Itinerary for Families Vacationing in Destin, FL

Dreaming of a Gulf Coast escape packed with family fun, laid-back vibes, and post-worthy sunsets? You’re in the right place. This four-day itinerary through Destin, Florida blends beach bliss, retail therapy, outdoor adventure, and foodie favorites into one unforgettable getaway. From digging your toes into the sugar-white sands of James Lee Beach to competing at Uncle Buck's bowling and catching fireworks over the harbor, each stop promises to keep every member of your crew smiling. Ready to plan your perfect vacation? Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Sandy Toes & Sunset Tunes

Welcome to paradise! Kick off your family beach getaway by heading straight to to the beach. Either head to your direct beach access or to James Lee Beach, one of Destin’s best public beach access spots. Think powdery white sand, sparkling emerald waves, and amenities, including restrooms, picnic tables, and a playground where kids can let loose--making it easy for families to settle in and stay a while.

When those seaside cravings kick in, wander over to The Crab Trap, nestled right on the sand at James Lee Park. With fresh Gulf seafood, a kid-approved menu, and unbeatable ocean views, lunch or dinner here hits all the right notes. 

 Day 2: Retail Therapy & Local Adventures

Ready for some family-friendly retail therapy? Spend your second day exploring the Destin Commons, an open-air lifestyle center loaded with 80+ shops & attractions, colorful murals, green gathering spaces, and a splash pad play area for the kids.

For a lunch break with a twist, check out Uncle Buck’s FishBowl & Grill. Uncle Buck’s is an underwater-themed bowling alley and its own arcade, it's an unexpected hit for all ages.

Once everyone’s shopped out, cool off with a blockbuster at AMC Destin Commons 14, where IMAX and Dolby Cinema make for a truly immersive movie experience.

Cap off your evening with dinner at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill. It’s funky, it’s fun, and it’s home to Gator Beach, where kids can feed and (yep) even pet live alligators. It's a great place to enjoy dinner with a side of adventure!

Day 3: Scenic Spins & Beachside Zen

Time to slow things down. Start your day with a breezy bike or e-bike ride along Scenic Highway 98, a gorgeous coastal stretch perfect for families. If you’re staying with Newman-Dailey, don’t forget to use those sweet bike rental discounts through local partners like La Dolce Vita and Emerald Coast Ebikes.

Feeling like getting out on the water? Grab paddle boards (also discounted for Newman-Dailey guests) and glide into the Gulf or the Bay. Stand up paddle boarding is a serene adventure that offers views of marine life down below. Find discounts on paddle boards and other water sport gear at La Dolce Vita, Liv Adventures, and Vacayzen to find paddle board discounts. 

As the day winds down, hop across Highway 98 and slide into the laid-back energy at LuLu’s Destin. This fun-loving spot on the Bay features live music, delicious coastal bites, outdoor yard games, and even an arcade. It’s the kind of place where everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—can kick back and enjoy.

Day 4: Meet the Locals on Okaloosa Island

Plan to meet the local animal ambassadors at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Dedicated to educating, entertaining, and inspiring guests of all ages to respect and preserve wildlife by providing unique and memorable experiences for visitors, the Gulfarium is a Destin tradition. Meet the dolphins at their new home in the Dolphin Oasis as well as Florida manatees, sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles and many other marine animals. 

Afterward, walk next door to one of Saltwater Restaurants' beachfront dining options, including Floyd's, Rockin' Taco and Crab Trap. These casual restaurants are made for families with kids' menus, and entertainment and special events planned planned throughout the year. 

For more entertainment options, head across the street to Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone, featuring over 17,000 square feet of air conditioned space, featuring an arcade, Movie Theater, laser tag and more. Outside a mini-golf, a ropes course, a bungee trampoline, mini go kart track and bumper boats keep families entertained year round.

For a slower pace, plan dinner at The Gulf restaurant. Located on Okaloosa Island overlooking the Bay, The Gulf's unique design using shipping containers, reclaimed, recycled and salvaged building materials contrasted with palms, sand and surf, has made it a local hot spot. With an ambiance of chic and casual elegance that warmly greets guests, the large outside area with picnic tables offers a relaxed setting to enjoy menu items made with fresh local ingredients. The bar and music is just the right mixture to create a mellow vibe and enjoyable atmosphere for families to relax and enjoy time together.

Day 5: Fireworks, Fun & Foodie Favorites

Start your day exploring the calm beauty of Henderson Beach State Park. This gorgeous Gulf-front state park is home to some of the most unique ecosystems found in the state. Because these ecosystems are so fragile – walking on the dunes can cause them to crumble and erode, so going on the dunes is strictly off limits in most areas. However, at Henderson Beach State Park, the .75-mile hiking trail allows you to explore the dune and scrub habitat and even stand atop a dune without harming this natural habitat.

Wrap up your trip with a day at HarborWalk Village, Destin’s buzzing downtown waterfront hub. Here, the whole family can enjoy live music, street performers, local shops, and seasonal events. If you’re visiting during the summer or on holiday weekends, stick around for the fireworks over the harbor—they’re magical!

Add to the adventure by taking a sunset dolphin cruise. With a wide variety of cruise options, including the Southern Star and the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise, there are plenty of options for your crew to be enchanted by dolphins playing in the Harbor and searching for their next meal as well as spectacular views of the sun setting over the Gulf. Discounts available to Newman-Dailey guests under the Cruising Section of Guests Rewards page.

For a dinner, you'll want to either dine overlooking the Harbor at hotspots ranging from AJ's and Brotula's to Harry T's and Harbor Tavern--all are local family gathering spots. Or head across Highway 98 to the iconic, McGuire’s Irish Pub, a Destin staple known for its fun atmosphere, wide variety of food and brew options, and dollar bills lining the walls. It’s a great way to conclude a wonderful four days in Destin.

Book Your Destin Stay, Today!

Still in search of the perfect Destin vacation rental? View the Gulf-front condos at Jade East here. Looking for a different size or location? View Newman-Dailey's full collection of Destin vacation rentals online or call one of our friendly, local vacation specialists to help narrow your search at 850-837-1071, 7 days a week, 9 am-5 pm CST. Remember to always book direct for our best rate guarantee. 

See you @ the beach!

Published by Ella Galey
Friday, October 24, 2025