(850) 683-3009. Boats can remain within Choctawhatchee Bay, with dolphins often seen swimming below the Destin Bridge. If you tire of shopping, take a break and enjoy a glass of wine or gelato at one of the many beautiful restaurants. So whether you are looking for a day of adventure or a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, Choctawhatchee Bay is a great spot to spend some time. The number of golf carts beings used for traveling, particularly along the 5 miles of Scenic 98, has skyrocketed. Henderson Beach State Park is known for its sugar-white sand beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. 17 Best Things to Do in Destin | U.S. News Travel Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, and searching for shells. April is also a great month to go but it can be quite busy due to spring break. Several rental companies can hook you up with all the gear you need to try stand-up paddleboarding. Discover fun activities, tours, and attractions for the whole family. In addition, the museum showcases how Destin became the Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village.. The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is the perfect way to experience the thrill of pirate life without walking the plank. Therefore, upon spotting one dolphin, chances are, a few more are lurking in the area. 1.1 miles to city center [SEE MAP] Address: 66 Harbor Blvd. Are you one of those people that has always secretly (or maybe not-so-secretly) dreamed of swimming with dolphins some day? Aside from excursions, events, and restaurants, theres a boatload of water sports adventures in which you can revel. Use the filters below or browse all of our Little Adventures. In addition to Henderson Beach State Park and Eglin Beach Park, other popular areas to see dolphins include Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach. Youll not only learn about dolphin behavior but also the importance of protecting the dolphins natural habitat. It features shops, restaurants, and a fishing pier. The animal shows and encounters all follow specific schedules depending on the season. The beach is especially a sight for sore eyes during this period as the sea oats are in full bloom, adding abundant beauty to the landscape. The Dolphins of Destin: Best Time to See Them, It helps to be on the water for the highest likelihood of getting an up-close view of dolphins. You will laugh, cry, and be amazed by this mesmerizing show. Visitors Center Check out Smile N Wave to set sail from Destin Harbor into the waters of the Gulf where curious pods of friendly dolphins await. If youre looking for an ideal location for your next vacation, keep reading. There are multiple boat rental services in Destin, do a little research to find what works best for you. Summer tourists comprise families with young children, which means theres no shortage of events and activities targeted towards them. Whats more, the beaches are unarguably breathtaking in the months of fall. Youll then also slip into the water to meet your new dolphin friends. Daytona Beach. Theres something for everyone here, from shopping and dining to fishing and boating. Tips For Visiting Crab Island (Destin FL) - Florida Trippers The fireworks show occurs in Destin from Memorial Day until mid-August every Thursday at the Harborwalk Village, The Okaloosa Island Boardwalk on Wednesdays, and the Village of Baytowne Wharf on Tuesdays. I recommend eating ice cream while doing so! They are often seen swimming underneath the Destin Bridge and occasionally, they are spottedin the waters of the Destin Harbor. These captivating creatures are a sight to see, no matter if its from the shoreline, your beach condo, The Island Pier, or aboard a dolphin cruise! Therefore, upon spotting one dolphin, chances are, a few more are lurking in the area. However, the most commonly spotted dolphin in Destin is the bottlenose dolphin, or Tursiops truncatus. With its exciting mix of adventure and education, the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise will be a hit with everyone in the family. Tips for Spotting Dolphins in Destin - doublefunwatersports.com Island Watersports features jet ski tours to all the best spots for dolphins. The Dolphins of Destin: Best Time to See Them - HLTV Public beaches are right next door as is The Track, a great place that offers go-karts, thrill rides and bumper boats. Things To Do In Destin Florida for Adults, 322 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW Campers at Henderson Beach State Park will enjoy all this beautiful park offers. A guided dolphin cruise ferries passengers to renowned dolphin-sighting spots. When should we arrive for our scheduled dolphin cruise? Most people do not get sick on dolphin cruises, as they will stay closer to shore in the Gulf of Mexico, or in the calm waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay. Our two locations are only five miles apart. A few days in July is similarly priced to a few weeks during the winter. It is also the perfect way to see dolphins swimming and playing in their natural habitat. Embassy Suites by Hilton Destin . From late spring to the end of summer, female dolphins from other areas flock to Destin when mating season rolls around. Dolphins reside in groups known as pods that typically comprise anywhere between 10 and 30 members. The park also has plenty of hiking nature trails and is an excellent bird-watching place. The bottlenose dolphin is sometimes referred to as a porpoise. 