There are so many great shops and fun places to eat. Sanibel Island. Destin has multiple options with boating companies that offer a dolphin sunset cruise. In Destin, dolphins don't migrate much, if at all, which means that they can be found right off the coast from January through to December. Situated on the Emerald Coast of northwest Florida, it's known for its crystal-clear waters and sugar-white sand beaches. Summer tourists comprise families with young children, which means theres no shortage of events and activities targeted towards them. Fort Walton Beach is about 8 miles west of Destin, a quick 15-minute drive for the family. Dolphins enjoy the warm water temperatures of the Gulf of Mexico, which accounts for the large year-round population along Northwest Floridas coast. This is a great way to explore the island without the stress and worry of being responsible for a boat. Its always the best time of the year to visit Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Sunsets on the Emerald Coast are a fantastic way to end the day. If you need a little pampering, then be sure to book some time at the hotel spa, the perfect spot for a massage, a romantic escape, or just an afternoon with the girls. The road development on Highway 98 over the recent past has only worsened the traffic congestion issues. Its an unforgettable experience that everyone should try at least once. companies who offer 1.5 hour to half-day cruises. Contrary to the assumption that your pontoon boat must move at the slowest possible speed to spot dolphins, the truth is, these animals enjoy the wake. Please be cautious of the dolphins (and other sea-dwelling creatures) that might be nearby. Marlin Grill located inside the village at Baytown Wharf in Miramar. Reach out to us at Destiny Water Adventures today. Now that youre aware of when and how to spot dolphins in Destin, its time to delve into the best time to visit the area. The park has a playground, pavilions, and 41 picnic tables; the restrooms have changing tables. When its legal and safe to do so, picking up the pace may make them easier to spot. Steve loves to travel, kayak, paddle board, camp, hike, and spend time outdoors with his wife and two kids. Fares should be reasonable and if youre traveling with a large party, everyone can chip in. Only whensafeand legal to do so, pick up the speed a little and it might make them a bit easier to spot. Best Times To Visit Destin. 21 Fun Things To Do In Destin, Florida (#5 Will Surprise You) Youll then also slip into the water to meet your new dolphin friends. Dolphin Tours in Destin - Sunshine Water Sports Go with friends or family; youll save money and have a blast. In addition, Destin is known for some of the best saltwater fishing in the United States. Please complete the test before arriving. The bottlenose dolphin is sometimes referred to as a porpoise. Meanwhile, John Beasley Park presents plenty of pavilions, vendors, and restrooms, so you enjoy a picnic lunch while you keep a lookout. 7 Calhoun Ave, Destin, FL 32541 Check out Smile N Wave to set sail from Destin Harbor into the waters of the Gulf where curious pods of friendly dolphins await. Renowned for their acrobatic abilities and goofy personalities, dolphins are exciting to watch. Tickets are only $5, so there is no reason to miss out on this museum. If your budget permits, build your own charter adventure with a private captain and vessel to see the dolphins at your leisure. Regardless of whether youre yearning to party at. Destin, Florida. Search for friendly dolphins, giant sharks, gliding sting rays, and loggerhead turtles. What is it about penguins that fascinates us and delights us? Youll absolutely feel like youre flying!! They include zip-lining, fishing, fly-boarding, banana boat rides, parasailing, The beach is especially a sight for sore eyes during this period as the sea oats are in full bloom, adding abundant beauty to the landscape. October 1st to December 30th. Dolphin cruises arent the only way to see these captivating creatures, either! Dont forget to take great photos of your dolphin watching excursions. Although Destin lacks the standard four climate seasons, there are four unique tourist seasons. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a must-see for any visit to the Gulf Coast. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is the place to be for aquatic adventure on Okaloosa Island. Big Kahunas Water and Adventure Park in Destin, Florida, is excellent for family fun. Guided boat tours take passengers to well-known dolphin sighting spots, but having a, Expert Tips for Dolphin Spotting in Destin, A great way to try and catch a glimpse of dolphins is from the upper deck of a double-decker pontoon boat. Its exhibits showcase a wide variety of artifacts from this period. Reach out to us at. Take in scenic views of the famous Destin Harbor, learn about Destin's history, and enjoy the fresh ocean air. Camping is $30 per night. Dolphins tend to be more active in the morning and mid-afternoon when the waters tend to be calmer and there is less boat traffic, but you can see dolphins just about any time. The waters off Destin-Fort Walton Beach are teeming with wildlife but none capture the popular imagination quite like the dolphin. The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is one of Floridas most popular tourist destinations. This family-friendly cruise takes place aboard a replica pirate ship, where you