35 Best Things to Do in Destin With Kids in 2024
There are so many fun things to do in Destin with kids. We have spent countless days exploring Destin and the surrounding area to bring you and your family all the best things to do in Destin with kids.
This comprehensive list of great activities you can do while on your family vacation in Destin, Florida, is all you will need for many days of adventure. It does not matter what age your children are; there are lots of family activities in Destin, Florida you will love.
Some of our favorite activities are the Air Stream Food Truck Park, Crab Island, charter fishing, and playing in the beautiful emerald green waters. Keep reading for a complete breakdown of all the great activities you can find in Destin.
Outdoor Things to Do in Destin With Kids
1. Gulf Islands National Seashore and Junior Ranger Program
The Gulf Islands National Seashore is an exceptional outdoor escape in Destin, Florida that offers an array of activities for families. This national treasure houses one of the most stunning Destin beaches, historic forts, and a myriad of hiking and biking trails.
Among the numerous activities available here is the Junior Ranger Program. This program is an engaging educational initiative designed to introduce children to the wonders of nature and the importance of protecting our environment.
Our children love doing these programs, and they enjoyed the Gulf Islands National Seashore Junior Ranger Program when they did it.
If you have young kids and visit the state, national parks, and national seashores, make sure to stop at the ranger stations and participate in these programs. The programs are great and generally free with your entrance costs.
2. Fishing at Okaloosa Island Pier
Fishing at Okaloosa Island Pier is a great kid-friendly activity in Destin, Florida. This renowned fishing spot provides an opportunity for both beginners and seasoned anglers to have a memorable fishing experience.
If you are going to fish on the pier, it is going to cost a few dollars, so be prepared. When we were in Destin, we didn’t bring our fishing tackle from home, but luckily, the pier is fully equipped with bait and tackle shops.
We found some relatively cheap gear that we used to fish here and around the area. Remember to get a fishing license if you don’t have one yet, as it’s required for fishing at Okaloosa Island Pier.
If you are fishing from the pier, you might reel in a variety of species, such as the Atlantic Mackerel, Redfish, Tarpon, and even sharks. We caught Mackerel and Redfish!
If you do not want to fish, you can still go on the pier and watch others, or you can hang out under the pier for free.
3. Gator Beach
Gator Beach is fun for families seeking enjoyable and educational activities in Destin, Florida. It is the perfect spot for kids to learn about Florida’s native reptiles and even have a chance to feed live alligators! We loved it here, but we also visited all of the fun alligator adventure spots that Florida offers.
Gator Beach is known as the “world’s greatest alligator park” and houses over 100 alligators. The park offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. One of the key attractions is the Alligator Show, where trained handlers showcase the strength, skills, and natural behavior of these animals.
Our kids love the alligator show. They showcase the great ability the alligators have for jumping and grabbing prey.
4. Goofy Golf
Goofy Golf is a highly enjoyable, family-friendly attraction in Fort Walton Beach, near Destin. This long-standing mini-golf establishment has been a favorite among residents and tourists for over 60 years. The fun and whimsical course designs make each round of golf a fun-filled adventure. Ideal for all ages.
We love playing miniature golf when we visit Destin, Florida. The course also offers ample opportunities for nice family photos against its quirky backdrops. We always try to see who can win miniature golf. We are a little competitive.
5. Airstream Food Truck Park and Seaside Pavilion
Airstream Food Truck Park and Seaside Pavilion is an amazing destination. If you don’t want to eat here, you still need to go and visit. The area is beautiful, with some great iconic and unique culinary options. We loved the food and the atmosphere.
Our kids had a great time running around on the grassy Seaside Pavilion area and the beach. There are great food options, from gourmet hot dogs and fresh, local seafood to homemade ice cream cones and smoothies. This is one of our favorite places to visit when we are in the area.
6. Grayson Beach State Park
Grayson Beach State Park is known for its pristine white sand beaches, emerald green waters, and diverse wildlife, the park is a natural paradise. It offers a plethora of outdoor activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and hiking.
We really liked this beach, and when we were visiting, it was easy to see why it is one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States.
The park also features the coastal dune lake, one of the rare geographical features found in only a few places worldwide. This allows for a unique blend of both freshwater and saltwater species.
The park’s nature trail provides an opportunity for kids and adults to explore the native plants and animals, while the picnic pavilions make for an ideal spot for a family lunch surrounded by beautiful scenery.
