15 Best Beaches in Destin, Florida for Sunseekers in 2024
Are You Looking for the Best Beaches in Destin, Florida?
You have come to the right place. We love Destin and frequent the area as often as we can. We have spent months traveling in the Gulf Coast and love the Florida Panhandle.
Destin, Florida is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for beautiful green water beaches. The Emerald Coast has everything you can ask for.
If you are trying to figure out the best beaches in Destin and the beaches you want to visit in the area, these white-sand beaches are great to visit for a serene beach vacation.
15 Best Beaches in Destin, Florida
1. Henderson Beach State Park
Amenities: This park offers picnic pavilions, restrooms, and nature trails. It also has a small playground.
Fees: There is an entrance fee for the state park – $6 per vehicle.
Public Access: Yes, it’s open to the public with ample parking facilities.
Henderson Beach State Park is a pristine natural oasis boasting over 6,000 feet of scenic shoreline and 200 acres of coastal sand dunes and is one of the best public beaches in Destin, Florida.
Renowned for its sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters, the park offers a serene getaway from the hustle of city life. It’s a perfect spot for sunbathing on the Gulf Coast beach, swimming, and fishing. It’s also one of the most fun places to snorkel in Destin!
Amenities include picnic pavilions, nature trails, and a playground, making it one of the best beaches in Destin, Florida for families. The park also has a campground for those wishing to extend their stay amidst nature.
Henderson Beach State Park is our favorite place to camp when we go to Destin. The camping spots are spaced out really nicely, and they have the best showers. They have a family shower, which all state parks should have. It makes it so you can easily shower all your kids at once and not have to split up in the larger, more open showers.
It is in a great location and very close to everything. The park is large enough to hide the fact that you are right in the middle of the city with great trees and beach shoreline.
This is a great place to visit if you are looking for a place to camp or a nice beach.
2. Miramar Beach Regional Access
Amenities: Features restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and picnic tables.
Fees: Parking is free.
Public Access: Yes, easily accessible to the public.
Miramar Beach is celebrated for its stunning turquoise waters and fine, soft sand. This beach provides a more lively atmosphere, lined with colorful beachfront homes and condominiums.
Visitors here can enjoy a range of water sports, beach volleyball, and sunbathing. The beach’s regional access point offers convenient facilities like restrooms and showers, making it a comfortable spot for a full day at the beach.
If you are visiting Miramar Beach, you should be prepared for things to be a bit more crowded and can have lots of activity all year long. The main beach access is next to Pompano Joe’s Seafood, and during the peak times of the year, you will find beach wheelchairs, lifeguards, and a bunch of happy beach adventurers.
When we visited the beach, it was typically before the peak season, and parking was great. There were not many people, but because of all the condos and beachfront homes in the area, this can change fast.
3. James Lee Beach
Amenities: Equipped with picnic areas, restrooms, changing rooms, showers, playground.
Fees: Parking is free.
Public Access: Public beach with good accessibility.
James Lee Beach, part of James Lee Park, has beautiful crystal-clear waters and a family-friendly atmosphere. The beach is equipped with ample amenities, including picnic pavilions, restrooms, and a playground, making it an ideal location for family gatherings.
The park’s restaurant, The Crab Trap, is a popular spot for dining with beautiful beach views. We ate here, and the views from our table were amazing.
The beach shares a parking lot with the Crab Trap restaurant. The restaurant is a nice place to eat right on the beach. They have a play area for the kids where our kids would play while we eat our food.
The parking lot has 100+ parking spots, but it can get crowded and fill up fast. If you are visiting outside of peak times, that is reasonable; otherwise, it can be tricky to find a spot to park.
4. Crystal Beach
Amenities: Offers a blend of luxury accommodations and private access housing
Fees: Parking is limited, so park by the Crab Trab
Public Access: Mostly private access, but some public access
Crystal Sands Beach, located in the heart of Destin in Florida, is known for its picturesque emerald waters and soft, white sand. This beach combines the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast with upscale, family-friendly amenities.
The area is lined with charming beachfront cottages, luxury condos, and impressive homes, making it a popular destination for those looking for a nice vacation rental.
While Crystal Beach in Destin is open to the public, it is mostly private. Because the beach is mostly private and well cared for, it is one of the best beaches in Florida.