can explore all the nooks and crannies while searching for hidden treasure. Walking on the sands of Elgin Beach Park or Henderson State Park ushers in the likelihood of seeing dolphins at a distance. View Hotel. (850) 200-0573. Dolphins reside in groups known as pods that typically comprise anywhere between 10 and 30 members. When safeand legal to do so, picking up the speed a little might make them easier to spot. With about 40,000 dolphins situated in the Gulf of Mexico, there are abundant opportunities for travelers on the Emerald Coast to catch a glimpse of these spectacular mammals. Dolphin World Booking & Mailing Address 757 SE 17th St #688 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, Welcoming Greeting from the Dolphins in Punta Cana, Hawaii Dolphin Encounter (Non-Swim) Program. Phone: 800-322-3319 As such, this time of year is perfect for dolphin watching. From catching a magic show to exploring the Gulfarium Marine . 250 Reviews . You can see dolphins in Namibia's Walvis Bay pretty much all year round, while the best time for dolphin conservation vacations in Greece is . Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise 2023 - Destin - Viator (850) 683-3009. For those who want a little slower pace, there are several tour. Southern Star dolphin tours include a glass bottom boat tour narrated by an expert familiar with local wildlife. Led by an experienced and local guide, dolphin cruises take you to places where dolphins are commonly spotted along the Emerald Coast, for an up-close and unforgettable experience! When he's not exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. With around 40,000 dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico, there are ample opportunities for vacationers on the Emerald Coast to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. Gulf World offers 2 types of dolphin swims and a dolphin encounter programs for individuals, families and large groups. Henderson Beach State Park is a beautiful place to enjoy a camping trip near Destin, Florida. The shallow waters are perfect for games like water volleyball, paddle boarding, water football, snorkeling, or just chillin. This is a very unique program and great for kids who really love all kinds of animals. The view from James Lee Park is simply breathtaking. Whether youre celebrating a birthday or looking for a fun night out, youre covered. Click the button to complete a form to request a printed version of our Visitors Guide. , cruise the Choctawhatchee Bay, or spot dolphins in Destin, we provide the perfect pontoon boat charters for a memorable trip. Some via a glass-bottom boat while others are on a relaxing catamaran. Best of all, the waters off Destin-Fort Walton Beach host Atlantic spotted dolphins in addition to the more common bottlenose dolphin, and they can be seen all year round. The Dolphins of Destin: Best Time to See Them - HLTV You can see dolphins from various spots in Destin. Guided boat tours take passengers to well-known dolphin sighting spots. Whats more, the beaches are unarguably breathtaking in the months of fall. Occasionally, dolphins are spotted right in the waters of the Destin Harbor. Article originally posted on destinywateradventures.com. What do you get when you combine all of these terrific things into one family-fun activity? Many companies offer pontoon boat rentals in Destin, so shop for the best deal. In addition, the area has many great restaurants, cafes, and bars. 20 Ways To Get To Know Dolphins In Florida 1. Destin Vacation Boat Rentals offers a startling variety of vessels, including pontoons, sailboats, powerboats, and more. Dolphins reside in groups known as pods that typically comprise anywhere between 10 and 30 members. Its when the locals come out of a hiatus after the intense summer to delight in all the festivities and fishing events that come with the season. It is important to be aware that while parts of this awesome aquarium are indoors, the majority of the complex is outdoors with covered awnings. Located in the heart of Destin, Florida, the Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its exciting mix of adventure and education, the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise will be a hit with everyone in the family. A foolproof way of attempting to catch a glimpse of dolphins is from a double-decker boat's upper deck. So whether youre a local or a tourist, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park will be a memorable experience. 57. from $52.43. For starters, you'll likely be right in time for the coveted Destin Seafood Festival. Ten-day forecasts in summer will usually depict a 40% to 50% chance of rain daily, causing a multitude of people to postpone their trip when usually the rains briefly or not at all. The waters off the coast of Destin are teeming with fish, and anglers of all experience levels can find success. Bottlenose dolphins typically have lightly-colored bellies and are blue-grey. A foolproof way of attempting to catch a glimpse of dolphins is from a double-decker boats upper deck. With that being said, it is recommended to bring along a rain jacket or umbrella to use when walking to and from the shows and exhibits. Fort Walton Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. Now, you could spend two weeks lounging around in your backyard. For those who want a little slower pace, there are several tourboatcompanies who offer 1.5 hour to half-day cruises. It is possible to see dolphins from a number of spots in Destin. They make you feel like youre part of the act, and their warmth and humor shine through even when theyre doing the most mind-boggling tricks. This is also a great opportunity to see the bustling HarborWalk Village in all of its glory, from a whole new perspective! Not only is it home to dozens of alligators, but you can feed them, hold them, and even get your picture taken with them. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, and searching for shells. However, having a pontoon boat rental ushers in increased freedom. The best time to see dolphins is from late May to August. February 19th to May 27th. 302 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 Visitors can stroll along the waterfront or take a break to enjoy a refreshing beverage at one of the many cafes. There is some of the best shopping in all of the sunshine state. Is the Gulfarium a good way to see dolphins when its raining. Of course, the scenic views are simply breathtaking. The best time to whale watch in Southern California means lots of food is in the area and the opportunity to sight more than one species is likely. Destin-Fort Walton Beach offers a tantalizing variety of waterfront dining options. This program also starts with the educational component. Need more insight to for the best family vacation activities? Each program is designed to be educational, interactive, and very fun. Well, you sign up for the equally-fun Dolphin Encounter program. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is the perfect place to spend an afternoon, whether youre looking to shop, dine, or take in the incredible views. To help get the most of your getaway, our handy guide will give you insight into the best time of year to see dolphins in Destin, Florida. Okaloosa Island Boardwalk is a must-see. If you follow this advice, you and your family are sure to make memories that will last a lifetime! Double Fun Watersports offers half- and full-day charters of their. The Rodeo is one of the longest-running fishing tournaments in the United States. Discover fun activities, tours, and attractions for the whole family. One of the best ways to spy on these wonderful animals is first thing in the morning when they feed. Need more insight to for the best family vacation activities? The museum tells the story of the Mississippian culture that once thrived in this area. Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 From pottery and tools to jewelry and weapons, these artifacts provide a unique view into the lives of the people who once called this place home. Boats can stay within Choctawhatchee Bay, and dolphins are often seen swimming underneath the Destin Bridge. A few days in July is similarly priced to a few weeks during the winter. No joke, people travel for miles to eat at this place. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a great way to spend an afternoon or an evening. Although Destin lacks the standard four climate seasons, there are four unique tourist seasons. The most popular fish in the area include red snapper, grouper, Mahi Mahi, and tuna. New Zealand's and Western Australia's dolphin watching seasons start in October and November whereas Belize and Sri Lanka typically pick up the binoculars around the end of the year in December. Dolphin cruises and tours are also fun and affordable, and come in all shapes and sizes with options for everyone. The park offers spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico and is conveniently located near many popular attractions. Walking on the sands of Elgin Beach Park or Henderson State Park ushers in the likelihood of seeing dolphins at a distance. On average, an adult bottlenose dolphin can be anywhere from six to twelve feet in length. The Maximum Magic Show in Destin, Florida, will be an experience the whole family will never forget. But its hardly memorable. They dont migrate as the waters of the Emerald Coast remain warm all year. Fall is an incredible time to visit Destin. Additionally, summer marks the fireworks season every week, usually at Destin Disney World. The cost of transportation and accommodations starts to come down at that time as well. With beautiful beach fronts views and a wide variety of shops, it is easy to spend hours at The Boardwalk. The park is well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. From Memorial Day all through mid-August, you can expect a spike in the prices. Dolphins live in groups (called pods) that usually consist of 10 30 members. Daytona Beach. In addition, the museum showcases how Destin became the Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village.. Relax on your balcony first thing in the morning and watch for the telltale ripples in the water that signal dolphins are near. Its when the locals come out of a hiatus after the intense summer to delight in all the festivities and fishing events that come with the season. However, there is a nearly 100% success rate for spotting dolphins during Fort Walton Beach and Destin dolphin cruises. I was so excited I felt like I was 10-years old all over again. So while watching the sunset on the Emerald Coast, you can spot some dolphins. Multiple ticket options at different prices depending on what you want to do at the park. Wild Wills has plenty of food and drink options and is also great for parties and group events. No matter your interests, you will find plenty to do in Destin. We