7. Harborwalk Village
Harborwalk Village is a bustling waterfront area located in Destin, Florida. If you stay at the Emerald Grande, you will be right next to the Harborwalk Village and just down the road from Crab Island.
The village offers a rich selection of attractions and activities that cater to everyone. We enjoyed checking out the shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Especially the zipline that runs above the Harborwalk!
The Village is very active day and night. One of the highlights of Harborwalk Village is the stunning views it offers of the Destin Harbor and the numerous boat tours that you can embark on.
We went on a fishing charter that left from the Harborwalk Village, but other tours include dolphin-watching excursions, Buccaneer Pirate Cruise, and various fishing charters.
The village also offers seasonal festivals and shows if you are looking for extra excitement during the Halloween and Christmas seasons.
8. Big Kahuna’s Water Park
Big Kahuna’s Water Park is the waterpark in the area, and it is the largest water park on the Emerald Coast. The waterpark has lots of fun waterslides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and kiddie splash areas.
It is the perfect place to beat the heat and mix it up a little if you don’t want to spend the day at the beach. We find the waterpark a great place to visit if you want to switch gears a little.
Big Kahuna’s offers some great activities the entire family will enjoy. Make sure to check out their website to see if some days are cheaper to visit than others. The park is seasonal, so if you want to visit, make sure the park is open when you are visiting.
9. Go Fishing
Fishing in Destin is a must, after all, it is called the world’s luckiest fishing village. A charter from Destin is one of the best family activities in Destin, Florida. You don’t have to travel very far from the shore to catch some great fish when you are fishing in Destin.
Destin is also a good place to fish from the pier. There are many different piers you can fish from, and some are fishing-specific piers. We enjoy pier fishing and charters, but charters are my favorite.
Any time we visit Destin, we make sure to book a charter with Harborwalk Village Fishing Charters. When we take a Destin charter, we make sure to take Dramamine the night before and the day of our charter.
If you are not sure how to get started, stop at a fishing tackle store and ask someone at the counter. They always help us when we have questions.
10. Henderson Beach State Park
When we visit Destin, we often camp at Henderson Beach State Park. The park is such a peaceful place to visit, with very nice camping areas and showers.
We really liked that they had a family shower. This made it so much easier to shower our smaller children. We could all go in the family shower and shower together.
The area has some nice large and less crowded beaches, perfect for splashing around or snorkeling. It’s also super close to shopping and Walmart. If you are looking for a nice beach or a nice place to stay, you should check out Henderson Beach State Park.
11. Crab Island and Dolphin Cruise
If you have not heard of Crab Island, then you should spend some time looking into it. You’ll be ready to book your own Crab Island tour in no time!
The Island has a very unique story, as the area is no longer an island but a sand bar that is completely submerged. Locals and tourists flock to the area in their boats to play on the sand bar and enjoy the fun environment of Crab Island.
If you have the time, check out this Crab Island and Dolphin Cruise.
▶️ BOOK Crab Island and Dolphin Cruise
12. Banana Boat Experience
The Banana Boat Experience is a highly-rated adventure out of Destin Harbor. The ride is great for many different age groups and is a fun experience.
The experience will take an hour or two, so it is not something that will take a whole day. If you are just looking for something that is not complicated or going to take a longer time, then you should look into the Banana Boat Experience.
▶️ BOOK Banana Boat Experience
13. Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise
Every time we find ourselves along the Gulf Coast of Mexico, we can’t resist heading out on the water in search of dolphins. The Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise in Destin is a great family activity.
Every time we saw them driving by, we could see the dolphins jumping in their wake. It looked so fun to see them speed through the ocean with the dolphins along the side of the boat.
▶️ BOOK Hydroject Dolphin Cruise
Indoor Things to Do in Destin With Kids
14. Axes and Ice Cream
Axes and Ice Cream is an unusual but entertaining combo that has become a favorite among visitors in Destin with kids. This unique venue combines the thrill of axe throwing with the delightful sweetness of artisan ice cream. Axe throwing is a fun and safe activity everyone can enjoy.
The staff were great, professional, and well-trained. They are great to guide first-timers and ensure a fun and safe experience for all.
After a round of throwing, you can indulge in a variety of homemade ice cream flavors. The venue also offers other games and a comfortable lounge area, making it an ideal spot for families seeking indoor fun in Destin.
Be sure to check out their website for hours and any age restrictions.
