30A tour: destin
The worlds luckiest fishing village.
There’s a gorgeous sameness about the beaches of the Emerald Coast—just one mile after another of soft quartz sand running alongside an aquamarine shoreline that appears aglow, lit from within. The communities that populate this realm, however, are a different matter altogether. All they have in common is their distinctiveness from one another.
It’s a destination that has won over countless travelers. Known far and wide as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin offers visitors an unparalleled spectrum of experiences—from parasailing to boating to incredible dining and shopping. Everyone loves the sugar-white sand and emerald sea, but you’re missing out if you don’t allow yourself to roam.
The best starting point for such an excursion might be Destin Harbor. This amazing waterway captures the essence of life in a fishing town like no other harbor on the Gulf. Wander along the docks—the home of Florida’s largest charter fishing fleet. The combination of salt air, salty dockhands, and the low rumble of transiting sportfishing boats makes for a magical atmosphere. Lunch at A.J.’s offers stunning views of the Destin inlet and the Gulf itself. With a beer and the perfect vantage point, follow the inbound and outbound fleet as they navigate through the jetties. To keep the maritime vibe going, head off for cocktails and a seafood dinner at Harbor Docks or Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House. The seafood is as fresh as can be and the locals know how to prepare it.
Shopping opportunities abound. Start with Destin Commons and move on to the shops at Harborwalk Village, where you’ll find a 40-foot climbing wall for the more athletic and adventurous. You can also book a parasailing adventure or a pontoon boat rental. The world-famous Crab Island lies just beyond the bridge. Perhaps a snorkeling or SNUBA expedition is more your speed—or a helicopter ride over the turquoise waters of the coast. All can be arranged right here.
After a day of adventure, it’s time to share stories over sundowners. Our vacation home rentals offer the best in comfort, style, and convenience, making Destin the perfect escape for the vacation of a lifetime!
Stay tuned for future additions of our community tour along 30A, where we’ll highlight a different community in feature articles.
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