offer daily Destin Dolphin and Sunset Cruises as well as Dolphin Sunset Cruises from Okaloosa Island. A full-service bar provides wine as well as cocktails. Nonetheless, the most commonly spotted dolphins in Destin are the Tursiops truncates or bottlenose dolphins. You thought Gulf World ONLY offered dolphin swim programs? So pack your bags and head to Floridas Emerald Coast for a vacation youll never forget. While many amusement park attractions have dolphin exhibits, theres nothing more wonderful than seeing these animals in their natural habitat. A guided dolphin cruise ferries passengers to renowned dolphin-sighting spots. Admission for non-Florida residents is $23.95 for adult guests, age 23 to 61, $22.95 for seniors, and $15.95 for children, age 3 to 12. Best Time Of Year To Visit Crab Island In the most general sense, when you decide to visit Crab Island will depend upon your tolerance for Florida climate. The outdoor showers come in handy at the end of the day. It spans 4-6 miles wide. The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is a great way to spend an afternoon in Destin, Florida. Embassy Suites by Hilton Destin . Not only that, participants will get to enjoy entertaining narration, spectacular sunsets, and unparalleled scenic views. Nonetheless, its short afternoon showers that wont overly disrupt your vacation. On any given day you could spot a pod of bottlenose dolphins on your way out to see an even larger pod of common dolphins. A. ferries passengers to renowned dolphin-sighting spots. Of course, the pier also makes a great spot for viewing wildlife. Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour 2023 - Destin - Viator So if youre ever in Destin, swing by Gator Beach Alligator Park and say hi to the resident alligators. Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Ten-day forecasts in summer will usually depict a 40% to 50% chance of rain daily, causing a multitude of people to postpone their trip when usually the rains briefly or not at all. Was told was best dolphin performances of the day! Youll have the opportunity to shadow on of the Gulf World trainers all day long and go behind the scenes to see how the facility operates and cares for those in its charge. Tips For Visiting Crab Island (Destin FL) - Florida Trippers They do a fantastic job answering all the questions kids come up with. Pontoon boats are great for groups of all sizes and provide plenty of room for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Pets are welcome here if youll be traveling with your four-legged companion. Keep in mind that prices are at their peak in summer when it comes to activities, accommodation, and everything in between. Youll get the chance to get up close and personal with some California sea lions, also known as puppies of the sea.. Contrary to other coastal communities, Destin has a large population of dolphins that reside in the area year-round. Both convenient and comfortable, these cruises depart daily and provide plenty of seating for your whole crew. Waverunner Dolphin Tours - Destin Vacation Boat Rentals From WEST of Destin (Ft Walton Beach, Pensacola) Take Hwy 98 East to Destin over the Destin Bridge. Discount Watersports rents jet skis and waverunners that will let you tour the brilliant waters of the Gulf at your own pace. Crab Island is one of the most popular destinations in Destin, Florida. Sun 10am-4pm, Phone: 877-574-5123 The main difference is instead of eventually slipping into deep water, you will remain on a platform that is slightly submerged into the water, so it is very shallow for you to stand or sit and still interact with the dolphins. These shows go on for a period of 5 to 7 minutes. Fort Walton Beach Vs Destin [What's the Difference, Which is Better?] We also provide in-depth info on local destinations, weather, and events. Also popularly known as porpoises, these dolphins are entirely different species even though they share certain traits. During this program, youll get to spend some time hugging and splashing around with your new pals. When heading outside, you can experience a 60-foot ropes course, bungee trampoline, and two mini gold courses. However you decide to search for dolphins, its sure to bring a little magic to any Emerald Coast vacation! There is something for everyone at the Boardwalk, from young families to retirees. Traffic and parking in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach can be hectic, especially during the peak season, so it is important to consider this and allow yourself plenty of time to drive there, park, and walk to the check-in booth or kiosk. December is the best time to visit Destin if you want a warmer climate for the holidays. Travelers are coming in droves to take advantage of the lower pricing of everything. We took the 11 a.m. tour - dolphins a-plenty! Sail through East Pass and enter the Gulf of Mexico, admiring the stunning views as you go. For those families who plan on staying in Destin for a while or who want the option of being able to cook their own meals to save money, the Home2 Suites is perfect. If youre looking for something fun to do with the family, away from crowds, this is a great option. There is no need to 390 Harbor Boulevard #2, Destin, FL 32541, However, the most commonly spotted dolphin in Destin is the, The Best Times to Spot Dolphins in Destin. If youre in search of an exhilarating, exciting, and unique dolphin watching experience, then look