Whether it’s for a corporate team-building trip, a family reunion, or a bachelor/bachelorette party, Destin is the ideal location for a group getaway. The area boasts a wide range of activities so you’ll have no problem entertaining everyone as well as excellent beaches and nature hotspots. Destin is easily accessible with its own airport that services airlines such as Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta, Silver Airways, and United Airlines. By road, the convenient Interstate 10 is just 50 miles north of the city. And most importantly, our year-round warm weather means you can enjoy the beach even in the cooler months. Here are our recommendations for the best group activities in Destin.
Corporate Groups – Team Building
Beach Day
Destin is known for its white-sand beaches and crystalline waters, but doing some research or getting local tips is the best way to escape the beach crowds. Luckily our stretches of sand are long so there’s always a secluded spot where you and your team can set down your picnic rug and beach games. When you’re working hard at the office all week, taking your team to the beach to relax and splash around in the sea is the perfect way to unwind. Take some games such as bat and ball or a frisbee to encourage team bonding.
Our favorite beaches to go to include John Beasley Park which is surrounded by billowing sand dunes. If you want to get away from the party crowds, James Lee Park is a great option as it is slightly further from Destin.
Rent Jet Skis
Exploring the Emerald Coast by jet ski gives you access to secluded coves and interesting inlets. These high-adrenaline vehicles are a great way for you and your team to burn off some steam. If you’re looking to inject some fun into your corporate getaway, this is a great option. Here at Crab Island Watersports, we offer half-day and full-day rentals and follow safety protocols to ensure the protection of all our guests.
Visit The Village of Baytowne Wharf
This buzzing town on the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay is the ideal day trip from Destin. It’s full of eclectic galleries, boutiques, and interesting eateries. When the sun sets, there are plenty of nightlife options to choose from including the free Wednesday night concerts and live entertainment at bars like The Rum Runners(opens in a new tab). The Village has a schedule of events throughout the year so your group will always have plenty of entertainment options to choose from.
Treat Your Team to a Fancy Meal
We all know that a great way to show gratitude is through food. When your team has worked hard all year, why not treat them to a delicious dinner at one of the area’s top restaurants. The elegant “Gulf-to-Table” menu at Primrose(opens in a new tab) is a great introduction to Emerald Coast seafood. From freshly shucked oysters and beer-braised mussels to blackened gulf grouper and prime rib eye – these are top-quality ingredients cooked to perfection.
Family Reunion
Family reunions can be tricky as not only are you seeing people you haven’t seen for years but finding activities that are fun for all ages can be difficult. Here are some suggestions to keep the whole family happy.
Visit Crab Island
As one of Destin’s top destinations, the Crab Island sandbar is a must-visit for people of all ages. Spending the afternoon at this idyllic spot is an ideal activity for a family reunion. If you rent a pontoon boat to make the trip over to the island, your group can take lunch and refreshments to keep you stocked up while relaxing in the sun. Anchor up on the sandbar and float around in the emerald waters while you catch up with relatives you haven’t seen in years. Kids can splash around happily in the shallow waters and play with inflatables and other beach toys.
Go Snorkeling
The high visibility in the waters around Destin makes it a great place to snorkel. What many people don’t know is that snorkeling is not just for swimmers. People who can’t swim can still snorkel with the aid of a life jacket and with the company of 2 or more swimmers. Look out for octopuses, hermit crabs, snapper, flounder, and more – if you’re really lucky, you might spot a ray or a pod of dolphins. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite snorkeling spots and tips for beginners.
Wildlife Spotting
With a wide range of habitats, the Emerald Coast is home to many weird and wonderful species. From reptiles in the marshes to dolphins, manatees, and turtles in the water. Due to the warm weather and abundance of food, the area is also a birdwatchers paradise with pelicans, gulls, and herons all making an appearance. Take your family on a wildlife-spotting expedition and bond over the excitement of identifying different species.
Go Fishing
Reeling in a fish is satisfying at the best of times, think about setting up your fishing post surrounded by your family members and catching up as you sip an icy drink in the sun. The nutrient-rich waters of the Gulf of Mexico combined with the natural habitats in the form of shallow bays and productive reefs attract a wide variety and large quantity of fish to the area. The tides push the bait and crabs into the bay from the Gulf of Mexico. With several different geographical features in the area, there are fishing grounds for every level and plenty of different species to choose from.
Bachelor & Bachelorette Trips
When gathering together to celebrate a friend’s entrance into married life, you want to ensure that it’s a trip to remember.
Beach Bonfire
Watch the sunset from an idyllic Destin beach and sit around a campfire chatting with friends. There are various companies in Destin that offer a beach bonfire set up so that all you and your group need to do is arrive! Companies like 30A Blaze(opens in a new tab) offer packages in South Walton which include the fire, chairs, lanterns, roasting sticks, and more according to the service you choose. You can also add on food or a s’mores package.
Rent a Pontoon Boat
Renting a pontoon boat is a great way to get to see more of Choctawhatchee Bay and its array of beautiful beaches and swimming spots. Our Crab Island Watersports pontoon boat rentals even have an additional captain service so you and your group can enjoy a few beers or cocktails.
Check out Destin Brewery
Try a local brew at Destin Brewery(opens in a new tab), check out the local flavors in their IPA, Destin ale, double IPA, and fruit-infused beers. This is a local hotspot and a great place to come for an evening drink and food. The flatbread pizzas and hot dogs are the perfect accompaniment to the craft ales. The venue also holds events such as trivia night – a great way to start your night!
As you can see, Destin is a great city for all different kinds of groups. There’s plenty to do in all seasons making it the ideal destination for a group getaway.
