When is the Best Time to Visit Destin, Florida? During Destin’s Off Season (Sept – Feb)

While the sugar-white sand beaches and emerald green waters are ready to welcome beach lovers year-round, there are certain times of year that are more desirable than others. For beach lovers who want to know when is the best time to visit Destin, Florida, we recommend Destin’s off-season (September - February).

Destin’s off-season runs from September through February. During these months, demand lessens, resulting in fewer crowds and lower rates. Here’s a month by month breakdown of what to expect:

September

September kicks off the shoulder season and is a great month for beach vacations. There are many advantages to taking a beach vacation in September. With the kids back in school, it is one of the slower months of the year for visitation yet the warm daytime temperatures and warm water (avg. 82 degrees) are ideal for swimming, water sports, and relaxing on the beach. 

October

A local favorite, October has so much to offer beach lovers. The summer heat begins to dissipate and comfortable daytime temperatures arrive sending everyone outdoors. The water is still a comfortable temperature for swimming (avg. 77 degrees) and October events offer an abundance of entertaining options beyond the beach. In addition, October welcomes the migration of the Monarch Butterfly along the Gulf Coast, enhancing the scenic beauty with the flutter of golden butterflies.  In addition, it’s also dragonfly season, and at sunset, the dragonflies zip around in a harmonious dance above the dunes as they feast on dinner. Since some schools are now offering a fall break, some weeks in October are busier than others so be sure to ask before you book to ensure you get the best week and rate.

November

November is gorgeous at the beach. With some of the most spectacular sunsets of the year, November is a hidden treasure. Rates are greatly discounted in early November and rise slightly for the holiday week of Thanksgiving. Early November is a sweet spot. There are great activities and events in November and it is the last month that is still warm enough for swimming (avg. 72 degrees). In late November, colder nights bring down the water temperature of the Gulf, signaling the end of swimming season for many.

December

It’s holiday time and there is nothing better than a coastal Christmas. Early in the month, festive décor and fun events such as the Destin Boat Parade kick off the holiday season. Water temps are cool (the average temp is a chilly 68 degrees). The holidays bring in families celebrating time together in large homes and condominiums. Like November early December is less crowded and more affordable. In late December, the holidays create increased demand and visitation, resulting in higher rental rates and more people at your favorite locations.

January

We kick off the New Year with one of the quietest months of the year. You’ll have the beach to yourself in January! Locals and snowbirds don their favorite sweatshirts and enjoy miles of uncrowded, pristine beaches. On MKL Jr weekend, music lovers flock to South Walton for the annual 30A Songwriters Festival, featuring more than 100 performances by well-known and emerging songwriters.

February

February is the last quiet month before spring arrives. Locals and snowbirds revel in the calm, quiet mornings walking the beach in solitude and enjoy no lines at area restaurants. While the water is too cold to swim in, basking in the warm sun along the soft white sand beaches is still a popular daytime activity. In addition, February is a great month to enjoy the area’s natural attractions, including hiking and biking, without breaking a sweat.

Plan Your Trip to Destin

By taking a beach vacation during the off-season, beach lovers often find a new appreciation for the beaches of South Walton and Destin, Florida. To help plan, view the average monthly Destin water temperatures online, and start planning your off-season beach getaway. View our collection of South Walton and Destin vacation rentals online or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652. Remember to always book direct with Newman-Dailey for our best rate guarantee.

See you @ the beach!