no further! It is a beautiful atmosphere in the evening with live music and string lights for ambiance. For many visitors to Destin, Florida, one of the highlights of the trip is experience aquatic life in the emerald waters of the gulf with some of the most amazing sea creatures known to man. This amazing aquarium has been entertaining both locals and visitors alike for decades with awesome animals, spectacular shows, exceptional exhibits, and so much more! Best Times to Visit Destin | U.S. News Travel If you enjoy exploring nature, several state parks offer hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities to see wildlife. Many people find that early morning is a great time to spot dolphins. The hotel also puts you within walking distance from the beach, as well as dozens of restaurants and fantastic shopping destinations. Anyone born after Jan 1, 1988 will need a Florida boater's safety card (or NASBLA equivalent from another state). There are multiple boat rental services in Destin, do a little research to find what works best for you. Here are some of the dolphin swim programs you and your family can enjoy at the facility: All of the programs at Gulf World start with a fun and interactive educational component. John Beasley Park and the Gulf Islands National Seashore are beautiful state beach parks. The staff is very friendly and knows all about the alligators. Greyhound Bus service provides travel between Destin and Panama City Beach and fares are usually between $86 and $112 per person round trip. 17 Best Things to Do in Destin | U.S. News Travel There are also several shops and restaurants along the way, so you can stop and browse or grab a bite. Here are a few we recommend. Aside from excursions, events, and restaurants, theres a boatload of water sports adventures in which you can revel. Just remember if you find yourself near the dolphins, avoid feeding or petting them for your own safety and that of these beautiful marine mammals. Depending on age, a Florida boating license may be required. As if that isnt fun enough, Crab Island has floating restaurants and foot boats. Destin Glass Bottom Boat Dolphin Cruises So whether youre looking to shop, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy some time outdoors, check out Destin Commons. And about the only thing that can elevate these sunsets is to enjoy one from a Tiki boat while sipping a cocktail. [emailprotected], Visitors Center + Offices It features shops, restaurants, and a fishing pier. So whether you want to spend your days on the beach or explore all Destin offers, you will have a great time. No matter your interests, you will find something to do in Harbor Walk Village in Destin. With its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, its no wonder why this small town has become a popular vacation destination for tourists from all over. Although predicting the habits and location of wild animals is nearly impossible, you can do a few tips and tricks, as discussed below, to boost your likelihood of spying a few dolphins. You can also head downstairs where youll get a cool underwater glimpse of their world! With that being said, dolphin watching is the perfect source of affordable family fun, and a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime! Along the way, be on the lookout for sea life. Adult bottlenose dolphins can range from 6ft to 12ft in length, on average. These shows go on for a period of 5 to 7 minutes. At times, these mammals can be seen in the waters of Destin Harbor. The heaviest summer crowds have left, and the water is still sufficiently warm to revel in swimming. Swimming with dolphins should never be attempted in the wild. You can visit this link to view some of the activities that may be going on when you visit. But the BIG finale of this program is experiencing the belly ride. $150-2 Hour Waverunner Dolphin Tour-Destin location. In addition to Henderson Beach State Park and Eglin Beach Park, other popular areas to see dolphins include Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach. He has a lot of interesting stories to share, and he's always happy to help others get more out of life. The number of golf carts beings used for traveling, particularly along the 5 miles of Scenic 98, has skyrocketed. In addition, the bay offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise in Destin Harbor. Other areas that are known for dolphin sightings include Crystal Beach, Eglin Beach Park, Miramar Beach, and Henderson Beach State Park. So whether you are looking for a day of adventure or a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, Choctawhatchee Bay is a great spot to spend some time. It is also the perfect way to see dolphins swimming and playing in their natural habitat. Marlin Grill located inside the village at Baytown Wharf in Miramar. The park is an excellent place to watch the sunset in the evening. The best times to visit Destin for ideal weather are. A foolproof way of attempting to catch a glimpse of dolphins is from a double-decker boats upper deck. After a day in the sun, the whole family can enjoy an evening exploring the outdoor mall. The magnificence of fall in Destin used to be a well-kept secret of the locals until the world caught on over the last few years. While we definitely think you should make it a point to head to Gulf World and swim with dolphins, there are plenty of other activities in the area for you and your family to enjoy.