Destin is a picturesque city in Florida’s Panhandle and a popular Gulf of Mexico beach destination due to its emerald green water and white sand beaches. From public beaches with plenty of amenities to hard-to-find stretches of white, sandy shore, these beaches near Destin will not disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a sandbar to park your boat or a family-friendly public shoreline, you’re sure to find a beach for you in this list of best beaches near Destin, Florida.
Henderson Beach State Park
This list kicks off with one of the most beloved beaches in Florida’s Panhandle near Destin, Henderson Beach. Nestled between Destin and Crystal Beach, Henderson Beach spans 200 acres along the Gulf Coast. Located within Henderson Beach State Park, this stretch of shoreline draws beachgoers, hikers, and campers alike. Boardwalks make the beach accessible, as the beach boasts over 30-foot natural sand dunes. Campers and parkgoers love that Henderson Beach has a playground, barbecue pits, pavilions, picnic tables, and restrooms.
Miramar Beach
Located in South Walton, Miramar Beach is a popular spot simply because it is close to restaurants, shops, and oceanfront condos and resorts. One of the most underrated beaches on the Gulf Coast, Miramar Beach isn’t just ideal for visitors who are staying in one of the nearby vacation rentals or hotels; this beach has a reputation for its emerald water and plentiful facilities, like lawn chair rentals, jet ski rentals, and a lifeguard on duty. Although the beach here shouldn’t be missed, the area around Miramar offers plenty of options for shoppers, as it is home to over 100 stores in the Silver Sands Premium Outlets.
Crab Island
This beach isn’t the easiest to access, but it’s definitely a bucket list locale near Destin. Crab Island, a sandbar accessible only by boat, is found offshore just south of the Marler Bridge. You have two options to reach Crab Island: rent a pontoon boat or book an excursion. Visiting this island (and its crystal clear waters) is perfect for those who love to snorkel, paddleboard, and swim, as the water is only a couple of feet deep. Although you’re off mainland Florida, there are still plenty of floating vendors that sell food and drink.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Less than a 30-minute drive from Destin is Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Ideal for travelers seeking a more excluded beach excursion, this state park has three miles of sandy shore protected by natural sand dunes. However, to reach the beach, you’ll have to walk or bike along the multi-use trail or take the tram from the day-use parking lot. Budget travelers will find that the price to camp here is affordable, making Topsail Hill Preserve State Park one of the cheapest places to stay near Destin. If you intend to camp, there are RV sites, tent sites, and cabins to rent.
John Beasley Park
A list of top beaches near Destin wouldn’t be complete without mentioning one of the most popular beaches in the area: John Beasley Park. Located on Okaloosa Island, this public beach offers plenty of amenities, such as picnic tables, pavilions, showers, restrooms, and changing rooms. Additionally, John Beasley Park is also home to over 200 parking spots, making parking here less of a challenge compared to other beaches on this list. When you’re done with the white sandy shore here, explore the surrounding area, as this park is close to various restaurants and shops and the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
Norriego Point
A popular beach spot among boaters, kayakers, and paddle boarders, Norriego Point is located off Holiday Isle near the Destin Boardwalk. Beachgoers who are not interested in boating or paddling to Norriego Point can take the Destin Water Taxi that leaves from the Destin Harbor. This public beach may not have as many amenities as other beaches on this list, as it doesn’t have a restroom. However, its white sand and natural scenery make it a hotspot for birdwatchers, beachcombers, and beach enthusiasts alike.
Princess Beach
Princess Beach doesn’t have all the amenities of Destin’s big public beaches, but that is why locals head to this low-key shoreline. A regular spot among anglers and beachgoers looking for a quiet spot to sunbathe, Princess Beach’s seclusion is its main appeal. Aside from a less crowded sandy shore, Princess Beach has soft, white sand and sparkling turquoise water. There is a small parking lot, however, the access point to the beach is easy to miss. Make sure to look out for a small dirt turnoff just past Eglin Matterhorn Beach if you’re coming from the west.
Navarre Beach
One of the best white-sand beaches in Florida, Navarre Beach is the farthest beach from Destin’s city center found on this list. A 45-minute drive west of Destin, Navarre Beach is a great stopping point for road trippers heading to Pensacola. This beach isn’t just one of the best beaches near Destin but one of the best beaches in the United States. With a less crowded atmosphere, Navarre Beach is another ideal option for travelers wanting to escape a busy beach scene. Snorkelers will love exploring Navarre Beach’s three artificial reefs. When you’re not enjoying the sand, water, and sun, walk along the longest pier in Florida – the Navarre Beach Pier.