250 Reviews . Take in scenic views of the famous Destin Harbor, learn about Destin's history, and enjoy the fresh ocean air. Your go-to guide for everything Destin-Fort Walton Beach! The boardwalk is one-quarter of a mile and features a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Search for friendly dolphins, giant sharks, gliding sting rays, and loggerhead turtles. having a pontoon boat rental ushers in increased freedom. At Destiny Water Adventures, we offer full-day or half-day charters of our pontoon boats. While youre angling with the family, keep your eyes on the surf for the graceful snout of a dolphin to appear. Plenty of activities are available, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The 4 Best Beaches in Florida for Families | Miami Herald Destin is a coastal city in northwestern Florida. While the sea oats are present in summer, they dont start blooming until June, hitting their peak in the early months of fall. Youll learn all about dolphins how they hunt and communicate in the wild. A Destin dolphin watching excursion, of course! Best Time to Whale Watch in Southern California | Dana Point Set out to sea in search of Destin dolphins aboard one of many Dolphin Cruise boats. Whether youre celebrating a birthday or looking for a fun night out, youre covered. You and your family will enjoy a free hot breakfast each morning before you head out on your next adventure. Not only is it home to dozens of alligators, but you can feed them, hold them, and even get your picture taken with them. Destin is known for its stunning sunsets. So what do you do if you have seniors or very young children in your group, or anyone who isnt a strong swimmer? Sanibel Island. Okaloosa Island Boardwalk is a must-see. This is also a great opportunity to see the bustling HarborWalk Village in all of its glory, from a whole new perspective! Candlewood Suites Destin-Sandestin Area, an IHG Hotel 659 Reviews View Hotel Miramar Beach, Destin Holiday Inn Express & Suites Destin E - Commons Mall Area, an IHG Hotel 254 Reviews View Hotel Destin, Florida Panhandle SummerPlace Inn Destin FL Hotel 524 Reviews View Hotel Destin, Florida Panhandle Best Western Sugar Sands Inn & Suites 572 Reviews Please be cautious of the dolphins (and other sea-dwelling creatures) that might be nearby. Fares should be reasonable and if youre traveling with a large party, everyone can chip in. Parents can relax in the nearby lounges while the little ones have a blast. Walking on the sands of Elgin Beach Park or Henderson State Park ushers in the likelihood of seeing dolphins at a distance. The Rodeo is one of the longest-running fishing tournaments in the United States. Located on Florida's west coast just 20 minutes from Tampa International Airport, Clearwater Beach is the perfect destination for families who want to relax while . The Emerald Coast is home to tons of scenic beauty just waiting to be witnessed, and dolphin watching tours are a great way to do so. Infants 2 and under are free. The Rodeo Gallery is a popular exhibit telling how The Rodeo got its start and its impact on the community. Crab Island is one of the most popular destinations in Destin, Florida. Dont forget to take great photos of your dolphin watching excursions. Dolphins are most active at the crack of dawn, between 10 am and noon, and from 2 pm till dusk. Chat with a local mom for tips and recommendations! The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is an affordable way to see dolphins up-close, with tickets costing less . When you tire you can have a seat and do some really great people watching! Most of the rainfall of the year is experienced in summer. The Indian Temple Mound was used for ceremonial purposes by the Mississippian people. The water park has various attractions, including a lazy river, a wave pool, and slides. With about 40,000 dolphins situated in the Gulf of Mexico, there are abundant opportunities for travelers on the Emerald Coast to catch a glimpse of these spectacular mammals. From Memorial Day all through mid-August, you can expect a spike in the prices. You can also leave and return