A Complete Guide to Visiting Destin, Florida in March [2024]
PLANNING A BEACH GETAWAY TO DESTIN, FLORIDA IN MARCH?
You’ve come to the right place! We’ve spent months traveling Florida and have adored the time we’ve spent along the Emerald Coast. Destin is one of our favorite spots to travel to in the Panhandle, but it can be challenging to determine which time of year is best to visit. Let us help!
Follow along as we explain why March in Destin is a wonderful time to take a trip to this beach town.
Destin, Florida in March Weather
When people think of Florida, they typically picture beautiful beaches and warm, comfortable temperatures year-round. That is the case, but only to a certain extent. How warm a place is in Florida is highly dependent on where it’s located within the state.
Some Florida beaches stay warm in even the coldest months, like December and January, but they are mainly located in the southern part of the state. Given Destin’s location in the Florida panhandle, the town enjoys some comfortable temperatures, but they will be far less warm than other areas during the early spring months.
On average, Destin sees 19 days of sunshine in March. So typically, you can expect to see some sunny days on the 10-day weather forecast in Destin, FL, for roughly ⅔ of the month. The remaining days of the month could likely see some cloud cover and maybe even some rainy days.
Destin Florida Temperature in March
During the month of March, you can expect the average Destin Florida temps in March to be around 68° Fahrenheit. During cooler evenings, the low average temperature in Destin, Florida in March drops to around 57° Fahrenheit.
- Average high temperature in Destin in March: 68° Fahrenheit
- Average low temperature in Destin in March: 57° Fahrenheit
- What are the hottest months in Destin? July and August at 88° Fahrenheit
- What are the coldest months in Destin? January at 60° Fahrenheit
Destin Florida Activities in March
Destin has become the must-visit spot in northern Florida for a family beach getaway. With stunning beaches, a lively coastal town atmosphere, and water sports for days, there is so much to enjoy here.
Though the scenery is beautiful year-round, Destin, Florida in March, is generally too chilly for most of the beach activities. So, if you’re planning to visit Destin to spend days lounging on the warm sand and boogie boarding, you may want to hold off on your visit until warmer months.
We visited during mid-April last year and found that the water and beaches were warm enough to enjoy on most days. We spent about three weeks in the area and my kids had a great time swimming most days.
Given that beach activities aren’t as enjoyable in early March and the spring months and because school is still in session, Destin, Florida in March does not have the same family-friendly or kid-centric appeal it takes on during the summer.
In fact, March is one of the months where Destin sees its biggest influx of college spring breakers. But don’t worry, Destin is not a party town, things won’t get out of hand. It’s just important to note that there aren’t as many families vacationing here at that time, but mainly 20-somethings.
Don’t get discouraged when taking into consideration that the vibe and Destin Florida weather in March isn’t the most ideal for a beach getaway. There are still many different ways to enjoy the beauty and wonders of Destin during this perfect month!
Here’s a rundown of some of our favorite ways to spend time in Destin, Florida in March.
Destin Florida Fishing in March
Destin is nicknamed the world’s luckiest fishing village, so it should come as no surprise that fishing is one of the most popular and enjoyable Destin Florida activities in March.
Whether you fish from the beach, move further out into the water on your own boat, or take a fishing trip charter, anglers are sure to have an amazing time fishing in Destin.
Rent a Chartered Pontoon Boat
There’s nothing like enjoying the lap of luxury while in Destin aboard a commandeered pontoon rental boat. If you’re looking to relax while spending some time on the water, relinquish the control over to the captain and just go along for the ride.
These types of rentals are typically available for anywhere between 2 to 8 hours and offer a customizable experience. This means you tell the captain where you would like to explore and he or she will guide you throughout the Gulf of Mexico waters.
Given the cooler temperatures of the seawater and the only relatively warm weather in March, a rental like this would mainly serve as an adventure out onto the water to soak up some rays and enjoy the relaxing ambiance of this area.
