Stairs leading to the beach at Henderson Beach State Park.

Beach Like a Local: 6 Fun Things to Do in Destin FL

Published on September 20, 2018 On Guide to Destin, Florida

If you’ve ever wondered what the locals do for fun in Destin, Florida, wonder no more! The Henderson Park Inn has put together a handy guide to six fun things to do in Destin FL that are popular with both locals and visitors alike.

1. Paddle Boarding

Paddle boarding is a fantastic way to get out on the water! Guests at the Henderson Park Inn can borrow our stand-up paddle boards for free and enjoy a relaxing day of fun in the sun. Popular paddle boarding destinations include our private beach, the beach access spots near the Crab Trap and Back Porch restaurants, and the Dune Allen Beach Access on Scenic Highway 30A. The morning (8 – 10 a.m.) is a great time to go paddle boarding because the surf is calmer and you’ll have a better chance of seeing dolphins.

2. Hiking

If you’re looking for an outdoor activity on dry land, we highly recommend going for a hike at one of the Destin area’s beautiful parks. The Henderson Park Inn is located adjacent to Henderson Beach State Park, which boasts a lovely ¾ mile trail that passes through sand dunes and unique coastal vegetation. Hikers will also find beautiful trails at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and Grayton Beach State Park. For more information, check out our complete guide to the wonderful state parks near Destin.

3. Kayaking

Kayaking is another one of our favorite fun things to do in Destin FL. The Emerald Coast is home to a number of gorgeous rivers, streams, and coastal dune lakes that are perfect for paddling. Popular kayaking spots near Destin include the Shoal River, Turkey Creek, and Rocky Bayou State Park. Guests at the Henderson Park Inn can borrow one of our kayaks for free or sign up for a guided eco tour with Kayak Fishing Destin.

4. Yoga on the Beach

A vacation in Destin provides the unique opportunity to try yoga on the beach! Rather than taking a class in a dusty old studio, you can spread out in the sand and admire the majestic beauty of the Gulf of Mexico as you exercise. Visit the website for Destin Yoga by the Sea to see class schedules.

5. Snorkeling

There is a whole new world to see under the water! When you go snorkeling in Destin, you’ll have the chance to spot a host of fascinating sea creatures, such as hermit crabs, puffer fish, redfish, and maybe even octopuses. Read our handy guide to snorkeling in Destin to learn about the best spots to explore.

6. Attending Outdoor Concerts

Music lovers will not be disappointed when they visit Destin! The Emerald Coast hosts a number of superb outdoor concerts throughout the year at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, the HarborWalk Village, and The Village of Baytowne Wharf. For more information about all of these venues, check out our complete guide to finding live music in Destin.

The Henderson Park Inn on the beach in Destin FL. Guests at the Henderson Park Inn will have the perfect home base for enjoying all of these fun things to do in Destin FL. Voted the most romantic hotel in America by the users of About.com and TripAdvisor.com, our beachside inn is the only hotel on the Emerald Coast that is just for adults. To start planning your getaway, browse our selection of Destin hotel rooms!