5 of the Best Summer Activities in Destin

The Emerald Coast is full of gorgeous beaches and tons of entertainment. Visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts, celebrate at festivals, swim in the ocean, and much more! You don’t have to search long to find some of the best Destin summer activities during your visit!  

For more ways to make the most of your time on the Emerald Coast, be sure to request access to our complimentary Vacation Guide! 

Unlock Summer Fun 

You Won’t Want to Miss Out on These Destin Summer Activities 

Attend an Outdoor Concert 

Relaxing while listening to live music at an outdoor concert is one of the best summer activities in Destin. The Village of Baytowne Wharf features a Wednesday night concert series from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the Village lawn. Bring a small chair, a blanket, or beach towel to sit on (admission is free). This venue also offers free shows of fireworks, outdoor movie nights, hydro flight shows, and more! Thursdays through the end of June at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Destin, there are outdoor concerts on the lawn as well.  

The Harborwalk Village on the Destin harbor offers live music nightly at one of the many waterfront establishments. Every Saturday from 7 p.m. to p.m. on the Harborwalk Village Main Stage, enjoy “Rock the Docks” with a gorgeous water view as you enjoy the performances. Every Thursday night from 7-9, you can enjoy a free concert with a beautiful display of fireworks over the water right after the concert. 

30A offers music nightly at so many different great locations. The Seaside Amphitheater is a wonderful place to enjoy an outdoor concert on the lawn (and it is just across the road from the Gulf). The Hub is a fun 30A establishment that offers live music and dancing almost every single evening. 

Paddle on Choctawhatchee Bay 

Paddleboarding and kayaking on the clear Gulf waters or the calm shores of Choctawhatchee Bay are some of the things to do in Destin with kids. There are many places to rent paddleboards, including Rent Gear Here and Gusu Paddle and Surf Rentals 

Jet skis, dolphin tours, snorkeling tours, sunset cruises, surfing, bodyboarding, and scuba diving are more incredible summer activities in Destin. People love to zip out to Crab Island on a boat or jet ski to check out any entertainment going on in the area. 

Splash Around at a Waterpark 

Big Kahuna’s Waterpark in Destin is a great spot to enjoy some exciting family fun. The park offers over 40 different rides, water slides, play areas, and pools. You can also find a relaxing lazy river and a miniature golf course. This park has something for everyone.  

Explore a Farmer’s Market 

Farmer’s markets allow you to experience local products and foodOn 30A, there are a variety of locations, including the town of Seaside on Tuesdays and Saturdays and Rosemary Beach on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Miramar Beach has a farmer’s market at 90 Seascape Dr. on Wednesdays in peak Summer months. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin has one on Saturdays. Ft. Walton Beach has a Farmer’s market on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month at the Ft. Walton Beach Landing at 139 Brooks St. 

Celebrate Summer at a Local Festival 

Festivals are another fantastic summertime activity in Destin. Arts, fireworks, BBQ, wine, and music are just a few of the great themes you will find throughout the warm months here. Check with our front desk service for local happenings during your time here! 

Plan Your Summer Retreat to the Emerald CoastCrystal Village 

Discover your dream summer getaway with Harmony Beach Vacations rentals! Our selection of homes and condos in Destin and 30A offer fantastic locations and amenities at rates that won’t burn a hole in your wallet.  

Start planning your Destin vacation today by booking one of our properties! We look forward to welcoming you to the Emerald Coast.