What to do in Destin, FL while house and pet sitting

With its bright white sands and turquoise sea, it’s not surprising that this Emerald Coast city is a much-loved vacation Destin-ation. If you love beaches and seafood, there’s no better place to hang out than Destin, Florida.

The peninsula is famous for its silvery sands, made from quartz crystal that flows down from the Appalachian mountains. As well as tourism, Destin is known for its fishing fleet: come here in October for the lively Fishing Rodeo and Seafood Festival. 

The seaside city is a popular place for pet sitting. What is there to do in Destin, FL? We’ve come up with a few suggestions for you.

Destin attractions

Let’s be honest: most folks come here for the beach. But there’s a lot more to this laid-back city than simply the sand and you don’t want to miss out. Try these popular Destin, Florida attractions:

1. Destin History & Fishing Museum: this friendly museum tells the story of Destin’s growth from small fishing community to vibrant coastal city. You’ll also learn more about its flora, fauna and geography. 

2. Destin Fishing: if you’re a seasoned angler or keen to learn, Destin is a top spot for sea fishing. There are plenty of piers and jetties where you can cast off and you can hire a line at Okaloosa Island Pier. You can also boom yourself onto a fishing charter for some boat fishing.

3. Henderson Beach State Park: OK, we had to put a beach in this list… There’s a small charge to visit this State Park, but it’s worth it, because it means this beautiful beach and park is quieter than many of the others. There are great spots for picnics and grills as well as nature trails.

4. Oak Tree Nature Park: just a short drive from Destin, this park has lovely woodland trails and the shaded paths are especially welcome on warmer days. As a real bonus, dogs are allowed on some of the trails, provided they’re on a leash. Wondering how often to walk your dog? Take a look at our blog.

Free things to do in Destin

One of the many advantages of a seaside destination is that you can always find a free beach or coastal path to explore. If you’re sticking to a budget, try these free places to go in Destin, FL.

1. Crab Island: this is actually a sandbar rather than an island. It has the most stunning clear waters and a really fun atmosphere, as visitors and locals gather to socialize in the shallow sea. Bring floats and refreshments or pick up a cool soft drink from one of the floating vendors.

2. Destin Harbor Boardwalk: for people watching, food, drink, shopping, and generally soaking up the Destin atmosphere, there is nowhere like the Boardwalk. Admire the yachts while enjoying a coffee or cold beer. It’s also a great place to come in the evening.

3. Gator Beach: this park is home to hundreds of alligators, from babies to strapping six footers. Don’t worry, there are wardens, and the whole experience is as safe as it is fascinating. It’s free to enter, but activities (such as feeding the gators) cost money. Look out for the daily show program.

4. James Lee Park: if you’re looking for a low-cost day out, James Lee Park is a popular choice. It’s great for sea swimming, fishing and picnicking, and there are stunning views across the Gulf of Mexico.

Fun things to do in Destin

Destin is a really fun place to spend your vacation. Here are some of our favorite fun things to do in Destin, FL:

1. Destin Dolphin Cruises: taking a tour to spot these wonderful mammals is a real must-do while you’re in Destin. There's a choice of operators and some of the tours last up to half a day. 

2. Destin Boat Tours: fishing charter, wildlife safari, snorkelling trip or romantic cruise? You can take your pick of boat tours from Destin’s wide selection. Just make sure you take at least one boat trip during your stay here, to admire the coast from the ocean.

3. Shores at Crystal Beach Park: it’s hard to pick just one beach, however Shores is famous for its idyllic good looks, and it also has useful facilities such as showers and restrooms. It’s also free to use this stunning beach.

4. Golf: as well as surfing and seafood, Destin is famous for golf. There’s a choice of four courses in the city and a further four close by. If you enjoy a round of golf against a beautiful backdrop, you’ll be very happy in Destin.

What to do in Destin, FL with pets?

Destin has lots of lovely dog walks and a fantastic park especially for canines. If you want to take your dog for a swim in the sea, however, you may need to make a short drive, as the county doesn’t allow dogs on its beaches. There are also plenty of things to do near Destin, FL.

1. Nancy Weidenhamer Dog Park (formerly Destin Dog Park): this fabulous park has three acres of perfect doggie territory to explore and race around. It even has separate zones for big and small dogs.

2. The Doggy Bag: this is where all the cool canines shop. There’s a special dog bakery and we really love it for this. Pop in for a treat for your four-legged friend.

3. Beaches: OK, this is a tricky one. Dogs are not allowed on the beaches in Destin. However, if their owner is a resident and has obtained a permit, you may be able to walk your pet-sitting pooch on some beaches in Destin, as well as Miramar Beach (10 miles from the center). We advise you to look into this before heading for the surf with Fido.

4. Places to eat: there are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants in Destin, because so many eateries have outdoor patios that are perfect for pets. Hammerhead’s Bar and Grille even has a menu for dogs!

Best restaurants in Destin, FL: Food and drink

You’ll certainly find some of the state’s best seafood restaurants in Destin, FL.

Best restaurants in Destin for lunch 

Here are some of the Best restaurants in Destin, FL for lunch.

1. Surf Hut: seafood tacos and Southern-style ribs on the beach. An absolute must while you’re in town.

2. Hammerhead’s Bar and Grille: great place for humans as well as dogs! This waterfront restaurant on Baytown Wharf is home to the famous steamed seafood bucket.

3. Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant: a piece of history, this wonderful establishment is run by the descendants of the original Destin (the city’s founder, Leonard). The waterside shack has great views and even better seafood.

4. Crackings: treat yourself to a brunch at Crackings before setting out on a long walk with the dog. Go for waffles or pancakes for maximum sugar-loading. 

5. Gulf Coast Burger Company: if you’re feeling hungry, this is the place. A great choice of burgers served in a lovely location.

Best restaurants in Destin for dinner

1. Capt Dave’s on the Gulf: head here for fresh Gulf fish and some fantastic daily specialis. This seafood restaurant has been feeding Destin for over 50 years and has a fabulous location on the beach.

2. Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House: this famous seafood restaurant has harbor-view tables. Try their home-smoked yellowfin tuna or ask for the catch of the day.

3. Thai Tannic: how can you resist that pun? This Thai restaurant serves all your favorite dishes and in this seafood-focused city, is a great place to come if you’re vegan.

4. Marina Cafe: award-winning Marina Cafe serves beautiful fresh seafood dishes, but also offers wood-fired pizzas and fabulous steaks.

5. 790: again, this restaurant majors on locally caught seafood, but has given it a Louisiana twist. Order one of their popular gumbos.

If you were wondering what to do in Destin, FL, as you can see, there’s plenty to occupy you in this cheerful seaside city. Enjoy the surf, seafood and chilled-out waterfront lifestyle.

Like the idea of house and pet sitting in Destin?

Take a look at our Find a House Sit page to look out for house and pet sitting opportunities in Destin. It’s a lovely location if you like fresh sea air and a warmer climate, and the fall is an especially good time to visit with the seafood celebrations going on.

If you’ve recently joined our pet-sitting pack, find out more about life as a TrustedHousesitters’ pet sitter.