A vacation on the Emerald Coast between Perdido Key and Panama City revolves around the water. Fishing charters head out at dawn, paddleboarders skim across glassy bays and families spend their days wading at Norriego Point or exploring the rare dune lakes of Highway 30A. As the sun dips, crowds gather along Destin’s boardwalk to watch the sky blaze orange and pink before settling into one of many restaurants serving the Gulf’s freshest catch.

Whether you’re after a romantic escape, a dose of adventure or simply time to bask in the sun, you’ll find your authentic coastal vibe along this 24-mile stretch of dazzling shoreline.

For Beaches

Destin’s coastline is among the most beautiful in the country, with stretches that are as varied as they are scenic. Henderson Beach State Park consistently ranks among the world’s best, thanks to its sugar-white sands and clear waters. It’s also a nesting ground for sea turtles — arrive at dawn or dusk for your best chance to spot them. For a quieter beach day, the knee-deep tide pools at Norriego Point offer a front-row seat to boats slipping in and out of the harbor, while nearby East Jetty Point is a favorite with snorkelers drawn to schools of tropical fish darting around the rocks.

To escape the noise altogether, head east along Highway 30A to discover rare coastal dune lakes, where freshwater meets saltwater in one of the few ecosystems of its kind in the world. It’s a haven for birdwatching, peaceful kayaking or simply spreading out a picnic.

For Fishing & Water Adventures

Despite the rise of condos and resorts, Destin remains “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” You feel it in the bustling harbor, where charter boats line up shoulder to shoulder, and in the seafood markets offering the fresh daily catch: snapper, grouper or cobia, depending on the season.

Beyond fishing, dolphin cruises, kayaking tours and snorkeling trips take you to man-made reefs and sunken wrecks now thriving with tropical fish and coral. Then there’s Crab Island, a submerged sandbar accessible only by boat, where waist-deep waters host a uniquely Destin experience — floating food vendors, volleyball games and live music. Be sure to go early, since it turns into a lively floating block party by noon.

For Exploring Coastal Towns

Destin may be the hub, but much of the Emerald Coast’s character lies in the towns along scenic Highway 30A. Rosemary Beach feels like it’s been plucked from Europe, with cobblestone lanes, gas-lit lanterns and Dutch-Caribbean architecture. Seaside is instantly recognizable for its pastel cottages and picket fences, immortalized in “The Truman Show.” Grayton Beach has a bohemian vibe, with quirky art galleries, live-music bars and its playful motto: “Nice dogs, strange people.”

For date night, head to the rooftop at Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar in Rosemary Beach to take in the Gulf views paired with signature cocktails. Or The Edge Seafood Restaurant in Destin Harbor, which glows after dark with twinkling lights on the water.

For Families

The Emerald Coast’s family attractions go well beyond the beach. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park is an all-ages crowd pleaser, with wave pools, a lazy river and slides, while The Track offers go-karts, mini golf and bumper boats for kids who need a break from the sand. Destin Commons, with its splash pad, movie theater and playground, makes for easy half-day outings.

For a dash of history, the Destin History & Fishing Museum showcases antique rods and reels alongside jaw-dropping mounts of record-setting catches, proof of how the town earned its nickname. On rainy days, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in nearby Fort Walton Beach has dolphin and sea lion shows under covered seating. Or you can visit Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill to let the kids bowl “underwater” among sharks and sea turtles.

For the Food Scene

Seafood here comes straight from the Gulf, often with a Southern twist. At Dewey Destin’s and The Back Porch, expect waterfront dining where fish tacos, fried shrimp and hush puppies are staples. For sunset meals with a view, Bud & Alley’s in Seaside is a longtime favorite where you can order crab cakes paired with a cocktail.

Families love Lulu’s Destin, a lively beachside spot where kids can paddleboard in a protected lagoon while parents dig into shrimp and grits or a classic po’boy. For toes-in-the-sand dining, The Crab Trap delivers Gulf grouper sandwiches and a fun tiki-bar vibe best enjoyed at sunset. Skip the peak dinner rush and head there for breakfast. Locals swear by the sushi-grade tuna omelet — a quirky favorite in Destin.

Book your Emerald Coast getaway today.

Visit bluegreenowner.com or club.hiltongrandvacations.com to book now!

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