▶️ BOOK Private Chartered Pontoon Boat
Enjoy a Romantic Dinner on the Beach
Sunset on the Gulf Coast is truly one of the most beautiful sights to see. A sunset island dinner is the perfect touch to enhance a couple’s trip to Destin, Florida in March. Whether you plan and execute the details yourself or book a memorable dinner for two, a meal on a secluded beach is always a meal to remember!
Henderson Beach State Park
Henderson Beach State Park is one of our favorite places to go when visiting Destin, Florida in March. This is one of the best Destin beaches for playing with sand toys, flying a beach kite, and searching for sea shells while walking along the beach.
We really enjoy camping along our travels throughout the United States, and Henderson Beach State Park is one of our favorite places to stay while exploring the state parks and national parks in this area. The campgrounds are well kept and there are picnic areas, as well as a playground for the kids to enjoy.
The nature trail is awesome, too. There are so many different types of wildlife at Henderson Beach State Park on display on this route, including a wide variety of birds and bunnies!
There’s lots of sea life in the water, like dolphins and sea turtles. We loved setting up our beach chairs and relaxing while on the lookout for any fun sealife appearances.
Camping within the park also allows us to do one of our favorite things at the beach at night: ghost crabbing. Ghost crabs are small crabs that live in the sand at many beaches along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
They are white, which makes them difficult to spot against the white sand during the day. They tend to venture out and run across the sand during the evenings. We love to walk the beach at night with a flashlight and watch the crabs scurry across the sand.
If you’re interested in catching some of these quick creatures, we recommend bringing a net along in your beach tote. Ghost crabbing is one of our favorite things to do in Destin with kids. Our kids love to catch them, marvel at them, and then let them go.
Shop Till You Drop at Destin Commons
Destin Commons in Destin, FL is a wonderful outdoor mall located in the center of town. Shopaholics will love it, as there are over 90 shops to peruse and explore. From clothing to souvenirs, Destin Commons is a fun place worth a visit.
Catch a Show at Okaloosa Island Theater
After spending lots of time outside enjoying the nice Destin, FL weather in March and the beautiful scenery, it’s nice to wind down with some fun entertainment in town. Known for it’s critically-acclaimed magic show, the Okaloosa Island Theater presents a show you won’t soon forget.
The MAXIMUM MAGIC Show Starring Noah & Heather Wells has been a Destin area family favorite for years. Kids and adults alike will marvel and be enthralled by the talent and mystery on display in this fun show!
▶️ BOOK The MAXIMUM MAGIC Show Starring Noah & Heather Wells
Destin Tours
Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise in Destin Harbor
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length: 1 hour | Check Rates and Availability
A Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise is one of the most fun things to do with kids on Destin Harbor in Destin, FL. Kids will be excited enough to be getting to see dolphins, but throw in a thrilling speedboat and they will be over the moon.
It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket on this Destin boat tour. You’ll enjoy the extra layer when the wind picks up as you zoom across the water!
The dolphins came so close and the speed part of the ride was super fun! We took so many pictures and the feeling of the water spray on us was refreshing.
– Meghana (Read More Reviews)
Your expert guide will know right where to take you to spot dolphin pods, as well as stingrays and other sea life in this area of the Gulf of Mexico.
▶️ BOOK Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise in Destin Harbor
Destin Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length: 3 hours | Check Rates and Availability
There are many Crab Island tours to consider when visiting Destin. The Original Destin Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure is one of the most highly rated and fun Crab Island tours in town.
Another great experience 2 years in a row! Looking forward to making this a tradition! Captain Kirk was great and always had his eye out to warn us of jellyfish! Crab island is a great way to meet new people!
– Telsa (Read More Reviews)
Keep in mind because it’s only March, the water temperatures will still be cold, typically in the low to mid-60-degree range.
That said, a tour to Crab Island during this month would mainly consist of hanging out on the tour boat, enjoying the sun, and maybe grabbing some lunch from one of the unique and tasty floating food vendors.
