19 Fun Things to Do in Destin, Florida for Couples
Welcome to Destin, Florida, a fantastic vacation spot for couples, especially for those planning a honeymoon!
Known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear emerald waters, Destin offers a wide array of activities for couples to enjoy!
In this blog post, we will explore the best things to do in Destin, Florida for couples to help you plan a memorable and romantic trip!
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Quick at a Glance: Where to Stay & What to Do
If you’re short on time, here are my top recommendations on things to do in Destin, Florida for couples as well as highly-reviewed places to stay!
Where to Stay:
- Henderson Park Inn – Adult’s-only
- Hyatt Place Sandestin – Hyatts are always my go to!
- Hotel Effie Sandestin – Boutique-style hotel
What to Do:
19 Things to Do in Destin, Florida for Couples
Let’s dive into my list of romantic things to do in Destin, Florida to add to your itinerary.
It features a wide range of things to do such as biking along paved trails, getting out on the water, and even more adventurous activities if you’re thrill seekers!
1. Sunset Cruise
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Destin for couples, consider booking a sunset cruise!
Sunset cruises are a fantastic way to spend a romantic evening together while on the water.
I recommend checking out this Tiki Sunset Cruise that departs from the Destin Harbor. Instead of being on a traditional boat, you’re on board a vintage tiki boat for a more unique experience!
It is bring your own drinks and lasts for approximately 1.5 hours. It is a great way to spend the evening watching the sunset over the water 😍, and if you’re lucky, maybe you will see some dolphins!
2. Dolphin Cruise
Are you interested in trying to see dolphins during your trip to Destin, Florida?
Check out this Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise that departs from the Destin Harbor.
In addition to dolphins, you have the potential to see sting rays, turtles, and other marine life too!
It lasts around 1 hour and is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening without it taking up your whole day.
3. Parasailing
Parasailing is a great thing to do in Destin with your significant other if you’re looking for a more thrilling excursion to book!
It’s a fun & unique way to view the emerald waters & beaches from above (400 feet above the water to be exact!).
I recommend booking with Just Chute Me Parasail.
4. Banana Boat Ride
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Destin, Florida for couples, look no further than scheduling a Banana Boat Ride in the Gulf of Mexico!
It is a fun and thrilling way to ride the waves and you both get to be on a banana boat together lol 😂.
There is also the potential to see dolphins or other marine life while out on the water – a major plus!
5. Snorkeling
Snorkeling is another great way to explore the marine life in Destin.
I highly recommend this excursion that combines snorkeling and dolphin watching – creating the ultimate experience!
Not only do you get to enjoy a cruise on a boat, but you also get around an hour to be in the water snorkeling searching for marine life.
6. Jet Skiing
Jet Skiing is a fun couples activity in Destin, Florida to spend some time out on the water while doing something adventurous!
I recommend booking with Destiny Water Adventures as their expert guides will lead you to the best spots to explore and see wildlife while on your jet ski.
It lasts approximately 1 hour which I think is the perfect amount of time.
Do note that the booking is not per person, it is for reserving 1 jet ski (which will fit 2 people).
This is a great option if you have never jet skied before since you will have a guide.
7. Deep Sea Fishing
If you enjoy getting out on the water to go fishing, there are different options you can choose from, ranging in cost.
This Deep Sea-Nearshore Gulf Fishing with IntraCoastal Experience is a great option if you’re looking for a private charter.
It is a costly excursion, but it can accommodate up to 6 people. So, if you’re traveling with a group of people, you could split the cost.
If you’re looking for a less costly option, I also recommend this private excursion that brings you to Choctawhatchee Bay. This is located slightly outside of Destin, Florida in Niceville which is about a 25 minute drive.
If it is in the budget, private fishing charters are a great way to spend a day as a couple allowing you to catch your meal for dinner that night!
8. Golfing
Want to enjoy a round of golf in the beautiful Destin, Florida weather?
This is a great way to spend the day as a couple if you both enjoy playing golf!
Here are a few popular golf courses in Destin, Florida worth checking out:
- Emerald Bay Golf Club
- Indian Bayou Golf & Country Club
- Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club
- Kelly Plantation Golf Club
9. Couples Massage
If you’re looking for things to do on your honeymoon in Destin, I think a couples massage is the perfect way to spend an afternoon!
It gives you the chance to relax and unwind together and also who doesn’t love a massage while on vacation! 😍
Om Relaxation Spa is a great place for a couple’s massage in Destin.
If you’re looking for a massage therapist that will come to your accommodation, I recommend Anara Wellness Studio and In Home Massage. This option is the epitome of relaxation – you don’t even have to leave your condo!
Looking for a Hotel?
Explore Booking.com for your hotel needs – they offer budget-friendly prices and a variety of room types!
Need a Rental Car?
For all your rental car needs, head over to Expedia! It’s user-friendly and offers plenty of affordable options!
Guided Tours/Activities
When it comes to booking guided tours and excursions, my top pick is Get Your Guide!
10. Seaside Dining
What’s better than enjoying a romantic dinner together at one of Destin’s beachfront restaurants – especially if you can time it around sunset 😍.
