Crafting Your Picture-Perfect Spring Break in Destin

Outside the weather still may be frightful in much of the country, but Destin’s breezy temps, azure waters, and beaming sunshine demand a spring break stay.  Not too hot, not too cold: spring is the ideal time to come to Destin. Abandon the winter coat and grab the shorts, tees, and swimsuits for golfing, fishing, and all of the water sports to wash off the winter blues. Here’s a roundup of some of Destin’s must-dos for your spring break retreat. 

On the Water 

Fishing 

Off-season fishing doesn’t sink Destin’s main draw. Try your luck in the deep seas of the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” where king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, sheepshead, speckled trout, and redfish bite in the spring. Piers provide a welcoming place to relax and cast a line. You can of course try your luck or book a charter with a skilled captain to take you to the best spring fishing spots. 

Boating and Sailing

Explore the Emerald Coast by sailing across its green and blue waters. The city’s prime real estate is between the Gulf of Mexico and the Choctawhatchee Bay provides the pristine seaside backdrop for luxury charters, speedboats, pontoons, or fishing boats. Local outfitters offer sailing lessons and charters. Anchor at Crab Island, hop off, and swim in the relaxing salty waters–even listen to the band play on the floating stage. Gulf Islands National Seashore lets boaters anchor and enjoy a quieter vibe. Norriego Point is another popular spot to anchor and play. Wildlife lovers can book one of Destin’s dolphin tours to capture these ocean beauties in their element. 

Water and Sky Adventures

Get your heart racing as you fly through the Gulf on a jet ski. Solo, tandem, and  triple rides offer a chance to spot dolphins frolicking, boaters out enjoying a day of relaxation, and 360-degree views of the emerald green waters of the Gulf. Go under the sea to popular snorkeling spots, including the Destin Snorkel Reef created by sinking ships.  Book one of Destin’s snorkeling tours for a guided journey through its waters. Maybe the birds-eye view is for you. If so, snag a spot and hit the skies with Destin’s parasailing adventures for a different beach point-of-view. 

Beachfront Bonfires

Cap off your perfect beach day with s’mores and sips fireside at the Royal Palm Grille. Every Monday and Friday at sunset, you can pick the perfect chair and watch the sunset as the beach bonfire warms your body and soul. This event is free of charge, but no outside food is permitted. 

By Land

The Village at Baytowne Wharf

Fill your spring break days and nights with events that keep this destination popping. March and April Wednesdays mean the free Wednesday Night Concert Series from 7-9. Bring a chair but don’t be shocked if the music gets you on your feet. Revelers older than 21 can mingle at Bubbly Baytowne (March 14 and April 18) where shopping and sipping FREE champagne is a must-attend. Paint the town (or wharf) green for the St. Patrick’s Day Delight on March 17th. Families will love Scallywag Sundays (March 17-31) and Movie Mondays, Boomin’ Tuesdays, and FlyGuy Thursdays that run throughout the spring months. 

Sandestin Wine Festival

Sun, sea, and sips–all are on the calendar at the Sandestin Wine Festival (April 11-14). In its 37th year, the festival’s white tents transform the Village of Baytowne Wharf into a wine lover’s haven. Indulge in tastings, expertly paired culinary delights, and sommelier-led seminars while the waves of the Gulf provide the soundtrack. Check out the event’s website for events and tickets. 

The Destin Commons Market

Meander around the stands of this open-air bazaar on the last Sunday of every month. Housed at Center Plaza, the market hosts vendors with the one-of-a-kind jewelry, crafts, art, home goods, and food that will keep you energized to take another lap. Even dogs are welcome (just make sure to bring the leash). 

Golfing

Water hazards and bunkers keep your game on point at the Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club. This public course’s popularity is in no small part to its meticulously cared for greens, challenging course, and stunning Florida beauty. Indian Bayou Golf Club’s semi-private status means players can take a swing at the 27-hole course dotted with water features and verdant fairways. Another semi-private course, Kelly Plantation Golf Club serves up views of the Choctawhatchee Bay to inspire golfers as they tee off. Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort has many courses to choose from as well. 

Hiking & Biking

Destin really is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place. Grayton Beach State Park’s 2,000 acres serve up four miles of hiking and biking trails along with beach access. Hit Scenic 98 for stunning beach and head over to 30A’s 20 miles of paved bike paths. Point Washington’s State Forest’s gravel and hard sands paths featuring ponds and inland lakes to cool off the ride. Hikers can access the Eastern Lake Trail from Point Washington and trek three stacked loops covering more than 10 miles. After cooling off in the waters at Henderson Beach, explore the park’s nature trails.