Why the Emerald Coast Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

The Emerald Coast is the gem of Florida. Featuring pristine white beaches and crystal clear emerald waters, this location mirrors the Caribbean- right here on the panhandle of Florida. If the beaches aren’t enough to book your ticket asap, here are 12 reasons why we think this panhandle jewel should be at the top of your travel bucket list.  

1. We pride ourselves in our seafood and our local cuisine shows it. From Brotula's Seafood House and Steamer to Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House and Dewey Destin Harborside you’ll be sure to find the perfect combination of fresh seafood and superb taste in our unique Gulf-to-Table dining.  


2. Explore Seaside, aka the setting for The Truman Show. In real life, it is even more charming, if you can believe that. Hit the Seaside Square for some shopping , stop at the line of food trucks for a quick delicious bite, or simply rent a bike and explore this neighborhood of charming houses, green fields, and the beach.  


3. If you love Seaside, might as well explore all of 30a. 30a is a scenic highway that borders the beach and features adorable houses and shops/restaurants. Perfect for a quick drive through or a day of exploration. This beach community will make you feel as if you’ve slipped into another world.  


4. Baytowne Wharf is a neighborhood which features the famous Village. The Village includes bars/clubs, restaurants, a playground, an arcade, and a plethora of sweets shops. This place is perfect for all ages and is sure to give both parents and kids an unforgettable time.  

5. For supreme Emerald Coast shopping, check out outdoor plazas Destin Commons and Grand Boulevard. Destin Commons includes Lush, Forever 21, Francesca’s, Belk, Southern Living, and the AMC theatre. Grand Boulevard features shops such as Pottery Barn, Anthropology, Vineyard Vines, and the New Vision Boulevard 10 movie theatre. Both shopping centers contain a variety of fabulous dining options.  


6. Looking for a cool beach spot to zen out at all day? Look no further than Pompano Joe’s, Crab Trap, Henderson Beach State Park, and Navarre Beach. Pompano Joe’s includes a bar, restaurant and  volleyball net- perfect for a group of friends to enjoy a day in the sun. Crab Trap includes a restaurant and playground- a great combination for a family day of fun. Not only at Henderson Beach State Park can you enjoy a peaceful afternoon in this naturally preserved park, but you can also camp- perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who dream of tranquil vacations. On Navarre Beach, you can find uncrowded and unspoiled nature with a simple and serene atmosphere. It is, after all, named “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place”.  


7. HarborWalk Village is perfect for rolling in on a boat after a long day of fishing, catching the sunset, and eating at one of the multiple restaurants. As you enjoy your fresh seafood, watch the jetties and harbor come alive with charter boats and vacationers.  

8. Crab Island is one of the coolest local attractions. Rent a pontoon boat and coast over to Crab Island’s ultra-clear turquoise waters. Here you can grab a beer, let kids play on the water slides, or just enjoy the music and salty air. Be sure to be on the lookout for dolphins, as Crab Island is one of their favorite hang out spots! Local restaurants with supreme seafood surround the “island” and all provide easy docking for boats. What more could you ask for from a Destin afternoon?  


9. Okaloosa Island is an island strip that preserves the beautiful nature of the Emerald Coast. Experience the untouched sand dunes and beaches or head to the Crab Trap and Boarderwalk. This area features restaurants and shops, all connected by a boardwalk leading to a pier. Perfect for fishing, surfing, lounging, or just enjoying the island beach vibe.  


10. Right across the bridge from Okaloosa Island is Ft. Walton Beach’s downtown. Here you can chill at the bayside park (The Landing) or walk down Miracle Strip for a touch of nightlife in this otherwise quaint town.  


11. Head over to Navarre Beach, aka “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place”, and hit the uncrowded and serene beaches. Visit the longest pier in Florida for a day of fishing or just to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. In the mood to feed giraffes? Check out The Gulf Breeze Zoo for a day of family fun!  

 
12. It would be remiss to not mention fishing as Destin is America’s Luckiest Fishing Village. Hop on a charter boat for some deep fishing, or simply bring your line to the beach or bay. Wherever you are, we hope the luck of this village will touch you as well!  


With the variety of activities combined with picturesque beaches, it’s no wonder the Emerald Coast is unlike any other place in the world. So don’t hesitate to add the Emerald Coast to the very top of your bucket list and book your ticket asap-we won’t judge!   

Published on Tuesday, May 22, 2018