Destin is located in northwest Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, nestled between the larger towns of Panama City and Pensacola (50 miles east and west, respectively). Known for white sand beaches, upscale shopping and golfing opportunities, Destin is a quiet area, with many natural resources, including 12 public beach access points as well as a state park for fishing and camping. Whether you wish to sunbathe, surf or fish, you can enjoy countless hours of fun in the sun on the beaches in Destin.
Many of Destin's hotels and resorts are located near the eastern end of the city and are close to the Pompano Beach Street and Barracuda Street beach access routes. For sunbathing, surfing or swimming, these beach routes are convenient for those staying on the eastern end of the city and will be close enough to your hotel that you will be able to walk to them. If you are staying at the western end of Destin, use the Calhoun or Silver Shells access routes.
If you wish to camp, catch a fish or do any outdoor activities beyond building sandcastles and playing in the surf, then head to Henderson Beach State Park. The park contains fishing piers, playgrounds for children, outdoor grills and picnic sites as well as 6,000 feet of shoreline. The park also has more than 60 campsites and indoor air-conditioned and heated bathroom and shower facilities. The cost for a day pass is $2 per pedestrian, $6 per vehicle; camping is available at $30 per day.
The least tourist-traveled path in Destin is the location of the highest concentration of residential homes. The locals tend to use the beach access routes located in the center of Destin's beach access map--namely, Crystal Beach. Crystal Beach is located off the main strip (Highway 98) on an alternate route close to the upscale shopping complex in Sandestin (a few miles east of Destin proper). Because commercial development in Crystal Beach has been restricted, it is the perfect place to blend in with the locals and enjoy reflection on a quiet beach. Crystal Beach is also known for its lovely pastel-colored beach homes with tin roofs.
