16 Most Romantic Things to Do in Destin, Florida

Are you traveling to Destin with your loved one and are looking for what to do? This article will give you the most romantic things to do in Destin, Florida!

Nicknamed the “Crown Jewel of the Emerald Coast” for its vast expanses of powdery white beaches and emerald-green water waters, Destin has tons of fun things to do for couples.

There’s a little something for every kind of traveler from museums, galleries, historic sites, and fun experiences that will bring you closer as a couple.

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Perched on the tip of the Continental Shelf, this seaside town, nicknamed “the world’s luckiest fishing village” is blessed with shallow waters making it a perfect destination for the adventurous couple.

Whether you want to rekindle your romance on a deep-sea fishing excursion, a moonlight stroll, or say I love you on a dolphin sunset cruise, this article will show you all the romantic things to do in Destin Fl.

Most Romantic Things to Do in Destin, Florida

Regardless of whether you’re planning a romantic getaway in Destin Florida or are a local looking for new Destin date ideas, this post will help you.

1. Swing by the Destin History & Fishing Museum

If you’re a history-loving couple, start your Destin trip at this quaint little museum which takes you back in time to the 1830s.

You’ll learn how Destin became an official city in 1984 and its historic fishing industry.

The museum also organizes various exhibits including one which explains Destin’s white-colored sand and emerald-colored waters, the history of diving in Destin, and many others.

It also houses various fish mounts on its walls, historic photos, maps, memorabilia, antique fishing equipment, the oldest seine fishing boat, and more. While here, don’t miss the historic post office too.

The museum personnel are knowledgeable and passionate locals who’ll regale you with tales of the town’s founding families and gigantic fish mounts.

Though visiting the History & Fishing Museum might sound unconventional for couples, it’s the perfect place to duck into during inclement weather.

Related Post: Airports near Destin FL

2. Go For A Sunset Dolphin Cruise for a Close Encounter

Imagine riding the waves in a small group boat cruise with the love of your life while curious and happy dolphins frolic about in their natural habitat and put on a show for you! Nothing beats this feeling!

While you can go on a cruise any time, we recommend going for this dolphin sunset cruise for a truly unforgettable spectacle of these majestic sea creatures with the backdrop of a beautiful sunset.

And since it’s not a crowded cruise, you’ll still have that romantic feeling rather than on a crowded one since this cruise is specific to only 14 people and sometimes fewer.

>>> Click here to book your dolphin sunset cruise before spots run out!

Another way to encounter dolphins is by going for this Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise. Unlike the usual cruises, this one uses a hydrojet to make it a more thrilling experience as you view dolphins, stingrays, and turtles along the way.

>>> Click here to book a spot on this hydrojet dolphin cruise.

3. Stroll the Atmospheric Destin Harbor Boardwalk

Among the fun things to do in Destin for couples is taking a walk down the pretty Destin Harbor Boardwalk which also is home to one of Florida’s largest fishing fleets.

This free activity will keep you entertained for hours on end. You can watch party boats, pontoons, and fishing charters sail in and out of the harbor, listen to the cries of the gulls, or even pick up exquisite souvenirs at the many bric-a-brac stores.

And when you’re done walking around, sit at one of the waterfront restaurants with spellbinding ocean views for a delicious meal of either oysters, shrimp & grits, or sushi rolls. Follow this up with a night of dancing at any of the harborfront Destin bars.

4. Go On A Destin Harbor Night Cruise

While cruising on the Destin harbor is rewarding during the day, you can take your experience to the next level by opting for this Destin nighttime cruise.

On this cruise, you’ll take in the beauty of the sparkling night lights of Destin’s skyline and their reflection on the water while you toast to your loved one.

The cruise is intimate with just 6 people allowed on board so you’ll feel like you rented your own boat.

Make sure that you carry your drinks, snacks, and a warm sweater before you go.

>>> Click here to book your spot on this Destin harbor night cruise before the cruise books out!

5. Hire Private Chartered Slide Pontoon Boat To Crab Island

Boat cruises on the Destin Harbor are no doubt romantic but what’s even more special is renting this private chartered pontoon boat to have the entire boat to yourselves.

Perfect for when you’re celebrating a special occasion or if you want to enjoy the Destin waters on your own, with a private chartered boat, you’ll have a private captain take you anywhere you feel like including the famous Crab Island.

On this cruise, you’ll have a chance of spotting dolphins and if you’re adventurous, you can go snorkeling or paddle boarding using the provided equipment! Honestly, you can’t ask for a more romantic thing to do in Destin than this.

