Top Fun and Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Destin, Florida with Kids: Free and Indoor Activities

Introduction: Destin, Florida, is a fantastic destination for visitors. This destination is packed with exciting things to do in destin florida with kids.  From playing on the soft white beaches to visiting thrilling water parks and going on dolphin cruises, there’s plenty to keep your family entertained. Whether you want to explore the beauty of Henderson Beach State Park, enjoy hands-on learning at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, or take a pirate-themed cruise, Destin offers fun activities for all ages. This guide covers 20 top attractions that will ensure your family will have an unforgettable vacation. Your vacation will filled with adventure, learning, and lots of smiles.

20 Most Exciting Things to Do in Destin Florida with Kids

Destin, Florida, is a dream destination for families. It offers sunny beaches, exciting parks, and plenty of activities for kids and teens. From water parks to dolphin cruises, there are endless things to do in destin florida with kids. This guide covers 20 top attractions, giving you plenty of ideas for a fun-filled family vacation.

1. Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park is situated at 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway. It is perfect for families who love nature and the beach. It features over 6,000 feet of white sand beaches, where kids can swim, play and build sandcastles. The park also has nature trails that allow families to explore local wildlife, like birds and small animals. It is an ideal spot for picnics, It has a playground for younger children. The park is open daily from 8 AM to sunset with an affordable entry fee of $6 per vehicle. If you are looking for a relaxing beach day, this is a great choice.

2. Visit Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park

Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park is located at 1007 US-98 East in Destin. It is among the area’s most well-liked family attractions. It is packed with over 40 water slides, a wave pool and a lazy river, which makes it things to do with kids in Destin. There is also a dedicated area for younger children with gentle slides and splash zones. For those looking for dry-land fun, Big Kahuna’s offers an adventure park with mini-golf and thrill rides. The park is open from 10 AM to 6 PM during the summer season but hours may vary in the off-season. Tickets can be purchased online for a smoother entry experience.

3. Explore Destin History & Fishing Museum

Destin History & Fishing Museum offers is located at 108 Stahlman Ave. It offers a unique way for families to learn about Destin’s fishing heritage. Kids can see displays of giant fish and learn how fishing played a huge role in Destin’s development. The museum is full of historic photos, artefacts and even an old fishing boat that shows how fishing has evolved over the years. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM, with a small admission fee. It is a great educational stop for kids who looking to learn about the area’s history.

4. Dine at Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant

Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant is located at 9 Calhoun Ave. It is a local favourite for fresh seafood and waterfront dining. This family-friendly restaurant offers a casual setting where kids can watch boats passing by while enjoying their meals. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes but there are also kid-friendly options like fried shrimp, chicken tenders and French fries. The restaurant is open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM.

5. Take a Stroll on the Boardwalk in Destin Harbor

The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is located along Harbor Boulevard. It is a vibrant spot perfect for an evening family stroll. There’s live entertainment, including street performers and musicians, which keeps children entertained as they stroll along. The atmosphere is exciting, especially during seasonal events like fireworks shows in the summer, which are always a hit with kids. Plus, the chance to watch boats and fishermen in action gives them something new to experience. The boardwalk offers a fun, free and safe environment for families.

6. Explore Fud Pucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill

Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill is located at 20001 Emerald Coast Parkway. It is not only a fun place to eat but also home to Gator Beach, where kids can see and even feed live alligators. The restaurant is famous for its playful decor and relaxed vibe. After your meal, head over to Gator Beach, where educational shows teach kids about these fascinating creatures. Fudpucker’s is open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM.

7. Crystal Sands Beach

Crystal Sands Beach is located along Scenic Highway 98. It is known for its beautiful, clear waters and soft, white sand. It is a more quieter beach than other beaches in Florida. This is why is the perfect place for those who seeking fun things to do in Destin Florida with family. The gentle waves are great for young children to swim and play safely. This beach is free and open to the public all day. It’s a calm place where you can enjoy the sun and build sandcastles.

8. Visit The Track Family Fun Park

The Track Family Fun Park is located at 1125 US-98. It is a family-favourite destination with a wide variety of activities. The park features go-karts, bumper boats, a mini-golf, and an arcade. These rides are ideal for those who are looking for free things to do in destin florida with kids. There’s also a dedicated area called Kids Country, where younger children can enjoy smaller rides like a train ride and a carousel. Teens and older kids will love the thrill rides, like the SkyFlyer and the multi-level go-kart track. The Track is open daily from 9 AM to 11 PM.

9. Explore Gator Beach

Located at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, Gator Beach gives kids the chance to see and feed live alligators in a safe, fun environment. The gators are housed in a special enclosure where families can safely view them and even hold a baby alligator under the supervision of trained staff. Educational displays teach kids about alligators and their habitats. Best of all, Gator Beach is free and open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily. All in all, it is an ideal and affordable stop for families who kids.

