Who doesn’t love a great shark tale? If you anticipate the annual Shark Week hosted by Discovery Channel, and the SharkFest hosted by National Geographic, you’re not alone. According to the Daily News, an estimated 42 million households tuned in to Shark Week in 2015, and the Discovery Channel network expects even more for 2016!
So, what makes Shark Week and SharkFest so irresistible during the annual frenzy of close encounter stories, documentaries, and educational insights about the marine species that we all try to avoid at the beach? Sharks are one of the most majestic and adaptive creatures in the ocean. As humans, we love to learn about their capabilities and behavior. This year, both networks are claiming to get even more scientific with facts about shark life! We can’t wait to see what this year’s week of sharks brings to the table!
We all know that the chances of encountering a face to face battle with a live shark are incredibly small when compared to other dangers in the world. However, the experience is not an unheard of event, as we all witness during our annual viewings of Shark Week and SharkFest. Raising awareness of shark behavior, and their feeding habits, is the best way to limit the unthinkable shark attacks for millions of annual beach-goers.
The fact is, sharks are real, they live in the water, and they sometimes feed close to the beach. The Emerald Coast is no exception. With that said, shark attacks near the beaches of Destin, Florida (Okaloosa County) are even rarer in comparison to the rest of the world, and the rest of the state for that matter.
For confirmed shark attacks worldwide in 2015, Click Here
For a full list of reported shark attacks in the state of Florida, Click Here
Please note that this list does not include information about sightings and close calls on Florida beaches.
Remaining aware of your surroundings and educating yourself on the behaviors and habits of native shark species are the most important advantages that you can give yourself, should you ever encounter a dangerous situation with a Florida shark. In addition, local artist, Andy Saczynski, provides 13 tips on avoiding shark attacks along the Emerald Coast! Andy’s artwork is a must see for shark lovers, too!
Shark Lives Matter
In addition to their majestic appearances and behaviors, sharks are functional creatures and vital to the conservation of the ocean. All sharks are important to our ecosystem. As sharks commonly feed on carcasses and other sick fish, they work to keep the ocean clean, while maintaining population control of species that feed on zooplankton, which feed on phytoplankton. Phytoplankton photosynthesis is necessary for producing oxygen needed by humans for survival, and sharks are at the top of the food chain in the process of eliminating species that feed on phytoplankton. So, next time you take a breath, thank the sharks!
Fishermen Help With Shark Conservation Efforts
Marine science students test the effects of catch and release on a variety of shark species. Image courtesy of Science Daily.
Over the years, there has been much debate over the act of fishing for sharks all over the world. With stories of over fishing sharks for the purpose of sport and the Chinese custom of shark fin soup, many advocates are against any type of shark fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. These advocates see fishing for sharks as the ultimate sin against the world, and that fishermen are acting irresponsibly to undergo any fishing attempts for sharks.
The truth is, Destin fishermen know the importance of sharks for our ecosystem and would never overfish any threatened population, as our livelihood depends on a healthy species population to survive each fishing season. In addition, Destin charter fishermen work very closely with the Florida Fishing and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), to determine detailed estimates of fishing populations in the Gulf of Mexico. Regulations for Florida are determined by the catches that Florida fishermen bring in, as compared to the estimation of available fish in the Gulf of Mexico. When it is determined that a species is overfished, regulations against fishing for the species are set in place, and we deem them as off limits.
Lionfish caught aboard the Finest Kind
On the other side of the spectrum, species are sometimes over populated, and overpopulation can result in an unbalanced food chain with the absence of adequate predators to naturally maintain and protect all creatures in the Gulf of Mexico. A great example of this problem can be seen with the current Lionfish invasion. Without any natural predators for the rapidly reproducing Lionfish, the populations many other species in the gulf are taking a dive. Because sharks are at the top of the food chain, there should always be an adequate population of each species. Should any shark species begin to get out of hand causing harm or endangering other fish species in the gulf, Florida fishermen are responsible for bringing the balance back.
Shark Fishing Charters Protect Against Overfishing
We believe that it is our duty to conserve and protect the Gulf of Mexico. Therefore, chartering a fishing vessel for your shark fishing trip offers the most advantage in understanding which shark species are open, as well as the regulations and limitations on size and tackle by which sharks are caught. In addition to educating charter customers on the regulations and habits of targeted sharks, accidental catches sometimes occur during everyday charters. Understanding the importance of proper catch and release techniques are vital to ensuring that accidental shark catches are released in a respectful manner for these exquisite creatures. Our aim is never to harm any shark in the process of catch and release.
