There’s something wonderful about taking time away from the stress of life to enjoy and indulge in amazing scenery, beautiful waters and time spent on the sand and under the sun. When you’re on the hunt for a vacation destination that combines the best of it all, Destin, Florida is a sure thing. Just 15 minutes east of fantastic Fort Walton Beach, Destin is a delightful and delicious destination where travelers can take time to unwind, savor the scenery, explore nature, enjoy entertaining stops and ultimately rejuvenate in Florida-inspired style. When you’re looking to make the most of travels this direction, be sure to add the following Destin activities to your itinerary.
Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park
When water parks are the way to your vacationing heart, a stop at Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park in Destin is sure to inspire. Situated at 1007 US-98, this sprawling amusement-style stop is a family-friendly place to enjoy a day zipping down waterslides, splashing in wave pools, playing mini-golf or getting the adrenaline pumping on thrill rides. Big Kahuna’s is a 40-acre park that first opened in Destin in 1986 and continues to provide guests with big fun to this day. Season passes are available at $46.99 per person.
While Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park offers guests a wide variety of rides and attractions to choose from, there are a few that stand out and shouldn’t be missed while you’re here. The Kowabunga Racer is a fun 4-lane drag strip that guests can experience from on top of a speed mat. The thrill lies in the fact that you’ll plunge the distance of nearly five stories down a course that’s the length of a football field! While every racer starts at the same spot at the top of the Kowabunga Racer, the track promises to be a twisting and coiling experience of fun with the winner bursting out at the bottom for a splash landing that’s sure to inspire cheers from onlookers. While there’s a 42-inch height requirement for riding the Kowabunga Racer, the experience is one you won’t soon forget.
If you’re looking forward to a more traditional waterslide experience that still comes with options to enjoy a bit of friendly competition, the Hammerhead is the place to start. This pair of impressive waterslides can be accessed at the very top of the Temple of Doom and aren’t for the faint of heart. While it’s entirely possible to enjoy the ride down independently, there’s nothing more fun than going side by side and seeing who reaches the pool at the bottom first!
For those visitors who just know that flow boarding is their thing and want to test out their balance on the water, the Honolulu Half Pipe is calling your name. This attraction requires some impressive concentration and skill on a surfboard, but it’s well worth your time for those up to the challenge. The Honolulu Half Pipe moves 17,000 gallons of water through per minute. It’s fair to say that this number indicates those who try the halfpipe can count on a non-stop flow to make the most of the experience! It’s the next best thing to actually visiting the island’s North Shore when catching a wave is what you live for.
And speaking of Hawaiian-inspired rides, those looking for a real rush won’t want to skip a trip down the Maui Pipeline Slides. These high-speed rides are designed with thrill-seekers in mind and provide the rush that so many visitors to Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park are looking for. The world moves by in a blur as you travel down these slides at a breathtaking place only to land in a spectacular splash at the bottom!
Destin History and Fishing Museum
The waters that surround Destin have long been a defining feature of this area and those visitors who have a passion for the past will love time spent at the Destin History and Fishing Museum. Located at 108 Stahlman Avenue, this museum first opened to the public in 2005 and welcomes guests Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. Come on in and browse a collection of exhibits and displays that highlight the story of Destin as well as the role fishing has played in its ability to thrive. Admission to the museum is $5 for adults and $3 for children.
Destin Dolphin Cruise
There’s no need to head to the aquarium to get up close to sea creatures when booking a Destin Dolphin Cruise takes you right to the heart of the habitat these marine animals call home. Destin Dolphin Cruises, one of the top Destin activities, is located at 500 Harbor Boulevard and offers up tours between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm every day of the week. Book a sightseeing experience or sunset cruise depending on preference and enjoy learning about the environment that keeps dolphins happy and the conservation efforts in the area to protect those fragile ecosystems as well. Call 850-204-0673 for information on reservations in advance.
Destin Activities Are Waiting for You
There’s no reason to wait when you’re ready to enjoy Destin and nearby Fort Walton Beach. Book a stay with The Breakers of Fort Walton Beach and indulge in a home away from home that’s comfortable, convenient and stylish. Contact us today for more information on Destin Florida activities and to book one of our beautiful vacation rentals.