Things To Do

Things to Do Around Destin & Fort Walton Beach

Welcome to Florida’s Emerald Coast, where emerald-green water, sugar-white beaches, and nearly endless ways to enjoy the coast await. Use this local guide to plan beach days, boating adventures, family outings, waterfront dining, and places to stay. When you’re ready to get on the water, start your day at Sunset Isle Marina.

On the Water

Crab Island (Must-Do)

Crab Island is a shallow sandbar located just north of the Destin Bridge and accessible only by boat. Its clear, emerald-green water and shallow areas make it a popular place for floating, swimming, listening to music, and relaxing with family and friends. Water conditions are often clearest around high tide from spring through early fall.

Boaters docking at Sunset Isle Marina can enjoy convenient access to Choctawhatchee Bay, Crab Island, Destin Harbor, and other popular destinations along the Emerald Coast.

Dolphin & Sunset Cruises

Dolphin-watching and sunset cruises depart throughout the season from Destin Harbor and the surrounding area. These trips offer frequent opportunities to see dolphins while enjoying views around East Pass, Choctawhatchee Bay, and the Destin Bridge during golden hour.

Fishing (The “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”)

Destin is known for convenient access to deep Gulf waters and one of the region’s largest charter fishing fleets. Visitors can choose from bottom fishing, trolling, inshore trips, offshore excursions, and seasonal fishing adventures. Browse charter captains around HarborWalk Village and along the Destin Harbor boardwalk.

Off the Water

HarborWalk Village

HarborWalk Village features waterfront shops, restaurants, harbor cruises, activity kiosks, live entertainment, and seasonal fireworks. The harbor remains active throughout the day and evening, so check the HarborWalk Village events calendar before your visit.

Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park offers a quieter stretch of protected shoreline with nature trails, coastal dunes, picnic pavilions, beach access, and public facilities. It is a good option for families seeking more space away from the busiest parts of Destin. Arrive early during peak travel periods because parking can fill quickly.

The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island

Located only minutes from Sunset Isle Marina, The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island combines public beach access with beachfront restaurants, shopping, live entertainment, and wide views of the Gulf of Mexico. It is an easy stop for lunch, dinner, or a walk along the beach.

The Island Pier

The Island Pier on Okaloosa Island is a popular destination for fishing, sightseeing, wildlife watching, and Gulf views. Even visitors who are not fishing can walk the pier and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

Destin Commons & Downtown Fort Walton Beach

Destin Commons offers open-air shopping, dining, entertainment, and seasonal family events. In nearby Downtown Fort Walton Beach, visitors can explore locally owned shops, restaurants, breweries, galleries, and historic sites near the waterfront.

Events & What’s On

• Destin Chamber Events Calendar – Farmers markets, business events, seasonal shows, and community activities. View the Destin Chamber calendar.
• HarborWalk Village Events – Fireworks, festivals, live music, holiday celebrations, and seasonal entertainment. View HarborWalk Village events.
• Destin-Fort Walton Beach Events – Food festivals, concerts, family activities, and events throughout the surrounding area. View regional events.

Annual Events

These popular events are typically held each year throughout Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and the surrounding Emerald Coast.

Official Visitor Information

Nearby Attractions & Family Fun

State & Regional Parks

Where to Eat (Local Favorites by Vibe)

Local Breweries & Pubs

Pro tip: HarborWalk Village is easy to explore on foot, but restaurant waits can become lengthy during peak season. Join the waitlist early, plan a late lunch, or schedule a sunset cruise before dinner.

Places to Stay

A Few Tips…

• Parking: Parking around Destin Harbor and popular beach accesses fills quickly during weekends, holidays, and special events. Arrive early, use designated paid parking, or consider a ride-share service.
• Best Seasons: Late spring and fall generally offer warm weather and lighter crowds. Summer is the busiest season and typically provides the largest selection of tours, cruises, and events. Visit Destin-Fort Walton Beach for current travel information.
• Crab Island Safety: Crab Island is accessible only by boat or another permitted watercraft. Currents around East Pass can be strong, so monitor conditions, provide properly fitted life jackets, and always use a sober and capable boat operator.
• Beach Safety: Check the current beach flag conditions before entering the Gulf and follow all instructions from local lifeguards and public-safety officials.
• Event Schedules: Dates, operating hours, and event details can change. Confirm current information directly with the attraction or event organizer before making plans.

Bring Your Boat to Sunset Isle Marina

Located on Choctawhatchee Bay in Fort Walton Beach, Sunset Isle Marina offers convenient dockage for boat owners visiting or staying along Florida’s Emerald Coast. From the marina, boaters have direct access to Choctawhatchee Bay and convenient routes toward Crab Island, Destin Harbor, East Pass, Okaloosa Island, and the Gulf of Mexico.

Sunset Isle accommodates local boat owners, seasonal boaters, transient vessels, and larger yachts seeking a well-positioned marina near Destin and Fort Walton Beach.

Available marina services and amenities make it easier to spend more time enjoying the water and less time managing the logistics of your stay.

Whether you are boating from Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa Island, Niceville, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Grayton Beach, or Navarre Beach, Sunset Isle Marina provides a convenient home base for exploring the region by water.

Reserve your slip in advance to confirm availability for your vessel and planned dates. From relaxed days on Choctawhatchee Bay to fishing trips, sunset cruises, and visits to Crab Island, Sunset Isle Marina puts boat owners close to many of the Emerald Coast’s most popular waterways and destinations.