Destin, FL – Gem of the Gulf Coast
When most Americans envision a Florida beach vacation, the bright lights of Miami immediately come into focus. While South Beach is certainly capable of providing an entertaining and glamorous break from the 9-5 grind, the well-informed traveler also considers the beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. Each of the Gulf Coast states boasts beautiful white-sand beaches, but the best are found on what is commonly known as Florida’s “Emerald Coast.” With significantly lower prices for food, activities and lodging than Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the city of Destin offers a great vacation spot for your family.
Of the 4.5 million annual visitors to the Emerald Coast, approximately 80% flock to Destin. The city has experienced tremendous tourism growth since the first condominiums were built in the 1970s. Visitors can stay in a wide range of hotels and motels, with options ranging from budget motels to high-profile resorts. Finally, during the high season, full-time residents rent houses to visitors, the perfect option for a large family.
Most travelers come during the spring, when warm ocean waters and perfect temperatures create the optimal beach experience. The coast is widely known for its incredibly white sand, the result of finely ground quartz transported across the Apalachicola River from the Appalachian Mountains. The ocean maintains its emerald hue thanks to harmless microalgae suspended in the water. These two components combine to ensure that a Destin beach vacation is both scenic and fun.
Another of Destin’s top attractions is its large fishing fleet, which residents claim is the largest in the state. The town’s nickname is actually “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Town,” a nickname many tourists can personally attest to. This part of the gulf coast offers some of the best sport fishing in the country, with marlin and tuna boats leaving daily. Experienced captains have honed their fish-finding skills to an art form, making sure the perfect catch is always just a boat ride away.
Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, there are plenty of other opportunities for fun in Destin. Cleaning the salty ocean water at Big Kahuna Water Park, located near downtown, is a wonderful way to spend the day with your family. For those with a shopping inclination, Destin Commons is a world-class mall, with nearly one hundred fashion, furniture, and specialty stores. For those scorching hot days, the air conditioning in the mall theater beckons. With twelve screens, every member of the family is sure to find the perfect movie.
After sunset, Destin transforms into a playground for adults. The city has a large number of drinking establishments, along with a comedy club. Singles are sure to find ample opportunities to meet their counterpart at happy hour or at one of the city’s dance clubs.
The beautiful beaches of Destin, Florida are a great choice for your next vacation. With all the options the city has to offer, your whole family is sure to have a great time.
