At Destiny Water Adventures, we offer full-day or half-day charters of our pontoon boats. (850) 683-3009. The best way is to appreciate their beauty from the safety of a boat. The shuttle boat allows you to bring a cooler for food and drinks and lasts about 2-3 hours. From WEST of Destin (Ft Walton Beach, Pensacola) Take Hwy 98 East to Destin over the Destin Bridge. For many visitors to Destin, Florida, one of the highlights of the trip is experience aquatic life in the emerald waters of the gulf with some of the most amazing sea creatures known to man. Deciding when to visit Destin entails analyzing your vacation priorities and factoring in the weather, beach conditions, crowd events, and seasonal events are different times of the year. If youre looking for a place to have fun in the sun, theres no better destination than Destin, Florida. Most of the rainfall of the year is experienced in summer. The sites have water, electricity, picnic tables, and ground grills. You thought Gulf World ONLY offered dolphin swim programs? The Stingray Bay Snorkel is an exciting experience for the family. October 1st to December 30th. 250 Reviews . Best Time to Whale Watch in Southern California | Dana Point However you decide to search for dolphins, its sure to bring a little magic to any Emerald Coast vacation! What do you get when you combine all of these terrific things into one family-fun activity? Dolphins reside in groups known as pods that typically comprise anywhere between 10 and 30 members. Is the Gulfarium a good way to see dolphins when its raining. Other amenities include picnic pavilions, restrooms, a shower station, and a playground. They include zip-lining, fishing, fly-boarding, banana boat rides, parasailing, jet-skiing, bungee jumping, stand-up paddle-boarding, and boating. There is a small chance you may get wet on certain cruises, so it is highly recommended to bring along a towel just in case. Of course, its always beautiful walking along the boardwalk. The Atlantic spotted dolphin, for instance, can occasionally be seen off the coast of Destin and all the way to the Indian Ocean. So whether youre looking to shop, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy some time outdoors, check out Destin Commons. Article originally posted on destinywateradventures.com. Only when. A cacophony of sounds meldingsalsa, jazz,. The park is an excellent place to watch the sunset in the evening. Click the button to complete a form to request a printed version of our Visitors Guide. Plenty of activities are available, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. have led to numerous injuries and/or deaths to dolphins. In addition to shopping and dining, Destin Commons also offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year. Travelers are coming in droves to take advantage of the lower pricing of everything. 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park. The road development on Highway 98 over the recent past has only worsened the traffic congestion issues. From the areas beautiful beaches, to stunning and vibrant sunsets, there are plenty of sights to see when dolphin watching in Destin. Many people find that early morning is a great time to spot dolphins. There are many different types of dolphins that live in the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally, summer marks the fireworks season every week, usually at Destin Disney World. Additional animals you may encounter along the way include sea turtles, schools of fish, stingrays, and more! In addition, the area has many great restaurants, cafes, and bars. Dolphin Watching - Destin/Fort Walton Beach Travel Guide Although Destin lacks the standard four climate seasons, there are four unique tourist seasons. While dolphins are definitely one of the main attractions, they arent the only stars of the show! Keep in mind that many people will also be visiting at this time, which means you need to book plane, hotel and Gulf World tickets early to avoid paying premium prices. In Destin, dolphins don't migrate much, if at all, which means that they can be found right off the coast from January through to December. Dolphins love the Emerald Coast, and can often be spotted from the shore, the Okaloosa Island fishing pier, or even from the Destin Harbor! If youre worried about sunburn, dont worry most pontoons have shade canopies that keep you cool and comfortable all day. So if youre looking for a great way to spend the day, check out Big Kahunas Water and Adventure Park in Destin, Florida. Many people find that early morning is a great time to spot dolphins. Swimming with dolphins should never be attempted in the wild. If youre ever in Destin, check out the Maximum Magic Show- you wont regret it! Although Destin lacks the standard four climate seasons, there are four unique tourist seasons. What's the best time of day to view the dolphins? Anyone born after Jan 1, 1988 will need a Florida boater's safety card (or NASBLA equivalent from another state). For the best chance at seeing dolphins up close, it helps to be on the water. 