Things to Do with Kids in Destin, South Walton, and on 30A
I've called the Emerald Coast home since 1990, so I'm very familiar with the area. When this post was originally written in 2014, our five kids ranged in age from 3 to 17. But I’ve taken time over the years to update this list as new things open. Below are my top 10 things to do with kids in Destin, South Walton, and on 30A. These activities are listed in no particular order.
This page was last revised on June 30, 2022.
watching a sea turtle swim in Destin
#1 The Beach
My favorite public beach accesses are those with plenty of parking, restrooms, and showers. Moving east to west: Grayton Beach State Park, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Public Beach Access - #49 at Pompano Joe’s in Miramar Beach, James Lee Park (at the Crab Trap), and Henderson Beach State Park. Want to do more than swim at the beach? You can take surf lessons from Ride On Surf School or rent a paddleboard from YOLO.
#2 Playgrounds
These are my favorite playgrounds and why: The Village of Baytowne Wharf (built of wood and the most interesting), James Lee Park (on the beach), Morgan Sports Center (surrounded by a tall fence to prevent little ones from escaping), Clement Taylor Park (shaded with bay access), and Capt. Leonard Destin Park (on the bay, with a splash pad).
#3 Fireworks
During the summer, you can see fireworks every Tuesday night at The Village of Baytowne Wharf, and every Thursday night at HarborWalk Village. Arrive early to both or parking will be a nightmare.
#4 Outdoor Concerts and Movies
You can enjoy concerts and family-friendly movie nights in the Seaside amphitheater and at The Big Chill. Check their event calendars for details.
Gulfarium on Okaloosa Island
#5 Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
The Gulfarium gives you an opportunity to see dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, otters, sharks, alligators, tropical fish, penguins, and more!
Big Kahuna’s in Destin
#6 Big Kahuna's
My kids love water parks, especially Big Kahuna's. I hate to say it, but sometimes the beach is too hot to enjoy in the summer.
#8 Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill
Go bowling with an “underwater” experience at Uncle Buck’s at Destin Commons.
Biophilia in Freeport
#8 E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center
The Biophilia is a great place to learn about northwest Florida's natural habitat and see a lot of cool animals.
#9 Putt-Putt
You can play miniature golf at The Track, Big Kahuna's, or Rainforest Black Light Golf. The Track also offers go-karts, bumper cars and boats, and kids' rides. If it’s raining or too muggy outside, Rainforest is a perfect option.
Urban Air in Destin
#10 Urban Air Adventure Park
Urban Air is the ultimate way for kids to get energy out, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. It’s much more than a trampoline park! Check out their full list of attractions. As a parent, I appreciate the area set aside to relax while your kids go crazy. My experience is that most trampoline parks are only enjoyable for the kids - not the case here!
The fun doesn't stop there, but this is a good start. And if you're on vacation, this should at least keep your kids occupied for a week. If you're looking for things to do that don't necessarily cater to kids, check out this post.