Destin: Top 10 Locals List

Destin has a wide array of attractions for everyone, but some are more popular than others. Take on Destin like a true local by visiting hidden spots in this famously tourist-centric city.

Jetty East Beach

Jetty East Beach, Destin, Florida

Photo by: Anthony Tueni/iStock/Getty Images

Anthony Tueni/iStock/Getty Images

Snorkeling is a favorite pastime of Destin locals, but tourists often occupy a lot of territory at Destin Beach. For a less crowded snorkeling experience, venture to the beach by the Jetty East condominiums and bask in the Florida warmth while observing cute critters of the ocean blue.

Emerald Coast Scuba

scuba diving, Destin, Florida

Photo by: Stephen Frink/Oxford Scientific/Getty Images

Stephen Frink/Oxford Scientific/Getty Images

Destin may not be the first place you think of as a scuba diving destination. Because of the ocean’s unpredictable visibility, you never know how much you’ll be able to see. If you’re an adventurous traveler, take a gamble, and you may discover some of Destin’s most beautiful fish just off the city’s coast.

Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park, Destin, Florida

Photo by: Romona Robbins Photograhy/Image Source/Getty Images

Romona Robbins Photograhy/Image Source/Getty Images

To avoid big crowds of tourists, saunter along Destin’s beaches in May or October. At Henderson Beach, you can even get a boardwalk fix, too.

Destin History and Fishing Museum

Destin Fishing and History Museum, Florida

Photo by: Ebyabe, via Wikimedia Commons

Ebyabe, via Wikimedia Commons

Destin has a rich history as a fishing village, something locals know well. At the Destin History and Fishing Museum, visitors can get a better sense of what life was like in this Florida city before electricity arrived in the 1930s.

Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club

Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club, Destin, Florida

Photo by: Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club

Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club

Destin and golf are 2 words that go hand in hand. Tee off at one of the area’s best golf courses for the opportunity to do it up like a local.

Hog's Breath Saloon

bbq, ribs, Hogs Breath Saloon, Destin, Florida

Photo by: Mike Gardner/iStock/Getty Images

Mike Gardner/iStock/Getty Images

Locals and tourists alike love Destin’s nightlife. Chill out at one of many bustling restaurants and bars in the area to meet an interesting host of characters. For a taste of delicious barbecue, visit Hog’s Breath Saloon, which offers drool-worthy ribs.

Crab Island

Crab Island, boats, Destin, Florida

Photo by: Laura Tidwell/Moment/Getty Images

Laura Tidwell/Moment/Getty Images

Crab Island, Destin’s famous sandbar, is a go-to spot for anyone looking to have fun. Play volleyball or drink a beer in the shallow waters of the city’s most social destination.

Destin Pass

Destin Pass, boat, Florida

Photo by: The Emerald Coast Convention Center

The Emerald Coast Convention Center

Wakeboarding and surfing are obligatory activities for true Destin locals. Try your hand at these fun aquatic sports at the Destin Pass, otherwise known as the East Pass. All you need to do is rent a boat and some gear, and you’re good to go.

HarborWalk Charters

HarborWalk Charters, boat, fishing, Destin, Florida

Photo by: HarborWalk Village

HarborWalk Village

When in Destin, fishing is an absolute must. Many locals love to fish and eat their catch for dinner. Rent a boat and equipment through HarborWalk Charters for the chance to hook a few fish on a sunny afternoon.

Xtreme H2O Watersports

Xtreme H20 Sports, parasailing, boat, Destin, Florida

Photo by: Xtreme H2 Sports

Xtreme H2 Sports

Sometimes even locals like to do the touristy stuff. At Xtreme H2O, you can participate in a wide range of water activities, from riding Jet Skis to parasailing. No matter what you decide to do, you’re bound to get an adrenaline rush.