322 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548. Jeannelle Douglas. Went at 4 pm. So where do you get the best look at these fascinating creatures? Best of all, the waters off Destin-Fort Walton Beach host Atlantic spotted dolphins in addition to the more common bottlenose dolphin, and they can be seen all year round. A few days in July is similarly priced to a few weeks during the winter. Marlin Grill located inside the village at Baytown Wharf in Miramar. Average Low = 40 degrees. Destin has multiple options with boating companies that offer a dolphin sunset cruise. The bigger and better fireworks shows occur on the 4th of July, so ensure you catch the action if youre in Destin in the summer. Both Fort Walton Beach and Destin are excellent options for a beach vacation in Florida. The Rodeo is one of the longest-running fishing tournaments in the United States. Things To Do In Destin Florida for Adults, 322 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW The 4 Best Beaches in Florida for Families | Miami Herald Contrary to other coastal communities, Destin has a large population of dolphins that reside in the area year-round. And you can hardly do that staying at home, which is why so many families travel somewhere exciting for their vacation. So whether youre a local or a tourist, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park will be a memorable experience. Reach out to us at Destiny Water Adventures today. Destin-FWB.com is your source for travel on the Emerald Coast! Other areas that are known for dolphin sightings include Crystal Beach, Eglin Beach Park, Miramar Beach, and Henderson Beach State Park. Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Fort Walton Beach the Indian Temple Mound Museum is one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Destin, Florida. Of course, the most surefire way to get in close proximity to dolphins is to book an excursion! This is a relatively new program for the facility and it is already proving to be one of their most popular. With over 17,000 square feet of air-conditioned space, it is a great way to take a break from the sun and have a fantastic time. Yes, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is one of the only places in the area that can guarantee dolphin sightings, and is the perfect rainy-day activity for the whole family! It features shops, restaurants, and a fishing pier. Admission is around $35 for Adventure Park, about $53 for the water park, and around $73 for both parks. Best Time Of Year To Visit Crab Island In the most general sense, when you decide to visit Crab Island will depend upon your tolerance for Florida climate. 348. from $169.00. Wild Willys Adventure Zone is perfect for letting your inner child run wild! These shows go on for a period of 5 to 7 minutes. On average, an adult bottlenose dolphin can be anywhere from six to twelve feet in length. 102 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 Youll create memories that will last a lifetime, and you might even see some unique wildlife up close. However, some parts of it are beginning to clear up. It is best to check out the website for up-to-date pricing; they have plenty of specials, tooplan for about 2 hours for this fun-filled cruise. Each program is designed to be educational, interactive, and very fun. Average Gulf Water Temperature = 68 degrees. There are multiple boat rental services in Destin, do a little research to find what works best for you. The animal shows and encounters all follow specific schedules depending on the season. You and your family will enjoy a free hot breakfast each morning before you head out on your next adventure. Well, if youll be staying in Destin Florida for any length of time, youll definitely want to take a day trip to Swim with Dolphin Panama City Beach where you can meet these magical creatures and make your dream come true. Situated on the Emerald Coast of northwest Florida, it's known for its crystal-clear waters and sugar-white sand beaches. The campsite has 60 campsites to accommodate either tents or RVs. Dolphins tend to be more active in the morning and mid-afternoon when the waters tend to be calmer and there is less boat traffic, but you can see dolphins just about any time. One of the best things about Big Kahunas water park is that it is open all year round. Youll also get to experience the exhilarating foot push, where the dolphins will skim you across the top of the water pushing you by the soles of your feet. Its when the locals come out of a hiatus after the intense summer to delight in all the festivities and fishing events that come with the season. 