Planning your first Emerald Coast getaway? Discover the best things to do in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and beyond: from pristine beaches and nature trails to vibrant shopping, dining, and family fun spots.
Ready to trade your shoes for flip-flops? There's no better way to get close to nature than by dipping your toes into the dazzling waters of the Emerald Coast. And if you're thinking about heading to Destin, Miramar Beach, or Santa Rosa Beach for a beach escape, you're on the right track!
First time visiting these Florida treasures? Get ready to sink your feet into sugar-white sand, wade through crystal-clear waves, and soak up all the fun these towns have to offer: from natural beauty and incredible attractions to great food and vibrant local culture.
At Travel Life Vacations, we specialize in providing premium, boutique-style management services, offering guests private, resort-style luxury homes. We take pride in 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 to help you have a trip of a lifetime and enjoy the perfect Destin getaway.
Ready to explore some of Florida's best destinations? Let's jump into the details!
Destin: The Heart of the Emerald Coast
Dreaming of sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters? Destin, often called the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," has got you covered. But hey, there's so much more to this vibrant place!
Top Attractions
1. HENDERSON BEACH STATE PARK
Must-visit
Henderson Beach State Park is pure coastal bliss, with over 6,000 feet of soft, white sand and shimmering emerald waters. Spend the day swimming, soaking up the sun, or picnicking with a view that never gets old.
Nature trails wind through dunes and pine forests, offering a peek at native wildlife, while the playground keeps little adventurers happy. With its mix of beauty, relaxation, and outdoor fun, Henderson Beach State Park is one of Destin's true treasures.
2. DESTIN HARBOR BOARDWALK
Travelers' Favorite
The Destin Boardwalk buzzes with energy, lined with lively shops, great restaurants, and endless entertainment. Spend the day browsing local boutiques, sampling fresh seafood, and enjoying live music with the ocean breeze in the air.
For something extra special, hop on a sunset cruise and watch the sky burst into color as the sun sinks below the horizon. If you're up for more action, grab a rod and try some deep-sea fishing for a true Destin adventure. The Boardwalk isn't just a stop on your trip; it's the heart of the Destin experience.
3. BIG KAHUNA'S WATER & ADVENTURE PARK
Family-friendly
For a full day of family fun in Destin, Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park delivers non-stop excitement. From high-speed slides and wave pools to a lazy river perfect for drifting in the sun, this place has it all.
Kids and adults alike can splash, race, and relax their way through the park, then keep the fun going with mini-golf and adventure rides. Bring your swimsuits, pack the sunscreen, and get ready for a day that's equal parts thrilling and refreshing. Big Kahuna's is pure water-filled joy from start to finish.
Miramar Beach: Relaxation Meets Excitement
Looking for a mix of chill and thrill? Miramar Beach is your go-to with its upscale shopping, dining, and stunning beaches. Perfect for both families and romantic getaways.
Top Attractions
1. SILVER SANDS PREMIUM OUTLETS
Travelers' Favorite
Silver Sands Premium Outlets is a shopper's paradise, packed with more than 100 designer and brand-name stores offering unbeatable deals. From fashion and footwear to home essentials, there's something for every style and budget, all in one vibrant, open-air setting.
Take your time browsing, then grab a bite at one of the cozy cafés before heading back for another round of shopping. With so many great finds and plenty of places to relax, Silver Sands makes retail therapy feel like a full-day adventure.
2. The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Must-visit, family-friendly
The Village of Baytowne Wharf is Destin's lively little hub of fun, food, and waterfront charm. Stroll through colorful streets filled with boutique shops, buzzing restaurants, and outdoor entertainment that keeps the energy high from morning to night.
Grab an ice cream, watch live performers, or join one of the seasonal festivals that bring the village to life with music and lights. Feeling bold? Soar across the zip line, check out the adventure park, or take a sunset walk by the marina. With arcades and carousels for the kids and cocktails with a view for the adults, Baytowne Wharf is pure coastal magic for all ages.
3. TOPSAIL HILL PRESERVE STATE PARK
Locals' Favorite
This beloved State Park is pure coastal bliss, with three miles of sugar-white beaches, quiet forests, and hidden dune lakes that make it one of Destin's most peaceful escapes. Spend the day hiking scenic trails lined with towering pines, spotting native birds, or casting a line in the freshwater lakes.
Bring a picnic, find a shady spot, and let the ocean breeze do the rest. With its mix of adventure and tranquility, Topsail Hill Preserve is the perfect place to recharge and reconnect with nature.
Santa Rosa Beach: A Tranquil Escape
Part of the scenic 30A corridor, Santa Rosa Beach is all about laid-back vibes, artistic communities, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. Ideal for those looking to unwind and reconnect with the good ol' outdoors.