If you want to access Crystal Beach, we have found it is best to park at the Crab Trap and walk from there. You will walk the beach east. If you go west, you will be at the James Lee Beach.
5. Fort Walton Beach
Amenities: Offers a variety of restaurants and shops nearby.
Fees: Free Parking.
Public Access: Open to the public.
Fort Walton Beach can be a little deceiving when it comes to beaches. Fort Walton Beach is a much better area for shows, restaurants, and entertainment than it is for beaches.
If you are looking for your typical emerald green and beautiful Destin, FL beaches near Fort Walton, then you will want to head down to Okaloosa Island. The Island is on the south side of Fort Walton Beach.
Fort Walton Beach, however, is a good spot if you are looking for parks, dog-friendly areas, and waterfront. The Liza Jackson Park is a great park that we like where we take our dog.
The park does have some sandy beaches, but it is much smaller and not as pretty as other beaches. The trade-off is it is dog-friendly, and the dogs can play in the water in the dog park.
Fort Walton Beach Landing Park is another waterfront park surrounded by a variety of dining, hotel, and entertainment options, making it a great spot for both relaxation and activities. It’s also close to the Indian Temple Mound Museum, adding a historical aspect to beach visits.
6. Okaloosa Island Beach Access 4
Amenities: Basic amenities like restrooms and outdoor shower.
Fees: Free access and parking.
Public Access: Yes, with easy beach access.
Okaloosa Island Beach Access 4 is one of our favorite places to head to the beach when we are in Destin. The beach is known for its unspoiled beauty, with less commercial development than other beaches of Destin.
It’s a fantastic place for those seeking a peaceful day by the sea, with opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and beachcombing.
The beach access 4 has 20 parking spots, and 2 of those are handicapped parking spaces. This is great because it helps limit the number of people who are at this beach location, but it can make it a little harder to find a parking space.
Okaloosa Island has nine public beach access points, so if you cannot find parking at one of the access points, you don’t have far to find another. The Okaloosa Beach Access 4 is our favorite because it is a little more chill. There is a large parking area by the pier.
There is a large parking area by the pier. This area has a great beach area and all the crazy from the pier. At different times of the year, the pier has some really fun activities that bring in a lot of people.
The nine beach access points on Okaloosa Island are Emerald Promenade Beachwalk Access, Doris Jordon Freeway Beach Access, Okaloosa Island Beach Access 5, Okaloosa Island Beach Access 4, Seashore Beach Access, Emerald View Beach Access, Blue Dolphin Beach Access, The Boardwalk, Beasley Beach Park.
7. Gulf Island National Seashore
Amenities: Natural and unspoiled, limited facilities.
Fees: An entrance fee is required – $25 per vehicle
Public Access: Open to the public, but some areas might be restricted for conservation.
The Gulf Island National Seashore is a breathtaking stretch of protected coastline offering beaches, dunes, and wildlife. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The seashore is ideal for swimming, hiking, bird watching, and exploring nature trails. The area’s serenity makes it a perfect spot for a quiet retreat.
The beach at the Gulf Island National Seashore is a decent beach but when we go here, we are going for a little different experience.
The beaches are not on the ocean side of Okaloosa Island, so they are not as pretty, and you will find more sticks and debris on the beaches because it is a national seashore that puts more of a focus on the animals in the area.
We love visiting this beach to do the junior ranger program and to learn about the animals. This is also a great place we like to visit if we want little to have no waves and we want to get away from the crowds.
8. Ross Marler Park
Amenities: Offers picnic facilities, a playground, and restrooms.
Fees: No entrance fee; parking fees may apply.
Public Access: Publicly accessible.
Ross Marler Park, located on Okaloosa Island, is a family-friendly destination with various amenities, including picnic areas, a playground, and a public boat launch. While it’s more of a park than a beach, it offers access to a calm section of the Choctawhatchee Bay, suitable for swimming and water activities.
The park’s location makes it an excellent spot for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor fun in a less crowded environment.
We found the Ross Marler Park to be very similar to the parks in Fort Walton Beach. It is a great place to add a little variety if you have been spending a lot of time at the beach with your kids in Destin.
