Destin Florida may be known as the “World’s luckiest fishing village,” but there is so much more to see, explore, and experience—like the Destin Harbor Boardwalk!
The Destin Boardwalk is a hive of activity and with so many opportunities for fun, there is something to satisfy every visitor.
To help you make the most of your visit to Destin, we’ve put together this visitor’s guide detailing why you should visit the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and just some of the incredible things you can do while there!
Why Visit the Destin Harbor Boardwalk?
Completed in 2012, walking the boardwalk is the best way to spend a day at Destin Harbor.
With access to beaches, watersport rentals, bars and restaurants, shops, and adventurous activities like zip-lining, you’ll be smiling the whole day through!
How Long is the Destin Harbor Boardwalk?
The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is 0.8 miles long. Long enough to spend an action-packed day, but not so long that the walk itself wipes you out!
Things to Do at Destin Harbor
Whether you are staying near the beautiful Destin Harbor or coming in for a day trip from nearby Panama City Beach or Baytowne Wharf, the Boardwalk is the place to be!
There are so many things to do at the Destin Harbor Boardwalk that it is nearly impossible to list them all. Here are just a few of our very favorite activities!
Hit the Beach
Destin is home to a number of awesome beaches and many are located in and around Destin Harbor. If spending some time relaxing in the sand and sun sounds like the perfect day, you can visit the public beach at Norriego Point.
Or, cross the Destin Bridge and visit Princess Beach. Tucked away and secluded, this is one of the best public beaches on the Emerald Coast.
If you don’t mind a little dive, Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach are both 15 minutes from the Destin Boardwalk and the Henderson Beach State Park, complete with hiking trails and 30-foot coastal dunes, is a mere 8-minute drive. That said, leave early as Destin traffic can be brutal.
Many of the beaches in this area are considered private but if you are staying in a waterfront vacation rental, you may already have access to a beach with remarkable views of the Gulf Coast.
Be sure to check all signs and postings before laying down your towel!
Go on a Dolphin Tour
You can’t visit Florida’s Emerald Coast without making time to see some of the local aquatic life!
And a dolphin cruise is one of the best ways to do it!
Boat tours are great but they can be crowded. If you are looking for a truly unique and memorable experience, consider a dolphin cruise that uses a two-seater Jet Ski. In this case, you will not only have better interactions with your guide, but you can also actually get much closer to these magnificent creatures.
Rent a Boat or Jet Ski
Renting a pontoon boat or a Jet Ski is the best way to see the Emerald Coast. A day out on the water is not only fun, but it gives the chance to explore the secluded islands and beaches that dot the shoreline. What’s more, our experienced guides will lead you to the best spots.
If you’d rather skip the motor and stay closer to land, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are also an option.
Visit Crab Island
Crab Island is one of the best beaches in Destin. And it is only accessible by water. You can take a boat to access Crab Island take you there specifically or use our guided jet ski rental with a smaller group to enhance the experience.
Play some water volleyball, swim, float, sunbathe, whatever floats your proverbial boat!
Hire a Fishing Charter
The Gulf Coast is home to a wide variety of fish species and Destin Fl is a great place to launch a fishing trip.
There are fishing charters available for deep sea fishing trips, kid and family-friendly fishing trips, and even party boat fishing trips.
If you are an experienced saltwater angler and enjoy the spirit of competition, consider visiting Destin in October and participating in the Destin Fishing Rodeo. Founded in 1948, this is a significant piece of Destin history and the ultimate fishing tournament! And when you aren’t on the water, you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Destin Seafood Festival that kicks off the Rodeo!
Explore HarborWalk Village
When you are done wandering the Destin Boardwalk, pay a visit to HarborWalk Village!
What is There to Do at HarborWalk?
HarborWalk has many available activities including water sports and rentals but it is also where you find parasailing, zip-lining, live music, weekly fireworks, incredible shopping, and fabulous culinary experiences.
Home to the famous Emerald Grande condos and vacation rentals, the HarborWalk Village is your one-stop for fun and adventure in Destin Harbor.
Enjoy the Food!
Spending a day on the boardwalk works up an appetite. Fortunately, HarborWalk Village is home to some of the best eats in the state!
From cold craft beer to shaved ice, from daiquiris to fresh seafood and an oyster bar, there is something to satisfy even the pickiest of palates.
Browse the Shops
HarborWalk Village is home to some of the best shopping in Destin. The shops include a year-round Christmas store, jewelry and accessory boutiques, sports and swimwear retailers, art studios, and even a kite shop.
Have an Adventure
Adventure can mean different things to different people. At the HarborWalk, you can do something low-key like visiting an escape room, playing some mini-golf, having your face painted, or being drawn as a cartoon caricature.
Or, if you prefer something a little wilder, you can go ax throwing, ride a zipline, go parasailing, take a helicopter tour, or do your best secret agent impression in the laser maze.
Don’t Skip the Destin Harbor Boardwalk
As a top Destin attraction, the Harbor Boardwalk is a must-visit location. With plenty of shops and restaurants, and a shockingly large array of activities, the Boardwalk is the place to be.
And when it comes to your water sports rentals, visit Destiny Water Adventures in Fort Walton Beach. From private sunset cruises to dolphin tours and Jet Ski, pontoon, and kayak rentals, we have everything your need for a fun-filled day in the sun and surf!
