Planning a girlfriend's trip to strengthen bonds, relax, and celebrate life with some of your favorite people on earth? Destin is one of Florida's top destinations for having fun and making unforgettable memories with your best gals.
From pristine white-sand beaches and incredible outdoor activities to a top-notch culinary scene and vibrant nightlife for a girls' night out, Destin truly has it all. Traveling solo or gathering your sisters at heart to celebrate a birthday, engagement, or promotion? Destin promises a trip filled with beautiful moments.
Take a little peek behind the scenes:
- Beach Bliss: Lounge on Destin's sugar-white sand at Henderson Beach State Park or Crystal Beach.
- Retail Therapy: Shop top brands and local boutiques at Destin Commons, and grab a cocktail in between.
- Spa Day: Recharge with massages, facials, and champagne at Destin's best spas, like Henderson Spa.
- Outdoor Fun: Paddleboard, snorkel, jet ski, or parasail your way through Destin's turquoise waters.
- Sunset Cruise: Catch dolphins and golden skies aboard a relaxing evening cruise on the Gulf.
- Dining Delights: From crepes to seafood feasts, indulge at local favorites like Boshamps and Beach Walk Café.
- Girls' Night Out: Sip, dance, and laugh the night away at AJ's, McGuire's, or The Rooftop Bar.
- Photo Ops: Snap Insta-worthy shots at Destin Harbor Boardwalk, Norriego Point, and Okaloosa Island Pier.
- Day Trips: Take scenic drives to nearby gems like Seaside, Grayton Beach, or Pensacola.
- Stay in Style: Unwind in chic Travel Life Vacations rentals with pools, hot tubs, and private balconies.
At Travel Life Vacations, we specialize in providing premium, boutique-style management services, offering guests private, resort-style luxury homes. We pride ourselves on creating an oasis where you can truly escape from everyday life!
We know "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village" like the back of our hands. Traveling here with pets? First-time visitor? Looking for a family fun itinerary? It's all covered in our blog. We have many more tips for you to have a trip of a lifetime and enjoy the perfect Destin getaway.
In this blog, I'll show you how to make the most of Destin, from epic girls' getaways to those blissful solo escapes where it's just you, the beach, and a good drink in hand.
Ready for unlimited fun in Destin? Gather your girl gang and start exploring!
1. Getting a Tan and relaxing on the Beach
Destin's beaches are pure magic: soft white sand, emerald-green water, and endless sunshine. Henderson Beach State Park delivers that postcard-perfect serenity, while Crystal Beach adds a livelier vibe with colorful cottages and easy access to great eats and shops. Both are ideal for beach days filled with swimming, lounging, and soaking in that Gulf Coast glow.
What You'll Love
- Sugar-white sand that feels like walking on velvet.
- Peaceful, uncrowded vibes at Henderson Beach State Park.
- Scenic dunes, wildflowers, and wildlife along the park's trails.
- Crystal Beach's turquoise water and picture-perfect coastal cottages.
- Easy access to nearby cafés, boutiques, and beachside hangouts.
- Perfect mix of relaxation, people-watching, and beach-town charm.
2. Enjoy Some Retail Therapy
No girls' getaway is complete without a bit of shopping, and Destin Commons makes it way too easy to indulge. This lively open-air hub mixes top brands, local gems, and plenty of fun in between. You can shop, eat, relax, and snap a few perfect photos, all in one stop.
What You'll Love
- A mix of big-name favorites like Sephora, Lululemon, and H&M, plus local boutiques with one-of-a-kind finds.
- Sweet cafés and restaurants for mid-shopping snacks or cocktails with the crew.
- The Lawn, a chill hangout spot with comfy seating, yoga classes, and casual games.
- Bright murals by local and international artists that double as photo ops.
- A buzzing, open-air setting that keeps the day feeling fresh and fun.
3. Pamper Yourself with a Spa Day
A little pampering never hurts anybody. While in Destin, treating yourself to a spa day will undoubtedly elevate your experience in this Florida gem. From therapeutic massages and rejuvenating body treatments to luxurious skincare and invigorating body scrubs, it's exactly what you deserve after a day on the beach.
Places like Spa98, Destin Day Spa, and Henderson Spa offer incredible services for the perfect spa day. Henderson Spa, for example, is a more luxurious option where you can enjoy a wide array of treatments and unique massages in a sophisticated ambiance, complete with a glass of champagne in hand. Cheers!
4. Indulge in Outdoor Adventures
Craving a bit of sun, salt, and splash? Destin delivers big-time with a lineup of outdoor adventures that range from blissfully chill to pulse-racing fun. Glide over calm turquoise waters, dive into colorful underwater worlds, or take to the skies for unbeatable Gulf views. However you play it, this slice of paradise guarantees a day well spent.