Our kids love going to areas like Ross Marler Park when we travel a lot because it gives them a great playground to run around and play games with other kids their age. They can also bring their sand toys and boogie boards for some fun in the water.
9. June White Decker Park
Amenities: Basic amenities with beach access.
Fees: Free access, parking fees might apply.
Public Access: Yes, open to the public.
June White Decker Park is a small but charming public beach access point in Destin. This park provides basic amenities like restrooms and is known for its easy access and beautiful beachfront.
The park’s proximity to popular hotels and restaurants makes it a convenient choice for visitors staying in the area.
We loved this beach. The beach area is super cozy and very beautiful. It sits in between some amazing private condos, which keeps the area in pristine condition. The water and weather were spectacular during our last visit here. Plus, we saw dolphins right off the shore here.
However, because the public beach area is small, it can be crowded even during the off-season. However, this is because it is one of the best public beaches in Destin, Florida.
The beach access is within walking distance to the Back Porch restaurant, which is a popular restaurant for those who are in the area. This is another great restaurant to visit if you’re looking for amazing ocean views. We had a great dining experience here.
30A Beaches Near Destin
10. Inlet Beach
Amenities: Pristine and less crowded, limited amenities.
Fees: Free access; parking availability varies.
Public Access: Yes.
Inlet Beach is the easternmost beach along the 30A corridor, known for its laid-back atmosphere and expansive stretches of sand. It is one of the less developed beaches in the area, offering a quieter and more secluded beach experience.
The beach is characterized by its high dunes and crystal-clear waters, making it a favorite spot for both relaxation and photography.
There are several public beach access points, ample parking, and basic amenities like restrooms and showers. If you are looking for a beach to get away from the hustle and bustle that can be found in the Destin, Florida beaches at times, then Inlet Beach is a great choice.
During our last visit to Destin, we wandered up to Inlet Beach and found it to be much less crowded than the beaches in Destin.
11. Rosemary Beach
Amenities: Upscale area with shops and restaurants.
Fees: Must be a resident or staying in a rental with beach access.
Public Access: No public access.
Rosemary Beach is a picturesque beach community that combines the charm of West Indies architecture with the beauty of an unspoiled beach. This upscale area offers cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants.
The beach itself is well-maintained and easily accessible, known for its soft, white sand and clear waters. Rosemary Beach is a popular spot for families and couples looking for a refined beach experience combined with high-end amenities.
Rosemary Beach is just west of Inlet Beach. It used to be considered an older part of Inlet Beach and was created as a planned community.
The beach runs the entirety of the community and you must be a resident or staying at a location that has approved beach access to the private beaches. The area is stunning.
12. Alys Beach
Amenities: Unique architecture, with some shops and eateries.
Fees: Access Must be a resident or staying in a property with private access.
Public Access: Private beach.
Alys Beach stands out for its striking Mediterranean-style architecture, making it one of the most visually unique areas along 30A. The beach is pristine and tranquil, often less crowded than other nearby beaches.
Alys Beach is designed as a walkable community focusing on luxury and sustainability. Visitors can enjoy the elegant white buildings, green spaces, and upscale dining options. The beach access is exclusive for residents and renters.
If you do not stay in Alys Beach, you should pass through and view the stunning architecture and beauty.
Every time we pass through Alys Beach, it makes me feel like we are in Greece with its beautiful white buildings. This is a very high-class area.
13. Dune Allen Beach
Amenities: Quiet and natural, few facilities.
Fees: No fees for beach access
Public Access: Yes.
Dune Allen Beach offers a more natural and serene beach experience. It is characterized by coastal dune lakes,, which are rare ecosystems found in few places around the world.
The beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching. The area is less commercialized, providing a peaceful retreat with stunning natural surroundings.
There are several public access points, and the beach is known for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
We enjoy Dune Allen Beach and its public beaches. The area has lots of beach space, but parking is not overly abundant. Our favorite beach access is located at 5753 West County Highway 30A. This is the best spot for parking, and the beach here is great.
14. Seagrove Beach
Amenities: Features a mix of natural beauty and convenience with nearby restaurants, shops, and rental services.
Fees: Some areas have parking fees some are free
Public Access: Yes, with several beach access points.