▶️ BOOK Destin Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure
Original Destin Tikis Sunset Cruise in Destin Harbor
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 Tour Length: 1 hour and 30 mins | Check Rates and Availability
Sunset on the Gulf Coast is one of my favorite times of day. The colors of the sky and the sinking sun are so bold and beautiful. There’s no better way to savor this special moment than on an Original Destin Tikis Sunset Cruise in Destin Harbor.
A fabulous way to spend time in the off-season! Our captain was fun, skilled, and knowledgeable about the area! Great vacation bucket list item! 10 out of 10!!!!
– Anonymous (Read More Reviews)
Destin Harbor in Destin Florida, is one of the most picturesque places to visit in northern Florida, and you will get to enjoy all of its splendor onboard a tiki boat.
This tour is very laid back and even encourages patrons to bring their own beverage of choice onboard, where a cooler will be stocked with ice to keep everything cold during your journey.
▶️ BOOK Original Destin Tikis Sunset Cruise in Destin Harbor
Destin, Florida March Events
Mac and Cheese Festival
Mac and Cheese may be the country’s favorite comfort food, but it’s so much more at the Mac and Cheese Festival taking place in Destin, Florida in March.
This fun culinary celebration will offer locals and visitors alike a wide variety of unique macaroni and cheese concoctions. It’s a cheese lover’s dream come true!
St. Patrick’s Day Grogg March
If you happen to be in Destin on St. Patrick’s Day, you won’t want to miss ringing in this Irish holiday by attending the St Patrick’s Day Grogg March.
The parade of Destin-inspired floats (which also feature green groggs) snakes its way through town, wrapping up at HarborWalk Village for a fun and memorable celebration.
HarborWalk Village Happenings
To celebrate the upcoming spring season HarborWalk Village will host Rock the Docks, a concert of live music each Saturday night throughout the month of March.
HarborWalk Village also puts on one of the most unique events you’ll come across in all of Florida, a silent disco party. Each Wednesday, starting on March 13th and running through April 3rd, people gather at the main stage to pick up headphones. Music is then broadcast into the headphones, and an epic dance party ensues!
Check out what’s happening at HarborWalk Village during your visit for lots of fun events all month long!
Where to Eat in Destin, Florida in March
Crab Trap
There are a lot of really tasty local restaurants in this area, but one of our favorites is the Crab Trap in Destin, FL. It’s one of the best seafood restaurants in town, and everyone knows it, so be prepared for crowds and a possible wait.
The restaurant is located near James Lee Park, which makes it a super convenient spot to grab a bite to eat after spending some time enjoying the beach.
Cafe Destin
Cafe Destin in Destin, FL is one of the very best breakfast restaurants in town! If you have the chance to start your day at this joint, take it! Belgian waffles and grits are favorites here!
Dewey Destin’s
Dewey Destin’s in Destin Florida, is a small but mighty seafood shack. You might not expect food from such an unassuming location to be so delicious. The seafood baskets are to die for! Don’t judge a book by its cover, and be sure to stop by Dewey Destin’s.
Where to Stay in Destin, Florida in March
When searching for a place to stay during your Destin beach vacation in March, there are many different options for accommodations. We recommend deciding what part of town you might like to stay in and how much of your budget you’re willing to commit to a Destin hotel or rental before you dive into researching options.
There are beach condos in Destin if you want to stay near the water. While spending time in a luxury development like Destin Towers in Destin, FL would make for a very cushy experience, a spot like this will run a high rate.
On the other end of the spectrum, if you don’t need much space or don’t plan to spend much time in a hotel room, you can consider a solid budget option like Motel 6 in Destin.
Destin Beach Club
⭐️ Rating 9.6/10 | 📍Location: Shared at time of booking | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Destin Beach Club in Destin, FL offers some of the most spacious and well-stocked rentals in the area. With space for up to six people to sleep, it’s a great spot to stay if you’re visiting Destin with your family. And only a short walk (less than 10 minutes) from the beach, the given location can’t be beaten!
If you are looking for a condo on the beach, this is the spot!! Steps from white sandy beaches.