the same day with proof of admission. Avoid swimming with dolphins in the wild. Then youll be able to interact with them, hug and kiss them and just splash around having fun with these adorable and playful sea creatures. While the sea oats are present in summer, they dont start blooming until June, hitting their peak in the early months of fall. And what better way to enjoy the Florida coastline than renting a jet ski or Waverunner? A full-service bar provides wine as well as cocktails. One of the best places to enjoy these features is Choctawhatchee Bay. Contrary to the assumption that your pontoon boat must move at the slowest possible speed to spot dolphins, the truth is, these animals enjoy the wake. In addition to its convenient location, the Boardwalk also features a variety of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two. Located in the heart of Destin, Florida, the Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Although Destin lacks the standard four climate seasons, there are four unique tourist seasons. The Stingray Bay Snorkel is an exciting experience for the family. Yes, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is one of the only places in the area that can guarantee dolphin sightings, and is the perfect rainy-day activity for the whole family! Although predicting the habits and location of wild animals is nearly impossible, you can do a few tips and tricks, as discussed below, to boost your likelihood of spying a few dolphins. Dolphins tend to be more active in the morning and mid-afternoon when the waters tend to be calmer and there is less boat traffic, but you can see dolphins just about any time. Fort Walton Beach is about 8 miles west of Destin, a quick 15-minute drive for the family. Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Youll also get to experience the exhilarating foot push, where the dolphins will skim you across the top of the water pushing you by the soles of your feet. It is possible to see dolphins from a number of spots in Destin. After all, its just a brief shower, even on a high percentage of rain prediction. Here are some of the dolphin swim programs you and your family can enjoy at the facility: All of the programs at Gulf World start with a fun and interactive educational component. Many visitors decide to remain on the high floors of beachfront hotels because these mammals can be easily spotted from the balconies. Best time to visit Destin? The Boardwalk has several fun events, such as Movies on the Beach, plays for the kids, and even fireworks in the summer. So while watching the sunset on the Emerald Coast, you can spot some dolphins. The view from James Lee Park is simply breathtaking. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. having a pontoon boat rental ushers in increased freedom. Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise 2023 - Destin - Viator Gulf World is home to two types of stingrays: the Cownose and Southern species. And with its convenient location, Destin Commons is the perfect place to take a break from exploring all the Emerald Coast offers. This is a very unique program and great for kids who really love all kinds of animals. If youre looking for something fun to do with the family, away from crowds, this is a great option. In addition to Henderson Beach State Park and Eglin Beach Park, other popular areas to see dolphins include Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach. Of course, the scenic views are simply breathtaking. Mild temperatures and warm gulf waters make the area enjoyable no matter the season. Anyone born after Jan 1, 1988 will need a Florida boater's safety card (or NASBLA equivalent from another state). This is a great way to explore the island without the stress and worry of being responsible for a boat. When he's not exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. If youre looking for a unique way to experience a Destin sunset, you should consider going on a dolphin sunset cruise. Some via a glass-bottom boat while others are on a relaxing catamaran. Traffic and parking in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach can be hectic, especially during the peak season, so it is important to consider this and allow yourself plenty of time to drive there, park, and walk to the check-in booth or kiosk. In fact, the only days the Gulfarium is closed are Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. We are going to introduce you to what we believe is the perfect destin-ation. Its an unforgettable experience that everyone should try at least once. [emailprotected], Visitors Center + Offices The staff is very friendly and knows all about the alligators. The park is an excellent place to watch the sunset in the evening. by destinywater | Mar 29, 2021 | Destin Vacation Tips, Family Vacation Tips. So