Best beaches in Destin Florida

Best Beaches in Destin, FL to Explore By Boat

Written by Boatsetter Team
March 11, 2022

Last Updated on November 3, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

Destin, Florida, is a beautiful place to visit and offers several opportunities to explore the Emerald Coast. The best thing about going to the beach in Destin is the soft sand that dont get too hot. The waters are crystal clear when viewed from the shoreline or by boat.

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What Beach has the Clearest Water in Destin, Florida?

clearest water in Destin Florida

When you envision spending the day at the beach, you imagine paradise with soft, warm sands and clear water. Many of the beaches in Destin are pristine and surrounded by the most crystalline water in Florida. Exploring Destin beaches will quickly show you why the Emerald Coast area got its nickname, the waters are very clear and have an emerald color when looking out onto the water toward the horizon.

Though all the beaches are beautiful in Destin, the Henderson Beach State Park is the best beach in the area. This beach is one of the cleanest, offering soft white sand and sparkling waters access.

 

What is the Least Crowded Beach in Destin, Florida?

When visiting Florida beaches, very few are not crowded, especially during spring break and summertime. If you are looking for a relaxing beach atmosphere that does not get too crowded, check out Crystal Beach.

This is a quiet beach adjacent to a vacation rental community, offering access to white sandy beaches and secluded places to dig your toes into the sand.

 

What are the Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Destin, Florida?

Florida is a popular destination for families during spring break, winter vacation, and summer vacation. Destin is also very popular among families looking to live full time in the land of beaches and sunshine. 

The best family beaches in the area offer bright white sands plenty of spots to stretch out and play in the surf. In addition, the family-friendly beaches in Destin offer thrilling water sports, such as parasailing, snorkeling, wakeboarding, and sandcastle building. The two most popular beaches for families in Destin include James Lee Park and Henderson Beach State Park.

Additionally, the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is an excellent place for family-friendly entertainment, places to eat, and beach-going activities. 

West of the boardwalk, John Beasley Park offers a relaxing beachside experience that is quiet and perfect for families wanting a quiet day at the beach.

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Beach Safety and Flags

Florida public beaches are affected by changes in tides and have continual surf condition changes throughout the day. The Florida Coastal Management Program worked with the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs Association, the United States Lifesaving Association, and the International Life Saving Federation to develop a plan to warn beachgoers of potential dangers and hazards when swimming at the beach.

 When visiting the beach, you must follow all the safety precautions and understand the different warning flags.

Beach warning flags used in Florida include:

  • Two Red Flags (one with a no swimming symbol): Water is closed to the public
  • Single Reg Flag: High surf and strong currents
  • Single Yellow Flag: Moderate surf and moderate currents
  • Single Green Flag: Calm conditions, but still exercise caution
  • Single Purple Flag: Stinging marine life, such as jellyfish, stingrays, and Man o’ War, are present

Beach Activity in Destin, Florida

Visiting the beach in Destin, Florida, opens up many opportunities to explore and enjoy some fun in the sun. However, it is sometimes challenging to determine what to do with so many options. Popular activities at the beach include sandcastle building, shelling, fishing, parasailing, jet-skiing, flyboarding, and snorkeling. 

With a Boatsetter boat rental, you can make the most out of your time on the water in Destin. Explore local beaches with a fishing boat, catamaran, sailboat, yacht, deck boat, and many more boat types!


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