– Donna (Read More Reviews)
If you aren’t able to make arrangements to stay at Destin Beach Club, Sun Destin Resort in Destin FL, is a similar and great alternative. We love a resort where you can carry your backpack beach chair from your room to the beach in no time!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Destin Beach Club in Destin Florida
Club Destin Condos
⭐️ Rating 7.8/10 | 📍Location: 1085 US-98 in Destin | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Club Destin Resort in Destin, Florida is a popular condo rental community. The units are somewhat aged but offer a lot of variety when it comes to accommodation needs. With studios, one-bedrooms, and family condos, they’ve got a place to stay for everyone!
The staff were friendly and we loved all of the amenities they had available. 10/10 would recommend and would stay again.
– Victoria (Read More Reviews)
Club Destin Condos in Destin FL, is a great choice for families because the condos here are designed to truly be a home away from home.
Aside from comfortable staying rooms and living areas, they also have full kitchens, equipped with all the basics like a microwave, refrigerator, and stovetop, but also helpful extras like dishes, utensils, a toaster, and even a blender.
Plus, the indoor and outdoor pool, game room, and indoor putting green will keep your kids busy throughout the whole stay!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Club Destin in Destin Florida
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 1625 Scenic Highway 98 East in Destin | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Hampton Inn & Suites Destin in Destin FL, is one of the most conveniently located hotels in town. The property is only a couple-minute walk from restaurants and beach access. It’s a great place to consider staying if you want to be near the water and city center at the same time.
It was very well located east access to beach, food, or drinks the breakfast was very good and the unlimited coffee was a plus.
– Paula (Read More Reviews)
That said, this is an older property that has seen better days. The rooms are decent, but nothing to write home about.
Families expecting to spend a lot of time in their hotel rooms might be better off looking for another option like Days Inn Destin or Destin Inn and Suites. You can also consider nearby Fort Walton Beach hotels for better rates.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hampton Inn & Suites Destin
Destin RV Parks in Destin, Florida
Oftentimes, while traveling cross country, we stay in our RV. There are a few different RV parks in Destin that provide a nice area to settle in with a fun atmosphere as well.
Destin West in Destin FL, is one of the most well-reviewed RV resorts in this area. With waterfront RV stalls, camping doesn’t get much better! Destin Beach RV Resort is another excellent choice for camping accommodations in Destin, Florida.
FAQ: Destin, Florida in March
March is a great time to visit Destin, Florida, if you are ok with skipping water activities. Destin, Florida in March, is still a bit chilly to be snorkeling or jet skiing, but you can still enjoy the water on a boat or from the beach.
Yes, you can swim in Destin, Florida in March, but we wouldn’t recommend it! The seawater temperatures in this part of Florida and along the 30A shore are only around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, so only the bravest souls swim during this month.
Yes, Crab Island is open in March. Thanks to the colder temperatures of March, not all of the water-related festivities will be happening. But you can still hang out on your boat or visit the floating vendors.
Destin, Florida in March offers some beautiful weather. With highs pushing nearly 70 degrees Fahrenheit and lots of sunshine, it’s a great place to spend spring break.
College students do tend to flock to Destin during their spring break from school. Though their presence brings more of a youthful party atmosphere to the town, the celebrations are mild and don’t cause much of a ruckus for other visitors.
If you’re looking to travel inexpensively and with fewer crowds November, December, January, and February are great options. These off-season months offer bargain deals on airfare and hotels, before rates rise again during the peak tourist season with many summer crowds.
Yes! Destin is well known as a top-notch fishing location, and the fish really start to bite again as the gulf water temp slowly begins to warm up in March.
Conclusion: Destin, Florida in March
There are many picture-perfect places to visit throughout Florida for a memorable family vacation. But none of them are quite as charming as Destin. Fun all year round, Destin, Florida in March is the perfect time and place to celebrate the coming spring.
It may not be one of the warmest beaches in Florida in March, but the sugar-white sands, enjoyable weather, good food, and lots of fun outdoor activities make up for it! You should definitely consider a family vacation to Destin, Florida, in March. We hope you have the best time!
