What to See in Destin

The Destin Harbor, Jetties, Crab Island, Bay, & South Walton

Posted on 12/28/2018

There is a place in Northwest Florida that stretches along the Gulf Coast. A place where the air is salty and tranquility floats on every breeze. Where gentle waves greet a smooth shore of pristine white sand that glistens in the sun. Where relaxation is not just a wistful dream, but a way of life. Some call it paradise. Others call it heaven on earth. Its real name is Destin, Florida.

To See

Like any beach town, Destin boasts a variety of sights that are worth seeing. The number one thing to see, of course, is the beach!

Ranking among the most beautiful beaches in the world, Destin is a paradise seeker's dream come true. With pure white sandy beaches and sparkling jewel-toned waters, how could it not be? Visitors find themselves instantly relaxed as they look out over calm waves, feel the ocean breeze on their skin, and bury their toes in the sand. The beauty of the beach can be experienced through any coastal activity, from snorkeling in the water to building sandcastles to taking family photos in the sunset. There is no better backdrop for making memories than this stunning landscape.

After unwinding at the beach, you might want to check out the other great sights Destin has to offer, including the Harbor, the Jetties, Crab Island, the Bay, and South Walton.

Destin Harbor

Destin Harbor

The Destin Harbor is home to even more spectacular views. Looking out over the waters, it is not uncommon to see waves rolling, boats zooming about, and fisherman casting their nets. You might even catch a glimpse of dolphins or other sea creatures. The Harbor Boardwalk is almost a quarter of a mile long, and from here, you can be sure to get the best views of the landscape and bustling activity. Watching the sun rise and set over the water is a magical treat!

Destin Jetties

The Jetties

The stone jetties in East Pass are unique to the Destin area and a must-see for visitors. The pass itself is an opening that connects Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf. To prevent the pass from closing due to tidal erosion, the twin jetties were constructed. Not only do the jetties serve a functional purpose, but they also provide delightful scenery. The construction of the jetties also resulted in an artificial reef that is home to a wide variety of fish. Don't hesitate to grab your snorkel and explore this exciting habitat.

Crab Island

Crab Island

The name might fool you, but Crab Island is not actually an island. At least, not anymore. Years of erosion have created a sandbar that sits in crystal-clear shallow water, making it a perfect place to anchor your boat and enjoy the popular location. It is always a fun experience to see the multitude of boats and participate in the crowded fun, all while enjoying the pleasant, coastal atmosphere.

Choctawhatchee Bay

Choctawhatchee Bay

Escape the beach crowds and head to Choctawhatchee bay, which is located on the north side of Destin. This large body of water boasts a wide variety fish and sea life, and is a great spot for water recreation activities, including fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. If you stop and watch for a while, you may spot a few dolphins as they swim about their business.

South Walton

South Walton

South Walton is a 26-mile stretch of pristine beach along the Emerald Coast, and is dotted with quaint coastal villages that each has its own personality. Alys Beach, for example, is known for its pristine white architecture that embodies the relaxed vibe of the coast. Seaside includes its own beach tower, historical post office, and an amphitheater for seasonal events and festivals. Visitors would do well to visit this area to see and experience everything that makes South Walton unique.

Now that you have the inside scoop, it might be time to book your Destin vacation. Ocean Reef Resorts provides a wide range of Destin vacation rentals, so start planning!

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