If youre worried about sunburn, dont worry most pontoons have shade canopies that keep you cool and comfortable all day. Whether youre celebrating a birthday or looking for a fun night out, youre covered. And of course, there are a plethora of outdoor activities like golf, swimming, kayaking and snorkeling. When should we arrive for our scheduled dolphin cruise? However, having a pontoon boat rental ushers in increased freedom. 30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Destin (Florida) - Busy Tourist Summer tourists comprise families with young children, which means theres no shortage of events and activities targeted towards them. A great way to try and catch a glimpse of dolphins is from the upper deck of a double-decker pontoon boat. Waverunner Dolphin Tours - Destin Vacation Boat Rentals With about 40,000 dolphins situated in the Gulf of Mexico, there are abundant opportunities for travelers on the Emerald Coast to catch a glimpse of these spectacular mammals. Visitors can interact with dolphins, sea lions, seals, stingrays, and more in a safe and fun environment. Whether you're eager to spot dolphins in Destin, cruise the Choctawhatchee Bay, or party at Crab Island, Double Fun Watersports offers the right pontoon boat charters for an incredible trip. From pottery and tools to jewelry and weapons, these artifacts provide a unique view into the lives of the people who once called this place home. You can see dolphins in Namibia's Walvis Bay pretty much all year round, while the best time for dolphin conservation vacations in Greece is . This is a relatively new program for the facility and it is already proving to be one of their most popular. Dolphins reside in groups known as pods that typically comprise anywhere between 10 and 30 members. Also, dont forget to wave to all the friendly pirates youll encounter. Best time for dolphin watching - responsibletravel.com For many visitors, one of the highlights is being able to spot dolphins in the wild. Traffic and parking in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach can be hectic, especially during the peak season, so it is important to consider this and allow yourself plenty of time to drive there, park, and walk to the check-in booth or kiosk. Dolphins are most active at the crack of dawn, between 10 am and noon, and from 2 pm till dusk. The Dolphins of Destin: Best Time to See Them, It helps to be on the water for the highest likelihood of getting an up-close view of dolphins. Discount Watersports rents jet skis and waverunners that will let you tour the brilliant waters of the Gulf at your own pace. From WEST of Destin (Ft Walton Beach, Pensacola) Take Hwy 98 East to Destin over the Destin Bridge. And you can hardly do that staying at home, which is why so many families travel somewhere exciting for their vacation. From sporting events to festivals, concerts and outdoor festivities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The best time to whale watch in Southern California means lots of food is in the area and the opportunity to sight more than one species is likely. Public beaches are right next door as is The Track, a great place that offers go-karts, thrill rides and bumper boats. When trying to decide what to wear for a dolphin cruise, the best thing to do is to check the weather, as most dolphin cruises take place aboard uncovered and open-air boats. Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 It is also the perfect way to see dolphins swimming and playing in their natural habitat. Each program is designed to be educational, interactive, and very fun. For instance, the Atlantic spotted dolphin can periodically be seen in the Indian Ocean from the coast of Destin. Best places to see dolphins in Destin-Fort Walton Beach The waters off Destin-Fort Walton Beach are teeming with wildlife but none capture the popular imagination quite like the dolphin. The campsite has 60 campsites to accommodate either tents or RVs. It helps to be on the water for the highest likelihood of getting an up-close view of dolphins. Or visit Jetty East to secure a condo with a view. Be sure to check on availability if you are visiting in the off season. wild dolphins, it can be dangerous for even strong swimmers. There is usually time for questions at the end, so you and your family can ask whatever is on your mind. In addition to the foot push, this program will also have you experience the dorsal tow, which is where you hold onto the dolphins dorsal fin and they pull you across the water. Nonetheless, its short afternoon showers that wont overly disrupt your vacation. It is important to be aware that while parts of this awesome aquarium are indoors, the majority of the complex is outdoors with covered awnings. Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour 2023 - Destin - Viator Of course, the scenic views are simply breathtaking. Guided boat tours take passengers to well-known dolphin sighting spots, but having a private boat charter such as a pontoon gives you a little more freedom. Therefore, upon spotting one dolphin, chances are, a few more are lurking in the area. Are you one of those people that has always secretly (or maybe not-so-secretly) dreamed of swimming with dolphins some day? General admission ranges from about $18 $25. At any time of year there is usually something fun going on in and around Destin, Florida. As such, this time of year is perfect for dolphin watching. Dolphin & Sunset Tours in Destin Book Now! Swim with Dolphins near Destin, FL [Gulfarium] - Mom's Plan-it Vacation Cheapest Time to Visit Destin, Florida (With