Destin Family Vacation: Budget-Friendly Things to Do

One of Florida’s favorite family vacation destinations, Destin offers a wealth of budget-friendly vacation activities. This Panhandle retreat has long welcomed guests to enjoy its beaches and fun-filled atmosphere, with many attractions free or low-cost admission. In addition, those who book iTrip Vacations® Destin rentals, receive free admission to popular activities every day. Those who love the beach should plan a Destin family vacation and try these budget-friendly activities.

Destin Family Vacation: Cheap (and Fun) Things to Do

Play at the Beaches

A day at the beach ranks as the top choice for low-cost fun in Destin. World-renowned for its sugar-soft white sand, Destin offers 24 miles of well-groomed public beaches lapped by the Gulf of Mexico. Top rated spots include Henderson Beach State Park and Crystal Sands Beach.

Play at Grayton Beach Recreation Area

Pack a picnic and go hiking or kayaking at Grayton Beach Recreation Area. The 2,000-acre state park abounds with wildlife and colorful birds. Kayak and canoe rentals are available for a low daily rate. Explore the local environment, then cool off with a swim on beach.

Ride Go-karts

Take the kids to Track Family Recreation Center. Find miniature golf, go-karts, bungee jumping and high-octane fun at a low cost. Wild Woody, the park’s signature track, offers three levels of thrills. After go-karts, ride the carousel, planes, spin tops and bumper boats.

Learn About Destin

Explore Destin’s early history as a fishing village at the Destin History and Fishing Museum. See early photos of settlers, fishing scenes and Ernest Hemingway’s fishing rod, all in over 5,500 square feet of space. While touring, find out why Destin is known as the world’s luckiest fishing village.

Fish the Waters

It won’t feel like a Destin family vacation without a fishing trip. Stop by a local bait shop, purchase a Florida fishing license and go fishing. Okaloosa Island has a pier that welcomes families to cast a line.

Get Hands-on With Science

Spend a day at Emerald Coast Science Center where more than 250 interactive exhibits keep children engaged. See birds, snakes, hedgehogs, insets and more. Then learn how the world works through fun activities and play areas. Admission costs around $10 per person, with discounts for locals and groups.

Feed Gators

Feed the alligators at Gator Beach located at Fudpucker’s beachside restaurant. As one of the top attractions in Destin, gator beach features over 100 live alligators and hosts live shows. See them, feed them and even have pictures taken.

Look for Dolphins

Take a dolphin cruise. Narrated tours give families a close-up view of these friendly sea mammals. AJ’s Water Adventures offers 1.5-hour dolphin cruises through the area, while Sea Blast lets visitors search in style.

Those who enjoy golf, receive a free round at several area golf courses with iTrip Vacations® Destin and Xplorie. Plan a Destin family vacation today!