Here a few of my favorite restaurants in Destin located next to the beach:
I also can’t recommend places to eat in Destin, Florida without mentioning Pazzo Italiano – it is my favorite place to eat in Destin!! It isn’t located near the water, but it serves up amazing Italian food.
And since it isn’t a typical tourist restaurant, our meal was actually cheaper at Pazzo Italiano than any of the other seafood restaurants!
If you’re looking for more restaurant recommendations, be sure to check out my blog post on the best places to eat in Destin, Florida!
11. Helicopter Tour
Taking a scenic helicopter tour allows you to view the beautiful emerald waters from above and is a great activity for couples in Destin looking for a romantic experience!
I recommend booking with Timberview Helicopters as they are a well-reviewed and reputable company in Destin!
They have a variety of helicopter tours to choose from, ranging from as low as $59/person which I think is such a great deal since helicopter tours are notoriously very pricey.
12. Visit Henderson Beach State Park
Consider visiting Henderson Beach State Park during your trip to Destin, Florida!
It is open year-round from 8:00 am to sunset, and it costs $6/vehicle.
This beach isn’t just for relaxing (which you can still do!), but it also has fishing, nature trails to explore, and campsites.
You can easily spend a day at Henderson Beach State Park either relaxing at the beach, swimming in the water, and walking along the trails.
13. Paddleboarding
Looking for a different way to explore the beautiful waters of Destin, Florida?
I recommend renting paddle boards from Destiny Water Adventures.
You can paddleboard together side-by-side as you explore the private islands on the Gulf Island National Seashore near Fort Walton Beach.
14. Visit Destin Harbor Boardwalk
Spend an evening at the Destin Harbor Boardwalk to grab dinner and walk along the harbor to take in the beautiful views!
Here are some restaurants on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk that I recommend:
- The Edge Seafood Restaurant – great rooftop bar offering panoramic views
- Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer
- Boshamp’s Seafood & Oyster House – offer live music some evenings
If you’re looking for a sweet treat, you can’t miss Beignets & Brews! Not only do they serve up some amazing beignets but they also just have the cutest exterior!
15. Day Trip to Crab Island
A trip to Destin, Florida isn’t complete without a trip to Crab Island!
Crab Island is a popular sandbar in the Choctawhatchee Bay near Destin, Florida.
It is a popular place for boats since it offers shallow, clear waters perfect for swimming and floating.
During the summer, it becomes a lively environment! They even have mobile vendors serving up various food and ice cream right there on the water!
It is a super cool place to visit, and I highly recommend renting a pontoon boat or booking a boat tour to take you there.
If you want to rent your own private pontoon boat, I recommend renting one through Destiny Water Adventures! You can choose from half-day to full-day, and it can accommodate up to 9 people.
If you want to join a group tour for a cheaper price, check out this 3 Hour Crab Island tour aboard a cool tiki boat vessel!
16. Explore Grayton Beach State Park
Take a short drive to Grayton Beach State Park to explore the hiking & biking trails and relax on the beach or swim in the ocean.
It is open year-round starting at 8:00 am until sunset.
It costs $5/vehicle to enter.
You can paddle on Western Lake and bike/hike along the trails.
17. Rent Bikes
A great way to explore Destin is by bike, especially on a nice sunny day.
I highly recommend biking along the Scenic Highway 98 trail to take in the views of the cute beach homes and surrounding area.
It is a 3 mile paved path that runs along Miramar Beach offering great views of the ocean. If you are not wanting to bike, it is also a great place to walk, and it is wheelchair accessible.
If you’re looking for a longer biking trail, consider checking out the popular Timpoochee Trail, located just outside of the Destin Area.
It spans approximately 18 miles and runs parallel to the infamous 30A highway, from Dune Allen to Inlet Beach. It is a great way to explore the sights of 30A.
I recommend renting bikes from Good Times Rentals in Destin, they rent out regular bikes & e-bikes.
18. Sightseeing Cruise
Looking for ways to get great views while on the water in Destin?
Look no further than the Destin Tikis Harbor Sightseeing Cruise! You are able to sail around the Destin Harbor while on board a cool tiki style vessel.
It is a great way to relax and take in the sights.
19. Take a Day Trip to 30A
If you’re already in Destin, a day trip to 30A is 100% worth it!
Highway 30A along the Gulf Coast of Florida is home to several charming beach towns and communities, commonly referred to as “30A.”
I highly recommend taking a visit to the town of Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Alys Beach – my personal favorite towns!
They are super cute and walkable towns making them easy to explore in a day, and the aesthetic of these towns just scream beachy!
Check out my blog post all about the best things to do in 30A Florida to see how to best spend your time while you’re there!
If you’re looking for a place to eat, I have rounded up some of the best restaurants in 30A Florida ranging from casual to high-end dining so be sure to check that out!
Conclusion
Clearly Destin, Florida is a great vacation spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway!
Whether you’re interested in getting out on the water, parasailing, or biking along the beautiful paved paths, there is an option for every couple to enjoy!
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