Plan Your Ultimate Getaway: 9 Serene Water Excursions in Destin, Florida
When you picture what paradise looks like, chances are, it’s a lot like Destin, FL.
This little-known beach town is the perfect destination for anyone seeking a few days of relaxation on the water. Nestled along Florida’s Emerald Coast, Destin invites visitors to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of its shimmering waters and powdery white beaches. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, Destin offers the perfect setting for a peaceful water adventure.
From pontoon boat rentals to kayaks, Destin, Florida offers plenty of fun excursions and ways to unwind, soak in breathtaking views, and experience local wildlife.
Here are 9 of the most relaxing water activities for your Destin vacay.
Rent a Pontoon Boat and Visit Crab Island
If you’re seeking out a full day of relaxation (or a lighthearted party atmosphere) in Destin, renting a pontoon boat and trekking out to Crab Island should be at the top of your list. This is one of the most popular excursions in Destin, and you’ll see why: it offers the perfect combination of sun, festivities, gentle waves, and salty air.
Crab Island is a shallow sandbar perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and socializing, and it’s a unique aspect of Destin, FL, that you just can’t quite find anywhere else.
Your own, private pontoon boat rental will have plenty of room for your friends and family to stretch out and catch that vitamin D – making it the ideal option for a slow-paced day on the water. And since you’ll be driving the boat yourself, you get to decide how much time you spend at each spot.
Pack a picnic, enjoy the pristine waters, and take in the stunning scenery around you at your own pace.
Take a Sunset Cruise
Looking for a little romance? A sunset cruise is the perfect Destin excursion for couples. Just picture it: as the sun dips below the horizon, the sky lights up in a spectacular display of colors, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the calm, sparkling waters.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a peaceful moment of reflection, a sunset cruise is a truly idyllic way to end your day on the water.
Visit Norriego Point
One of the prime beach locations in Destin, Norriego Point is sought out by visitors year after year for a reason. It offers amazing snorkeling and bird watching, plus it’s one of the most picturesque spots in Destin. You’ll catch amazing views and calm waters almost year-round.
If you’re traveling with a small group, you can always charter a pontoon boat to get you there on your own schedule. You can even choose from a range of fun, themed packages to make for the exact party vibe of your dreams.
Try Paddle Boarding or Kayaking
You can break a sweat and still feel totally relaxed and rejuvenated after. Skip the gym and rent a couple of paddle boards or kayaks instead. It’s vacation, after all!
For those looking for a more intimate connection with nature, paddleboarding and kayaking provide a serene way to explore Destin’s calm, crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re gliding along the peaceful Choctawhatchee Bay or paddling through the Gulf’s quieter coves, you’ll get a little workout in between site-seeing. Plus, you’ll get to see Destin’s tranquil mangroves and abundant local wildlife, like local birds and fish, up close and personal, without the noise of a loud boat engine.
A paddleboard or kayak excursion is perfect for one to two people who are seeking quiet solitude out on the water.
Check out Choctawhatchee Bay
It may not be easy to pronounce, but it’s easy to love. Destin locals take a lot of pride in Choctawhatchee Bay: a peaceful little corner of the Emerald Coast that’s known for easy boat rides and plentiful fishing.
There are a variety of sailing and fishing excursions that will take you there, or you can enjoy it from the privacy of your own chartered pontoon boat.
Charter a Pontoon Boat
Speaking of chartered boats: for small groups and families who want to spend a whole day enjoying the salty ocean breeze, a private, chartered pontoon boat is the most relaxing, stress-free way to go.
These charters allow you to sit back and enjoy the sights while a knowledgeable captain guides you through Destin’s waters. Once you pack some snacks and towels, you get to kick back and enjoy the views. Chartering a pontoon boat is a personalized, safe, hands-off excursion that allows everyone to enjoy the beauty of Destin together.
Take a Sailing Lesson
Set sail for a peaceful journey along Destin’s coast with a private or small group sailing excursion. Sailing offers a tranquil escape, where the gentle rhythm of the waves and the sound of the wind in the sails create a calming atmosphere. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a first-timer, Destin’s sailing adventures allow you to take in the breathtaking coastal views, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, and immerse yourself in the peacefulness of the open water.
Go Looking for Dolphins
Whether you’re 5 or 65, There’s just something enthralling about watching dolphins at play. You’ll probably catch a glimpse of these guys if you spend a day on the water; but if you want the full experience, consider booking a dolphin tour to see even more of them in their natural habitat and capture some amazing photos.
Some tours offer environmentally-friendly practices, ensuring a respectful and educational encounter with dolphins and any other fish or sea life that crosses your path. It’s the perfect water excursion for nature lovers and families.
For a more private experience, you can also charter a pontoon boat, which includes a dolphin tour. You’ll get your own boat to enjoy with up to 5 of your friends.
Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
For a fully immersive experience, consider a glass-bottom boat tour. These tours allow you to see the vibrant marine life beneath the surface without ever getting wet. You can expect a blend of education and relaxation as you marvel at the colorful fish, and maybe even sea turtles, as you glide across the calm waters.
It’s a great way to take advantage of Destin’s famously clear waters and quiet surf.
Book Your Pontoon Boat Today
It should be pretty clear by now: Destin is basically the perfect destination for peaceful water excursions. From a morning walk along the beach to a sunset cruise, you can easily spend an entire day (or week) just taking in the beauty of those famous emerald waters and gentle Gulf breezes. And if you want to maximize your time on the water, a private boat is the best way to go. Pick up some sun screen, round up your fam, and reserve your pontoon boat rental today. Like thousands of others, you’ll realize it’s the perfect escape from daily life, and it’ll probably become an annual tradition.
