Heading to Destin, Florida during Thanksgiving and wondering what to do? Here are 5 things to do in Destin for those who plan to do a quick getaway during this time of the year.

Located on the Emerald Coast in the Panhandle region of Florida, Destin has been a popular getaway spot for many people. Most people visit this quaint fishing village during the summer. There are many activities during this time that are not available during the colder part of the year. However, we decided that we did not want to spend our Thanksgiving holiday in Atlanta, Georgia. We were also in dire need of a beach. Destin came to mind and we made it happen.

Most popular attractions tend to be closed around Thanksgiving time, since it is during the off-season (Crab Island and the Big Kahuna for example). Nevertheless, we had an amazing time and completely enjoyed ourselves. In all honesty, we may have been a bit fortunate with the warm weather … 70 degrees in late November! It couldn’t get any better than that!

1. EAT EAT EAT

Well it was Thanksgiving, so we had to figure out where to have Thanksgiving dinner in Destin, Florida. This was easier than I expected. Apparently, for the past 21 years, Harbor Docks restaurant teams up with Habitat for Humanity and hosts a free Thanksgiving Dinner. This dinner consists of traditional Thanksgiving dishes (yes there is turkey) and helps to raise funds for local charities. Thanksgiving dinner is free for everyone but donations are accepted. Everyone is invited! This is a wonderful way for people to come together, sit down for a good meal, give back, and promote a good cause, all at the same time.

We arrived at Harbor Docks at 5:00 p.m. (the event was from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.). After making a donation, we sat outside and enjoyed the wonderful view by the dock, while having our Thanksgiving dinner. The restaurant was crowded but it was well-organized. We definitely enjoyed this experience. The food was great and the atmosphere even better.

Our other dining experiences in Destin were nothing short of spectacular. Too many to list here, so please check out my post on Where to Eat in Destin.

2. GO TO THE BEACH – Henderson Beach State Park

The Emerald Coast is known for its beautiful white sand beaches. Out of all the beaches we visited, Henderson Beach State Park was our favorite. I have to say, when I first saw this beach I was pleasantly surprised. Henderson Beach was beautiful! The water was a spectacular turquoise color. Even though the temperature was in the 70s, the water was still cold. Regardless, we were able to take a few dips in the ocean. It was very refreshing.

Henderson Beach has two small pavilions for picnicking and grilling. There are also campsites, a nature trail, a boardwalk, and a playground for children. The entry cost is $6 per vehicle. We stayed at Henderson Beach all afternoon on Saturday and enjoyed it thoroughly. There is something so therapeutic about laying in the sun by the ocean, taking in the sea breeze, splashing in the saltwater and hearing the waves crash at your feet. This may just be the best beach in Destin.

3. HARBORWALK VILLAGE

Harborwalk Village is a vibrant venue in Destin where you can find a variety of restaurants, activities, and entertainment. This site is probably more active during the summer, but it is quite fun during the colder months as well.

We visited Harborwalk Village on Friday night. Restaurants were busy with guests, and folks were out and about enjoying various activities. We had a lovely evening strolling around by the harbor and taking everything in.

We went back to Harborwalk Village on Saturday morning to see what other activities were open. There were the usual kid activities and live entertainment. Fishing is also a popular option. After all, Destin is the world’s luckiest fishing village.

What caught my eye was the Dolphin Tour. Harborwalk Village has a selection of companies that offer different dolphin tours. However, only one tour was still open for the season – the Seablaster. The Seablaster provides guests with the exciting experience of a fun-filled cruise in search of Destin’s lovely dolphins. Guests can relax, go snorkeling, and of course, keep an eye out for the dolphins.

4. THE TRACK FAMILY RECREATION CENTER

The Track is a fun-filled amusement center in Destin with a ton of activities for the entire family. This spot has something for everyone, such as miniature golf, go-karts, bumper boats and cars, and bungee jumping. The Track is open every day and is located right on Highway 98.

5. SHOPPING … WELL BECAUSE IT IS BLACK FRIDAY

Destin has quite a few shopping options – from the open air mall, to the beachy boutiques, to the popular outlets. You will definitely be able to indulge in some retail therapy. Silver Sands Premium Outlet is a recommended shopping site, especially on black Friday.

This charming outdoor shopping center features a wide collection of designer and name brand outlets, for example, Coach, Cole Haan, Michael Kors, Saks Fifth Avenue, and more.

If you get tired of shopping, you can always take a breather and stop at Pino Gelato Café to enjoy some scrumptious sorbet or gelato. The mango sorbet is my favorite.

The Emerald Coast has a lot to offer, even during the cooler months of the year. We enjoyed our Thanksgiving weekend in Destin and will definitely return.

– Destin, Florida – visited November 2015

A Few Tips

Accommodations

Destin has a wide array of vacation rentals and hotels. Wherever you choose to stay, make sure it is on the beach!

Transportation

You will need a car to get around. If you drive there like we did, then you’re all set! If you fly in to Destin, then you’ll definitely need to rent a car.