Destin Attractions & Activities Blog

2010-09-29T14:08:00.001-07:00

tripshock

2010-09-29T12:06:00.001-07:00

Ultimate Facebook Giveaway! A $1,400 value http://ping.fm/c65Sc

2010-09-29T12:05:00.001-07:00

Just 2 more days to tell us why you deserve this incredible vacation package! Get your entrys in now!

Ultimate Facebook Giveaway!

2010-09-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

HUGE SUMMER GIVEAWAY! TripShock.com is giving away a 4 day/5 night stay in Destin at the Candlewood Suites AND 5 days worth of fun activities including fishing, boating and much more (up to 4 people). All you have to do is LIKE their page and tell them why you deserve this package on their discussion board. A $1,400 Value! Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/TripShock/183594359483 for more info.

Or visit http://www.tripshock.com/facebookgiveaway.html

Oil Leaked Cap. No Oil in Destin!

2010-07-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

It's exciting to hear that BP finally capped the leak. There is also very few sightings of oil in Northwest Florida which is great for tourism. We have added a lot of new activities to the website in different destinations too. Check out our site for new activities in New York, New Orleans, Panama City Beach & More.

TripShock! GINORMOUS sale!

2010-05-27T17:53:00.000-07:00

Receive a $50 credit on your next TripShock! vacation

If you're unsure about booking your activities early due to the oil spill, let us offer you a deal to make the decision easier. Please keep in mind that we offer a 100% refund on all of our activities if the oil affects any Northwest Florida Beaches.

Program details

● Total Order must be no less than $200 AND the reservation must be made at least 3 days in advance to your arrival date. Last minute bookings do not qualify for this credit.
● If the Gulf Coast Oil Spill has an impact on the Northwest Florida Beaches, you can cancel your reservation and still receive the $50 credit towards your next TripShock! vacation.
● Credit is valid for one year starting one month after your vacation arrival date.
● Credit is non-transferable and can only be used with bookings made through TripShock!
● Credit can only be used on orders over $200.00.

How Do I Redeem The Credit?

Once you make your initial reservation, you'll receive a confirmation email which includes info on the $50.00 credit. Keep this confirmation in a safe place since you may need this in the future.

When you're ready, book your activities for your next vacation either by phone or online. Once you have attended all of your next vacation activities, simply submit your reservation confirmation number, first/last name, and your mailing address to customercare@tripshock.com with the subject "$50 TripShock Credit". We'll send you a no hassle check for $50.00 right away!

Memorial Day Weekend is Approaching. Destin Beaches Clear and Beautiful!

2010-05-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

As Memorial Day Weekend nears, the beaches remain beautiful and oil free. Although the oil leak has not been fully contained, the oil movement has seemed to move southward which is a great sign for Northwest Florida Beaches. The weather forecast is showing some isolated showers, but this is just typical in Destin for the Summer. If you haven't booked any of your activities yet, please let us know and hopefully we can help make your vacation extra special!

Lodging & Activity Providers Offer Full Refund Guarantees for Oil Spill

2010-05-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

Although most of the Florida Beaches have not seen any evidence of oil, the businesses of Northwest Florida are offering full refunds to any reservations that are affected by oil slick beaches. This is good news for vacationers because the last thing they want is to do is vacation to a hazardous beach or waters. TripShock.com's is offering a full refund guarantee on any activities that are affected by oil. Please take advantage of these guarantees instead of canceling your trip altogether. The local government in Destin is doing a fine job managing the crisis so our tourists can enjoy the beaches like they do every year.

No Oil Here in Destin, Come Visit Us This Weekend!

2010-05-05T15:17:00.001-07:00

That's right people, there is absolutely no oil here on Destin beaches and we encourage you to make a trip! There are many things to do including golfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and much more! Check out http://www.tripshock.com for the best activities and things to do in Destin. You are sure to have a great time.

Don't Let the Oil Spill Stop Your From Visiting Destin

2010-05-03T10:35:00.000-07:00

You may hear on the news that Destin and the rest of Northwest Florida is a target for oil slick. As the oil moves closer to our shores, we want to remind people that local officials are doing everything in their power to protect our beaches. However, if the oil becomes a factor, there are many other great things you can do in our bay and harbor. Tripshock! has compiled a list of things you can do even if oil hits our beaches.

1) Destin Harbor Cruise
2) Dinner and Dining Cruise
3) Hands On Cooking Classes
4) Pontoon and Jet Ski rentals
5) Pottery Painting
6) Bay and Inland Fishing
7) Wakeboard lessons
8) Family Beach Portraits
9) Golfing
10) Waterparks

You can book all these activities on http://www.tripshock.com. Call us at 850-424-5125 for reservations assistance and oil spill updates.