Shark caught off Destin, FL with Captain Jason Mikel
Chartering an experienced captain and his crew members for your shark fishing trip ensures that you are taking part in responsible conservation of the Gulf of Mexico. We are not, nor do we condone, shark finning, overfishing, or harvesting any species out of season or outside of federal or state regulations. With that said, fishing within the guidelines set forth by state and federal officials make for awesome shark fishing adventures!
For a full list of FWC shark regulations and limitations Click Here
To learn more about protected species in the Gulf of Mexico from the NOAA Click Here
Shark Species Native to the Destin Area
There are several shark species in the Gulf of Mexico, and some species are more often found around the Destin area than others. The most common sharks found around the Emerald Coast include Bull Sharks, Hammerheads, Blacktips, and Sand Sharks. Tiger sharks and Shortfin Makos are also present in deep waters near Destin. However, over the years, Makos have put Destin, Florida in national headlines as these giants often feed closer to shore during annual runs of Cobia and Tarpon. Great White sightings are also becoming a more common event off the shores of Destin. Before chartering your shark fishing adventure, we always encourage our customers to learn as much about the identification and conservation of native sharks! A great source for learning to identify shark species in the Gulf of Mexico can be found here!
For more information on Shark Fishing Charters with the Finest Kind, Click Here
1. “Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after,” Henry David Thoreau.
2. “If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there’d be a shortage of fishing poles,” Doug Larson.
3. “Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers,” Herbert Hoover.
4. “A bad day of fishing is still better than a good day at the office!” Author Unknown.
5. “A woman, who has never seen her husband fishing, doesn’t know what a patient man she married!” Author Unknown.
6. “Early to bed…early to rise…fish all day…make up lies,” Author Unknown.
7. “Some people will just never understand us, fishing isn’t just a pass time or a sport, it’s a way of life. DON’T MESS WITH MY WAY OF LIFE!” Author Unknown.
8. “The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of that which is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope,” Author Unknown.
9. “To fish or not to fish? That’s a dumb question,” Author Unknown.
10. “I spent most of my money on fishing. The rest I wasted,” Author Unknown.
11. “There is no limit to how many times you can go fishing,” Author Unknown.
12. “Life is like a game, but fishing is serious,” Author Unknown.
13. “Give a man a fish; he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and you will find bait in the fridge,” Author Unknown.
14. “Those who die with the most days fishing, wins,” Author Unknown.
15. “You say I`m a compulsive fishing freak like it’s a bad thing,” Author Unknown.
16. “There are two things in life you should never be late for, Number one is Church and Number two is fishing,” Author Unknown.
17. “I fish because I love to, not because I regard fishing as so terribly important but because I suspect that so many of the other concerns of man are equally unimportant; and not nearly so much fun,” Author Unknown.
18. “Tight lines, warm breezes, good friends, plenty of bait it doesn’t get any better,” Author Unknown.
19. “Work is for people who don’t know how to fish!” Author Unknown.
20. “Even a fish wouldn’t get into trouble if he kept his mouth shut,” Author Unknown.
21. “There are two types of fisherman – those who fish for sport and those who fish for fish,” Author Unknown.
22. “Fishing is the sport of drowning worms,” Author Unknown.
23. “I fish better with a lit cigar; some people fish better with talent,” Nick Lyons.
24. “Somebody just back of you while you are fishing is as bad as someone looking over your shoulder while you write a letter to your girl,” Ernest Hemingway.
25. “It has always been my private conviction that any man who pits his intelligence against a fish and loses has it coming.” John Steinbeck.
26. “Bragging may not bring happiness, but no man having caught a large fish goes home through an alley,” Author Unknown.
27. “Fishing is a discipline in the equality of men – for all men are equal before fish,” Author Unknown.
28. “Last year I went fishing with Salvador Dali. He was using a dotted line. He caught every other fish,” Steven Wright.
29. “Good things come to those who bait,” Author Unknown.
30. “‘Carpe Diem,’ does not mean ‘fish of the day,’” Author Unknown.