Budget Activities) Relax on your balcony first thing in the morning and watch for the telltale ripples in the water that signal dolphins are near. Avoid swimming with dolphins in the wild. [emailprotected], Visitors Center + Offices Aside from excursions, events, and restaurants, theres a boatload of water sports adventures in which you can revel. One of the best places to enjoy these features is Choctawhatchee Bay. What do you get when you combine all of these terrific things into one family-fun activity? There is just something about witnessing these wonderful marine mammals that makes any beach vacation that much more special. Visiting Destin, Florida: When is the Best Time to Go? Bearing this in mind, its canceling plans depending on the weather forecast isnt recommended. Some via a glass-bottom boat while others are on a relaxing catamaran. A kids area has a giant play structure and kid-friendly slides. Henderson Beach State Park is a beautiful place to enjoy a camping trip near Destin, Florida. Steve loves to travel, kayak, paddle board, camp, hike, and spend time outdoors with his wife and two kids. Aside from excursions, events, and restaurants, theres a boatload of water sports adventures in which you can revel. Some rooms enjoy a pretty gulf view and all are clean and spacious. Fall is an incredible time to visit Destin. The cost of transportation and accommodations starts to come down at that time as well. Destin is well-known for its beautiful beaches and turquoise waters. Destins best beaches will have the largest crowds when summer rolls around with heavy traffic, particularly in the evenings and throughout the weekend. One of the best things about Big Kahunas water park is that it is open all year round. If youre looking for comfortable and spacious accommodations minutes from the beach and that wont break the bank, then look no further than Hampton Inn & Suites. As such, this time of year is perfect for dolphin watching. Its exhibits showcase a wide variety of artifacts from this period. 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550. During this program, youll get to spend some time hugging and splashing around with your new pals. But thats not all that this lively city has to offer. These shows go on for a period of 5 to 7 minutes. Its when the locals come out of a hiatus after the intense summer to delight in all the festivities and fishing events that come with the season. Explore bite-sized adventures for the whole family. 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park. Youll enjoy the fresh sea air and take in the stunning views of the Emerald Coast. Adult bottlenose dolphins can range from 6ft to 12ft in length, on average. A bottlenose dolphin will typically be a blue-gray color, and have lightly-colored bellies. Please complete the test before arriving. From Memorial Day all through mid-August, you can expect a spike in the prices. You can see dolphins in Namibia's Walvis Bay pretty much all year round, while the best time for dolphin conservation holidays in Greece is . Bottlenose dolphins typically have lightly-colored bellies and are blue-grey. The beach is especially a sight for sore eyes during this period as the sea oats are in full bloom, adding abundant beauty to the landscape. The magnificence of fall in Destin used to be a well-kept secret of the locals until the world caught on over the last few years. 1625 Scenic Hwy 98 East, Destin, FL 32541. It's true that it might not be the ideal time to go swimming and that many popular tours take a winter break from hosting guests, but there is still so much to do in this fun city!. For those who want to see cool animals but dont feel the need to get up THAT close to them, there is the Shark & Turtle Channel where you can watch trainers feed sea turtles, nurse sharks and other native fish and marine life. Destin is often more crowded than Fort Walton Beach and offers many water-based activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. And when the dolphins are just inches from your face, youll break out into the BIGGEST smile. Campers at Henderson Beach State Park will enjoy all this beautiful park offers. Visitors can learn about the early settlers who fished the waters off the coast of Florida and see how the town has changed over time. While the sea oats are present in summer, they dont start blooming until June, hitting their peak in the early months of fall. You can get unlimited park passes or individual game and event tickets. You'll not only learn about dolphin behavior but also the importance of protecting the dolphin's natural habitat. There is something for everyone at the Boardwalk, from young families to retirees. If you like the idea of traveling somewhere that boasts stunning white sand beaches and emerald-hued water, challenging golf courses and world-famous deep-sea fishing, then Destin, Florida is calling! . Located on Florida's west coast just 20 minutes from Tampa International Airport, Clearwater Beach is the perfect destination for families who want to relax while . The Best Time to Visit Destin, FL, US for Weather, Safety, & Tourism Youll then also slip into the water to meet your new dolphin friends. A. ferries passengers to renowned dolphin-sighting spots. Fall In Destin: Mid-August to Mid-November, Tourist Demographic: Families, Adults, and Couples during Fall Break, Weather: Humid and hot in early fall but cooler evenings and lower humidity in the coming months. Fort Walton Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. Not only is it home to dozens of alligators, but you can feed