Your Perfect 48-Hour Adventure on Florida’s Emerald Coast
Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast, Destin, Florida, is a premier destination for a perfect weekend getaway. Renowned for its sugar-white sand beaches, vibrant marine life, and a plethora of outdoor activities, Destin offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to unwind by the serene Gulf waters, indulge in fresh seafood, or explore the lively HarborWalk Village, this charming city provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and adventure.
Our carefully crafted weekend itinerary ensures you experience the best of what Destin has to offer, making your short stay memorable and enjoyable.
Destin, Florida: Weekend Itinerary
Day 1: Friday Evening
Arrival and Check-In
- 5:00 PM: Arrive in Destin and check into your hotel or vacation rental. Popular choices include the Henderson Beach Resort, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, or beachfront condos.
Dinner at Harbor Docks
- 7:00 PM: Head to Harbor Docks for a fresh seafood dinner. Enjoy the catch of the day with beautiful views of the harbor.
Stroll Along the HarborWalk Village
- 9:00 PM: After dinner, take a stroll through HarborWalk Village. Enjoy live music, shops, and maybe even a fireworks show, depending on the season.
Day 2: Saturday
Morning: Beach Time at Henderson Beach State Park
- 8:00 AM: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Another Broken Egg Café.
- 10:00 AM: Spend the morning at Henderson Beach State Park. Enjoy the pristine white sands and emerald green waters. Relax, swim, or take a walk along the shoreline.
Afternoon: Lunch and Water Activities
- 1:00 PM: Grab a quick lunch at The Back Porch, famous for its beachfront dining and delicious seafood.
- 2:30 PM: Head to Destin Harbor for water activities. Options include:
- Dolphin Cruise: Book a dolphin-watching tour.
- Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Jet Skiing: Rent jet skis for an adventurous ride on the water.
Evening: Dinner and Nightlife
- 7:00 PM: Dine at McGuire’s Irish Pub, known for its great food and lively atmosphere.
- 9:00 PM: Experience Destin’s nightlife at one of the local bars or clubs. Check AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar for live music and a fun crowd.
Day 3: Sunday
Morning: Golf or Shopping
- 8:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or The Donut Hole Bakery Café.
- 9:30 AM:
- Golf: Play a round of golf at one of Destin’s premier courses, like Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club.
- Shopping: Visit Destin Commons or Silver Sands Premium Outlets for retail therapy.
Afternoon: Lunch and Explore
- 12:30 PM: Have lunch at Lulu’s Destin for a relaxed atmosphere and great food.
- 2:00 PM: Visit the Destin History and Fishing Museum to learn about the area’s rich fishing history, or take a scenic drive along Scenic Highway 30A to explore nearby coastal communities like Seaside and Rosemary Beach.
Evening: Sunset and Departure
- 5:00 PM: Head to a beach access point or a waterfront restaurant like Pompano Joe’s to catch the stunning sunset.
- 7:00 PM: Depart Destin with wonderful memories and plans to return.
Enjoy your weekend in Destin, Florida!
Did you know?
One of the locale’s hidden gems is the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA), located off the coast of nearby Grayton Beach. Established in 2018, the UMA is the first permanent underwater sculpture garden in the United States. This unique museum features sculptures designed by various artists submerged at about 60 feet.
The artwork provides a fascinating attraction for divers and snorkelers and serves as artificial reefs, promoting marine life growth and contributing to the conservation of the local marine ecosystem. Visiting the UMA offers a distinctive blend of art, nature, and adventure, making it a must-see for those looking to explore beyond the usual beach activities.
A little history:
Early Beginnings: Destin, Florida, traces its roots back to a small fishing village established by Leonard Destin in the mid-19th century. Leonard Destin, a New London, Connecticut fisherman, settled around 1845. He and his descendants are credited with pioneering the local fishing industry, which remains a central part of the locales identity today.
The Fishing Legacy: By the late 1800s, the Destin family had developed a thriving commercial fishing operation. They employed advanced techniques for the time, including seine nets, which significantly boosted their catch. This innovation helped cement a reputation as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” a moniker that still resonates today.
Development and Growth: The town began attracting more settlers and visitors in the early 20th century. The first post office was established in 1904, marking a step toward becoming an official town. The construction of the Destin Bridge in 1936 (originally known as the Marler Bridge) provided better access to the area, further stimulating growth and development.
Tourism Boom: Post-World War II, it experienced a tourism boom. The region’s stunning white sand beaches, emerald green waters, and abundant fishing opportunities drew visitors from all over the country. Establishing the Eglin Air Force Base nearby also contributed to the area’s growth and development.
Modern-Day Destin: Today, it is a bustling tourist destination known for its luxurious resorts, vibrant shopping and dining scenes, and a wide array of recreational activities. The city hosts numerous annual events, such as their Seafood Festival and the Fishing Rodeo, celebrating its rich maritime heritage and attracting visitors year-round.
Environmental Conservation: Despite its rapid development, the area has remained committed to preserving its natural beauty. Efforts like the creation of the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance and the Destin Harbor Boardwalk have helped maintain the delicate balance between development and environmental conservation, ensuring that the area’s natural charm endures for future generations to enjoy.