31. “Gone fishin’, be back at dark-thirty!” Author Unknown.
32. “Nothing makes a fish bigger than almost being caught,” Author Unknown.
33. “Men and fish are alike. They both get into trouble when they open their mouths,” Author Unknown.
34. “Soon after I embraced the sport of angling I became convinced that I should never be able to enjoy it if I had to rely on the cooperation of the fish,” Sparse Grey Hackle.
35. The fish and I were both stunned and disbelieving to find ourselves connected by a line,” William Humphrey in “The Armchair Angler,” Author Unknown.
36. “I’ve gone fishing thousands of times in my life, and I have never once felt unlucky or poorly paid for those hours on the water,” William Tapply.
37. “Angling is extremely time consuming. That’s sort of the whole point,” Thomas McGuane.
38. “In every species of fish I’ve angled for, it is the ones that have got away that thrill me the most, the ones that keep fresh in my memory. So I say it is good to lose fish. If we didn’t, much of the thrill of angling would be gone,” Ray Bergman.
39. “It is impossible to grow weary of a sport that is never the same on any two days of the year,” Theodore Gordon.
40. “There will be days when the fishing is better than one’s most optimistic forecast, others when it is far worse. Either is a gain over just staying home,” Roderick Haig Brown.
41. “One thing becomes clearer as one gets older and one’s fishing experience increases, and that is the paramount importance of one’s fishing companions,” John Ashley Cooper.
42. “The solution to any problem — work, love, money, whatever is to go fishing, and the worse the problem, the longer the trip should be,” John Gierach.
43. “If fishing is interfering with your business, give up your business,” Sparse Grey Hackle.
44. “Fishing is not an escape from life, but often a deeper immersion into it,” Harry Middleton.
45. “If I fished only to capture fish, my fishing trips would have ended long ago,” Zane Grey.
46. “By the time I had turned thirty, I’d realized two important things. One, I had to fish. Two, I had to work for a living,” Mallory Burton.
47. “I go fishing not to find myself but to lose myself,” Joseph Monniger.
48. “There is only one reason in the world to go fishing: to enjoy yourself. Anything that detracts from enjoying yourself is to be avoided,” Leigh Perkins.
49. “I only hope the fish will take half as much trouble for me as I’ve taken for them,” Rudyard Kipling.
50. “Carpe Diem” does not mean “fish of the day,” Author Unknown.
51. “Calling fishing a hobby is like calling brain surgery a job,” Paul Schullery.
52. “The fishing was good; it was the catching that was bad,” A.K. Best.
53. “Most of the world is covered by water. A fisherman’s job is simple: Pick out the best parts,” Charles Waterman.
54. “Creeps and idiots cannot conceal themselves for long on a fishing trip,” John Gierach.
55. “Many of the most highly publicized events of my presidency are not nearly as memorable or significant in my life as fishing with my daddy,” Jimmy Carter.
56. “Scholars have long known that fishing eventually turns men into philosophers. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to buy decent tackle on a philosopher’s salary,” Patrick McManus.
57. “Be patient and calm – for no one can catch fish in anger,” Herbert Hoover.
58. “Do not tell fish stories where the people know you. Particularly, don’t tell them where they know the fish,” Mark Twain.
59. “The best time to go fishing is when you can get away,” Robert Traver.
60. “Everyone should believe in something. I believe I’ll go fishing,” Henry David Thoreau.
61. “If all politicians fished, instead of spoke publicly, we would be at peace with the world,” Will Rogers.
62. “Wanted: Good woman – Must be able to clean, cook, sew, dig worms and clean fish. Must have boat and motor. Please send picture of boat and motor,” Author Unknown.
63. “Some people will just never understand us, fishing isn’t just a pastime or a sport, it’s a way of life,” Author Unknown.
64. “I spent most of my money on fishing. The rest I wasted,” Author Unknown.
65. “There is no limit to how many times you can go fishing,” Author Unknown.
66. “Life is like a game, but fishing is serious,” Author Unknown.
67. “Reading about baseball is a lot more interesting than reading about chess, but you have to wonder: Don’t any of these guys ever go fishing?” Author Unknown.
68. “The two best times to fish is when it’s rainin’ and when it ain’t,” Author Unknown.
69. “No life is so happy and so pleasant as the life of the well-govern’d angler,” Izaak Walton.
