soaking up the sun along Destin’s famous beaches. Play beach games, take a scenic walk, or simply lounge and enjoy the Gulf views. You’ll be thankful for every moment spent in this coastal paradise.
Dolphin Cruises and Sunset Tours
For an unforgettable experience, book a dolphin cruise or sunset tour to enjoy Destin’s natural beauty from the water. Ocean Reef guests receive preferred pricing on Southern Star cruises, so you can witness playful dolphins up close and create lasting holiday memories.


Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise on the Solaris Yacht
Combine festive dining with a stunning view on the Thanksgiving Buffet Dinner Cruise aboard the Solaris Yacht. Enjoy a delicious spread of turkey, bourbon-maple glazed ham, and classic sides while cruising through the beautiful waters of the Gulf. Ocean Reef guests also enjoy a 20% discount on regular cruises, perfect for revisiting during a sunset cruise.
Golfing Getaway
Destin’s golf courses are some of the best along the coast, offering well-manicured greens and scenic fairways. Ocean Reef guests receive discounted rates at courses like Seascape and Emerald Bay, so don’t miss a chance to tee off with incredible water views this Thanksgiving—perfect for both seasoned players and casual golfers alike!


Ice Skating at Baytowne Wharf
Yes, you can ice skate at the beach! Baytowne on Ice, a seasonal rink at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, is open throughout the holidays. It’s a fun and unexpected activity the whole family will love.
Where to Feast: Destin’s Thanksgiving Dining
From cozy local favorites to luxurious buffets, Destin offers a variety of Thanksgiving dining experiences. Whether you want to dine in or enjoy a meal at your vacation rental, there’s something for everyone.
Home-cooked Meals at Your Vacation Rental
Most Ocean Reef vacation rentals come with fully equipped kitchens and spacious dining areas, making it easy to prepare a home-cooked feast. Or, make Thanksgiving dinner simple by ordering from Sarah K’s Gourmet. Known for their award-winning crab cakes, Sarah K’s offers ready-to-cook entrees, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Plus, Ocean Reef guests who order four or more crab cakes receive a complimentary bottle of champagne.


Harbor Docks Free Thanksgiving Dinner
Harbor Docks Restaurant hosts a complimentary (donations only) Thanksgiving dinner to benefit Habitat for Humanity and Destin Harvest. It’s a wonderful way to give back while enjoying a delicious holiday meal. Meals are served from 11 am to 7 pm on Thanksgiving Day.
Thanksgiving Buffet at The Henderson Beach Resort
The Henderson Beach Resort hosts a grand Thanksgiving buffet featuring classic holiday dishes with a coastal twist. Known for its Southern hospitality, this resort offers a luxurious and memorable dining experience.


Watefront Dining Options
Enjoy Thanksgiving with a view at one of Destin’s popular waterfront restaurants. Marina Cafe offers a buffet-style Thanksgiving feast, Beachwalk Cafe serves a four-course special dinner, and Royal Palm Grille has a special Thanksgiving menu throughout the day.
Black Friday Shopping and Holiday Festivities
Thanksgiving weekend in Destin isn’t complete without some holiday shopping and festive fun:

Visit Silver Sands Premium Outlets for designer deals at over 100 stores, or explore Baytowne Wharf, Grand Boulevard, and Destin Commons for local boutiques and unique finds.

Kicking off in early December, Grand Boulevard’s Festival of Trees showcases holiday trees decorated by local charities—a perfect stop during Black Friday shopping.

Meet Santa and join in the holiday festivities at HarborWalk Village at the end of November, a great family-friendly event to kick off the Christmas season.
Where to Stay: Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals

Make this Thanksgiving unforgettable by booking your stay in one of Ocean Reef’s luxurious Destin rentals. From beachfront mansions to charming cottages, our properties offer space, comfort, and breathtaking views to enhance your holiday. Many rentals feature large kitchens for festive feasts, spacious family rooms for quality gatherings, and private heated pools for ultimate relaxation. Don’t wait—secure your ideal Thanksgiving retreat with us today and enjoy a holiday filled with warmth, memories, and the beauty of Destin’s Emerald Coast.