1625 Scenic Hwy 98 East, Destin, FL 32541. James Lee Park is a beautiful place to take a stroll, have a picnic, and relax with friends. Gulfarium Hours and Admission The Gulfarium is open daily from 9:00 in the morning until 4:30 in the afternoon. In addition to its convenient location, the Boardwalk also features a variety of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two. Only whensafeand legal to do so, pick up the speed a little and it might make them a bit easier to spot. As you sail around the bay, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles, and other marine life. They also offer shuttles to the island for about $50 per person. Infants 2 and under are free. Additionally, summer marks the fireworks season every week, usually at Destin Disney World. Fall In Destin: Mid-August to Mid-November. The number of golf carts beings used for traveling, particularly along the 5 miles of Scenic 98, has skyrocketed. Best places to see dolphins in Destin-Fort Walton Beach Aside from excursions, events, and restaurants, theres a boatload of water sports adventures in which you can revel. Tickets start at $30, which is well worth a night of laughs and surprises for the whole family. You only have to pay for alligator food, photos, and merchandise. Are you one of those people that has always secretly (or maybe not-so-secretly) dreamed of swimming with dolphins some day? Your go-to guide for everything Destin-Fort Walton Beach! Tucked against the panoramic Gulf of Mexico, Destin is a very popular tourist destination because it offers something for everyone. Your boat driver will speed up or slow down, depending on what kind of adventure you want to have. It is worth noting that dolphins are usually found in clusters of 4 to 7 in shallower areas. Youll have some time to simply interact with the dolphins, get them to do handshakes as well as just hug and kiss on them. Some via a glass-bottom boat while others are on a relaxing catamaran. Youll learn all about dolphins how they hunt and communicate in the wild. Now that youre aware of when and how to spot dolphins in Destin, its time to delve into the best time to visit the area. When it comes to deep-sea fishing, Destin, Florida, is one of the best places. You can see them from about 10 am until noon, then they return for the afternoon until it gets dark. And youll still get to receive and unforgettable hug and watch the dolphins swim around you and do tricks that will absolutely delight you and everyone in your party. Whether you're eager to spot dolphins in Destin, cruise the Choctawhatchee Bay, or party at Crab Island, Double Fun Watersports offers the right pontoon boat charters for an incredible trip. Share them on social media and tag them #DestinFWB. The marine adventure park also features educational shows and exhibits that provide insights into the fascinating world of marine life. Southern Star dolphin tours include a glass bottom boat tour narrated by an expert familiar with local wildlife. Relax on the deck of Dewey Destins Seafood Restaurant feasting on fresh shrimp. A Destin dolphin watching excursion, of course! Guided boat tours take passengers to well-known dolphin sighting spots, but having a private boat charter such as a pontoon gives you a little more freedom. Soak in the scenic views as a local and knowledgeable captain and crew lead you to pods of playful dolphins, and provide fun and informative narration along the way. Although predicting the habits and location of wild animals is nearly impossible, you can do a few tips and tricks, as discussed below, to boost your likelihood of spying a few dolphins. Check out Smile N Wave to set sail from Destin Harbor into the waters of the Gulf where curious pods of friendly dolphins await. Best Time for Dolphin Watching in Florida 2023 - When to See - Rove.me A foolproof way of attempting to catch a glimpse of dolphins is from a double-decker boats upper deck. The road development on Highway 98 over the recent past has only worsened the traffic congestion issues. For many visitors, one of the highlights is being able to spot dolphins in the wild. Rates run anywhere from $25-$50 for the cruise. Its when the locals come out of a hiatus after the intense summer to delight in all the festivities and fishing events that come with the season. View Hotel. Gulf World offers 2 types of dolphin swims and a dolphin encounter programs for individuals, families and large groups. This family-friendly cruise takes place aboard a replica pirate ship, where you can explore all the nooks and crannies while searching for hidden treasure. Bottlenose dolphins typically have lightly-colored bellies and are blue-grey. Likely to Sell Out. Destin is often more crowded than Fort Walton Beach and offers many water-based activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. With