Flying out for a day or weekend trip is one of the many perks residents of Ridge Landing Airpark get to indulge in. When your aircraft can hang out in your backyard, it seems that any other mode of transportation is just silly. So when you live in the middle of Florida, it’s quite tempting not to take a getaway trip to one of the many destinations the Sunshine State has to offer.
That’s why we like to highlight aviation destinations for our community members, because we want you to make the most of your time as a resident and pilot. For this post, we’ll show you the top things to do in Destin, a seaside town in Florida’s panhandle with shining white beaches and a quaint northwestern Florida feel. The Destin Executive Airport (DTS) is 346 statute miles from Ridge Landing, so we recommend you treat yourself and spend a weekend in Destin. Prepare for a few days of relaxation in this well-kept beach town…
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Henderson Beach State Park
For a secluded beach experience, look no further than the luxuriously soft sands of Henderson Beach, which reach towards the emerald green water. It’s got covered pavilions and clean restrooms if you decide to bring lunch and spend the day — it’s hard not to when you feel like you’re on your own private beach!
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Silver Sands Premium Outlets
What’s a mini-vacation without a little shopping? If you brought your shop-happy SO along for the weekend, she’ll love getting the chance to browse the many big-name stores without spending big-name money. This is a great activity if your weekend in paradise features a cloudy day when beaching it isn’t ideal.
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Destin Harbor
If you’re looking for an activity that’ll have you feeling like a local, head over to the harbor. Simply stroll down the boardwalk listening to the live music and pop into one of the many restaurants, and check out the fresh catches of the day coming off the boats and straight into the hands of customers. The maritime lover will enjoy every bit of the Destin Harbor experience.
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Destin History and Fishing Museum
Learn about Destin’s history as a lucky fishing city and its impressively rapid growth. All kinds of artifacts are gathered here for you to study at your own speed. Stop into this little museum to widen your knowledge of Florida’s nautical history and earn a new appreciation for your weekend vacation spot.
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Boat Tour
There’s no way to experience the Gulf of Mexico quite like boating on it! Choose from a wide variety of boat tours and fishing charters to to pick what fits your personality best. If you’ve got young ones with you, consider the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise for some quality kid-friendly entertainment. If you want to snag some snapper, head out on a Destin Bay Charter to catch your own dinner under the guide of a skilled fisherman.
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Waverunner and Kayak Rentals
Give your adrenaline a boost when you speed over the waters on a waverunner, or rent a kayak for a more physical way to navigate the Gulf. You can rent either of these vessels as well as family-friendly pontoon boats at Luther’s Pontoon, Waverunner, Kayak Rentals. Spend a day on the water and enjoy a relaxing dinner on the shore, basking in your newly sunkissed skin.
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Village of Baytowne Wharf
To cap off your days, catch a stunning Emerald Coast sunset in this hidden gem of a village. Though Destin is a popular tourist destination, this little spot is tucked behind Highway 98, and it boasts charming cobblestone sidewalks as well as an array of eateries to sit at while watching the sun sink into the horizon.
