7 Best Dolphin Tours in Destin, Florida (Sunset Cruises & More!) In fact, there are many free and cheap ways to see dolphins in both Destin and Fort Walton Beach. Share them on social media and tag them #DestinFWB. A foolproof way of attempting to catch a glimpse of dolphins is from a double-decker boat's upper deck. We offer daily Destin Dolphin and Sunset Cruises as well as Dolphin Sunset Cruises from Okaloosa Island. While youre angling with the family, keep your eyes on the surf for the graceful snout of a dolphin to appear. There are plenty of restrooms, lockers, and options for eating. With beautiful beach fronts views and a wide variety of shops, it is easy to spend hours at The Boardwalk. This unique attraction offers the chance to get up close and personal with some of the ocean's most amazing creatures. Average Low = 40 degrees. Charter boats can range from $120 $240 per hour. Best time to visit Destin? Its exhibits showcase a wide variety of artifacts from this period. They are out at any time of the day. At times, these mammals can be seen in the waters of Destin Harbor. So if youre looking for a great way to spend the day, check out Big Kahunas Water and Adventure Park in Destin, Florida. Situated on the Emerald Coast of northwest Florida, it's known for its crystal-clear waters and sugar-white sand beaches. 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. Tucked against the panoramic Gulf of Mexico, Destin is a very popular tourist destination because it offers something for everyone. Best Time to Whale Watch in Southern California | Dana Point While it is impossible to predict the location and habits of dolphins, there are a few things you can do to maximize your chances of seeing one. Daily Destin Sunset Dolphin Cruises & Dolphin Tours - Sunventure Cruises However, most of them only range from 15mph to 25mph, undoubtedly slowing things down. Youll learn all about their behavior and natural habitat as well as what you can do to protect their wild counterparts. Destin is an amazing getaway spot bursting with beautiful scenery and exciting attractions. The road development on Highway 98 over the recent past has only worsened the traffic congestion issues. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront or take a break to enjoy a refreshing beverage at one of the many cafes. Its common for dolphin watching tours in the Destin area to offer fewer trips during the winter months due to reduced number of visitors to the area. Meanwhile, John Beasley Park presents plenty of pavilions, vendors, and restrooms, so you enjoy a picnic lunch while you keep a lookout. This exciting program will also start with that educational component and you may ask any questions you may have. 18 Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Florida (2023) Boat-propellers, anchors, etc. As such, this time of year is perfect for dolphin watching. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, and searching for shells. Regarding the weather, although its hot, the humidity isnt uncomfortable as in September and August. Dolphins love the Emerald Coast, and can often be spotted from the shore, the Okaloosa Island fishing pier, or even from the Destin Harbor! The Rodeo is one of the longest-running fishing tournaments in the United States. While many amusement park attractions have dolphin exhibits, theres nothing more wonderful than seeing these animals in their natural habitat. Gator Beach is free to the public. The Okaloosa Island Pier is a great spot for watching dolphins. I remember the first time I ever got to swim with dolphins. Ten-day forecasts in summer will usually depict a 40% to 50% chance of rain daily, causing a multitude of people to postpone their trip when usually the rains briefly or not at all. The maximum amount of people is 6 per boat. These animals are incredbly graceful swimmers and youll get to kneel down in the small pool as they swim by you. For those who want a little slower pace, there are several tourboatcompanies who offer 1.5 hour to half-day cruises. Fares should be reasonable and if youre traveling with a large party, everyone can chip in. Dolphins enjoy the warm water temperatures of the Gulf of Mexico, which accounts for the large year-round population along Northwest Floridas coast. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is an affordable way to see dolphins up-close, with tickets costing less than $30.00. Famous as a local fishing spot, the Okaloosa Island Pier extends nearly 1000 feet out into the Gulf of Mexico. 21 Fun Things To Do In Destin, Florida (#5 Will Surprise You) What is the Best Month to go to Destin, Florida? - TripShock Your go-to guide for everything Destin-Fort Walton Beach! Most people do not get sick on dolphin cruises, as they will stay closer to shore in the Gulf of Mexico, or in the calm waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay. A. ferries passengers to renowned dolphin-sighting spots. With that being said, if you or someone in your group has a tendency to get motion sickness, it is highly recommended to take motion sickness medicine, like Dramamine, for example, in advance. Sunsets on the Emerald Coast are a fantastic way to end the day. Theres something for everyone here, from shopping and dining to fishing and boating. In addition to Henderson Beach State Park and Eglin Beach Park, other popular areas to see dolphins include Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach. Many companies offer pontoon boat rentals in Destin, so shop for the best deal. Youll also be close to Big Kahunas Water & Adventure Park, which kids absolutely love. Whats more, the beaches are unarguably breathtaking in the months of fall. However, some parts of it are beginning to clear up. It stretches to the road past Surf Hut restaurant from Henderson Beach State Park as a popular beach road. John Beasley Park and the Gulf Islands National Seashore are beautiful state beach parks. Big Kahunas Water and Adventure Park in Destin, Florida, is excellent for family fun. 14060 