its beautiful setting and intriguing exhibits, the Indian Temple Mound Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about this areas rich history. While aboard get educated with our sea school which includes underwater viewing, dolphin encounters, bird feedings, sightseeing, crab trap discussions, and shrimp net operations where everyone can check out and identify our catch. Guided boat tours take passengers to well-known dolphin sighting spots. Dont forget to take great photos of your dolphin watching excursions. It is especially popular with the locals during the summertime. Mild temperatures and warm gulf waters make the area enjoyable no matter the season. Stop: 45 minutes - Admission included. The best times to visit Destin for ideal weather are. It stretches to the road past Surf Hut restaurant from Henderson Beach State Park as a popular beach road. They dont migrate as the waters of the Emerald Coast remain warm all year. If you dont want the hassle or expense of renting a car, then there is always the option of hiring a taxi or Uber or Lyft driver to take you there and back. Need more insight to for the best family vacation activities? And there is also a very pretty rooftop pool to sit by and spend an afternoon lazily looking at the cloud formations overhead or the terrific panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Depending on age, a Florida boating license may be required. Its common for dolphin watching tours in the Destin area to offer fewer trips during the winter months due to reduced number of visitors to the area. And of course, there are a plethora of outdoor activities like golf, swimming, kayaking and snorkeling. Some people think that you need to keep your pontoon boat at the slowest possible speed in order to see dolphins, but dolphins actually like the wake! Gator Beach is free to the public. Fall In Destin: Mid-August to Mid-November, Tourist Demographic: Families, Adults, and Couples during Fall Break, Weather: Humid and hot in early fall but cooler evenings and lower humidity in the coming months. At times, these mammals can be seen in the waters of Destin Harbor. Contrary to the assumption that your pontoon boat must move at the slowest possible speed to spot dolphins, the truth is, these animals enjoy the wake. You can see dolphins from various spots in Destin. For just $2.00 per person, you can walk the pier and look for dolphins, sea turtles, and other aquatic creatures. On the tour, knowledgeable guides dole out fun facts about dolphin lifestyles as you watch them frolic in the boat's wake. Be sure to check on availability if you are visiting in the low season. It spans 4-6 miles wide. Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise in Destin Harbor, Destin: "What time of day is the best time to see dolphins" | Check out answers, plus see 266 reviews, articles, and photos of Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise in Destin Harbor, one of 469 Destin attractions listed on Tripadvisor. It is possible to see dolphins from a number of spots in Destin. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. Best Place to Watch Dolphins in Destin, Florida - MyDestinBeach On any given day you could spot a pod of bottlenose dolphins on your way out to see an even larger pod of common dolphins. One of the hardest parts about planning your family vacation is choosing your destination. I remember wading (and waiting) in the water for the dolphins to show up. Walking on the sands of Elgin Beach Park or Henderson State Park ushers in the likelihood of seeing dolphins at a distance. Youll perform hand targets (or rather, the dolphins with perform hand targets using YOUR hands). So what do you do if you have seniors or very young children in your group, or anyone who isnt a strong swimmer? It is highly recommended to check in for your cruise anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour prior to the scheduled departure time. From late spring to the end of summer, female dolphins from other areas flock to Destin when mating season rolls around. Need more insight to for the best family vacation activities? Although predicting the habits and location of wild animals is nearly impossible, you can do a few tips and tricks, as discussed below, to boost your likelihood of spying a few dolphins. What is it about penguins that fascinates us and delights us? Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Summer tourists comprise families with young children, which means theres no shortage of events and activities targeted towards them. A great way to try and catch a glimpse of dolphins is from the upper deck of a double-decker pontoon boat. As the sun sets, youll be able to see the dolphins swimming and playing in the water its truly a magical experience. Famous as a local fishing spot, the Okaloosa Island Pier extends nearly 1000 feet out into the Gulf of Mexico. If youre feeling adventurous, you can also go fishing or sailing in Harbor Walk Village. Youll not only get to swim with dolphins, youll get to interact with all sorts of amazing animals like sea lions and sting rays. While it is impossible to predict the location and habits of dolphins, there are a few things you can do to maximize your chances of seeing one. If you enjoy exploring nature, several state parks offer hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities to see wildlife. The best places to see sandbar dolphins are Eglin Beach State Park and Henderson Beach State Park. The park has a public beach and well-maintained amenities making for an easy and relaxing day at the beach. Summers in Florida can be downright hot, sticky and oppressive, so this isnt the best time to go either. Reach out to us at. So pack up your swimsuit and sunscreen and head to Crab Island Sandbar for a fun day. But its hardly memorable. View Hotel. This program also starts with the educational component. Dolphin & Sunset Tours in Destin Book Now! Nonetheless, its short afternoon showers that wont overly disrupt your vacation. Adult bottlenose dolphins can range from 6ft to 12ft in length, on average. To help get the most of your getaway, our handy guide will give you insight into the best time of year to see dolphins in Destin, Florida. However, the most commonly spotted dolphin in Destin is the bottlenose dolphin, or Tursiops truncatus. Its clear that they love what they do, and it makes for a truly magical experience. If you want to spend an hour enjoying the waves or a whole day exploring the coast, theres an option for you. While the sea oats are present in summer, they dont start blooming until June, hitting their peak in the early months of fall. Destin Commons is an outdoor lifestyle shopping center in the heart of Destin, Florida. Regarding the weather, although its hot, the humidity isnt uncomfortable as in September and August. Walking on the sand of Henderson Beach State Park or Elgin Beach Park, it may be possible to spot dolphins from a distance. Camping is $30 per night. So if youre ever in Destin, swing by Gator Beach Alligator Park and say hi to the resident alligators. In addition, the bay offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. You will laugh, cry, and be amazed by this mesmerizing show. The shallow waters are perfect for games like water volleyball, paddle boarding, water football, snorkeling, or just chillin. These pods frequently work together to hunt schools of fish. Seeing dolphins in their natural habitat is remarkably different from seeing them in an aquarium. The best month to visit Destin Florida is during the summer months of June, July, August, and September when temperatures are typically in the high 70s and . From late spring to the end of summer, female dolphins from other areas flock to Destin when mating season rolls around. Boats can remain within Choctawhatchee Bay, with dolphins often seen swimming below the Destin Bridge. The outdoor showers come in handy at the end of the day. And youll get a chance to get up close to both! Youll have the opportunity to shadow on of the Gulf World trainers all day long and go behind the scenes to see how the facility operates and cares for those in its charge. Boat-propellers, anchors, etc. This unique attraction offers the chance to get up close and personal with some of the ocean's most amazing creatures. Best Time of Year (And Day) to See Dolphins in Destin Florida And what better way to enjoy the Florida coastline than renting a jet ski or Waverunner? 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550. This is not only bad for the dolphins, but also leads to huge fines. 1540 Miracle Strip Parkway SE This is truly a memorable experience and we definitely recommend you check it out. Dolphin Sightings - Destin Forum - Tripadvisor Admission for non-Florida residents is $23.95 for adult guests, age 23 to 61, $22.95 for seniors, and $15.95 for children, age 3 to 12. Admission is only $3, making this a very affordable trip with the family. This exciting program will also start with that educational component and you may ask any questions you may have. (850) 978-3060. Reach out to Destiny Water Adventures today. Chat with a local mom for tips and recommendations! Contrary to the assumption that your pontoon boat must move at the slowest possible speed to spot dolphins, the truth is, these animals enjoy the wake. And dont forget to spend a day or more at Gulf World, which again is just an hour away. It is known for its white sand beaches and emerald green waters. Here are some of the dolphin swim programs you and your family can enjoy at the facility: All of the programs at Gulf World start with a fun and interactive educational component. Sun 10am-4pm, Phone: 877-574-5123 