Top Attractions
1. GRAYTON BEACH STATE PARK
Must-visit
Grayton Beach State Park is beach-day perfection, with sugar-white sand, clear Gulf waters, and a relaxed coastal vibe that makes it easy to stay all day. It's no surprise this spot ranks among the best beaches in the country.
Beyond the shoreline, the park's trails wind through coastal dune lakes and pine forests, offering plenty of room to explore. Go kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing, or just kick back with a good book and the sound of the waves.
2. GULF PLACE TOWN CENTER
Local's Favorite
Seaside charm meets local flavor. at Gulf Place Town Center. Stroll through its sunlit walkways lined with art galleries, cozy cafés, and colorful boutiques. Each corner offers something new: chat with local artists, find one-of-a-kind pieces, and browse shops filled with breezy beachwear and fun souvenirs.
When hunger hits, grab a table at a laid-back bistro or treat yourself to something sweet from one of the ice cream spots nearby. Before you go, stop by the open-air amphitheater for live music or a community event. It's the perfect way to wrap up a day full of good vibes, great finds, and that unmistakable Emerald Coast energy.
3. EDEN GARDENS STATE PARK
Off-the-beaten path
Eden Gardens State Park blends history, beauty, and Southern charm into one enchanting destination. At its heart stands the Wesley House, a grand 1890s mansion with white columns, wraparound porches, and elegant antiques that tell stories of another era. Take a guided tour to step back in time and admire the craftsmanship and grace of Old Florida living.
Outside, the gardens steal the show. Wander through colorful blooms, moss-draped oaks, and serene koi ponds that make the whole park feel like a living painting. The walking trails are perfect for a slow, scenic stroll, and the shaded picnic spots are ideal for an al fresco lunch surrounded by nature.
Discover the Charm of Rosemary Beach
Are you ready to discover a place where elegance blends with an easy-breezy beach vibe? Welcome to Rosemary Beach, a hidden gem on the Emerald Coast where charming cobblestone streets and adorable boutiques mix perfectly with serene white-sand beaches.
Top Attractions
1. Rosemary Beach Main Street
Must-visit
Rosemary Beach Main Street is pure charm wrapped in coastal elegance. This walkable gem feels like a slice of Europe, with cobblestone paths, vine-covered buildings, and a breezy, laid-back energy that makes you want to linger. Boutiques filled with stylish beachwear and home décor sit alongside art galleries showcasing local talent, while cozy cafés and bistros tempt you with everything from buttery croissants to Gulf-fresh seafood.
Grab a coffee at Amavida or The Summer Kitchen Café, then wander toward the town square for live music or a farmers' market. The beach is just a short stroll away, so you can end your day with your toes in the sand and a sunset on the horizon. Rosemary Beach Main Street blends shopping, dining, and seaside sophistication into one perfect day out.
2. The Beach
Travelers' Favorite
Spend the day swimming in clear Gulf waters, strolling the shoreline in search of shells and sea glass, or just sinking into your beach chair with a good book and the sound of waves as your soundtrack.
If you're craving a little action, rent a paddleboard or snorkel gear and explore the gentle surf. Beachcombers will love the hunt for sand dollars and smooth sea glass scattered along the shore. As the day winds down, grab a cool drink and watch the sky light up in brilliant pinks and golds: sunsets here are the kind you remember long after you've packed up your beach towel.
3. TIMPOOCHEE TRAIL
Off-the-beaten path
The Timpoochee Trail is one of 30A's best outdoor treasures, stretching for 18 miles of pure coastal beauty. This scenic path winds past charming beach towns, towering pines, and glittering dune lakes that seem to pop up around every turn. It's smooth, well-marked, and perfect for walking, biking, or even a slow cruise with plenty of stops for photos and snacks.
Along the way, you'll catch glimpses of wildlife, colorful beach cottages, and the Gulf's shimmering blue just beyond the dunes. Pack some water, your camera, and a sense of adventure; you'll want to take your time soaking it all in.
4. CAMP HELEN STATE PARK
Locals' Favorite, off-the-beaten path
Experience history and nature in the most beautiful way at Camp Helen State Park, a local favorite. Just a short drive from Destin, this hidden gem invites you to explore the remains of an old seaside resort, where weathered buildings and winding paths tell stories from another era. It's peaceful, fascinating, and full of photo-worthy spots that capture that Old Florida charm.
Once you've soaked up the history, grab a kayak and head out on Lake Powell, one of the state's largest and most stunning coastal dune lakes. The calm water, lush surroundings, and gentle breeze make it an unbeatable spot for paddling or simply relaxing on the shore. Bring a picnic, a book, or your camera, and enjoy a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature at its finest.
Wondering where to Stay While exploring the Emerald Coast?
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.