15. Rock, Paper, Scissors 30A
Rock, Paper, Scissors 30A is a renowned art studio in Destin that provides a vibrant and creative environment for children and adults. My wife, kids, and mother-in-law are huge crafting fans. We went to Rock, Paper, Scissors 30A, and my wife and kids could not get enough of the awesome crafts they offered.
They had everything we needed to create some really fun art. They cater to all levels of artistic ability, and they offer a variety of workshops.
We are not a super artistic family, but the instructor was super nice and helpful. It was a great space to learn new skills and produce personalized, handcrafted art. Rock, Paper Scissors is one of the best indoor kid activities in Destin, Florida.
16. Emerald Coast Science Center
The Emerald Coast Science Center is a fun place for those looking to journey into the world of science. This interactive museum features exhibits that span a range of scientific disciplines, including physics, robotics, color and light, and animal behaviors. Highlights include a hurricane simulator and robotics exhibit.
The center’s goal is to inspire and foster a love for science through hands-on learning experiences. We liked the animal exhibits the most.
17. Fort SK8 Family Fun Center
The Fort SK8 Family Fun Center is the place to be if it is rainy or you just want to play some games inside. This roller skating rink brings a retro vibe with modern amenities, providing endless hours of entertainment for all ages.
In addition to skating, the Fun Center also offers an arcade area filled with a variety of games, making it a popular spot for birthday parties or casual family outings.
18. The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House
The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House is a beloved dining destination in Destin, known for its impressive views of the Gulf, relaxed atmosphere, and delicious seafood.
Open since 1974, this restaurant has become a local institution renowned for its fresh, locally sourced oysters, shrimp, and fish. The menu also includes great gulf seafood, and for the non-seafood lovers, they have everything from steaks to chicken and burgers.
The restaurant overlooks the beautiful Emerald Coast, offering panoramic views of the sea and the most breathtaking sunsets. The kids had a lot of fun playing with beach toys at the beach while we sat eating our delicious food. The Back Porch is a must-visit staple when in the area.
19. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is one of Destin’s top attractions, especially if you are looking for things to do in Destin, Florida, with little kids.
Established in 1955, it is one of the world’s oldest marine animal parks and is home to a vast array of marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, turtles, and alligators.
The park is dedicated to educating the public about marine conservation and providing a fun, engaging experience for all ages. Visitors to the Gulfarium have the opportunity to enjoy interactive exhibits and entertaining shows.
Make sure you watch the dolphin show. It is the best of all the shows we watched. Our whole family loved seeing all the great shows and exhibits at the Marine Adventure Park.
20. Destin History & Fishing Museum
The Destin History & Fishing Museum is a hidden gem in the heart of Destin that takes you on a journey through the city’s rich history. Preserving the heritage of Destin, the museum showcases the evolution of the fishing industry, which has been the lifeblood of the town.
Antique fishing equipment, vintage photographs, and a collection of historical artifacts provide insights into the lives of Destin’s early settlers.
21. Destin Commons
Destin Commons is a premier open-air lifestyle shopping center located in the heart of Destin. The center offers a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in a delightful outdoor setting.
The Destin Commons has over 90 stores and restaurants, and it provides a fun shopping experience for those who like to shop. We played around at the Destin Commons for a few hours as we looked for some new shorts and swimsuits.
22. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin
Grand Boulevard at Sandestin is a high-end, mixed-use development that exudes luxury and sophistication. Located in the stunning Sandestin Resort, Grand Boulevard offers a diverse array of upscale retail shops, dining, and entertainment.
The Boulevard’s Town Center is a hot spot for cultural events, concerts, and festivals, offering something for both locals and tourists.
The beautifully landscaped streets, lined with palm trees, add to the overall charm of the area.
Free Things to Do in Destin, FL With Kids
23. Air Force Armament Museum
The Air Force Armament Museum is located near Eglin Air Force Base and is only 23 minutes from Destin, Florida. This is a must-visit for anyone interested in military history or aviation.
This was another one of our favorite things to do with kids in Destin, especially if your kids like airplanes. They had military planes and military armaments all over their campus.
This museum is the only institution in the U.S. dedicated to the display of Air Force armament. It boasts an impressive collection of military artifacts, ranging from World War I to present-day exhibits.
The collection consists of over 29 different aircraft, including the fastest plane ever built, the SR-71 Blackbird. It was cool to see the size of everything and to learn about the history of armament and planes.
