Destin, Florida
As someone who works “normal” Monday to Friday work hours, its often times hard to get away for an extended period of time. Thats why long weekend trips are such a great idea. They offer the perfect balance between getting away from the daily grind of your life and exploring new destinations.
Weekender, noun week·​end·​er | \ ˈwēk-ˈen-dər One who vacations or visits for a weekend
The world’s luckiest fishing village, otherwise known as Destin, Florida, is an ideal place for a weekend getaway. It is perfectly located in the panhandle of Florida between Panama City Beach and Pensacola. It wasn’t until Captain Leonard Destin began fishing in the early 1800s that the small town became settled.
Famous now for its white sand beaches and resort destination status, Destin has always been known for its fishing. In 1984, the City of Destin was recognized by the State of Florida and now has one of the largest fishing fleets!
Since then, Destin has grown a lot! Now, it is home to world class golfing, water activities, shopping, restaurants and so much more! I am also happy that it is the place I get to call home! Even though I now live in Orlando, I grew up in Destin and have been lucky enough to see this once small town grow into a sought-after beach vacation destination.
Day 1
Ready for your first day of fun in the sun? Start your long weekend off right by visiting the Donut Hole for breakfast. A local and visitor favorite, you can enjoy breakfast all day long! Stop in for breakfast, lunch, dinner, cakes and of course, donuts. Get there early though to avoid the long line, especially if you visit during the height of summer!
Now that you’ve had your morning coffee, I hope you’re ready! Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park is definitely a fan favorite. There are so many fun water rides! Not to mention lazy rivers, wave pools, and kiddie rides to enjoy as well. When you’re ready to get out of the sun, grab a lounge chair and your beverage of choice from their bar, and just relax. Or, head on over to their Adventure Park for some mini golf and their Sky Coaster ride. Whatever you decide, don’t be surprised at how fast your day goes. I hear that happens when you’re having fun!
Important to note: The water park section of Big Kahuna’s is only open seasonly; running from about early May to the end of September. If you happen to be visiting off season, I recommend visiting The Track instead for a fun day of go-karts, bumper cars, mini-golf, and other rides.
Dinner on the first night will be in one of my go-to parts of town, Grand Boulevard. Filled with boutique stores and great restaurants, it’s located in Sandestin right on Highway 98. The Wine Bar is perfect for happy hour and I am obsessed with their charcuterie boards and sparkling rose. Now that you’re ready for dinner, you have your pick up of restaurants. My top 3 though have to be Cantina Laredo; Emeril’s Coastal and Flemings.
Day 2
Whose ready for Day 2 in Destin? Begin the day with a morning walk through Eden Gardens State Park. About 20 minutes away from Sandestin and on Highway 98, the focal point of the 163 acre park is the beautifully restored antebellum mansion, the Wesley House. There is a short hiking trail that starts near the picnic pavilion as well as gardens to walk through. Visitors can also take guided tours of the home Thursday to Monday from 10am-3pm. The cost for the tour is $4 per adult and $2 for children under 12.
This morning’s theme is definitely more history driven and is quite evident in the next stop, the Destin History and Fishing Museum. Even though I spent the majority of my life living in Destin, I was surprised by how much I didn’t know about the city. I am also a big believer in learning about the history of whichever destination I’m visiting, but if this isn’t for you, feel free to skip it!
Even though the museum is small and it won’t take you too long to visit, I learned so much about Destin. What initially brought visitors to Destin, how the city was founded, etc.
Since you’re already in Old Destin, lunch is at another iconic Destin restaurant, AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar. Once you’ve filled up on all of the locally caught, fresh seafood you can eat, hop in the car and get ready for a small road trip. Next stop: Panama City Beach – Pier Park is your destination!
Pier Park is an outdoor complex that has 124 stores, great restaurants and fun attractions. I recommend riding the Skywheel for a birds-eye view of the beach and a beautiful sunset. Afterwards, wander through the shops and make your way to the pier for another view of the iconic beaches. When you’re ready to eat, the Front Porch is directly across the street from the pier. They offer a large variety of foods and drinks and are another one of my favorites!
Day 3
Day 3 is all about the beach before heading home! Gorgeous sunsets are something you will see every night, but its the sunrise on the beach on your last day that you will remember most. I know, I know, no one likes to get up early on vacation. But, trust me, its worth it! Not only do you get your pick of where to sit, the colors you’ll experience are incredible.
After taking in one of the most beautiful ways to start your day, all there’s left to do is to enjoy the beach. The beaches of Destin, Florida are some of the best in the world with white sand and turquoise waters. The water is so clear, you can even see the wildlife swimming around you. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or even building a sandcastle. But, watch out for those jelly fish! Or even a stingray or two!
One of my all-time favorite beach spots to eat at is Pompano Joe’s. I can’t leave Destin without stopping in, especially if I’m at the beach. They have all of your favorite beach foods and a fun atmosphere. This is definitely where I’m having lunch on my last day!
Now that your belly full and heart is happy, it’s time to head back home. Whether you’re driving or flying, Destin, Florida is a great choice for a weekend beach get-away any time of the year.
I’d love to hear your thoughts about Destin! Have you been? Tell me in the comments below.