Destin Florida in December: A Magical Holiday Escape
Destin, Florida, transforms into a cozy holiday haven every December, blending its stunning coastal scenery with festive events and attractions.
With beachside holiday lights, unique local markets, and family-friendly activities, Destin makes for a magical winter escape.
Here’s everything you need to know about what to do, where to stay, and how to experience Destin’s seasonal charm to the fullest.
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Holiday Events and Activities in Destin, in December
Destin comes alive with holiday cheer, offering a mix of classic events and local favorites. Here are the can’t-miss activities for all ages:
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Destin Harbor Lighted Christmas Boat Parade
Date: December 15th, 2024 from 6-9pm
Location: Destin Harbor
Description: Watch a parade of boats decked out in dazzling holiday lights as they glide through the harbor. The best views are from HarborWalk Village, where you can also enjoy live entertainment and festive food. See photos from past boat parades and get more information for the Destin Christmas Boat Parade here. -
Holiday on the Harbor at HarborWalk Village
Dates: All of December
Location: Emerald Grande, 10 Harbor Blvd.
Activities: Live music, Mistletoe Market, and photo ops with Santa. There’s even an opportunity to dine with Santa at Breakfast with Santa on select weekends! Check their facebook page for all the fun dates, times, locations of the HarborWalk Village December festivities here. -
Destin Commons Jolly Jubilee
Dates: Weekends in December
Location: 4100 Legendary Drive, Destin Florida
Highlights: This event features live music, photos with Santa, a lighted tree display, and a festive atmosphere. Destin Commons Jolly Jubilee official website here. -
Baytowne on Ice
Dates: November through February
Location: The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Experience: Lace up your skates and glide under the stars at this outdoor ice rink, open daily. See the calendar for Baytowne on Ice here. -
12 Nights of Lights
Dates: Throughout December
Location: The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Description: Stroll through beautifully decorated Christmas trees, enjoy the holiday lights, live music and Santa visits plus shopping, holiday cocktails and more.
Family-Friendly Attractions and Kid-Friendly Activities
Destin offers an array of fun options that kids (and the young at heart) will love!
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The Track Family Recreation Center
This family-favorite spot features go-karts, bumper boats, and a mini-golf course perfect for kids and adults alike. Official Family Fun Track website here. -
Big Kahuna’s Mini Golf
Play a round of mini-golf with a twist at this tropical adventure mini course, complete with waterfalls, caves, and fun obstacles. Official Big Kahuna’s Mini Golf website here. -
Destin History and Fishing Museum
Great for curious kids and history buffs, this museum highlights Destin’s roots as a fishing village, showcasing vintage boats, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. Official Destin History and Fishing Museum here. -
Dolphin Cruises and Eco-Tours
Hop aboard a family-friendly dolphin cruise to spot playful dolphins, enjoy a sunset, or learn about the local marine life. - Best Kid-friendly Beaches in Destin
- Henderson Beach State Park: A popular beach with a playground, kids park, nature trail, and lifeguards
- Miramar Beach: A wide, flat beach that’s good for building sandcastles and playing games, plus it’s also a good spot for parasailing and jet skiing
- James Lee Park: A beach with swimming, restrooms, showers, and picnic pavilions
Pet-Friendly Destin: Bringing Your Dog Along
Destin in December is dog-friendly, with many parks, beaches, and outdoor areas welcoming your four-legged friends.
- Dog-Friendly Beaches: While dogs aren’t allowed on the beaches, there are dog-friendly trails like at Henderson Beach State Park and sidewalks along the beaches that are quite enjoyable.
- HarborWalk Village: Many outdoor cafes and shops here allow dogs, making it easy to stroll with your pet.
- Dining with Dogs: Check out pet-friendly spots like Camille’s and Beach Walk Cafe, where you can dine with your dog outdoors.
Two Top Places to Stay in Destin
Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly options or a luxury getaway, Destin has accommodations to suit all preferences.
Two Highly-rated Stays in Destin:
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Hampton Inn & Suites Destin (great deal!)
Offers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and an outdoor pool close to many attractions. They’re pet-friendly too, and check out those great reviews! -
The Henderson Beach Resort and Spa (check out those reviews!)
Highly-rated hotel on beautiful Miramar Beach, with an easy walk to Henderson State Park.
Things to Do in Destin Beyond the Holidays
If you have extra time or prefer activities outside of the holiday events, Destin’s natural beauty and attractions offer endless fun:
- Explore HarborWalk Village: Perfect for an afternoon stroll with its waterfront views, unique boutiques, and seafood restaurants.
- Visit Baytowne Wharf: This charming village is known for its shops, art and eateries, as well as special events.
- Fishing Charters: Destin is known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” Book a charter to try your hand at catching red snapper, grouper, or even mahi-mahi.
- Play Golf: With its mild winter weather, December is ideal for golfing at one of Destin’s world-class courses, like Regatta Bay or Kelly Plantation.
- Local Breweries: Sample local craft beers at breweries such as Destin Brewery for a cozy break from the outdoors.
- Water Sports: Although December is cooler, adventurous visitors can still enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.
Best Spots for Holiday Cheer in Destin
HarborWalk Village
The heart of Destin’s holiday festivities, HarborWalk Village is decked out with lights, holiday music, and festive market stalls.
Baytowne Wharf
An upscale village where you’ll find seasonal ice skating, a tree lighting ceremony, and festive decorations throughout December.
Great Cafes, Gift Shops and Local Finds
Destin’s cozy cafes and unique shops offer perfect stops for warm drinks, tasty treats, and one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.
Here are five popular shopping destinations in Destin that are loved by visitors and locals alike:
HarborWalk Village Shops – Located right along the harbor, these shops offer everything from local art and souvenirs to beachwear and coastal decor.
Alvin’s Island – A Florida staple, Alvin’s Island is perfect for souvenirs, beach essentials, and unique tropical-themed gifts.
Destin Commons – This outdoor shopping center features popular stores like H&M, Sephora, and Bass Pro Shops, as well as specialty boutiques and local shops.
The Shard Shop – A unique spot where you can create or buy beautiful glass art pieces made with colorful glass shards.
Silver Sands Premium Outlets – Just a short drive from Destin, this outlet mall has over 100 designer and name-brand stores, perfect for finding deals and gifts.
With its winter festivities, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly attractions, Destin Florida in December is truly a holiday paradise. Whether you’re here to soak up the seasonal events, enjoy outdoor activities, or simply relax by the beach, you’ll find plenty to make your visit magical.
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