The museum offers an immersive experience, enabling visitors to get up close to the aircraft and understand the significance of the armament in the U.S. Air Force history. It’s an indoor and outdoor activity that’s free, educational, and exciting.
24. Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is one of the gems of Destin, with its pristine white sandy beaches, sparkling emerald-toned waters, and a peaceful, laid-back ambiance.
This beautiful stretch of coastline is perfect for families looking to relax, with ample space for kids to fly a beach kite or just run around and play. As well as opportunities for adults to unwind in a comfortable beach chair and soak up the Florida sunshine.
Water sports enthusiasts can also find their thrill here, with activities ranging from parasailing to paddleboarding. The kids have fun on their boogie boards here, too!
Nearby, you’ll find a myriad of shopping and dining options, making Miramar Beach a top destination for us when we are in the area.
25. James Lee Beach
James Lee Beach is another stunning location in Destin that offers a tranquil setting away from the more crowded tourist hotspots. Known for its crystalline emerald waters and powdery white sands, it’s the perfect venue for beach lovers seeking serenity.
We love traveling with a beach tote, so we are always ready for a spontaneous beach day. A roomy bag is perfect for carrying all your beach essentials, including baby beach gear, if you’re traveling with a little one.
We also recommend backpack beach chairs if you’re looking for a supportive place to sit when visiting James Lee Beach. They are so convenient to carry and really do make your beach experience that much better.
This beach also boasts excellent facilities, including a children’s playground, picnic tables, and well-maintained restrooms. The attached Crab Trap restaurant is a local favorite, offering delicious seafood and gorgeous views of the Gulf.
Do keep in mind this beach does not have a lot of parking options. When we went to this beach, it was a slower time of year, so we did not have a hard time finding parking, but some times of the year, this can change.
26. Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach is famous for its emerald-green waters and powdery white sand beaches. This quaint beach town offers a variety of attractions suitable for all age groups.
The beach is close to everything, with many fun activities close by. Some of these activities include the Indian Temple Mound and Museum, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, and Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone.
The downtown area has lively shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s a perfect spot for those looking for a vibrant nightlife. This is a beautiful area that we enjoy.
27. Go Ghost Crabbing
Florida is loaded with Ghost Crabs, and you can find them at almost any beach. We have found them at almost all of the beaches we visit in Florida.
The Ghost Crabs run around at night, and you can see them running. The key to catching Ghost Crabs is going to the beach at night with a flashlight and a net.
They are very fast, this is why you will need a net, and be careful when you pick them up because even though they are small, they do pinch. We always try to see who can catch the biggest one.
28. Landing Park
Landing Park is a picturesque waterfront public park in the Fort Walton Beach area. It is popular in the area because the park offers stunning views of Destin Harbor and tranquil spots perfect for picnicking and relaxation.
The park features a splash pad, playground, and picnic pavilions, making it an excellent spot for an outing on your Destin, Florida, family vacation.
We liked the park for the playground and its views. Our kids love to make friends at the playgrounds when we travel, and it gives us time to relax and enjoy the nice weather.
During the Christmas season, some Christmas programs are put on, and the trees here are decorated with lights. They even set up a decorated Christmas tree.
29. Dune Allen Beach
Dune Allen Beach is a true haven for nature lovers. Nestled along the Emerald Coast of Florida, this serene coastal area is known for its crystal-clear emerald waters. It is home to three coastal dune lakes. These lakes, namely Lake Allen, Lake Stallworth, and Oyster Lake, create an extraordinary landscape.
The beach offers an array of recreational activities for visitors. Swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, fishing, and bird-watching around the dune lakes are some of our favorite activities.
The Scenic 30A bike trail that runs through Dune Allen Beach is perfect for those who prefer land-based pursuits. For food lovers, beachfront dining options offer an opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood while soaking in the mesmerizing ocean views.
30. Scenic Highway 30A
Scenic Highway 30A is a picturesque 24-mile corridor that hugs the Gulf of Mexico coastline in Northwest Florida. It’s an area known for its stunning beaches, charming small towns, and diverse natural beauty.
From the sugar-white sands of Santa Rosa Beach to the vibrant community of Seaside, 30A offers an array of activities and beauty.
Famous for its turquoise waters and towering dunes, the beaches along 30A are some of the most beloved in Florida. Beyond the beaches, you’ll find unique boutiques, top-rated restaurants, and quaint art galleries peppered along the highway.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the 15,000 acres of pine forests and coastal dunes in Point Washington State Forest. We also like to bike the Timpoochee Trail. This trail is a 19-mile paved path that parallels the entire length of 30A.
31. Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island
The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is a premier destination for fun and activity. Known for its beautiful sandy beach, it also offers a range of recreational activities.
The Boardwalk provides easy access to the beach, along with outdoor showers and bathroom facilities, ensuring a comfortable beach experience for everyone.
We always enjoy dining at the Boardwalk, thanks to a host of restaurants and eateries serving delicious food. The outdoor seating at these establishments offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, allowing you to dine while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
For those who like shopping, the Boardwalk boasts several local boutiques offering beachwear, souvenirs, and unique gifts. The convenience of shopping while taking a break from the beach is a major advantage.
The Boardwalk also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from fireworks displays to live music, ensuring that there is always something exciting happening. Make sure to check out their activity calendar so you don’t miss some of the fun activities that happen.
32. Destin Harbor Boardwalk
Destin Harbor Boardwalk stretches nearly a quarter of a mile along beautiful Destin Harbor, providing access to the waterfront. Visitors can rent boats, go parasailing, take dolphin cruises, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll.
There are several waterfront restaurants where you can savor fresh seafood while taking in the panoramic harbor views. The boardwalk is also home to numerous shops selling local crafts, beach gear, and unique souvenirs.
Things to Do in Destin at Night with Family
33. Fish Bowl
The Fish Bowl is a family-friendly entertainment center located in Destin, Florida. It offers a wide range of activities. Here, you can indulge in bowling, with state-of-the-art lanes providing a unique and exciting bowling experience. The vibrant, neon-lit ambiance adds an extra thrill to the game.
Aside from bowling, the Fish Bowl also features a large game arcade filled with popular video games and a prize redemption center. We love to play arcade games, but the kids get a little wild when we do play them.
The Fish Bowl has an onsite restaurant and bar that serves up a variety of delicious foods and drinks. They offer pizzas, burgers, soft drinks and cocktails.
34. Fat Daddy’s Arcade And The Track
Fat Daddy’s Arcade is another family-friendly entertainment hotspot in Destin, Florida. Boasting more than 120 arcade games, the venue offers a plethora of fun activities that cater to all ages. From classic arcade games to modern video games, interactive rides to redemption games.
The arcade and the multi-level go-cart track and rides are right next to each other. We did everything while we were here, and it was sweet. We were early, so the place was empty, and we got to play on everything with few lines.
I tried to sneak off to the arcade while Candice and the kids went on the rides, but they found me pretty quickly.
35. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
Trampoline parks are super fun, and the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park was no different. It is a popular spot for family fun. The park boasts an impressive array of trampolines, including trampoline arenas, dodgeball courts, stunt airbags, slam dunk tracks, and a runway.
In addition to trampolines, the park offers an Adventure Hub, which houses a ropes course, climbing walls, and a warrior course. It also has a Tubes Indoor Playground for younger children.
The park also offers some food but nothing too extensive.
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Destin
The Back Porch
The Back Porch is one of the most iconic restaurants in Destin, Florida that has a great family atmosphere. We enjoyed eating here, and the view is great. The food is not cheap, but it is reasonably priced for the area.
East Pass Seafood and Oyster House
This is a nice place to eat in the HarborWalk Village. The great thing about going to this restaurant is that you can explore the Harborwalk while you are there.
We like their Grouper and Salmon, but we are big seafood people. They do offer some nice hamburgers if you are looking for something other than seafood.
Marina Cafe
The Marina Cafe is a fine dining experience. If you are looking for something a little more fancy and delicious, then you want to check out the Marina Cafe. We loved the food, the atmosphere, and the great service. This is a nice place to visit and is Destin’s most awarded restaurant.
Crab Island Seafood Restaurant
This is a great open-air restaurant that is close to a lot of fun activities. It is located in the Harbor Walk Village. This gives you lots of options for shopping and activities before or after your meal.
One thing to keep in mind is that parking can get a little tight at the Harbor Walk Village, so get there a little early if possible.
Map of Best Things to Do in Destin with Kids
Destin Florida Hotels For Families
Henderson Beach Resort and Spa – Luxury
⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍 Location: 200 Henderson Resort Way in Destin | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Henderson Beach Resort and Spa is a great classy resort. You are close to everything, and you will get to take advantage of a private beach, spa, and restaurant.
The other thing we really like about this resort is that you are only a 1-minute walk to the Henderson Beach State Park. The state park is beautiful, with lots of space for all those who visit.
