10 Ways to Cure the Rainy Day Blues on the Emerald Coast

You roll over in your vacation rental, dreaming of a magical day at the beach, only to open your windows and find the sky covered in rain clouds. In a beach destination, it is understandable to be flushed with disappointment as you try to come up with creative ways to recover your day. No worries, the Emerald Coast knows that, although it is in the Sunshine State, it does rain quite a bit. Therefore, we have tons of fun indoor activities to ensure a rainy day is still a memorable one! 

The Gulfarium 
Located on Okaloosa Island, the Gulfarium features dolphins, sea lions, otters, sharks, and more. Watch a dolphin or sea lion show, learn about otters, engage in close-up encounters, or just explore the variety of sea life. The Gulfarium provides a fun and educational dimension of exploring sea life.

Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone 
This is Northwest Florida’s largest entertainment center! Also located on Okaloosa Island, this Adventure Zone features 17,000 square feet of a 4D movie theater, a Laser Maze, an arcade, a Mini Golf Course, a 60 Ropes Course, a Spinning Roller Coaster, a Reverse Bungee Trampoline, and remote control Battle Boats. Since almost half their activities are outdoor, it is perfect for when the sun spontaneously reveals itself again (as it often does in Florida). Rain or shine, your day will not be wasted at Wild Willy.  

Destin History & Fishing Museum 
This site is for the history or fishing nut! The museum includes 5,500 square feet of history from Native Americans to modern development. Guests can find photographs, artifacts, over 75 mounts of locally caught fish, science on why the fishing in this village is so good, and much more. Go on a scavenger hunt, staff tour, or just browse around. Either way, it is promised to be an enjoyable and informative day.

Emerald Coast Science Center 
The Emerald Coast Science Center is a hands-on museum where the whole family can explore natural phenomena and basic scientific principles. There are over 45 exhibits including STEM Markerspace, animal presentations, and more!

Bowl at Hurricane Lanes or Uncle Bucks 
In the mood for some competitive fun? Head to one of our two bowling alleys. Hurricane Lanes includes an arcade, while Uncle Bucks features a restaurant. Either way, we hope your rainy day will be a strike!  

Catch a film at the AMC Destin Commons 
What better way to spend a rainy day than catching up on the newest releases? The AMC is located in outdoor shopping plaza Destin Commons. Grab a bite to eat in the shopping center and head to the AMC for an exciting movie experience.

Rock Out Climbing Gym 
In the mood to pursue adventure and conquer new challenges? If so, head to the Emerald Coast’s deluxe indoor climbing gym. All ages can participate, as they like to say, “If you can walk, you can climb!” As a bouldering gym, there is no harness or ropes and the gym features a 16 foot wall and a variety of difficulty levels.  

Gulf Coast Escape Room 
Wish to solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategy? Check out the Gulf Coast Escape Room. With locations from Gulf Shores, Destin, and Pensacola, no matter where you are staying you can rest assured to have an adventurous and heart-racing day.

Surge Trampoline Park 
Located in Fort Walton Beach, spend your day jumping away! This indoor trampoline park features wall to wall trampolines, a flying trapeze, a foam pit, a rock climbing wall, a battle beam, and more.

Chill in your vacation rental
Most of our rentals include a TV and fully-equipped kitchen. Hit the grocery store for some goodies and have an indoor movie day, play board games, read a book, or even try new recipes. While relaxing indoors you can also admire the rainy- day view of the Emerald Coast beaches.


Even though Northwest Florida is hailed for its beautiful beaches, we have plenty of fun and unique activities to keep you entertained throughout any rainy day- just be sure to stay dry!  

Published on Thursday, May 31, 2018