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541. I remember wading (and waiting) in the water for the dolphins to show up. Relax on your balcony first thing in the morning and watch for the telltale ripples in the water that signal dolphins are near. Fort Walton Beach, Florida, is a gorgeous Emerald Coast city in northwestern Florida. This unique attraction offers the chance to get up close and personal with some of the oceans most amazing creatures. One may think that spending the afternoon with dancing dolphins may break the bank, but it doesnt have to! We all know that Florida is called the sunshine state because it is sunny most of the year. Went at 4 pm. Let this serve as your guide to learning more about the dolphins swimming around Destin and how you can get a glimpse of these wonderful mammals. Along the way, be on the lookout for sea life. If you tire of shopping, take a break and enjoy a glass of wine or gelato at one of the many beautiful restaurants. A few other fees may apply. Some rooms enjoy a pretty gulf view and all are clean and spacious. The Buccaneer Pirate Cruise is the perfect way to experience the thrill of pirate life without walking the plank. Youll also get to pet, cradle and feed the stingrays. Nonetheless, the most commonly spotted dolphins in Destin are the Tursiops truncates or bottlenose dolphins. While the sea oats are present in summer, they dont start blooming until June, hitting their peak in the early months of fall. The Stingray Bay Snorkel is an exciting experience for the family. Jeannelle Douglas. 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! A great pair of telephoto lenses or binoculars can be invaluable tools to spot dolphins easily. Boat-propellers, anchors, etc. The location is ideal for locals or tourists wanting to escape the louder and busier beaches closer to the party hubs. Adult bottlenose dolphins can range from 6ft to 12ft in length, on average. Swim with Dolphins Near Destin, Florida - Swimming With Dolphins (800 What do you get when you combine all of these terrific things into one family-fun activity? Dont forget to take great photos of your dolphin watching excursions. Double Fun Watersports offers half- and full-day charters of their. The bottlenose dolphin is sometimes referred to as a porpoise. Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour 2023 - Destin - Viator Its no secret that dolphins are one of the most popular animals in Destin, Florida. Renowned for their acrobatic abilities and goofy personalities, dolphins are exciting to watch. Several charter companies offer both half-day and full-day trips. 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. Both convenient and comfortable, these cruises depart daily and provide plenty of seating for your whole crew. Fall In Destin: Mid-August to Mid-November. Was told was best dolphin performances of the day! What time of day is the best time to see dolphins Travel Destin: Best Time to Visit Destin Florida - roamingmyplanetcom Phone: 800-322-3319 As majestic as they are playful, these dolphins are the main attraction when it comes to ecotourism in the area. Depending on age, a Florida boating license may be required. Dolphins reside in groups known as pods that typically comprise anywhere between 10 and 30 members. The bigger and better fireworks shows occur on the 4th of July, so ensure you catch the action if youre in Destin in the summer. It is known for its white sand beaches and emerald green waters. Cheapest Time to Visit Destin, Florida (With Budget Activities) January 4th 2023. [emailprotected], Visitors Center + Offices Keep in mind that in shallower areas, dolphins tend to be in groups of four to seven. Street legal golf carts are permitted on all roads with a maximum speed limit of 35mph. The staff is very friendly and knows all about the alligators. At Destiny Water Adventures, we offer full-day or half-day charters of our pontoon boats. This is a great way to explore the island without the stress and worry of being responsible for a boat. While the sea oats are present in summer, they dont start blooming until June, hitting their peak in the early months of fall. Sat 9am-4pm Is the Gulfarium a good way to see dolphins when its raining. In Destin, dolphins don't migrate much, if at all, which means that they can be found right off the coast from January through to December. Dolphin Sightings - Destin Forum - Tripadvisor 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, 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. Upon arriving head to the ticket booth. 322 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548. If you follow this advice, you and your family are sure to make memories that will last a lifetime! So pack your bags and head to Floridas Emerald Coast for a vacation youll never forget. The best time to visit Destin is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s . Chat with a local mom for tips and recommendations! The Maximum Magic Show in Destin, Florida, will be an experience the whole family will never forget. Rates run anywhere from $25-$50 for the cruise. Additional animals you may encounter along the way include sea turtles, schools of fish, stingrays, and more! Destin is often more crowded than Fort Walton Beach and offers many water-based activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. Dolphins love the Emerald Coast, and can often be spotted from the shore, the Okaloosa Island fishing pier, or even from the Destin Harbor! 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 . Ten-day forecasts in summer will usually depict a 40% to 50% chance of rain daily, causing a multitude of people to postpone their trip when usually the rains briefly or not at all. When its legal and safe to do so, picking up the pace may make them easier to spot. Multiple ticket options at different prices depending on what you want to do at the park. Okaloosa Island Boardwalk is a must-see. When he's not exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. Plenty of activities are available, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Destins best beaches will have the largest crowds when summer rolls around with heavy traffic, particularly in the evenings and throughout the weekend. The shuttle boat allows you to bring a cooler for food and drinks and lasts about 2-3 hours. 