What You'll Love
- Paddleboarding through the glassy waters of the Gulf or Choctawhatchee Bay.
- Snorkeling at Destin Jetties and Norriego Point among fish, crabs, and sea turtles.
- Riding the waves on a jet ski for a thrill-packed afternoon.
- Parasailing over the Gulf and soaking up panoramic coastal views.
5. Cruise the Gulf's Waters for Some Surprises
Few experiences top watching the sun melt into the Gulf while dolphins leap beside the boat. A sunset dolphin cruise in Destin is pure coastal magic: calm waters, golden skies, and playful dolphins putting on a show. This will likely be one of the highlights of your girls' trip; beautiful views, good vibes, and tons of photo moments!
What You'll Love
- Stunning sunset views over the Gulf and Destin Harbor.
- Playful dolphins gliding and jumping alongside the boat.
- Easygoing atmosphere with music, drinks, and good company.
- Knowledgeable guides sharing fun facts about local marine life.
- Option to book a private charter for a more exclusive experience.
6. Dining With the Girls
Good food just hits different when you're by the beach. Destin's local spots bring together fresh Gulf flavors, friendly faces, and that perfect mix of cozy and coastal. From morning coffee to sunset dinners, there's no shortage of great places to treat your taste buds.
What You'll Love
- Capriccio Café: Italian-style coffee, crepes, and a hint of Europe by the beach.
- Another Broken Egg Café: Famous for its crab cake Benedict and brunch-worthy mimosas.
- Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House: Fresh Gulf catches and waterfront views that steal the show.
- The Local Market: Artisan sandwiches and smoothies, great for a midday recharge.
- Beach Walk Café: Romantic beachfront dining perfect for special occasions.
- Harbor Docks: Destin's go-to for sushi, fresh fish, and easygoing charm.
7. Time for Cocktails & Music
What's the best way to celebrate the end of an incredible day in Destin? A girl's night out! Enjoy the bustling nightlife of the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village" by exploring hotspots filled with great music and refreshing signature cocktails.
Some of the best venues in town, known for their friendly crowds, great tunes, and delicious drinks, include AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar, featuring live music, a tiki bar, and a vibrant rooftop deck; McGuire's Irish Pub, a quirky must-visit for its signature cocktails and dollar-bill-covered walls; and The Rooftop Bar, an elegant spot where you can sip well-crafted cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf, sunset drinks here are a must!
8. Visit Instagram-Worthy Spots for the Perfect Shot
Beyond great memories, great photos are amazing souvenirs you can bring back from your time in Destin. The town is filled with picture-perfect spots offering spectacular backgrounds and opportunities for epic shots.
What You'll Love
- The Destin Harbor Boardwalk, with colorful boats and lively energy.
- Iconic shots by the "Welcome to Destin" sign.
- Magical evening photos with the boardwalk lights twinkling over the water.
- Norriego Point's calm shoreline and jaw-dropping sunset views.
- Scenic panoramas from Okaloosa Island Pier, perfect for golden-hour portraits.
9. Take Fabulous Day Trips
A beach trip to Destin is already amazing, but adding a quick day trip can make it truly special. From nearby beach towns to charming historic spots, there's plenty within a short drive to mix things up. Grab your friends, cue the playlist, and make a little adventure out of your vacation.
What You'll Love
- Scenic drives with plenty of photo stops along the Gulf Coast.
- Visiting charming spots like Seaside, Grayton Beach, or Pensacola.
- Sampling local bites and coastal shops off the beaten path.
- Getting a change of scenery without straying far from Destin.
- Turning a casual afternoon into a mini road trip full of surprises.
10. Stay in a Chic Vacation Rental
Staying in an elegant vacation rental during a girls' trip offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and fun. Destin is home to beautifully designed spaces with modern amenities, like spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and Instagram-worthy decor, ideal for bonding and relaxation. Many feature extras like private pools, hot tubs, and balconies with stunning views, adding a touch of luxury to your getaway. Hosting a wine night, lounging by the pool, or prepping a group brunch, a vacation rental gives you a cozy, stylish home base for a stellar getaway with your girlfriends.
Wondering how to make the most of your vacation in Destin?
Stay like a local and make yourself at home in one of our Travel Life Vacations rentals. Each private, resort-style home is designed with your comfort (and a little indulgence) in mind.
In a world full of the ordinary, we create spaces that feel refreshingly one-of-a-kind: homes built for unforgettable stays that'll have you planning your next visit before you even leave.