Destin – A Charming Fishing Village
A Gulf Coast city in Florida’s western panhandle, Destin rests between Panama City to the east and Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach to the west. Often referred to as Florida’s Emerald Coast, this area is well-known for its shimmering beaches, abundant sport fishing, and vast stretches of relatively undeveloped shoreline. Compared to the state’s commercial beaches, the sandy beaches here are pleasant changes.
Whether you are looking for a great vacation destination or someplace to call home, Destin has a lot to offer. With optimal weather conditions year-round and tons of sightseeing excursions, this city possesses a special kind of charm that differentiates it from other parts of the state.
Homes for Sale
Education in Destin
Destin is part of the Okaloosa County School District, one of Florida’s A+ high-performing districts. Destin Elementary School, at 630 Kelly Street and Destin Middle School situated in Legendary Marina Drive, have consistently been A+ schools for 13 years. What’s more, Destin Middle School students often rank 1st in math and writing and 2nd in reading and science in the country.
Climate in Destin
Destin features optimal climatic conditions that allow for outdoor activities all year round. Over the course of a year, the temperatures vary from 40 degrees in winter to 90 degrees in summer. October, April, and November are the most pleasant months in the city.
Public Transportation in Destin
Okaloosa County Transit, recently renamed Emerald Coast Ride, aka “E.C. Rider,” offers public transportation within the city
Living in Destin
Located on the Emerald Coast peninsula in northwestern Florida, Destin is famous for its white beaches and emerald green waters. Also known as the Florida panhandle, the area has the Gulf of Mexico at its southern border.
Destin was once a fishing village and currently boasts the largest fishing fleet in Florida. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the city with a population of over 12,000 also makes a perfect place to call home.
High-rise condominiums and single-family homes are the most common types of residences found in this charming city. Destin’s median house value is $253,400, and the median household income is $66,324.
When it comes to living in Destin, you get to enjoy the best of everything. The city holds a new library, a thriving community center, excellent schools that receive the highest ratings, and a dedication to the local arts and cultural scene. Being one of the country’s top ten fastest-growing metropolitan statistical areas, Destin attracts new residents due to its pleasant atmosphere and excellent offerings.
Things to Do in Destin
The consistently warm climate, world-class resorts, excellent shopping, and abundant seafood options make Destin a favorite year-round travel destination.
Recreational activities are abundant in Destin, including golf, tennis, and water sports, such as diving, jet-skiing, snorkeling, etc. This beach holds 12 beach access points that are incredibly famous for their pristine sand. The beaches have the whitest sand in the world due to having finely ground quartz crystals from the Appalachian Mountains.
An annual rodeo and a seafood festival are held in the city every October, which results in the population growing from 12,000 to 40,000 during the peak tourist season. Other popular events held in Destin include the USA Track and Field-certified running event and a paddle race that offers a cash prize.
The new Destin Harbor Boardwalk stretches a quarter mile, reaching down the Destin Harbor, offering locals and visitors waterfront access. You can access fishing charter boats, restaurants, and water activities from here.
Referred to as the “world’s luckiest fishing village,” Destin has plenty of fish that can be caught and preferably be served fresh as your next meal. Premium outlets and upscale shopping options in the heart of the city also attract visitors.
Henderson Beach State Park features a vast scenic shoreline that will help you escape the urban sprawl and retreat into Destin’s natural beauty. Families can picnic, bicycle, camp, or hike here. You will also find some award-winning restaurants along the shoreline, including thirteen that are on Florida Trend’s list of best places to dine in Florida. Whether you prefer fine or casual dining, the options are endless and often come with beautiful views and sunsets.