70. “The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of something that is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope,” John Bucha.
71. “The fish is not so much your quarry as your partner,” Arnold Gingrich.
72. “The only thing bad about winning the pennant is that you have to manage the All-Star Game the next year. I’d rather go fishing for three years,” Whitey Herzog.
73. “I don’t want to sit at the head table anymore. I want to go fishing,” George Bush.
74. “You know when they have a fishing show on TV? They catch the fish and then let it go. They don’t want to eat the fish, they just want to make it late for something,” Mitch Hedberg.
75. “I like to fish. Fishing is always a way of relaxing,” Tom Felton.
76. “Fishing, with me, has always been an excuse to drink in the daytime,” Jimmy Cannon.
77. “It is to be observed that ‘angling’ is the name given to fishing by people who can’t fish,” Stephen Leacock.
78. “I only make movies to finance my fishing,” Lee Marvin.
79. “The best fisherman I know try not to make the same mistakes over and over again; instead they strive to make new and interesting mistakes and to remember what they learned from them,” John Gierach.
80. “Just as in cooking there’s no such thing as a little garlic, in fishing there’s no such thing as a little drag,” H.G. Tapply.
81. “I have fished through fishless days that I remember happily without regret,” Roderick Haig Brown.
82. “There he stands, draped in more equipment than a telephone lineman, trying to outwit an organism with a brain no bigger than a breadcrumb, and getting licked in the process,” Paul O’Neil.
83. “Most fishermen swiftly learn that it’s a pretty good rule never to show a favorite spot to any fisherman you wouldn’t trust with your wife,” John Voelker.
84. “I am firmly convinced that the ideal combination leading to a happy life is to have the time to both fish and read,” Brian Murphy.
85. “The angling fever is a very real disease and can only be cured by the application of cold water and fresh, untainted air,” Theodore Gordon.
86. “That’s about as big as a fish that big gets,” Author Unknown.
87. “Give a man a fish, and you’ll feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he’ll buy a funny hat. Talk to a hungry man about fish, and you’re a consultant,” Scott Adams.
88. “So long, and thanks for all the fish,” Douglas Adams.
89. “Which fish dresses the best? A: A swordfish because it always looks sharp!” Johnny B. Laughing.
90. “A day without fishing is like a day without sunshine,” Author Unknown.
91. “Always think like a fish, no matter how weird it gets,” Author Unknown.
92. “A man and his boat do not need to be justified,” Author Unknown.
93. “Fish stories told here…. some true!” Author Unknown.
94. “Fisherman’s prayer: Lord, help me to catch fish so large, that even I, in the telling of it, never need to lie,” Author Unknown.
95. “Fishing is fun…catching is better,” Author Unknown.
96. “I don’t exaggerate…I just remember big!” Author Unknown.
97. “I got a fishing rod for my wife – good trade,” Author Unknown.
98. “I fish because the voice in my head tells me to,” Author Unknown.
99. “I’m a man of few words, “Let’s fish,” Author Unknown.
100. “The fishing was good; it was the catching that was bad,” A.K. Best.
101. “Fishing is a discipline in the equality of men – for all men are equal before fish,” Herbert Hoover.
Every spring, schools and universities across the country close their doors for one week during the months of March and April to observe a designated vacation from the everyday challenges of working hard towards the American dream. It’s a time to take in the first signs of warm sunny days that entice everyone to get outdoors and escape those winter blues!
What better place to spend your Spring Break vacation than in the Sunshine State? With a calling card for outdoor adventure and relaxing days on the beach, you’ll find just what you need in Destin, Florida, where temperatures heat up and the city comes to life for spring break festivities! When it comes to providing your family with the full package kind of spring break vacation to carry you through the rest of the school year, Destin is where you want to be for Spring Break!
Where I want to be! Emerald Coast FL from BIVFL on Vimeo.
Beaches
With the most incredible beaches, world class deep sea fishing, and boat loads of experiences that you won’t find anywhere else, the City of Destin preserves the image of family values that will keep you coming back year after year. Tucked along the emerald coast in what is referred to as the Florida Panhandle, Destin is located about 50 miles east of Pensacola, and 55 miles west of Panama City Beach, “The Spring Break Capital of the World.”