302 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541 This is a very unique program and great for kids who really love all kinds of animals. So if youre ever in Destin, swing by Gator Beach Alligator Park and say hi to the resident alligators. Sanibel Island. There are many different types of dolphins that live in the Gulf of Mexico. 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! Guided boat tours take passengers to well-known dolphin sighting spots, but having a, Expert Tips for Dolphin Spotting in Destin, A great way to try and catch a glimpse of dolphins is from the upper deck of a double-decker pontoon boat. There are over 150 parking spots, but James Lee Park can get busy on the weekends, so get there earlier if possible. having a pontoon boat rental ushers in increased freedom. It's also a great spot for dolphin watching because of the warmer waters. 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. Relax on the deck of Dewey Destins Seafood Restaurant feasting on fresh shrimp. Youll create memories that will last a lifetime, and you might even see some unique wildlife up close. 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550. Tips For Visiting Crab Island (Destin FL) - Florida Trippers While aboard get educated with our sea school which includes underwater viewing, dolphin encounters, bird feedings, sightseeing, crab trap discussions, and shrimp net operations where everyone can check out and identify our catch. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. General admission ranges from about $18 $25. Dolphin cruises and tours are one of the best ways to see dolphins in Destin and Fort Walton Beach. 1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE Renowned for their acrobatic abilities and goofy personalities, dolphins are exciting to watch. Boats can remain within Choctawhatchee Bay, with dolphins often seen swimming below the Destin Bridge. Reach out to us at. The boardwalk is also home to several boat rental companies, making it easy to explore the bay. Other essentials you will want to remember to wear include a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen! And certainly stay away during hurricane season, which runs from June to October. Best time for dolphin watching - responsiblevacation.com Regarding the weather, although its hot, the humidity isnt uncomfortable as in September and August. There are so many great shops and fun places to eat. Wild Willys Adventure Zone is perfect for letting your inner child run wild! These shows go on for a period of 5 to 7 minutes. Destin has multiple options with boating companies that offer a dolphin sunset cruise. Dolphin cruises arent the only way to see these captivating creatures, either! You can see them from about 10 am until noon, then they return for the afternoon until it gets dark. The bay is home to various marine life, including dolphins and beautiful fish. Explore bite-sized adventures for the whole family. In addition to Henderson Beach State Park and Eglin Beach Park, other popular areas to see dolphins include Crystal Beach and Miramar Beach. (850) 683-3009. Its clear that they love what they do, and it makes for a truly magical experience. The adventure park also has a fantastic 54-hole putt course and the Sky Coaster ride. 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. If you live in Canada or a part of the US where winters are harsh, then heading to Florida November through February makes sense. Greyhound Bus service provides travel between Destin and Panama City Beach and fares are usually between $86 and $112 per person round trip. Fort Walton Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. 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. If youre hoping to spot a bottlenose off the shore, take a pair of binoculars and hit the beach. For just $2.00 per person, you can walk the pier and look for dolphins, sea turtles, and other aquatic creatures. For the best chance at seeing dolphins up close, it helps to be on the water. And youll still get to receive and unforgettable hug and watch the dolphins swim around you and do tricks that will absolutely delight you and everyone in your party. From sporting events to festivals, concerts and outdoor festivities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The boardwalk is one-quarter of a mile and features a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. No matter your interests, you will find something to do in Harbor Walk Village in Destin. Each program is designed to be educational, interactive, and very fun. Destin is known as the Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village.. Admission is only $3, making this a very affordable trip with the family. Click the button to complete a form to request a printed version of our Visitors Guide. You can see dolphins with the naked eye or through binoculars from the balconies of hotels and condominiums. They include zip-lining, fishing, fly-boarding, banana boat rides, parasailing, , bungee jumping, stand-up paddle-boarding, and. Also popularly known as porpoises, these dolphins are entirely different species even though they share certain traits. 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. If you can't find availability at one location, make sure to check out the other . And dont forget to spend a day or more at Gulf World, which again is just an hour away. Well, you sign up for the equally-fun Dolphin Encounter program. They include zip-lining, fishing, fly-boarding, banana boat rides, parasailing, jet-skiing, bungee jumping, stand-up paddle-boarding, and boating. 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.
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