Walking Tours to discover Destin
Sure, let's take a virtual stroll around Destin, Florida! With breathtaking beaches, vibrant wildlife, and delightful eateries, this town is a walker's paradise. Buckle up; it’s about to get exciting!
The Short Excursion: The Harbor Stroll (1.6 km / 1 mile - Estimated time: 30 minutes)
Beginning at the Destin History and Fishing Museum, set off along the Harbor Boardwalk. A leisurely coast with the trigger-happy camera might turn a 15-minute walk into 30—but trust me, it's worth it. The boardwalk buzzes with activity, offering snapshots of everyday life in this vibrant community. At the end, reward your walking shoes with a visit to HarborWalk Village. This open-air shopping center teems with dining options, shops, and even hosts seasonal events. Grab a scoop of ice cream from Moose's Magic and Gifts or a mug of coffee from Starbucks, then sit back and relax, taking in the panoramic harbor view.
The Medium Trek: Crystal Beach Saunter (5 km / 3.1 miles - Estimated time: 1 hour)
Start your leisurely saunter from Henderson Beach State Park. This dreamy slice of Destin enchants visitors with its pure white sand backed by teal-blue waters. Don't be surprised if you catch sight of loco locals—you know, dolphins, sea turtles, or migratory birds. A mild, 5 km seaward amble along Crystal Beach should land you at James Lee Park. Here, feel free to do a toe-dip pause before heading back. Remember to tuck into a meal at 790 on the Gulf, a charming beachfront eatery.
The Long Haul: Destin’s Highlights (14.5 km / 9 miles - Estimated Time: 3-4 hours)
Kick off your longer route at the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, home of the 'furred and feathered’. Trekking along the coast, your next stop could be Okaloosa Island Pier. This 1,263-foot long wooden monolith offers a pint-sized paradise for anglers and sunset watchers alike. Don't forget to pop by the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, a fun-filled attraction housing dolphins, stingrays, and alligators. Dispatch the final stretch of your route to Destin Commons, an outdoor shopping mall with over 90 stores and restaurants waiting to be explored. Round off your walk with a well-deserved dinner at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill, a kitschy, fishing-themed restaurant.
Happy walking!
