Top 5 Day Trips From Destin, Florida

Located just an hour west of Destin, Pensacola is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning beaches. Start your day at the National Naval Aviation Museum, one of the world’s largest aviation museums, where you can explore more than 150 restored aircraft and experience flight simulators. Don’t miss a visit to the historic downtown Pensacola, with its charming streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. For a dose of natural beauty, head to Pensacola Beach and relax on the pristine shores of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

A short 40-minute drive east of Destin, Seaside is a picturesque town that feels like stepping into a postcard. Famous for its pastel-colored houses and white picket fences, Seaside offers a relaxed, small-town vibe. Spend your day browsing the local boutiques, indulging in fresh seafood at The Great Southern Café, or renting a bike to explore the scenic 30A highway. Don’t forget to visit the Seaside Amphitheater, where you can often catch live music and community events.

Just 30 minutes from Destin, Grayton Beach State Park is a nature lover's paradise. This park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to hike, fish, or paddle in a serene environment. The park’s coastal dune lakes are a unique feature and provide excellent opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. The park also offers well-maintained hiking trails that wind through sand dunes, pine flatwoods, and salt marshes, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

For a touch of Southern charm and history, head to Eden Gardens State Park in Santa Rosa Beach, about a 45-minute drive from Destin. The highlight of the park is the beautifully restored Wesley House, a 19th-century mansion surrounded by moss-draped live oaks and manicured gardens. Take a guided tour of the house to learn about its history and the families who lived there. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens, which feature azaleas, camellias, and reflecting pools.

Just a 20-minute drive west of Destin, Fort Walton Beach offers a variety of attractions for all ages. Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park to see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals up close. History buffs will enjoy the Indian Temple Mound Museum, which showcases artifacts from Native American cultures that once inhabited the area. For a relaxing afternoon, head to Okaloosa Island and unwind on its beautiful beaches or take a stroll along the Okaloosa Island Pier.