Destin, Florida: Paradise in the Panhandle

Beaches

For the most secluded options, drive a short distance of 6 miles to Okaloosa Island. Down Santa Rosa Blvd, you'll find access spots for public beaches. I recommend driving down until you hit #7. It buts up against a military shoreline. Privacy and lack of guests is a must.

If you want to stay in the party zone, check out Norriego Point. From here, you'll be side by side with tourists like yourself, who have beached their rental boats and decided to soak up the sun. You'll also witness all the charters leaving for deeper waters. BYOB and if you make friends, always say yes to a ride out to Crab Island.

Speaking of Crab Island, while it's not a beach, it is a waist-deep swimming area that fills up with boats, kayaks, jet skis and more. Located just under the Destin Bridge, you're only legally allowed to get there on a flotation device of some sort. Once there, throw anchor and prepare to spend the day.

Boat Rental

The one and only company I can always count on, is Dockside Water Sports. Please check out my TikTok @that1kidsmom for a full video review!

Shopping

• The Destin Commons

• Silver Sands Outlets

• Grand Boulevard

Day trips

Depending on how long your stay is, I would recommend a day trip to Vortex Springs. Just under two hours away, you'll experience the clearest water and a more southern Florida vibe. Experienced scuba divers will find this location particularly great!

Dinner

Boshamps Oyster Bar is the Number 1 Must-Eat Destination. Mark my words on this one. The restaurant is locally owned and operated, and employs James Beard Award-Winning Chef, Andy Bell. Max capacity is around 500 seats, and yes, they fill up fast. Wait times in the summertime average around three hours, but they offer a full beach play area out back to wait it out. Lunch time calls for their Blackened Grouper Sandwich, while dinner demands you order the famous Snapper Destin. Prices are on the higher side, but the service is second to none, and the food too good to believe.

Drinks

If you asked the locals where they go to hang out, the answers would most definitely be tied. Both Red Door and The Boathouse are always full of fishermen, service industry and tourists. There are no other places I would recommend for the full experience of drinking like a local.

**An honorable mention on the rise is The Harbor Tavern. If you're a fan of house music, this is more your vibe.

A spot I would skip? Aj's Destin. If you're into shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, bachelorette parties, slammed dance floors, and more of the college frat vibe, this is for you. On the plus side, they do employ the area's best bartenders. Shout out to Doug and Ann Marie, true local legends.