Although Destin doesn’t have dog-friendly beaches, The Henderson Beach Resort and Spa is pet-friendly. If you are traveling with your furry family or people family, you are going to have a great stay. The resort is one of the highest-rated places to stay in Destin on the beach. It’s a fantastic luxury property.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Henderson Beach Resort and Spa
Courtyard Fort Walton Beach – Mid-Range
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍 Location: 414 Santa Rosa Boulevard in Fort Walton Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Courtyard at Fort Walton Beach is a very nice mid-range hotel that offers a lot for a mid-range price. At the Courtyard, you will get a beachfront property and views with access to beach loungers, laundry services, a pool, and a gym. The Courtyard offers a great and highly rated experience you should be happy with.
This is a great place to stay for families as well. You will be close to Okaloosa Island Beach, Okaloosa Island Pier, and the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, some of our favorite things to do in Destin with kids.
There are many Fort Walton Beach hotels to choose from near Destin, but this is our favorite!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Courtyard Fort Walton Beach – West Destin
Beal House Fort Walton Beach, Tapestry Collection – Budget
⭐️ Rating 8.8/10 | 📍 Location: 380 Santa Rosa Blvd in Fort Walton Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
If you are looking for a hotel on the beach at a bargain price with great reviews, then you need to look at the Beal House. The Beal House in West Destin offers a heated outdoor pool and a poolside bar.
Something to keep in mind when staying here is that while your room is cheaper, you will need to pay for other amenities like on-site parking ($15).
Overall, if you are looking to stay close to the beach and save a little money, the Beal House is a great option that won’t break the bank.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Beal House Fort Walton Beach, Tapestry Collection
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Destin – Budget
⭐️ Rating 8.6/10 | 📍 Location: 12839 Emerald Coast Pkwy in Miramar Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
If you do not have to be right on the beach and you are just looking for a good hotel that is close to the activities in Destin, FL, for a family, then look at La Quinta Inn in Destin. They offer your typical great hotel experience with free breakfast, free parking, a gym, and a lounge bar.
La Quinta is a great value and a great price. Those looking for your typical La Quinta experience without the additional tourist beach prices should check out this hotel.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Destin
FAQ: Things to Do in Destin with Kids
Can You Take Kids to Crab Island?
Crab Island is a great place to take kids who love to swim. Our kids enjoy playing in the water and relaxing on the boat. Do keep in mind that you must have a boat or take a tour to visit Crab Island, and you may want to keep life jackets on your children.
Is Panama City or Destin Better For Kids?
If you have younger kids like ours, we like Panama City better. There are so many things to do in Panama City Beach with kids. The beaches are better for finding shells in Panama City, and the area is a little more laid back. It really is one of the best Florida Gulf Coast beaches.
St. Andrew’s State Park is an amazing place to spend a day in the sun! The Panama City dolphin tours are always a hit with our kids, too!
Destin is better if you have older kids who want to adventure and explore. It’s also a really fun spot to visit in the winter, as it’s one of the best places to visit in Florida in December and January.
Destin is also a great place to go charter fishing. I will typically go by myself on a charter because the kids are a little young, and Candice gets seasick easily.
Is Clearwater or Destin Better For Families?
We like Destin better for families. It’s one of our favorite family vacation spots on the Florida Gulf Coast. There is so much to do, and it is all very close together.
Clearwater is nice, especially because it’s one of the warmest beaches to visit year-round. The water stays warm enough to enjoy in December, January, and February! It’s so nice to be able to take a sunset cruise, even during the winter months! And a quick trip to Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks is always a fun outing.
There are some really fun things to do in Clearwater with kids. You can play at the beach and explore the pier, take a kayak tour, and enjoy lots of water sports, but overall, there is less to do with your family in Clearwater than in Destin.
You have to travel to Tampa to get a large variety of family-friendly activities in this area, which raises the age-old debate of Tampa vs. Clearwater.
Is Crab Island Worth It?
Yes, we love Crab Island. There are great tours that are relaxing for everyone that take you to the area. Crab Island can be busy at times because it is such a fun area to relax and play.
Conclusion: Things to Do in Destin with Kids
We love Destin and Florida’s Emerald Coast. There are so many fun things to do with your family, no matter what age they are.
From playing on the beach, charter fishing, visiting Crab Island, and exploring nearby towns, there is never a shortage of things to do in Destin with kids. You will end your Destin trip thinking about when you will find time to go back.