If you want to treat your loved one to this activity, click here to book the private chartered slide pontoon boat in advance.

Not sure how to plan a trip to Crab Island, you can read our comprehensive guide to visiting Crab Island Destin.

6. Participate in Various Watersports

One of the fun and romantic things to do in Destin, Florida is to participate in various watersports, and luckily for you, Destin offers a number of them.

You can either go snorkeling or diving in Destin’s clear waters to discover the magical sea creatures with the love of your life by your side. There is nothing more romantic than that in our opinion.

For an adrenaline rush, consider taking on the high seas on a wave runner or a jet ski where you’ll have a chance to spot dolphins.

If that’s not your kind of thing, take to the skies with a parasailing adventure! How’s that for a romantic getaway in Destin’s proverbial blue skies?

And if you still have more time in your itinerary, head to Choctawhatchee Bay where you can kayak and paddleboard away on the tranquil waters of the gulf.

For active couples, this is truly one of the fun and memorable romantic ideas in Destin FL.

While you can go on some of these activities on your own, we recommend booking tours to elevate your experience and take away the stress of planning.

With tours, you’ll just sit back and have a lovely time with your loved one while the tour company takes care of everything for you.

Some of the watersports activities you can book include this Banana Boat Experience or this jetski adventure to Crab island where you’ll be able to spot some dolphins along the way.

7. Enjoy a Relaxing Couple’s Massage

What better way to rejuvenate and burn off stress together than with a couple’s massage?

Schedule a session for the two of you and pick a massage therapy that suits your need!

The hugely popular Swedish massage will help restore all those lost energies as you soak in the ambient music and aromas but the Hot stone treatment will melt away all your stress. For radiant glowing skin, consider facial spas and treatments.

Don’t be too overwhelmed by all these choices! You can always ask for a recommendation from the well-trained staff and they will help you decide what suits your needs.

Not sure where to go? Some of the best massage places in Destin include Om Relaxation Spa, Massage Envy, and Ruyi Massage.

8. Book a Couple’s Photoshoot With a Professional Photographer

One of the most romantic things to do in Destin Fl is to go on a couple’s photoshoot with a professional photographer.

Yes, you can take photos with your phones but to make your Destin romantic getaway even more memorable, we recommend using a professional photographer.

There are quite a few in Destin but we recommend opting for this photographer! Besides taking you to some of the most photogenic spots in Destin (both famous and hidden gems), the photographer will also direct your photo shoot in case you’re not sure how to pose as a couple.

And after the shoot, you’ll receive 45 perfectly edited photos that will remind you of your trip forever.

>>> Click here to book your private couple’s photoshoot in Destin.

9. Spend a Day At Henderson Beach State Park

While there are so many beautiful beaches in Destin, one that is perfect for a couple’s getaway is the photogenic Henderson Beach State Park just a short drive west of Destin center.

With its sparkling white sand dunes that tower into the skies, this protected strip features a boardwalk, pavilions, and barbecue grills, so carry your picnic essentials for a romantic picnic at the beach.

There are also hiking trails and bicycling options if you get tired of just laying on the sand.

And if you want to elevate your date, the park has campsites where you and your special one can spend a night under the skies.

Into fishing? At Henderson, you’ll experience for yourself why Destin is called the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village. Anglers have been rewarded with catfish, flounder, pompano, and other kinds of fish.

10. Have a Laugh at the Maximum Magic Show

Want to escape the beach and do something unique? Then head to HarborWalk Theater to watch this Maximum magic show.

Hosted by the award-winning duo, Noah & Heather Wells, these two illusionists will have you laughing your ribs out with funny jokes and questioning yourselves about what you’re watching with mindblowing illusions.

The show lasts a whopping 90 minutes, so if you’re looking for cool things to do in Destin at night, this is one not to miss.

You can book your tickets to the show from here!

11. Shop Until You Drop at Destin Commons

Get all those retail needs met at the Emerald Coast’s top-rated outdoor shopping complex featuring world-famous brand stores that sell anything from beach essentials, and fashion accessories, to trinkets and souvenirs.

The complex is meticulously landscaped and boasts water fountains, restaurants, art galleries, and all sorts of entertainment for a fun day with your loved one.

If you’re into street art, be sure to check out the intriguing murals painted by local and international artists. You can even take fun and quirky photos in front of them to remember your romantic getaway in Destin.

More into movies instead? You can sink into a super comfy recliner at the in-house IMAX theater which boasts a range of screenings.

