The Hidden Gems of Destin

Looking to make your next trip to Destin extra special? From adventurous parasailing to waterside dining, there is something for everyone! Here are five Hidden Gems that will make you want to visit Destin over and over again!

#1 East Jetty Beach

Location: 320 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541

Credit: Destin Real Estate

East Jetty Beach is a perfect spot to relax and unwind along the coast of Destin. To get there, you will park your car at O’Steen Public Beach Access and walk over to the East Jetty Beach entrance. Spend your day snorkeling through the glistening Gulf of Mexico and taking in the beautiful views of Destin’s horizon. To finish off your day at the Jetty, watch the sunset from the Jetty beachfront. This picture-perfect day will make all of your family and friends back home jealous!

#2 Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant

Located at: 9 Calhoun Ave, Destin, FL 32541

 Credit: Jacksonville Magazine

With so many different seafood restaurants in Destin, the perfect dinner spot is easy to come by. With Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant’s three locations, choosing is simple! Dewey’s Harborside location is the most popular, but if you are looking for a quick, delicious bite with a beautiful waterfront view, head over to Dewey’s Bayside location with options ranging from the Popcorn Shrimp Basket to the Yellowfin Tuna Sandwich. After enjoying some of Dewey’s tasty entrees, pay a visit to Dewey’s New Orleans-inspired Snowball truck, which offers a creative spin on the traditional snow cone treat. After enjoying Dewey's lunch or dinner, the Snowball truck sits at Dewey’s bayside location for a convenient sweet treat.

#3 John Beasley Park’s Artificial Reef

Located at: 1550 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

Credit: Destin Florida 

A hot day in Destin calls for some fun in the sun! Enjoy Destin’s sunshine by visiting John C. Beasley Park, home to one of Destin’s 115 artificial reefs. Spend a day at John C. Beasley Park snorkeling through the Guld, encountering sea creatures from fish to sea turtles. After snorkeling the day away, head to the nearby picnic tables for lunch. Entry to John C. Beasley Park is free and is a perfect way to explore the sea with family and friends.

#4 Just Chute Me! Parasail

Located at: 500 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541

Credit: Florida Panhandle 

Take in Destin’s stunning sights from a bird’s eye view. Just Chute Me! Parasail is a Destin-based parasailing company that takes visitors and locals alike on an excursion of a lifetime. A U.S. Coast Guard Captain will take you and your guests offshore and explain all of the safety requirements of the boat and parasail. Just Chute Me! Parasail ensures all safety precautions are taken for their guests as they experience sailing above Destin’s open waters while being securely strapped into a harness attached to 800 feet of line. A must-do for your next trip to Destin!

#5 Indian Temple Mound Museum

Located at: 139 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

Credit: Florida Panhandle

Indian Temple Mound Museum, conveniently located in historic Downtown Fort Walton Beach, highlights the rich history of Native Americans in this region. If you’re looking for an informative way to beat the heat at the beach, check out the Indian Temple Mound Museum to see some fascinating ancient artifacts from the Native Americans that have been preserved for thousands of years, as well as artifacts from pirates and early settlers. The museum is also home to exhibits that demonstrate ancient Indian occupations and livelihoods. If you’re looking for an enriching experience in Destin, you’ve found the right place!

Destin is full of fun and exciting activities whether your family favors exploring the ocean or trying new eats. All of these hidden gems will show you a unique side of Destin and all it has to offer!