12 Awesome Things to Do in Destin Florida with Kids
Want to give your family and kids some break from their daily hectic routine? If yes, then Destin Florida is waiting for you to get explored. Destin, Florida is one of the famous spots for families and there are unlimited activities for kids.
From interactive museums, animal adventures, and amusement parks to theme parks, there are unlimited things to do in Destin Florida with kids. In this blog post, we are going to share with you 12 things that you can try in Destin, Florida with your kids!
12 Things to Do in Destin Florida with Kids
With crystal clear calm waters, pleasant weather, sunshine, and loads of activities for kids of all ages, Destin won’t disappoint you. The following are the 12 best things that you can do with your kids:
1. Enjoy Parasailing Adventure
With parasailing, enjoy emerald coast views from above. It’s one of the best things to do that is suitable for the whole family. You can enjoy amazing views of Destin’s from above while mesmerizing yourself with a parasailing experience. Various operations run parasailing trips along the Emerald Coast, so try to go for the best.
Location:
- 500 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, USA
2. Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
This adventurous zoo is situated on Okaloosa Island that’s just a 5-6 minutes’ drive from Destin’s Harbor Boardwalk. There are various amazing things that you can enjoy with your kids here like laser tag, 4D cinema, and golf course. Also, you can play arcade games, enjoy rollercoaster rides, and eat delicious pizza.
Location:
- 1306 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Opening Days & Hours:
- Monday–Friday (12 pm to 9 pm)
- Saturday (10 am to 10 pm)
- Sunday (10 am to 9 pm)
3. The Market Shops
Maybe your family wants an escape from fun, and excitement and wants to do some shopping. In this way, you can go to this upscale mall that’s just a less than 20-minute drive from downtown Destin. There are numerous boutiques and eateries to go with shopping and eat delicious food. Also, there are some nail and hair salons here.
Location:
- 9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Opening Days & Hours:
- Monday-Sunday (8 am to 8 pm)
4. James Lee County State Park
This state park is one of the famous natural spots for families in Destin, Florida. James Lee County State Park fulfills the needs of different ages kids with family hikes, amazing trails, and natural beauty. There’s one beach in this park which is enriched with a playground area, picnic tables, sunbathing, and swimming facilities.
Location:
- 3510 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541, USA
5. Big Kahunas Waterpark
With over more than 40 different water play areas, pools, slides, and fun-filled water sports activities, Big Kahunas Waterpark is one of the best destinations for families.
Big Kahunas is located just near Jade East Towers. Kids under two have no entry fees to enter this park. Overall, a good experience and quality time with families at this amazing vacation spot.
Location:
- 1007 US-98, Destin, FL 32541
Opening Days & Hours:
- Monday-Sunday (10 am to 6 pm)
6. HarborWalk Village
This amazing village is home to various fun-filled activities for kids and families. From shops and restaurants to family-friendly activities like freefall towers, rock climbing walls (LED), and ziplining towers. There are various seasonal events conducted almost every day.
For example, if you visit on Thursday, you can enjoy an event about celebrating Military heroes with an air show and amazing fireworks.
Location:
- 34 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Opening Days & Hours:
- 24/7 All the week
7. Go on a Crab Island Tour
While exploring Crab Island, you can enjoy a lot of kid-friendly activities with your kids. Discover scenic multi-stop boat tours and explore sightseeing views of the island.
Also, you can amaze yourselves with other activities like snorkeling, exploring kayaks (clear-bottom), seashell hunting, and exploring the famous sandbar.
Location:
- Crab Island, Destin, FL 32540
Opening Days & Hours:
- Monday-Sunday (Open 24 Hours)
8. Enjoy the Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island
With restaurants, beach enjoyment, and shopping, the boardwalk is really worthy to try at Okaloosa Island. Other than the Boardwalk experience, you can enjoy delicious Mexican food and an evening walk on the beach. This island is normally less crowded so you can visit this place with your kids anytime without any hesitation.
Location:
- 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
9. Jolee Island Nature Park
This park is located on an island linked to the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort through a small bridge. Jolee Island Nature Park comes with scenic trail views, natural bounty beauty, and a pirate-themed play area where kids can play and enjoy. Before going to this park, it is recommended to visit when there are fewer crowds to enjoy the better.
Location:
- 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy, W Miramar Beach, FL 32550, USA
10. Crystal Beach
There are various beaches in Destin, Florida but Crystal Beach is one the best options for family-friendly fun and activities. From picnic tables, lunch facilities, toilets, and showers to sunbathing and splashing fun, you can create unforgettable memories. You can also explore close by Destin Commons outdoor mall with your kids.
Location:
- 2966 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541, USA
11. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
If you want to see sea lions and dolphins, Gulfarium Adventure Park is one of the best places to go with kids. Gulfarium is a small center Gulfarium is a small center focusing on regional marine life with animal exhibitions, shows, and events. Also, a touch tank is available so kids can learn about and interact directly with sea creatures.
Location:
- 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Opening Days & Hours:
- Monday-Sunday (9 AM-5:30 PM)
12. Spend Some Time at Destin Commons
Destin Commons offers plenty of things to do for kids. You can enjoy bowling, movies, outdoor play space, and a splash pad in the center of the complex. In this center, you can bring your pets too without any issue as this place is pet-friendly, providing dog hydration stations and restaurants with outdoor patios.
Location:
- 4100 Legendary Dr, Destin, FL 32541
Opening Days & Hours:
- Monday-Saturday (10 AM-9 PM)
- Sunday (11 AM-7 PM)
Final Words!
Destin, Florida offers a vibrant playground for families, filled with exciting activities and endless opportunities to create lasting memories. From thrilling water parks to educational adventures, discover these 12 things to do in Destin Florida with kids.
Make your Destin trip unforgettable, start planning your adventure today! Don’t forget to share your favorite family activities in Destin in the comments below. Let’s inspire other people to discover the joys of this incredible destination!
FAQs:
1. Is Destin family-friendly?
Yes, Destin Florida is famous just because of family, friendly attractions, resorts, and activities. From amusement parks, oceanside views, and family-friendly beaches to kid-friendly themed parks, there are various things to do here.
2. What I need to know before moving to Destin Florida?
Before traveling to Destin Florida, keep in mind these things earlier:
- During summer, the weather can be hot and humid.
- Destin is overcrowded during the spring season.
- Other than kid-friendly and family-oriented activities, this place is not worth visiting.
3. What is the best month to go to Destin Florida?
The best months to visit Destin Florida are May & October. The reason is that temperatures and crowds are moderate during these months. If you want to avoid crowds and there’s no issue with the summer season, try to go during the summer months.
