Destin

One of the best places in the country for fishing and fun

Play, dine, and live by beautiful beaches

When thinking of the city of Destin, Florida, the white sandy beaches with turquoise waters will most likely come to mind first. Located on Florida's Panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico, this area provides some of the best fishing in the world. Plenty of other activities make it a great place to live or enjoy a vacation.

Spanish explorers started surveying the area back in 1538 and segmented the map about 100 years later. The city got its name from Captain Leonard Destin, who began exploring the Gulf waters in 1835 and unintentionally ended up setting in Destin around 1850.

Today over 19,000 people reside in Destin, and many more come to enjoy a vacation. The residents in Destin include retirees, young professionals, and families. The combination of beautiful beaches and terrific weather draws people to this area.

WHAT TO LOVE

• Ideal location — situated right on the Florida Panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico

• Perfect weather

• Abundant fishing opportunities for diverse species

• Family-friendly atmosphere

• Ideal retirement location

LOCAL LIFESTYLE

The terrific weather, pristine beaches, and many activities make Destin a relaxed and friendly place to live. It's a bit more bustling during the peak tourist season from March through September. But the locals are welcoming and eager to share their community with others. It's also a great place to stay active and healthy with all the water sports and the fresh sea air.

DINING, ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING

Whether you live in Destin or you're just visiting, you won't run out of places to dine and shop. Of course, you'll find some freshest fish and seafood, but plenty of other culinary choices exist. Take McGuire's Irish Pub, for instance; this 500+ capacity restaurant serves the Irish favorites you would expect but also delectable steaks. They also offer live music and a spectacular harbor view.

If it's seafood you want, make sure to put Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House on Destin Harbor on your list. Formerly The Flamingo Café, they stripped the white tablecloths and renamed the place after the owner and his three Labradors. They still serve the freshest seafood imaginable.

If your afternoon plans also include shopping, make sure to check out Destin Commons. You'll find plenty of retailers at Destin Commons, but also a variety of eateries and some exciting artwork courtesy of the vivid murals. HarborWalk Village represents another fabulous shopping option. In addition to shopping, they also provide live music venues complete with adult beverages.

THINGS TO DO

The beautiful beaches and the world-famous fishing attract many people to Destin, but many other activities await you. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk provides over half a mile of harbor views and entertainment venues, including the Yacht Club. The project took 15 years to complete and opened in 2012.

Big Kahuna's Water Park and Putt Putt Golf provides activities for all ages. It's a great place to spend a day with the family. For something fun and educational, visit the Fishing History Museum. The stories and artifacts date back to 1830, and don't miss the 100-foot wall that depicts the Gulf floor.

Anyone living in or vacationing in Destin should take in one of the dolphin cruises. You don't want to miss these fascinating creatures in their environment.