Youll also be close to Big Kahunas Water & Adventure Park, which kids absolutely love. December is the best time to visit Destin if you want a warmer climate for the holidays. Henderson Beach State Park is a beautiful place to enjoy a camping trip near Destin, Florida. Destins best beaches will have the largest crowds when summer rolls around with heavy traffic, particularly in the evenings and throughout the weekend. A great pair of telephoto lenses or binoculars can be invaluable tools to spot dolphins easily. It's also a great spot for dolphin watching because of the warmer waters. If you need a little pampering, then be sure to book some time at the hotel spa, the perfect spot for a massage, a romantic escape, or just an afternoon with the girls. This is just what it sounds like. From parasailing and jet skiing to deep-sea fishing and golfing, theres something for everyone in Destin. There are world-class resorts and fantastic restaurants offering mouthwatering fish dishes caught that day. The best time to visit Destin is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s . Boats can stay within Choctawhatchee Bay, and dolphins are often seen swimming underneath the Destin Bridge. Dolphin cruises are one of the top family-friendly things to do in Destin-FWB, and are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime! At any time of year there is usually something fun going on in and around Destin, Florida. 21 Fun Things To Do In Destin, Florida (#5 Will Surprise You) Visitors can learn about the early settlers who fished the waters off the coast of Florida and see how the town has changed over time. Its an unforgettable experience that everyone should try at least once. The Choctawhatchee River feeds the Choctawhatchee Bay and stretches over 30 miles. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, and searching for shells. For starters, you'll likely be right in time for the coveted Destin Seafood Festival. Boat-propellers, anchors, etc. We all know that Florida is called the sunshine state because it is sunny most of the year. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a must-see for any visit to the Gulf Coast. So whether you are looking for a day of adventure or a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, Choctawhatchee Bay is a great spot to spend some time. The white sand beaches and emerald waters are amazing to see. Fort Walton Beach Vs Destin [What's the Difference, Which is Better?] The museum tells the story of the Mississippian culture that once thrived in this area. Each program is designed to be educational, interactive, and very fun. From sporting events to festivals, concerts and outdoor festivities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Marlin Grill located inside the village at Baytown Wharf in Miramar. The gator handlers are passionate about their work and love sharing their knowledge with guests. Pods frequently work together to hunt schools of fish. The location is ideal for locals or tourists wanting to escape the louder and busier beaches closer to the party hubs. A few other fees may apply. The park is well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. If youve never ridden a jet ski or Waverunner before, dont worry most rental companies will provide a brief tutorial to get you started. Now, you could spend two weeks lounging around in your backyard. In fact, there are many free and cheap ways to see dolphins in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach. It is also the perfect way to see dolphins swimming and playing in their natural habitat. Led by an experienced and local guide, dolphin cruises take you to places where dolphins are commonly spotted along the Emerald Coast, for an up-close and unforgettable experience! Some people think that you need to keep your pontoon boat at the slowest possible speed in order to see dolphins, but dolphins actually like the wake! Some via a glass-bottom boat while others are on a relaxing catamaran. The magnificence of fall in Destin used to be a well-kept secret of the locals until the world caught on over the last few years. From pottery and tools to jewelry and weapons, these artifacts provide a unique view into the lives of the people who once called this place home. Our Destin Glass Bottom Boat dolphin cruise features a 2 hour narrated bay, harbor, and gulf cruise. Please complete the test before arriving. Best time to visit Destin? Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Sail through East Pass and enter the Gulf of Mexico, admiring the stunning views as you go. These shows go on for a period of 5 to 7 minutes. Visitors can interact with dolphins, sea lions, seals, stingrays, and more in a safe and fun environment. The 4 Best Dolphin Tours in Destin, Florida - FloridaPanhandle.com
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