While Miami is the biggest draw for Florida tourism, my absolute favorite beach town is the lesser-known Destin. Destin is along the panhandle, Gulf-side of Florida, and is often referred to as the Emerald Coast or Redneck Riviera.
The weather may be somewhat erratic, as Destin can experience a torrential downpour or cloudless skies within the space of ten streets. However, when the sun is shining, the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water is entrancing.
Just below the Destin bridge, you will find an armada of 10 to 200 boats, all anchored within a central location. The collection of watercraft will remind you of a parking lot during a busy shopping day at the mall. This is Crab Island, where Destin and Ft. Walton Beach residents navigate their boats to while away time on hot summer weekends. The underwater island ranges anywhere from three to ten feet deep, dependent upon the spot where you drop anchor.
One of my best friends lived in Ft. Walton Beach for four years, and I visited him once or twice per year. It is hard not to enjoy yourself in Destin, but the one day we spent at Crab Island was easily the most memorable moment among all of my visits. Remember to bring a bag full of snacks and a cooler full of beverages since you won't want to leave until sunset. You would also be remiss to not mingle with the sunseekers partying on other boats... you're going to want to find a group to join you at AJ's and Helenbach later that evening.
If you are visiting Destin without a boat in tow, there are plenty of rental places awaiting your call and your cash. You should try to schedule a boat early to secure a newer model, and I would suggest that you request a spacious pontoon vessel. Occasionally, events are planned to draw bigger crowds, and July 4th is by far the most popular time for the locals. It will be much more difficult to find an available rental on these days.