6 of the Best Outdoor Recreation Opportunities on the Emerald Coast

You can’t beat spending your days on the Gulf Coast outside, basking in the glow of the warm Florida sunshine. There are tons of incredible outdoor recreation opportunities on the Emerald Coast for every age. Keep reading to discover some of our favorite ways to enjoy the beautiful coastline during your visit! 

For more ways to make the most of your trip to Destin, be sure to request access to our complimentary Vacation Guide! 

Don’t Miss Out on These Emerald Coast Outdoor Recreation Activities 

1. Kayaking and Paddleboarding 

Whether you’re paddleboarding on the clear Gulf waters or kayaking on the calm shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, this is one of our favorite outdoor recreation opportunities on the Emerald Coast. There are tons of local spots that rent paddleboards and kayaks, including Rent Gear Here and Gusu Paddle and Surf Rentals.  

2. Hike in a Nearby State Park 

While most people don’t think about scenic hikes through woods when talking about outdoor recreation on the Emerald Coast, there are a handful of state parks that provide plenty of family fun. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or taking a casual stroll, be sure to check out Topsail Hill Reserve State Park, Point Washington State Forest, Eden Gardens State Park, and Deer Lake State Park. 

3. Explore Grayton Beach 

Take a drive past Miramar Beach and Topsail Hill Reserve State Park to discover Grayton Beach. This quaint town and beautiful state park offers some of the most picturesque shorelines along the Emerald Coast. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities here, and there is plenty of room for you to kick back and relax on the sand without worrying about crowds of people. There is a $5 fee for parking per vehicle.  

4. Relax on the Sugar-White Sands of Destin 

Spending long, lazy days on Destin’s beaches is one of the best ways to spend your time outside on the Emerald Coast. Whether you frolic in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, build sandcastles, or read your favorite book, there are endless ways to relax on our incredible shoreline.  

5. Bike Along 30A 

Going for a long bike ride is a fun way to enjoy outdoor recreation on the Emerald Coast. You can find a collection of fantastic trails in Grayton Beach with miles of beautiful nature to explore. Whether you bring your own or rent from one of the companies in the area, this is the perfect way to spend a sunny morning or afternoon.  

6. Play a Round on a Championship Golf Course 

The incredible year-round weather on the Emerald Coast is ideal for playing a round (or two) of golf at one of the nearby championship-caliber courses. The well-manicured links pay homage to the Sunshine State’s renowned golfing scene, with over a dozen incredible courses located throughout the Destin and 30A areas. 

Plan Your Emerald Coast Adventure With Harmony Beach Vacations

Start planning your trip by booking one of our properties. We look forward to welcoming you to the Harmony Beach Vacations family.