Atmosphere
The atmosphere of Destin during spring break differs from the rowdy beach parties found elsewhere along the Gulf Coast. Though Destin does encounter college and young adult visitors looking for a good time during their spring break vacations, most are traveling with families or educational advisers, who have returned each year for annual traditions like deep sea fishing charters, Cobia tournaments, St. Patrick’s Day events, Easter, shopping, and peaceful days on the beach. Destin has a strict intolerance for wild parties, including any behavior perceived to interrupt the experiences of peace seeking visitors, or threaten the family image that has been successfully maintained for decades.
Could Destin become the next Spring Break Capital of the World?
Spring breakers fight on the beach in PCB. Image Source: WZEP AM1460
We have all seen the unfortunate result of college students, binge drinking, and the consequences of regrettable choices with the escalation PCB Spring Break parties in the past few years, but Spring Break 2015 forced officials to make big changes in what will be tolerated for Spring Break in Panama City Beach. As new ordinances begin the efforts to better control the dangers of alcohol, public indecency, and beach parties gone wrong, many college spring break websites have suggested alternative destinations to the Spring Break Capital.
Contrary to what some suggested would become the next beach party hot spot for college Spring Break, Destin and Okaloosa County officials have long prevented such an occurrence, and will continue to enforce the standards of a family friendly spring break location, just as they did when the party was moved from Fort Lauderdale in 1985, from Daytona Beach in 1994, and, now, from Panama City Beach.
Is a Contingency Plan necessary for OCSO to prepare for Spring Break 2016 in Destin?
The OCSO recently proposed a $107,000.00 fund for the Spring Break 2016 Contingency Plan to secure a larger law enforcement presence in Destin. Could the provisions of the plan lead visitors to believe that college spring breakers are anticipated to take over Destin beaches?
According to Michele Nicholson of the Okaloosa Sheriff’s Public Information Department on the Contingency Plan for Spring Break 2016,
“Our Tourist Development Council has always catered to families during Spring Break, and many of our hotels and condos will not rent to anyone under the age of 25.
Underage drinking is typically our biggest issue but has always been manageable in the past.
This contingency plan is in place just in case some of the issues seen in Bay County should try to migrate over here during Spring Break. Law Enforcement’s reaction will be swift and thorough based on the necessary level of response.”
Therefore, though spring break is expected to remain family friendly in Destin, there are provisions for beefed up security, just in case there are any indications that rowdiness becomes a problem along the Emerald Coast! You can find more information on the plan in the Interlocal Agreement 2016 for Okaloosa Sheriff Beach Patrols.
Why is Destin so strict on preserving a family image?
Family fishing on the Finest Kind
The annual events that occur in Destin during the spring break season are centered around making family memories with fun outdoor activities on the water. The city was founded on family values, and continues to grow in that direction. As a matter of fact, many local residents descended from those who founded Destin as a fishing village around 1845. New residents relocate to the Destin area, because it is a great place to establish and raise a family.
Finally, those who make annual visits are attracted to the family friendly atmosphere and coastal life experiences found in this unique destination. To allow wild beach parties that put young adults and minors in danger of choices that could potentially lead to lifelong consequences would contradict the foundational beliefs that brand Destin as a place where you want to bring your family.
Destin is a place where you want to take your children.
Destin is where you take your children to build their first sand castle on the beach, catch their first saltwater fish, and take in the beautiful scenery of sugar white sand and emerald water. A scenic venue that creates those picture perfect memories that we tend to hold on to forever! That is what makes Destin such a captivating setting. After all, once today’s generation of college students and young adults have families of their own, they’ll look for a beach destination with family friendly values. Destin will be there waiting with the same standards maintained throughout changes of time!
Are young adults and college students welcome to Destin during upcoming Spring Breaks?
Absolutely! Destin’s family friendly atmosphere extends welcoming arms to all young adults and college students for future Spring Break, and there are plenty of activities that might appeal to such a crowd! Destin officials understand that the problems of rowdiness are usually induced by a small group that spreads like a poison across the majority, and that is why Destin is so heavily patrolled by LEOs who act fast to remove those displaying unruly behavior. If you do choose to visit the area for Destin Spring Break, just make sure that you wisely consider who you’re traveling with, and don’t share the same ride with someone who has a reputation for causing trouble.