10. Enjoy a Trip to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is located at 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway in nearby Fort Walton Beach. It offers families the chance to see amazing marine life up close. Here, Kids can enjoy live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and other sea creatures. The park also offers interactive programs where kids can touch stingrays or even swim with dolphins (for an additional fee). It is open daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM and you can buy the tickets online or at the gate. This park combines fun and learning in a way that kids love.

11. Crab Island Dolphin Jet Ski Adventure

Crab Island Dolphin Jet Ski Adventure is a thrilling activity that older kids and teens will love. It’s a fun way to combine adventure and nature as families ride jet skis around the famous Crab Island, through the guide experts. What makes it exciting for kids is the chance to see dolphins swimming in their natural habitat, up close! The speed and excitement of riding a jet ski add an extra element of fun for adventurous kids. The tour is offered by companies like Xtreme H2O Sports. It runs from 8 AM to 5 PM and lasts around 90 minutes. It’s a unique and exciting way for families to experience Destin’s beautiful waters and marine life.

12. Visit the Destin Commons Shopping Center

Destin Commons shopping centre is more than just a shopping mall. It is a family-friendly spot that offers plenty of things to do for kids. There’s an outdoor splash pad where kids can cool off, it has a playground and many family-friendly restaurants. The kids can play in the play area while the parents enjoy shopping. The mall is open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM. Overall this is a perfect spot for a mix of shopping and entertainment

13. Go on a Snorkeling Adventure at Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach is located about 30 minutes from Destin. It’s a fantastic spot for snorkelling with the family. The clear, shallow waters make it easy for kids to spot fish, crabs and other marine life. Here, many local companies offer guided snorkelling tours. They also provide gear and guidance for a safe experience. This activity is one of the most exciting things to do in Destin, Florida with kids & teens, especially for those who love exploring the ocean. Tours generally run from 8 AM to 4 PM

14. Spend a Day at the Destin Dog Park

Destin Dog Park, located at 4100 Indian Bayou Trail. It is a fun, free spot for families who love to travel with pets. The park features open spaces where dogs can run and play, while families can relax on shaded benches. Small and large dogs have their own places. The park is open from sunrise to sunset. So here, you can spend as much time as you like and enjoy the fresh air with your furry friend.

15. Try Out the Pirate Cruise

For a fun and exciting trip, take your family on the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise. It is located at HarborWalk Village. The pirate-themed boat ride offers treasure hunts, water gun fights and pirate stories that will keep kids entertained throughout the trip. There are cruises available throughout the day, in both the morning and afternoon, so it’s easy to find a time that fits into your schedule. Kids can dress up as pirates and enjoy a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas!

16. Visit the Emerald Coast Science Center

The Emerald Coast Science Center is located at 31 Memorial Parkway in Fort Walton Beach. It offers hands-on science exhibits that teach kids about everything from space to animals. This place’s exhibits include robots, marine life and a planetarium show. The centre is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Overall, it’s a great indoor option for families who looking to combine learning with fun.

17. Enjoy a Sunset Cruise

Destin’s sunsets are breathtaking and there’s no better way to see them than on a sunset cruise. Companies like Southern Star Dolphin Cruises offer evening boat rides where you can spot dolphins while watching the sunset over the water. Cruises usually depart from HarborWalk Village around 5 PM and they offer a peaceful, scenic way to end your day in Destin.

18. Take a Fishing Charter

Destin is known as the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village and taking a fishing charter is a must for families who love fishing. Many local companies offer family-friendly charters where you can fish for snapper, grouper and other local species. Most charters run from 6 AM to noon. It provides all the equipment you need for a successful fishing trip. It’s a fun way to spend time on the water and introduce your kids to the joys of fishing.

19. Visit the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier

It is located at 1030 Miracle Strip Parkway in Fort Walton Beach. The Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier is a perfect place for families to fish or take in the beautiful views. The pier stretches 1,262 feet into the Gulf and it offers fantastic fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages. Even if you are not fishing, you can enjoy the view of the water. It’s open daily from 5 AM to 9 PM. Overall it is a peaceful place where you can visit anytime during the day. 

20. Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone

Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone is an ideal place for kids. It offers a variety of fun activities which is ideal for both young children and teens. The dinosaur-themed mini-golf course and arcade games are perfect for things to do in destin florida with kids. On the other hand, older kids and teens will love activities like laser tag, 4D movies, and virtual reality experiences. The range of activities ensures that children of all ages are entertained, making it a top destination for families looking for kid-friendly fun. The safe, well-maintained environment also adds to its appeal for paren

Conclusion

In conclusion, Destin, Florida, is a perfect spot for a family vacation spot. It offers a wide range of fun activities for kids of all ages. Florida has some beautiful beaches, where you can relax or build sandcastles, many exciting water parks and nature trails, overall there’s something for everyone. Kids can explore marine life at the Gulfarium, take a pirate cruise, or enjoy thrilling jet ski and dolphin tours. Overall, Destin has it all. With so many kid-friendly attractions and experiences, your time in Destin will be filled with joy, laughter and unforgettable family memories!