them, hold them, and even get your picture taken with them. Panama City E-Bike Tour 75 from $81.34 Destin, Florida Crab Island and Dolphin Cruise 17 from $55.00 Destin, Florida Small-Group Banana Boat Ride at Miramar Beach Destin 51 from $39.95 Destin, Florida Destin Dash Scavenger Hunt 11 from $22.00 Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here Overview This is not only bad for the dolphins, but also leads to huge fines. Walking on the sands of Elgin Beach Park or Henderson State Park ushers in the likelihood of seeing dolphins at a distance. They include zip-lining, fishing, fly-boarding, banana boat rides, parasailing, jet-skiing, bungee jumping, stand-up paddle-boarding, and boating. With that being said, dolphin watching is the perfect source of affordable family fun, and a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime! The show is put on by a husband and wife duo, Noah and Heather Wells, both incredibly talented magicians. If you want to spend an hour enjoying the waves or a whole day exploring the coast, theres an option for you. To help get the most of your getaway, our handy guide will give you insight into the best time of year to see dolphins in Destin, Florida. Ride through the gorgeous waters of the world famous Destin Harbor. Here are some of the dolphin swim programs you and your family can enjoy at the facility: All of the programs at Gulf World start with a fun and interactive educational component. (850) 683-3009. It is best to check out the website for up-to-date pricing; they have plenty of specials, tooplan for about 2 hours for this fun-filled cruise. If you and your family will be heading to Florida this year or your vacation, then we highly recommend you stay in Destin because it is such a pretty area with so much to do. In the fall, late October to November is an excellent option with average temperature is still in the low 70s. For the best chance at seeing dolphins up close, it helps to be on the water. Many companies offer pontoon boat rentals in Destin, so shop for the best deal. Hardly! The most popular fish in the area include red snapper, grouper, Mahi Mahi, and tuna. A full-service bar provides wine as well as cocktails. Sanibel Island. Dolphins love the Emerald Coast, and can often be spotted from the shore, the Okaloosa Island fishing pier, or even from the Destin Harbor! Dolphin World Booking & Mailing Address 757 SE 17th St #688 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, Welcoming Greeting from the Dolphins in Punta Cana, Hawaii Dolphin Encounter (Non-Swim) Program. However, having a pontoon boat rental ushers in increased freedom. Several charter companies offer both half-day and full-day trips. Its no secret that dolphins are one of the most popular animals in Destin, Florida. However. The number of golf carts beings used for traveling, particularly along the 5 miles of Scenic 98, has skyrocketed. The bottlenose dolphin is sometimes referred to as a porpoise. 18 Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Florida (2023) Destin is an amazing getaway spot bursting with beautiful scenery and exciting attractions. Pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, and head to Destin for a day of fun in the sun! Aside from excursions, events, and restaurants, theres a boatload of water sports adventures in which you can revel. The number of golf carts beings used for traveling, particularly along the 5 miles of Scenic 98, has skyrocketed. Tips For Visiting Crab Island (Destin FL) - Florida Trippers They do not really "sleep.". Contrary to the assumption that your pontoon boat must move at the slowest possible speed to spot dolphins, the truth is, these animals enjoy the wake. Going to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is one of the most fun things to do in Destin, Florida if you're with your family. Destin is known as the Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village.. Keep in mind that many people will also be visiting at this time, which means you need to book plane, hotel and Gulf World tickets early to avoid paying premium prices. In fact, there are many free and cheap ways to see dolphins in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach. Its not only illegal to pet and feed them but can also be dangerous for even the strongest swimmers. The animal shows and encounters all follow specific schedules depending on the season. And about the only thing that can elevate these sunsets is to enjoy one from a Tiki boat while sipping a cocktail. Our Dolphin and Sunset Cruises are one and a half hour evening cruises scheduled regularly around 6 or 6:30 pm. At Destiny Water Adventures, we offer full-day or half-day charters of our pontoon boats. What's the best time of day to view the dolphins? It is especially popular with the locals during the summertime. A Destin dolphin watching excursion, of course! Dolphins are most active in the morning, and after 2 p.m. Two-hour cruises with glass bottom boats depart from Destin Harbor into the Gulf of Mexico every day. Youll also get to experience the exhilarating foot push, where the dolphins will skim you across the top of the water pushing you by the soles of your feet. If you are a bit more adventurous, you have several options to choose from starting at $20 a person up to $400+ a person. We all know that Florida is called the sunshine state because it is sunny most of the year. Discover fun activities, tours, and attractions for the whole family. Gulfarium Hours and Admission The Gulfarium is open daily from 9:00 in the morning until 4:30 in the afternoon. Several charter companies offer deep-sea fishing trips, and they can provide all of the equipment and expertise you need to catch fish. Phone: 800-322-3319 Youll not only learn about dolphin behavior but also the importance of protecting the dolphins natural habitat. You might catch a glimpse of some sea turtles and herons while youre at it! Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Gulf World is located in Panama City Beach, Florida, just an hour away from Destin. Although Crab Island is only accessible by boat, you can easily rent a pontoon for the day if you dont own a boat. Our Destin Glass Bottom Boat dolphin cruise features a 2 hour narrated bay, harbor, and gulf cruise. 1.1 miles to city center [SEE MAP] Address: 66 Harbor Blvd. It is a beautiful atmosphere in the evening with live music and string lights for ambiance. Candlewood Suites Destin-Sandestin Area, an IHG Hotel 659 Reviews View Hotel Miramar Beach, Destin Holiday Inn Express & Suites Destin E - Commons Mall Area, an IHG Hotel 254 Reviews View Hotel Destin, Florida Panhandle SummerPlace Inn Destin FL Hotel 524 Reviews View Hotel Destin, Florida Panhandle Best Western Sugar Sands Inn & Suites 572 Reviews Was told was best dolphin performances of the day! Whats more, the beaches are unarguably breathtaking in the months of fall. They include pirate shows, pirate ship excursions, movies on the lawn, and the following top-rated kid-friendly restaurants where they can delight in a vast assortment of mouthwatering meals. From late spring to the end of summer, female dolphins from other areas flock to Destin when mating season rolls around. While dolphins are definitely one of the main attractions, they arent the only stars of the show! Destin, Florida. Both convenient and comfortable, these cruises depart daily and provide plenty of seating for your whole crew. So where do you get the best look at these fascinating creatures? Not only that, participants will get to enjoy entertaining narration, spectacular sunsets, and unparalleled scenic views. The park is an excellent place to watch the sunset in the evening. Our two locations are only five miles apart. The best times to head to Florida are during winter for sure and if thats not possible then spring. I remember the first time I ever got to swim with dolphins. This is a great way to explore the island without the stress and worry of being responsible for a boat. Mild temperatures and warm gulf waters make the area enjoyable no matter the season. They include zip-lining, fishing, fly-boarding, banana boat rides, parasailing, , bungee jumping, stand-up paddle-boarding, and. Fort Walton Beach is about 8 miles west of Destin, a quick 15-minute drive for the family. What is it about penguins that fascinates us and delights us? These captivating creatures are a sight to see, no matter if its from the shoreline, your beach condo, The Island Pier, or aboard a dolphin cruise! It stretches to the road past Surf Hut restaurant from Henderson Beach State Park as a popular beach road. These same common dolphins would also be associated with traveling fin . The Best Times to Visit Destin, Florida - The Good Life Destin In fact, there are many free and cheap ways to see dolphins in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach. The Dolphins of Destin: Best Time to See Them - HLTV We have onsite parking at our location. Once the questions have been answered, its time to slip into the water and meet your new best friends. A great pair of telephoto lenses or binoculars can be invaluable tools to spot dolphins easily. The park has a public beach and well-maintained amenities making for an easy and relaxing day at the beach. Located in the heart of Destin, Florida, the Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is the perfect place to spend an afternoon, whether youre looking to shop, dine, or take in the incredible views. With over 17,000 square feet of air-conditioned space, it is a great way to take a break from the sun and have a fantastic time. This program also starts with the educational component. Contrary to other coastal communities, Destin has a large population of dolphins that reside in the area year-round. John Beasley Park and the Gulf Islands National Seashore are beautiful state beach parks. You can visit this link to view some of the activities that may be going on when you visit. Fall is an incredible time to visit Destin. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. In addition to Henderson Beach State Park and Eglin Beach Park, other popular areas to see dolphins include Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a must-see for any visit to the Gulf Coast. Although Destin lacks the standard four climate seasons, there are four unique tourist seasons. December is the best time to visit Destin if you want a warmer climate for the holidays. However, there is a nearly 100% success rate for spotting dolphins during Fort Walton Beach and Destin dolphin cruises. However, the most commonly spotted dolphin in Destin is the bottlenose dolphin, or Tursiops truncatus. Best Times to Visit Destin | U.S. News Travel It is worth noting that dolphins are usually found in clusters of 4 to 7 in shallower areas. Pets are welcome here if youll be traveling with your four-legged companion. Dolphin cruises are one of the top family-friendly things to do in Destin-FWB, and are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime! Run by celebrity chef Hugh Acheson, you will eat delicious and unforgettable dishes that showcase the food and local flavors of the Gulf Coast. The dolphin lies on his or