Seagrove Beach, nestled along Florida’s scenic Highway 30A, strikes a perfect balance between untouched nature and modern convenience. This charming area is characterized by lush oak trees, magnolias, and sandy shores, offering a quintessential Florida beach experience.
The beach’s proximity to local businesses means easy access to bike rentals, cafes, and boutique shopping, adding to the leisurely experience. The community’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a favorite among families and couples.
The Seagrove beach is one of the most beautiful beach areas. It is not our favorite to take all of our beach gear and sit on the beach for hours unless we are staying in a rental in the area, but because of the fun shops and food options like the Airstream Food Park, this is a fun place to visit.
The best beach access for sitting at the beach with your family in this area is the Santa Clara Regional Beach access point.
15. Grayson Beach State Park
Amenities: Offers cabins, camping, and nature trails.
Fees: Entrance fee for the state park – $5 per vehicle.
Public Access: Yes, with ample parking.
Grayton Beach State Park is often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. This state park features a mile of sugar-white sand beaches and is surrounded by a coastal dune lake, offering a variety of outdoor activities like swimming, sunbathing, canoeing, and hiking.
The park also includes camping facilities and cabins for rent.
The natural scenery, combined with the abundant wildlife, makes it a must-visit for nature lovers. The park charges an entrance fee, but it provides well-maintained facilities and unspoiled natural beauty.
If you have your bike with you or would like to rent a bike at one of the nearby shops, this is a really nice area to ride your bike.
They have a 4-mile nature trail that winds through the beautiful natural habitat, or you can take the 10-mile Walton County bike/walk path through the nice 30A area.
Pet-Friendly Beaches Near Destin
Some beaches near Destin are pet-friendly, allowing dogs on a leash. These usually have designated areas for pets and provide basic amenities like waste disposal facilities. It’s essential to check specific beach regulations as they can vary.
The best place to go with your dog in Destin, Florida is Fort Walton Beach. They have waterfront and beach access where you can have your dog off-leash. Many of the other Destin, Florida beaches do not allow dogs at all.
Rip Currents and Beach Warning Flags for the Beaches in Destin, Florida
Destin beaches use a flag system to indicate water conditions and rip current risks. It’s crucial for beachgoers to understand these flags for their safety.
The flags are as follows:
🟪 Purple flag is for marine animals that can sting or cause harm, such as jellyfish, stingrays, and other dangerous fish.
🟩 The green flag means low rip tide hazard.
🟨 The yellow flag is for medium rip tide hazard.
🟥 The red flag is for high hazards like strong currents and surf.
🟥🟥 The double red flag means the water is closed to the public entirely.
These flags can change often and quickly, so make sure you are paying attention. The flags are easily seen and are located at all of the beach access points.
FAQ: Best Beaches in Destin, Florida
There are so many beautiful beaches in Destin, Florida it is hard to say which one is the most beautiful, However, Henderson Beach State Park has probably the most beautiful beaches in Destin.
Inlet Beach and Dune Allen Beach tend to be less crowded. They are less commercialized and tend to offer a less crowded experience.
If you want better beaches, then Destin has better beaches. Destin is more popular. Fort Walton Beach offers a quieter experience. We think Destin is better but we visit both when we are in the area.
Henderson Beach State Park is the number one beach in Destin, Florida.
James Lee Beach is the most popular beach in Destin, but if you are looking for lots of excitement, you will want to look at Crab Island. While Crab Island is not technically a beach, it fills with lots of people looking to relax and enjoy Destin.
Typically, late spring and early summer is the best time of year to have clear water. However, this can easily change from day to day based on the weather and other factors.
Yes, it is but be mindful of the flag system. If there is a double red flag, the beach is not swimmable, and you should take extra precautions with a red flag.
Yes, you can walk the beach at night in Destin. We love walking the beach at night and looking for ghost crabs.
Late spring to early fall is the best time to visit the beaches in Destin, Florida if you are looking for the best beach weather.
Conclusion: Best Beaches in Destin, Florida
Destin, Florida, boasts a variety of beaches, and they are all very beautiful. We love visiting the Destin beaches. Many of the beaches have beautiful water and squeaky white sand, but the atmosphere can be different for each.
Make sure to visit a handful of beaches when you are in Destin and experience the different areas and communities surrounding them.
