My Favorite Destin Beache Spots

Although Destin Beaches are great all around, there are specific spots that i like the best. Here is a locals view to the best beach spots in Destin.

1) Norreigo Pointe: This beach area is great because you can relax on the beautiful white sand and watch all the boats come and go in the harbor. You are also just a short walk away from the Jetti's which is a prime area for fishing and taking pictures.

2) Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island: The reason I like this beach is because all their volleyball nets are in good shape and I can easily get a cold beverage and a good meal if I'm thirsty. There is also big pier that I can go to for fishing if I want to change up the activity. There is plenty of parking too!

3) Crab trip at Destin (James Lee Park): Crab Trap has been a favorite of mine because it centrally located in Destin and the beach is well maintained. The restrooms are clean and easily accesible and you have lifeguards as well. I look at this as a family beach more than anything since it's surrounded by vacation homes and condos.

10 things you may not know about Destin, Florida

So you're visiting Destin huh? Although we are known for some of the best beaches in the world, there is more to our sleepy little town... Check these facts out!

1) Did you know that the movie Jaws and Truman Show were filmed in the Destin area? To be honest, Seaside which is 20 miles east of Destin should get the credit since it was filed there, but it's close enough for me! Next time you're in Destin, take a drive over to Seaside and it will bring back memories of the movie (it did for me!).

2) Did you know that the white sandy beaches is due to the Appalachian mountains? The rivers and streams carry over sentiments of rock out to the Gulf of Mexico causing white sand to travel along the beaches. This is a big reason why we get that beautiful emerald green hue to our waters.

3) Did you know that Destin only has about 10,000 permanent residents? It's hard to believe that when nearly 4 million people visit the emerald coast each year!

4) Did you know that Fort Walton Beach has the oldest restaurant in the state of Florida? Staff's restaurant was established in 1913 and is almost at 100 years!

5) Did you know that the Destin East Pass, which allows people to go from the Gulf of Mexico to the Choctwatchee bay, was created when 4 men spent days building a trench. The trench eventually filled up and formed a waterway due to a bad storm in the early 1900's. This area is known as the famous (or infamous) crab island now.

6) Did you know that the Destin fishing fleet is one of the largest recreation fishing fleet in the State of Florida? Not bad for a small little town!

7) Did you know that the Hilton in Sandestin is one of the busiest Hilton properties in the World?

8) Did you know that Destin is a preferred spot for many celebrities such as Morgan Freeman, Britany Spears, Tom Cruise, Jerry Jones, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill and many more.

9) Did you know that the Peak Destin Tourist Season is from May 28th-August 15th.

10) Did you know that Destin was voted by Frommers as one of the best beaches in the world?

Beach Vacation Rental or Not?

A lot of people will come to Destin each year and stay on beach in a condo or hotel. Typically, the price of beach front lodging is upwards to $100 more per night than a regular roadside property off of Highway 98. The truth is, is it really worth paying the premium to stay on the beach?

Pros:
1) No driving to the beach.
2) The views and atmosphere.
3) More privacy.
4) Some hotels can be overpriced when renting from a condo owner may be less expensive.

Cons:
1) Higher cost per night.
2) You don't always have front desk assistance like a hotel
3) You may not have daily housekeeping.
4) You are pretty close to the beach so driving won't really be that bad.

In any case, there are always good and bad ideas to staying on the beach. Look at your budget and your needs and make a decision!