her back, and you climb on and grab hold of their fins as they swim fast backwards around the lagoon. Walking along gives you fantastic views of Fishermans Wharf and bobbing boats and fancier yachts docked at the Yacht Club. The 4 Best Dolphin Tours in Destin, Florida By Vicky Reddish December 2nd, 2020 Among the many magical things about the Emerald Coast's famous seaboard is the fact that those extraordinary sugar-sand beaches backdrop some of the best and most reliable dolphin-watching in the country. In addition to Henderson Beach State Park and Eglin Beach Park, other popular areas to see dolphins include Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach. It is possible to see dolphins from a number of spots in Destin. If you dont want the hassle or expense of renting a car, then there is always the option of hiring a taxi or Uber or Lyft driver to take you there and back. Double Fun Watersports offers half- and full-day charters of their new double-decker pontoon boats. If your budget permits, build your own charter adventure with a private captain and vessel to see the dolphins at your leisure. However you decide to search for dolphins, its sure to bring a little magic to any Emerald Coast vacation! Destin, Florida Panhandle . The white sand beaches and emerald waters are amazing to see. Miramar Beach Dolphin Tours - Sunshine Water Sports They include pirate shows, pirate ship excursions, movies on the lawn, and the following top-rated kid-friendly restaurants where they can delight in a vast assortment of mouthwatering meals. While the sea oats are present in summer, they dont start blooming until June, hitting their peak in the early months of fall. One of the hardest parts about planning your family vacation is choosing your destination. Adult bottlenose dolphins can range from 6ft to 12ft in length, on average. If youve never ridden a jet ski or Waverunner before, dont worry most rental companies will provide a brief tutorial to get you started. Destins best beaches will have the largest crowds when summer rolls around with heavy traffic, particularly in the evenings and throughout the weekend. These pods frequently work together to hunt schools of fish. Additionally, summer marks the fireworks season every week, usually at Destin Disney World. It stretches to the road past Surf Hut restaurant from Henderson Beach State Park as a popular beach road. You can see dolphins from various spots in Destin. With beautiful beach fronts views and a wide variety of shops, it is easy to spend hours at The Boardwalk. Most families want to not only rest and relax on their vacation, they also want to create memories that last a lifetime. Deciding when to visit Destin entails analyzing your vacation priorities and factoring in the weather, beach conditions, crowd events, and seasonal events are different times of the year. Reach out to us at Destiny Water Adventures today. 14060 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541. It's also a great spot for dolphin watching because of the warmer waters. You can also leave and return the same day with proof of admission. Many visitors choose to stay on the high floors of beachfront hotels, because with a pair of binoculars dolphins can be spotted from the balconies. This unique attraction offers the chance to get up close and personal with some of the ocean's most amazing creatures. Need more insight to for the best family vacation activities? Destin on the Gulf. The boardwalk is also home to several boat rental companies, making it easy to explore the bay. A guided dolphin cruise ferries passengers to renowned dolphin-sighting spots. Keep in mind that in shallower areas, dolphins tend to be in groups of four to seven. Search for friendly dolphins, giant sharks, gliding sting rays, and loggerhead turtles. The Gulf of Mexico is home to a number of different dolphin species, but the most commonly spotted here in Destin is the bottlenose dolphin. Many visitors choose to stay on the high floors of beachfront hotels, because with a pair of binoculars dolphins can be spotted from the balconies. To help get the most of your getaway, our handy guide will give you insight into the best time of year to see dolphins in Destin, Florida. Sanibel Island is a great destination for families with kids who love to explore. Important Things to Know Renters must be at least 18. Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. You will laugh, cry, and be amazed by this mesmerizing show. Charter boats can range from $120 $240 per hour. Average Rainfall = 5.4 inches. Sun 10am-4pm, Phone: 877-574-5123 Youll have some time to simply interact with the dolphins, get them to do handshakes as well as just hug and kiss on them. Depending on age, a Florida boating license may be required. Other essentials you will want to remember to wear include a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen! Whats more, the beaches are unarguably breathtaking in the months of fall. Then youll be able to interact with them, hug and kiss them and just splash around having fun with these adorable and playful sea creatures. On average, an adult bottlenose dolphin can be anywhere from six to twelve feet in length. The outdoor showers come in handy at the end of the day. 36 Reviews . Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise in Destin Harbor, Destin: "What time of day is the best time to see dolphins" | Check out answers, plus see 266 reviews, articles, and photos of Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Cruise in Destin Harbor, one of 469 Destin attractions listed on Tripadvisor.