Blue Mountain Beach
This charming beach-side community is a popular vacation spot, attracting visitors from all over the world with its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor recreational activities such as surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. With its relaxed vibe and stunning natural beauty, Blue Mountain Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil and rejuvenating getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Crab Island
Crab Island is a popular tourist destination located in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Destin, Florida. The island is a sandy spoil bank that was created by the dumping of dredged materials from the nearby Eglin Air Force Base’s waterways. Over time, the island has developed into a picturesque beach with clear turquoise waters, white sand, and a vibrant coral reef just offshore. Visitors can take a ferry or charter a boat to reach the island, where they can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach. Due to its unique history and natural beauty, Crab Island has become a beloved local favorite and a must-visit spot for those looking to experience the Emerald Coast’s laid-back atmosphere.
Crab Trap Public Beach Access
Crab Trap, located in Destin, Florida, is a beachside eatery that offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Emerald Coast. One of the best parts about Crab Trap is its public beach access, making it easy for visitors to soak up the sun and enjoy the white sandy beaches before or after their meal. The restaurant itself boasts a diverse menu featuring a wide range of seafood options, including fresh catches of the day, crab legs, shrimp, and lobster.
Cypress Springs
Tucked away in the serene forests of the Florida Panhandle, near the charming coastal town of Destin, lies a hidden freshwater gem known as Cypress Springs. Dubbed the “Emerald of the Econfina” for its breathtaking, crystal-clear waters, this natural spring is a sight to behold. The emerald green hue is a result of the perfect harmony between the dappled sunlight filtering through the towering cypress trees and the pristine sandy bottom.
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Cypress Springs is a haven. Whether you’re drawn to snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the tranquility of nature, this secluded spring offers an unforgettable experience. The only way to access this natural wonder is by canoe or paddleboard, which takes you on a scenic journey through the Econfina Creek Water Management Area. As you meander through the unspoiled wilderness, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and pristine waters, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of coastal life.
Dune Allen Beach
Located along the sun-kissed shores of 30A, Dune Allen Beach is a serene coastal haven that embodies the essence of unspoiled beauty and relaxed sophistication. This hidden treasure boasts breathtaking sugar-white sands, towering dunes, and emerald-green waters that beckon visitors to escape the stresses of daily life and reconnect with nature’s splendor. A quieter and more secluded alternative to some of the more popular beaches in the area, Dune Allen Beach is the perfect retreat for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach, situated on the stunning Emerald Coast of Destin, Florida, is a treasured gem that embodies the perfect blend of untouched natural beauty and laid-back artistic charm. Consistently ranked as one of the most breathtaking beaches in the United States, Grayton Beach boasts soft, powdery sands and crystal-clear emerald waters that invite sun-kissed relaxation, swimming, and exhilarating water sports. The towering sand dunes that dominate the shoreline create a dramatic backdrop, providing a sense of seclusion and exclusivity that’s hard to find in a popular tourist destination.
One of Grayton Beach’s unique features is its 4-wheel drive access to the sand, allowing visitors to explore the dunes and surrounding area with a permit. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, pedal-powered tours offer a fun way to discover the area’s top bars and restaurants.
Beyond its stunning beaches, Grayton Beach is a thriving community that pulsates with artistic energy, eclectic boutiques, and delectable dining options. The iconic Red Bar, with its eccentric decor and live music, has become a beloved gathering spot for those seeking good food and great company. For nature lovers, Grayton Beach State Park offers hiking trails, bird watching opportunities, and camping sites that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty.
Henderson Beach State Park
Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast of Destin, Florida, Henderson Beach State Park is a 200-acre haven of untouched natural beauty. This beloved destination is a haven for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike, boasting sugar-white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush coastal dunes that provide a serene escape from the chaos of daily life.
Visitors to Henderson Beach State Park can indulge in a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and hiking along the park’s trails. The park is teeming with diverse plant and animal life, making it an ideal spot for bird watching and exploring the unique coastal ecosystem. With picnic areas, pavilions, and a playground, it’s also an excellent choice for family gatherings and outings. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a glimpse into the natural splendor of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Henderson Beach State Park offers a tranquil and awe-inspiring experience for all who visit.
Morrison Springs
Just an hour’s drive from Destin, Florida, Morrison Springs is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family outing on a hot day. The crystal-clear waters are simply breathtaking. This natural wonder discharges an astonishing 48 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily, creating a stunning 250-foot-diameter spring pool and a spring-fed stream that flows into the Choctawhatchee River. The spring’s bottom features three notable cavities, with one reaching an impressive 300 feet deep. Morrison Springs is not only a popular spot for scuba diving enthusiasts but also an ideal location for swimming and snorkeling with the whole family.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
At the top of our list of State Parks, Topsail Hill State Park boasts an impressive array of natural wonders. The park’s 3.2 miles of pristine white sand beaches are nestled among towering dunes that rise 25 feet above the shore, providing a secluded and serene atmosphere. The three rare coastal dune lakes offer exceptional freshwater fishing opportunities, with shore fishing yielding a variety of species including bass, bream, panfish, and catfish. The park’s diverse landscape, featuring lakes, beaches, ancient long-leaf pines, sand pine scrub, and various wetlands, makes it a bird-watcher’s and hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or simply a peaceful escape, Topsail Hill State Park is a must-visit destination in Destin, Florida.