if youre looking for a great way to spend the day, check out Big Kahunas Water and Adventure Park in Destin, Florida. To get there you have three main options: If you are flying into Florida and plan on making a lot of day trips during your vacation, then it may make sense to rent a car so you and your family can come and go as you please. For those of you who like an adrenaline rush, there are high-speed boat tours you can take with131 of your closest friends (this is a very popular tour)or take a jet ski/wave runner guided tour of the best spot where dolphins are known to play. You can visit this link to view some of the activities that may be going on when you visit. Destin is a paradise for beach-goers and nature lovers alike. Hardly! At Destiny Water Adventures, we offer full-day or half-day charters of our pontoon boats. While they share certain characteristics, they are completely different species. Regarding the weather, although its hot, the humidity isnt uncomfortable as in September and August. The location is ideal for locals or tourists wanting to escape the louder and busier beaches closer to the party hubs. These shows go on for a period of 5 to 7 minutes. Gulfarium Hours and Admission The Gulfarium is open daily from 9:00 in the morning until 4:30 in the afternoon. Its not only illegal to pet and feed them but can also be dangerous for even the strongest swimmers. If youve never ridden a jet ski or Waverunner before, dont worry most rental companies will provide a brief tutorial to get you started. No matter which dolphin program you choose, you will make memories that will last a lifetime. Youll perform hand targets (or rather, the dolphins with perform hand targets using YOUR hands). Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise in Destin Harbor. If you need a little pampering, then be sure to book some time at the hotel spa, the perfect spot for a massage, a romantic escape, or just an afternoon with the girls. Thousands flock to the Boardwalk yearly to enjoy the sun and sand. Its not only illegal to pet and feed them but can also be dangerous for even the strongest swimmers. Also popularly known as porpoises, these dolphins are entirely different species even though they share certain traits. On your excursion around the gulf, you may even get a chance to spot some dolphins out in the wild. Several charter companies offer deep-sea fishing trips, and they can provide all of the equipment and expertise you need to catch fish. Clearwater Beach, Florida. For those families who plan on staying in Destin for a while or who want the option of being able to cook their own meals to save money, the Home2 Suites is perfect. A great pair of telephoto lenses or binoculars can be invaluable tools to spot dolphins easily. You can see dolphins in Namibia's Walvis Bay pretty much all year round, while the best time for dolphin conservation vacations in Greece is . Bottlenose dolphins typically have lightly-colored bellies and are blue-grey. It stretches to the road past Surf Hut restaurant from Henderson Beach State Park as a popular beach road. These animals are incredbly graceful swimmers and youll get to kneel down in the small pool as they swim by you. One may think that spending the afternoon with dancing dolphins may break the bank, but it doesnt have to! They include zip-lining, fishing, fly-boarding, banana boat rides, parasailing, The beach is especially a sight for sore eyes during this period as the sea oats are in full bloom, adding abundant beauty to the landscape. This is one of the most fun activities to do with your family. However, most of them only range from 15mph to 25mph, undoubtedly slowing things down. Waverunner dolphin tours are when multiple guests or groups come together for a common tour, which is led by a local and knowledgeable guide. Its when the locals come out of a hiatus after the intense summer to delight in all the festivities and fishing events that come with the season. While aboard get educated with our sea school which includes underwater viewing, dolphin encounters, bird feedings, sightseeing, crab trap discussions, and shrimp net operations where everyone can check out and identify our catch. Its clear that they love what they do, and it makes for a truly magical experience. Dolphin Tours in Destin - Sunshine Water Sports Guided boat tours take passengers to well-known dolphin sighting spots, but having a, Expert Tips for Dolphin Spotting in Destin, A great way to try and catch a glimpse of dolphins is from the upper deck of a double-decker pontoon boat. Dolphins tend to be more active in the morning and mid-afternoon when the waters tend to be calmer and there is less boat traffic, but you can see dolphins just about any time. It is worth noting that dolphins are usually found in clusters of 4 to 7 in shallower areas. When it comes to deep-sea fishing, Destin, Florida, is one of the best places. They also offer shuttles to the island for about $50 per person. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Destin, Florida is known for being the "Crown Jewel of the Emerald Coast", and for good reasons. Greyhound Bus service provides travel between Destin and Panama City Beach and fares are usually between $86 and $112 per person round trip. So whether you want to spend your days on the beach or explore all Destin offers, you will have a great time. From EAST of Destin (Sandestin, Panama City) From Destin Commons (Bass Pro Shops), drive 4 miles on Hwy 98 West. For just $2.00 per person, you can walk the pier and look for dolphins, sea turtles, and other aquatic creatures. If you like the idea of traveling somewhere that boasts stunning white sand beaches and emerald-hued water, challenging golf courses and world-famous deep-sea fishing, then Destin, Florida is calling! Additionally, summer marks the fireworks season every week, usually at Destin Disney World. Several charter companies offer both half-day and full-day trips. Explore bite-sized adventures for the whole family. This is just what it sounds like. View Hotel. Best Times To Visit Destin. I was so excited I felt like I was 10-years old all over again. It is worth noting that dolphins are usually found in clusters of 4 to 7 in shallower areas. When on a dolphin watching excursion in Destin and Fort Walton Beach, theres so much more to see than dolphins, from spectacular scenic views to other wonderful wildlife. However, having a pontoon boat rental ushers in increased freedom. It is best to check out the website for up-to-date pricing; they have plenty of specials, tooplan for about 2 hours for this fun-filled cruise. Many companies offer pontoon boat rentals in Destin, so shop for the best deal. A great pair of telephoto lenses or binoculars can be invaluable tools to spot dolphins easily. At times, these mammals can be seen in the waters of Destin Harbor. There is also an outdoor pool for you to enjoy as well as complimentary WiFi and an onsite fitness center. Crab Island is not an actual island but an area of very shallow water from a dredging project back in 1960. Aside from excursions, events, and restaurants, theres a boatload of water sports adventures in which you can revel. You'll not only learn about dolphin behavior but also the importance of protecting the dolphin's natural habitat. The 4 Best Dolphin Tours in Destin, Florida By Vicky Reddish December 2nd, 2020 Among the many magical things about the Emerald Coast's famous seaboard is the fact that those extraordinary sugar-sand beaches backdrop some of the best and most reliable dolphin-watching in the country. The maximum amount of people is 6 per boat. For the best chance at seeing dolphins up close, it helps to be on the water. Sunset CruiseCrab Island ExcursionDolphin ToursJet Ski RentalsPontoon Rentals, 322 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, It helps to be on the water for the highest likelihood of getting an up-close view of dolphins. Nonetheless, the most commonly spotted dolphins in Destin are the Tursiops truncates or bottlenose dolphins. From pottery and tools to jewelry and weapons, these artifacts provide a unique view into the lives of the people who once called this place home. Wild Wills has plenty of food and drink options and is also great for parties and group events. In addition, the bay offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The heaviest summer crowds have left, and the water is still sufficiently warm to revel in swimming. For many visitors to Destin, Florida, one of the highlights of the trip is experience aquatic life in the emerald waters of the gulf with some of the most amazing sea creatures known to man. For the best chance at seeing dolphins up close, it helps to be in their space. 1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE 20 replies; Destin Hotels and Places to Stay. Dolphin cruises arent the only way to see these captivating creatures, either! The Atlantic spotted dolphin, for instance, can occasionally be seen off the coast of Destin and all the way to the Indian Ocean. Street legal golf carts are permitted on all roads with a maximum speed limit of 35mph. On average, an adult bottlenose dolphin can be anywhere from six to twelve feet in length. Additionally, summer marks the fireworks season every week, usually at Destin Disney World. 18 Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Florida (2023) At Destiny Water Adventures, we offer full-day or half-day charters of our pontoon boats. Or visit Jetty East to secure a condo with a view. In fact, there are many free and cheap ways to see dolphins in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach. But its hardly memorable. 