Destin

Whether your idea of a beach vacation is lazing on the warm sand with a frosty drink or reeling in a 100-pound cobia, Destin is the perfect spot to fulfill your fantasies. One of the brightest jewels in the crown of Florida's Emerald Coast, this ocean-side community offers world-class accommodations, restaurants serving everything from lobster to pizza, more than 1,000 holes of golf, shopping, and just about every water sport imaginable.

Described by one recent visitor as a “tropical paradise,” Destin also boasts plenty of natural beauty, with sugar-white beaches lapped by the clear green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It's an angler's paradise as well. The largest and most elaborately equipped fishing fleet in Florida is docked at the newly renovated Destin Harbor where plenty of Destin fishing charters are available. Even if you prefer your fish fried, with coleslaw and hush puppies on the side, you'll find plenty of other things to do on and in the water. Swimming, shelling, and sailing are all popular options. And deep water close to shore means that there's a rich tapestry of undersea life for scuba divers and snorkelers to enjoy. Not much of a swimmer? It doesn't matter. A trip on a glass-bottom boat will get you up close and personal with the Gulf's undersea wonders.

Back on dry land, you can shop till you drop in one of the Destin area's shopping centers or outlet malls. And golfers can choose from more than a dozen courses, many of which also have their own restaurants, bars, and pro shops. With an average of 343 sunny days per year, Destin is an ideal choice for year-round fun. In fact, the area hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including the annual Destin Seafood Festival, the Emerald Coast Poker Run, and the month-long Destin Fishing Rodeo, which has been held every fall for more than 50 years.

No matter your lodging preferences, Destin, Florida, has the perfect spot for you. Choose from high-rise beachfront condos, cozy cottages with Gulf or harbor views, and luxurious vacation homes in gated communities. Popular options include beachside Destin condo rentals, along with a wide selection of beachfront hotels and vacation homes. For budget-conscious travelers, many affordable rentals are just a short walk from the beach. Search our vacation rentals below by availability or browse by complex.


92 Complexes available at Destin

Upcoming Events

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Sandestin Gumbo Festival

An annual favorite, the Sandestin Gumbo Festival hosts one of the greatest gumbo cook-offs on the Gulf Coast. Start your Mardi Gras celebration on 30A with two days full of gumbo, live music and Bloody Marys.

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Feb 20 - Feb 21, 2026

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Shrimp & Grits Festival

Local chefs and restaurants will be serving up some tantalizing and creative dishes at this beloved annual festival! Feast on a variety of Shrimp & Grits from Fort Walton all the way to 30A. Proceeds benefit the Girls and Boys Club of Fort Walton. 

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Feb 28, 2026

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Mac & Cheese Festival

In its 8th year, the Mac & Cheese Festival continues to celebrate all things cheesy. Enjoy unlimited samples and family-friendly fun at this delicious local event.

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Mar 15 - Mar 15, 2026

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Sandestin Wine Festival

Each year, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort transforms itself into the South of France with a four-day event providing participants with an entertaining and educational atmosphere to enjoy fine wine. Don't miss the opportunity to taste your share of the excitement. The festival goers will be treated to more than a dozen events including private dinners and the Destin Charity Wine Auction. Guests will also have the opportunity to indulge in and purchase exquisite, hard-to-find wines at special event pricing with more than 500 domestic and international wines to choose from.

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Apr 16 - Apr 19, 2026

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Sun Sand and Soul

Presented and headlined by the Tedeschi Trucks Band, the Sun Sand and Soul festival is a three day event featuring a variety of performances from artists like Jason Isbell and the 400, Molly Tuttle, the Drive-By Truckers and more. 

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Apr 23 - Apr 25, 2026

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Burning Up the Beaches

This annual fundraiser is an exciting 3-day event featuring a car show, live entertainment and a scenic cruise through the streets. Come to admire classic cars, antiques and motorcycles of all kind as you enjoy vendors, fun merchandise and more. 

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Apr 30 - May 02, 2026

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ArtsQuest Fine Arts and Music Festival

ArtsQuest is a juried art show open to the public featuring original art from more-than 100 national artists. Attendees have the opportunity to view and purchase the unique, award-winning pieces and a $5 admission donation is requested. In its 36th year, the festival will also be home to a variety of activities including interactive public art projects, art activities for kids and live music.

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May 02 - May 03, 2026

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The 13th Annual Tequila and Taco Fest

In it's 13th year, the annual Tequila and Taco Fest continues to celebrate amazing food and drink. Get your tickets and try out tacos or tequila from over 30 vendors competing for the ultimate title of "Best Tacos on the Emerald Coast." The ticketed event also includes a variety of fun activities including face painting, live music, a tortilla tossing contest and more. 

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May 16 - May 17, 2026