Destin and Fort Walton
If you are looking for a vacation filled with sun, sand, and fun, then the Destin-Fort Walton area is for you! The area is known as the Emerald Coast for its unique green-tinted waters and the beaches are covered in white sand made of Appalachian quartz, making it some of the most beautiful and soft sand Florida has to offer. Visitors have access to golf courses, diving and snorkeling trips, fishing and boating excursions, and plenty of water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing.
Visitors looking for a quieter experience with more moderate temperatures should plan to visit between April and May. There are still plenty of things to do, including a few major events happening in town, one of the most popular being the Burning Up the Beaches car show in May.
The most popular time to visit the area is June through August. Summer visitors can expect crowded beaches, beautiful warm weather, and plenty of events that appeal to a variety of interests. The Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival takes place in June each year, and is great “swash-buckling” fun for the entire family. Fishing enthusiasts would really enjoy attending the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic fishing tournament in June as well. Athletes looking for a fun challenge might be interested in signing up for the Sandestin Triathlon in August. There is no shortage of events and things to do in the summer months – there is something here for everyone!
It is recommended that visitors consider renting a car to get around the area. The summer is a perfect time to get around by bicycle, which you can rent once you arrive. After a long day of activities, you can enjoy several gulf-to-table restaurants offering delicious seafood and local cuisine, as well as live music and entertainment.