And to crown your visit, step inside one of the many Destin Commons dining options for a nice meal be it Gulf Coast burgers, chipotle-infused Mexican food, beef jerky, or sushi. You’ll find anything you’re craving here!

12. Have a Romantic Dinner Date at Beach Walk Cafe

Another no-brainer activity for couples in Destin Fl is going for a romantic dinner date.

Being a beach destination, there are so many beachfront restaurants in Destin where you can have a romantic dinner while taking the views of the sea, but we can’t think of a better restaurant than Beach Walk Cafe.

Located in Henderson Park Inn on a private beach, there is no better place for fine dining right on the beach than this cafe.

You can reserve their “VIP Toes in the Sand dining experience” to have a romantic table set for you right on the beach as you nosh on the perfectly prepared meals with local and fresh ingredients served with high-quality wines.

And at the end of the day, if you feel lazy to leave, you don’t have to! You can just check yourselves into this 4-star hotel and wake up to stunning water views in the morning.

If you choose to spend a night at Henderson Park Inn, make sure that you book a room in advance since they book out fast.

If Beach Walk Cafe is not your ideal date spot, then you can check out other seafood restaurants in Destin with harbor views or these Italian restaurants in Destin if you feel like Italian food!

Related Post: Where to Have Breakfast in Destin

13. Splash about at Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park

If you want to let your inner kids out, there is no better place to visit in Destin than Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park.

With over 40 rides including an idyllic lazy river to glide along and thrilling water slides, you can easily spend half a day or even a day having fun with your loved one.

The wave pool’s simulators are so real; you’ll feel the resistance and currents. Just perfect to prep you for a plunge in the ocean.

For those who can’t swim, don’t worry! The staff here is well-trained and you’re in safe hands.

All that splashing and sun basking aside, another worthy distraction at the Big Kahuna Water Park is its miniature golf course. Try your hand at golf in the adventure park before you head out to Destin’s scenic golf courses.

You should however note that this park opens seasonally — from mid-March for the Adventure park and mid-April for the water park.

14. Cozy up With Sea creatures and Gators

Another unique and fun couple thing to do in Destin FL is a trip to Gator Beach in Fudpecker’s Beachside Bar & Grill.

Gator Beach is the world’s greatest alligator park where you can get an up-close encounter with live gators including the rare albino alligator and learn about them from the various exhibits on display!

The best part is that entrance and watching the exhibits are completely free making it one of the best things to do in Destin for couples on a budget.

If you and your love are the adventurous kinds, get yourselves snapped holding a live gator!

You could even feed them by lowering the string attached to the end of a feeding pole, though this will require paying a couple of bucks. And don’t worry about safety because the safety of visitors is a top priority at Gator Beach.

Finally, don’t miss the giant skull of a prehistoric Floridian crocodile, the alligator nest, and other rare alligators at the Crocodilia Discovery Zone which is just next to the Bait Shack.

For something less dramatic, the playful penguins, seals, and sea lions await you at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park which is located just a 15-minute drive from Gator Beach.

With all this, there is no doubt that there are a ton of offbeat Destin activities for couples.

15. Take a Leisurely Stroll on The Beach at Sunset

It might sound like a cliche but strolling on a beach at sunset is one of the romantic date ideas in Destin you shouldn’t miss.

Most beaches in Destin have spectacular sunsets so choose one you prefer, hold hands, and stroll on the soft powder-like sand as you walk into a sunset while reminding yourselves how much you mean to each other.

16. Dance and Dine under the Stars on the Ocean

Bring your Destin sojourn to a close with a romantic dinner and intimate dancing on one of the city’s entertainment yachts with SunQuest Cruise.

At this splendid affair, you’ll be treated to a three-course meal of fresh seafood preparations, or prime steak among other delights.

You can also head up to the deck for glorious views while saying sweet-nothings to your loved one.

Besides food and views, there is also live entertainment and a full bar making the experience one of the top couple things to do in Destin, Florida.

And if you’re lucky, you might be treated to a spectral moonlit night on the ocean during your dinner cruise!

Final Thoughts on the Most Romantic Things to Do in Destin, FL

Whether it’s culture, food, nature, or outdoor pursuits that you’re after, Destin delivers the goods and how.

This romantic little beach town has made its mark on thousands of vacationers over centuries and you’ll be surprised at the experiences that lie in wait.

Book those tickets and head down to one of Florida’s most sought-after destinations for a perfect romantic getaway.

Which romantic activity in Destin can’t you wait to do with your loved one?

But before you go, consider sharing romantic things to do in Destin FL if you found the article helpful!

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