Discover the Magic of Destin, Florida in Just 4 Days
Dreaming of white-sand beaches, emerald waters, and unforgettable family fun? This 4-day itinerary for Destin, Florida offers the perfect mix of relaxing beach days, exciting excursions like Crab Island and dolphin cruises, and local gems like Harborwalk Village and Baytowne Wharf.
My family has been going to Destin, Florida every summer (expect 2020 due to COVID!) since 2013. It is a destination we look forward to going to each year! Destin offers just a great mix of relaxation and fun all in one location!
Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to the Gulf Coast, this itinerary is easy to follow and tailored for inexperienced travelers and families with kids. You’ll get realistic timing, meal ideas, local recommendations, and must-book experiences — all without the stress of overplanning.
Tip: Renting a car in Destin would be recommend. It gives you flexibility to explore Fort Walton, Miramar Beach, and all of Destin’s top attractions at your own pace!
What You’ll Experience on this 4-Day Destin Itinerary
- Relax on some of Florida’s best beaches
- Cruise to Crab Island and enjoy a sandbar party (family-style!)
- Explore the Gulfarium Marine Park and Okaloosa Island Pier
- Watch evening fireworks and enjoy the Harborwalk Village
- Visit the charming Village of Baytowne Wharf
- Enjoy local eats, ice cream, shopping, and family activities
- Take a sunset dolphin cruise for a magical evening on the water
Day 1: Destin Beach Day & Harborwalk Fireworks
Overview: Start your trip with a relaxing beach day, followed by dinner and fireworks at the bustling Harborwalk Village.
Day 1 of Destin Florida Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00AM – 9:30AM | Breakfast at Airbnb/hotel and prep for beach (snacks, tent, chairs) |
| 10:00AM – 12:30PM | Beach time (Public Access on Scenic Dr or check out Henderson Beach State Park) |
| 12:30PM – 1:30PM | Picnic lunch on the beach |
| 1:30PM – 3:00PM | More beach time or relax at your hotel/Airbnb pool |
| 3:00PM – 5:30PM | Rest / Showers / Get ready for evening |
| 5:30PM – 6:30PM | Drive & park at Harborwalk Village (AJ’s Paid Parking Lot, $10) |
| 6:30PM – 7:30PM | Dinner at the Harborwalk Boardwalk Recommend Fatboys (across from AJ’s Parking Lot) |
| 7:30PM – 8:30PM | Walk the Harborwalk Boardwalk – games, music, a great people-watching! |
| 8:30PM – 9:15PM | Fireworks Show over the harbor (Thursdays during summer months & July 4 week only) |
Tips:
- Bring shade (small tent or umbrella), beach chairs, beach blanket for toddlers
- Buy this portable tent on Amazon for easy setup
- Pack a small travel cooler like this one for beach drinks
Day 2: Breakfast Out & Crab Island Excursion in Destin Florida
Overview: Enjoy a slow morning, followed by an afternoon on the water at Crab Island — one of Destin’s most famous family-friendly attractions.
Day 2 of 4 day Destin Florida Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:30AM – 10:30AM | Late Breakfast out at one of these recommendations (We have been to all and they are great): Crackings, The Donut Hole, or The Pancakery |
| 11:00AM – 12:00PM | Return to Airbnb and prep for boat trip (towels, sunscreen, snacks) |
| 12:30PM – 1:00PM | Drive to SunVenture Cruises Kiosk, 314 Harbor Blvd |
| 1:30PM – 5:30PM | Crab Island Excursion (family-friendly boat tour, floating party) BOOK AHEAD! |
| 5:30PM – 8:00PM | Option 1: Head back and relax at Airbnb Option 2: Dinner nearby |
| 8:00PM | Evening Dessert at The Cone Ice Cream & Coffee + souvenir shopping nearby |
Reserve Your Crab Island Tour:
Book with Viator ($80 adults, $52 kids)
Day 3: Fort Walton Aquarium + Dolphin Sunset Cruise
Overview: A dry day filled with marine life, pier views, and an unforgettable dolphin cruise at sunset.
Day 3 of 4 Day Destin Florida Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00AM – 9:00AM | Quick breakfast (Airbnb or fast food pickup) |
| 9:00AM – 9:30AM | Drive to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, Fort Walton Beach |
| 9:30AM – 2:30PM | Explore aquarium + shows, grab lunch inside |
| 2:30PM – 3:30PM | Walk to Okaloosa Island Pier (next door!) |
| 4:00PM – 5:30PM | Early dinner in Fort Walton (both restaurants are a must!) • Stewby’s or Don Cha Peruvian |
| 5:30PM – 6:00PM | Drive back to Destin, to SunVenture Cruises Kiosk |
| 6:30PM – 8:00PM | Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise along Destin Harbor BOOK AHEAD!!! |
| 8:00PM | Ice cream or rest back at your Airbnb |
Reserve Your Dolphin Tour:
Book here ($35 adults, $23 kids)
Day 4: More Beach & Explore Baytowne Wharf
Overview: Your final day includes more beach time and a magical evening at the charming Village of Baytowne Wharf.
Day 4 Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00AM – 9:30AM | Breakfast at Airbnb and prep beach lunch/snacks |
| 10:00AM – 1:30PM | Morning at Henderson Beach State Park or a nearby public beach |
| 12:30PM – 1:30PM | Lunch picnic on the beach |
| 2:00PM – 3:30PM | Return to Airbnb, rest and clean up |
| 5:00PM – 5:30PM | Drive to Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach |
| 5:30PM – 8:00PM | Explore Baytowne Wharf and have dinner at one of their many restaurant options (shops, activities, kids zip line, playground). Check out their weekly summer calendar of events ahead of time! |
More on Baytowne Wharf:
http://www.baytownewharf.com/
Final Thoughts: Why Destin Is the Perfect 4-Day Family Escape
This 4-day Destin Florida itinerary is crafted with families and first-time visitors in mind. From crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches to kid-friendly adventures and local food spots, Destin truly offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Destin will always be one of my family’s favorite destinations, reason why we come back ever year!
By following this easy-to-use plan, you’ll get the most out of your stay — without overthinking it. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, cruising to Crab Island, or enjoying the evening fireworks and dolphin tours, Destin makes it easy to create memories that last a lifetime.
👉 Use this itinerary as your go-to guide for booking your car rental, excursions, and restaurant stops. Be sure to book your Crab Island and Dolphin tours in advance, and don’t forget sunscreen!