21 Fun Things To Do In Destin, Florida (#5 Will Surprise You) Visiting Destin, Florida: When is the Best Time to Go? Finding deals or discounts when summer rolls around in Destin is no easy feat as the area usually maxes out on occupancy around this time. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is an affordable way to see dolphins up-close, with tickets costing less than $30.00. With around 40,000 dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico, there are ample opportunities for vacationers on the Emerald Coast to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. What is it about penguins that fascinates us and delights us? The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is the perfect place to spend an afternoon, whether youre looking to shop, dine, or take in the incredible views. While spring in Florida can be very lovely temperature-wise, it is when a lot of young people head there for spring break. Keep in mind that in shallower areas, dolphins tend to be in groups of four to seven. Rates run anywhere from $25-$50 for the cruise. You can even rent a double-decker pontoon with slides that will be a huge hit for the entire family. Dolphin Watching - Destin/Fort Walton Beach Travel Guide Our Destin Glass Bottom Boat dolphin cruise features a 2 hour narrated bay, harbor, and gulf cruise. There is always something happening at Destin Commons, from live music performances to holiday celebrations. This is truly a memorable experience and we definitely recommend you check it out. It helps to be on the water for the highest likelihood of getting an up-close view of dolphins. Dolphin & Sunset Tours in Destin Book Now! At times, these mammals can be seen in the waters of Destin Harbor. Some new additions are bumper boats, go-karts, and a 100-foot slide. From swimming with sharks and stingrays, to watching dolphins jump for joy at the Dolphin Theater, theres no shortage of family fun to be had at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park! Average Rainfall = 5.4 inches. Admission for non-Florida residents is $23.95 for adult guests, age 23 to 61, $22.95 for seniors, and $15.95 for children, age 3 to 12. If youre looking for a place to have fun in the sun, theres no better destination than Destin, Florida. The Choctawhatchee River feeds the Choctawhatchee Bay and stretches over 30 miles. There is a small chance you may get wet on certain cruises, so it is highly recommended to bring along a towel just in case. Only whensafeand legal to do so, pick up the speed a little and it might make them a bit easier to spot. This new luxury hotel boasts 250 well-appointed rooms and suites that are elegant and thoughtfully designed. It helps to be on the water for the highest likelihood of getting an up-close view of dolphins. Its common for dolphin watching tours in the Destin area to offer fewer trips during the winter months due to reduced number of visitors to the area. Go with friends or family; youll save money and have a blast. And about the only thing that can elevate these sunsets is to enjoy one from a Tiki boat while sipping a cocktail. Guided boat tours take passengers to well-known dolphin sighting spots. Ten-day forecasts in summer will usually depict a 40% to 50% chance of rain daily, causing a multitude of people to postpone their trip when usually the rains briefly or not at all. We offer daily Destin Dolphin and Sunset Cruises as well as Dolphin Sunset Cruises from Okaloosa Island. The bigger and better fireworks shows occur on the 4th of July, so ensure you catch the action if youre in Destin in the summer. Purchase a Gift Certificate Departure is from our Destin Location $25 / ages 3 & up Sunset Dolphin Cruise 1.5 hour Cruise Ages 2 & Under $5.00 per infant / toddler Check for times book now $20 / per adult Day Dolphin Cruise 1.5 hour Cruise Children Ages 3-12 $15.00 per child Its no secret that dolphins are one of the most popular animals in Destin, Florida. It is possible to see dolphins from a number of spots in Destin. Average Low = 40 degrees. A few days in July is similarly priced to a few weeks during the winter. Destin-FWB.com is your source for travel on the Emerald Coast! From sporting events to festivals, concerts and outdoor festivities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park has a playground, pavilions, and 41 picnic tables; the restrooms have changing tables. or. On any given day you could spot a pod of bottlenose dolphins on your way out to see an even larger pod of common dolphins. The proximity to the Gulf also makes a great vantage point for spotting dolphins. While the sea oats are present in summer, they dont start blooming until June, hitting their peak in the early months of fall.
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