My Favorite Destin Beache Spots

2010-04-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

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

2010-04-23T08:13:00.000-07:00

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?

2010-04-08T19:27:00.001-07:00

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!

Saving Money in Destin on Restaurants

2010-03-30T07:05:00.000-07:00

When taking a vacation, we usually budget out our hotel room, activities and gas. So what happens when it comes to food? It's one of the variable expenses since some of us rather cook than go to a restaurant. However, why come to Destin and cook when the best cuisine in Florida is close at hand? The question that goes through your head is, "How can I afford to feed my family each night"? We know that eating out is not cheap, but here are a few ways you can put some money back in your pockets during vacation.

1) Check with the concierge/front desk staff at the lodging establishment and see if you get any perks. A majority of restaurants give free appetizers or discounts for certain guests. This can easily save your family nearly $100 during your trip.

2) Go to Restaurant.com and see what restaurants are selling discounted certificates in the Destin area. There are nearly 30 restaurants last time I checked (some good ones too!).

3) Check the tourist magazines and publications to see if certain places are offering discounts or coupons.

4) Instead of doing dinner every night, try going out to breakfast and lunch a few days instead since the tickets are typically much lower.

I hope these tips come useful on your next trip to Destin. You can view restaurants in Destin on Tripshock.com @ http://www.tripshock.com/search/category-42/city-12/

Important Information on Booking Pontoon boats in Destin FL

2010-03-25T09:50:00.000-07:00

One of Destin's favorite activities is renting pontoon boats. You can do a lot of different activities like going to crab island (Destin's large sandbar right under the Marler Bridge), fishing in the bay, cruising for a sunset tour, or just relaxing under the Florida sun. There are many different companies in Destin that offer Pontoon rentals, but there are some things you may not know before you book.

You will be required to put down a valid credit card for damages of the pontoon boat. Some places won't take cash as a deposit so you may want to check first.
Make sure the company is established in the area. This shows that they have had repeat business throughout the year and maintained safety and quality standards.
If you own a cd player or Ipod, make sure you ask if a hook up is available for this. You may want to listen to your favorite music while cruising.
Pontoons are not allowed in the ocean. The coast guard will be after you and they'll be sure to cut your fun short.
Check the age requirements for the rental. Some places will not rent if you are under a certain age. You may be required to take a Florida Boaters Test. It's not very difficult!
Make sure you bring the boat back before dark. Some companies will charge a late fee if you keep it out too long. Make sure you are keeping track of the time. Other customers may be waiting.

Here are some of Destin's favorite places to rent pontoon boats. http://www.tripshock.com/search/category-45/

Finding the Right Fishing Charter in Destin, FL

2010-03-24T13:54:00.001-07:00

When coming to Destin, it may seem that finding the right fishing charter is not easy to do. There are literally 100's of fishing boats in Destin and each one claims they can catch you the most fish. Here are the do's and dont's of finding the right charter boat for your trip!

Do's

See how long the company has been in business. If the company has been in business for a long time, it must mean that they get a lot of repeat business and they are established in the area.
Check prices with a few random charter companies to see how similiar they are. If you notice a big gap in pricing, there is probably something not right.
Always ask what is included in your trip. Tip is usually not included and it's customary to tip 15-20% to the deckhands for filleting the fish and helping out during the trip.
Make sure you know the difference between a party boat, group charter and private charter. Party boats may seem like a great deal, but you're put on a boat with up to 40 other people.
Make sure you ask what is biting. Fishing in Destin is seasonal and you may not be able to catch the red snapper or grouper you had in mind.

Dont's

Don't choose a charter company solely on the pictures you see on their website. Remember, they only put their best catches online and it's somewhat deceiving.
Since a charter boat is a relatively big purchase, make sure you check some references.
Don't cancel or change your trip just because you don't feel like going one day. Captains run a tight schedule and during busy season. You may be hit with a cancellation fee.
Don't bring your young kids on a trip that is more than 6 hours unless they know what to expect. Captains and deckhands are not babysitters and unless you are on a private charter, they can't go home early.
If you're serious about fishing, don't book a party boat! Private charters may cost more, but you will get a good experience for sure.

If you're looking for some fine charter companies in Destin, let TripShock! help you. TripShock.com works with the finest captains in the panhandle and can insure a safe trip for you and your party. Go to http://www.tripshock.com/search/category-23/city-12/ to view a list of available charters for booking.