Destin, FL, is a tourist hotspot with over 4.5 million yearly visitors. While Destin may be famous for its sugar-white sand and emerald-green water, there’s so much more to discover once you venture beyond the crowds. Beneath the excitement of this Gulf Coast hotspot lies the local charm that makes visitors fall in love with the area and keeps us locals proud to call it home.
If you’re planning your next beach getaway, here’s your guide to the best hidden gems and local favorites around Destin, Miramar Beach, and near 30A.
Explore Nature’s Best in Destin
You’ll spend plenty of time on the beach, but these scenic parks and quiet stretches of shoreline offer a more peaceful side of Destin.
Henderson Beach State Park
Soft dunes, clear Gulf water, and coastal hiking trails make this state park a local favorite. Open from 8 am until sundown, this park is quiet, family-friendly, and you can even camp overnight for just $30.
James Lee Park (Crab Trap Beach)
The perfect beach day spot for families with kids! Easy parking, beach access, and restaurants like The Crab Trap and Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi are right across the street.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
A short drive from Destin, this preserve offers rare dune lakes, 1,600 acres of trails, and photo-worthy scenery you won’t believe is part of the Emerald Coast.
Choctawhatchee Bay
Skip the crowds and head bayside for fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and some of the prettiest sunset views in town.
Grayton Beach State Park
One of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, with calm, crystal-clear water and white sand perfect for swimming, fishing, or picnicking under the pines. You can even hike around this area!
Princess Beach
A secluded stretch of shoreline tucked away on Scenic 98. Locals come here to hunt for sand dollars or simply unwind with no crowds in sight.
Norriego Point (Holiday Isle)
Bring your snorkel gear and look for sea turtles and dolphins where the Gulf meets the East Pass. This is also one of Destin’s best-kept secrets for paddleboarding!
Clement Taylor Park
Clement Taylor Park is a must-visit place in Destin, Florida. It’s a 3.55-acre land where you’ll find picnic areas, a playground, and a volleyball court. This quiet bayfront park near downtown is the perfect spot to take in those golden-hour sunsets.
Eden Gardens State Park
A hidden oasis surrounded by moss-draped oaks. The historic Wesley House and 600-year-old Wedding Tree make this a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park
Trade beach crowds for tall pines, hiking trails, and peaceful views of Rocky Bayou. This is a great spot for kayaking and birdwatching. Take a step back from the huge crowds as you recharge among North Florida’s longleaf pines.
Local Art and Culture Highlights
Beyond the beaches, Destin has a thriving creative scene full of local art and music with an incredible cultural background.
HarborWalk Village Art Markets
Weekend and weekday pop-up markets where local artists sell handmade jewelry, woodwork, and coastal art pieces. You’re sure to find handmade souvenirs and unique artwork here.
Destin Commons Murals
Grab a latte, go shopping, and spot colorful murals scattered throughout Destin Commons. Destin Common Murals is the central hub for colorful public art, and is the perfect place for photos and a taste of local flair.
Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Grounds
From live concerts under the stars to art festivals and community events, this is the heart of Destin’s creative scene. It features an arts pavilion where the most vibrant community festivals in Destin are held!
Destin History and Fishing Museum
Learn how “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” got its name, explore local history, and see vintage photos of old-school fishing boats that started it all.
The Village of Baytowne Wharf
A short drive away in Sandestin, this lively waterfront district is packed with boutiques, art galleries, and delicious dining. An afternoon stroll here feels like stepping into a postcard. If you’re on the prowl for good food and cute souvenirs, you should definitely add this place to your list.
Coastal Cafés and Local Eats
There’s no shortage of good food in Destin, but the local favorites are where the real flavor lives. Here are hidden cafés and local eats you should know about.
2 Birds Coffee + Café
Bright, modern, and laid-back, this Miramar Beach spot in the Seascape Resort Plaza serves some of the best breakfast sandwiches and pastries in town. Don’t miss the fried PB&J.
Capriccio Café
A hidden, cozy European-style espresso bar near the harbor that specializes in handmade crepes and gourmet cappuccinos.
East Pass Coffee Co.
Simple, beachy, and full of charm. Grab a cold brew before your morning paddle or catch live music during brunch hours.
La Paz Mexican Restaurant
Destin’s long-loved Mexican spot, known for its margaritas, fajitas, and friendly service. You’ll find it tucked away on Gulf Shore Drive.
Bitterroot
Upscale Southern cuisine with a local twist. Think fried chicken with honey drizzle, craft cocktails, and an intimate coastal atmosphere.
The Local Market
Quick bites, smoothies, and sandwiches that hit the spot after a beach day. The kind of place where everyone feels like a regular.
Skippers Dock and Steam Machine
Fresh-caught seafood you pick yourself, then watch the chef cook it right in front of you. Destin seafood is as fresh as it gets.
Adventure and Hidden Spots
Destin’s beauty isn’t just on the shore. Explore these hidden adventure spots where locals love to spend their time.
Crab Island Sandbar
Go early on a weekday and you’ll find crystal-clear, shallow waters perfect for floating and relaxing.
Destin Jetties
For experienced snorkelers, this is a must. You’ll see schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and maybe even a dolphin if you’re lucky. The best location is near O’Steen Beach Access.
Mid-Bay Bridge Reef
Hidden beneath the bridge, this man-made reef teems with marine life. It’s a dream spot for divers and fishermen alike.
Destin Pass (East Pass)
The gateway where the Gulf meets Choctawhatchee Bay. Ideal for boat-watching, fishing charters, and golden-hour photos. It has a rich history, and visitors come here to see the largest fishing fleet in the United States!
Destin Harbor Boardwalk
An easygoing spot for dining, shopping, and people-watching along the water, especially peaceful in the early morning or during sunset.
Hidden Properties by Gulf Style Rentals
The best Destin stays aren’t always the biggest resorts. They’re the ones that feel like home, only better.
At Gulf Style Rentals, we specialize in boutique vacation homes that combine five-star hospitality and fast and friendly responses with those extra-special touches that make your stay more than just your average beach vacation. Here are a few of our favorite hidden gems:
Costa Del Sol
Steps from the sand with panoramic Gulf views, this three-bedroom home features private beach access and plenty of space for family gatherings.
Emerald Dunes
A beachfront condo that feels tucked away from the crowds. Enjoy sunrise coffee on the balcony, walk to nearby restaurants, and unwind in style.
Green Reef
Spacious, bright, and stocked with everything from beach gear to an in-home sauna, this property is perfect for larger groups looking for a true Destin experience.
Experience Destin Like a Local
From secret beaches and cozy cafés to art markets and sunset parks, Destin’s hidden gems are what make it special.
When you stay with Gulf Style Rentals, you’ll get more than a place to sleep. You’ll experience the local lifestyle that keeps families, friends, and snowbirds coming back year after year.
Book direct at gulfstylerentals.com for the best rates, insider tips, and a stay that feels better than home. We can’t wait to host you!
