With the city’s website claiming the nickname of “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin is a popular destination for many residents in the south and midwes. According to Wikipedia, the city is located on what is essentially a man-made island, Destin sits between the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay.
According to the Florida website for visitors, these units support an annual migration of nearly 5 million visitors, who love the white beaches and emerald water that gives the area the name, the Emerald Coast. The sand has a sugar quality to it and is unique among Florida beaches. It is made of ground quartz crystal coming from the Appalachian Mountains.
Local businesses offer all the traditional water sports and activities, with many fishing charter options. The city provides a dozen access points to the beaches, including the Henderson Beach State Recreation area and the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
According to the Emerald Coast website, this unofficial designation of Emerald Coast encompasses an area in the northern panhandle of Florida that runs from Pensacola to Panama City and includes Ft. Walton Beach.
In addition to the many water-based tourist activities, Destin has a number of museums, attractions, and even two zoos. The Gulfarium is very popular with both kids and adults, providing a close look at the Gulf ecosystem and how it affects various aspects of life along the coast.