Under 25? – The Struggle is REAL
You may encounter difficulty in finding a vacation rental that is willing to lease the property, condo, or room to anyone under 25 years of age. The purpose of this precaution is that time has proven a risk for young adults who drink alcohol and either make bad choices themselves, or suffer from the vulnerability of being taken advantage of by fellow travelers. Your buddies come along with you and throw a party that destroys the rental, and you are responsible for the damage. If you don’t realize that the property is under attack, and your so-called friends destroy property beyond the repairs of losing your deposit, then you could be prosecuted. Start here for help finding a Spring Break rental if you are under the age of 25.
One Night Flight
Then, there are the cases of one night flights that usually occur within your first night of spring break in Destin. Whether you get someone over the age of 25 to secure a rental for you, or maybe you’ve been able to talk an owner or manager into letting the rule slide, the best advice that you’ll be handed is to consider this a probationary period of stay. If you break rules or throw a party that gets out of control, LEOs will be on the scene quickly, and you could, again, face charges for damaged property. The one night flight refers to your one night in Destin, in which you’ve paid your fees for the rental, but you broke the agreement with the property managers, by which the contract is broken, you lose your money, and you are escorted away from the rental with no place to go. Your spring break has suddenly taken a turn for the worse, and your name will be remembered in Destin among property owners and managers for next year.
Advice: If you are under 25, and you are lucky enough to find a rental, treat it with respect, and you may slip through the cracks. If you don’t think that you can handle the responsibility respecting a rental with captivating scenery and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy surrounding your view, wait a few more years before you visit Destin for spring break. Also, if you plan on hitting up the beach at Whale’s Tail in Miramar Beach, check out the rules for Walton County’s Spring Break! Read the letter from Sheriff Michael Adkinson, Jr.
What attractions might appeal to college students around Destin?
Crab Island
Deep Sea Fishing with the Finest Kind
Crab Island has long been a favorite for college students. The island is submerged under water, and you’ll have to rent a water taxi or pontoon to get there, but the floating party lasts throughout spring break and summer weekends! With hundreds
of boaters, music, and inflatable toys, you’re sure to find some fellow party mates on Crab Island. Just be sure to keep yourself in check. When there is a crowd at Crab Island, Marine Patrol sticks around to keep an eye on the party. Anyone caught drinking underage, displaying indecent behavior, or breaking any other laws, can expect a visit from one of these officers.
Deep Sea Fishing
If you are hitting the scene of Destin for Spring Break, don’t pass up the chance for deep sea fishing in the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” You’ll have the chance to travel into the Gulf of Mexico with your fellow spring breakers, and get the reel hook-up on what Destin, Florida is all about. Spring break is a prime time for fishing in Destin, and you can’t find an experience like this anywhere else along the Gulf Coast. As temperatures rise, the bites heat up, and did we mention Cobia yet? With half, 3/4, full day, and overnight trips, you can choose to charter a deep sea fishing crew privately or set up with a group to split the cost! Either way, you’ll have something to share back at campus about who got the hook-up during your Spring Break vacation in Destin.Book a Deep Sea Fishing Charter!
HarborWalk Village
Pontoon and wave runner rentals, parasailing, glass bottom boat, dolphin, and sea blaster tours, fishing charters, zip lining, rock climbing, shopping, and live entertainment can all be found at HarborWalk Village of Destin, Florida. For spring breakers looking to heat up the dance floor at one of Destin’s many hotspots, there are plenty of clubs and chill bars along HarborWalk Village that come alive at night! However, keep in mind that the laws against underage alcohol consumption are strictly enforced, and the local LEOs know how to spot fake ID cards, as it has all been tried before! Start making your plans forHarborWalk Village!
Whale’s Tail
The Whale’s Tail Beach Bar and Grill is now proclaimed as one of hottest Spring Break locations for college students and is actually located very close to Destin. College students come from all over the country to place their school flags in the beach sand, show some school spirit, and hang out for about a PG13 rated party since they are sharing the beach with families and Walton County LEOs. That’s right! Walton County folks! After Destin was mentioned on a Total Frat Move post as a potential alternative to PCB, the Walton County Sheriff’s Office offered a geography lesson that spelled out the level of tolerance that will be given during Spring Break 2016 in Miramar Beach!
Family Friendly Activities for Spring Break in Destin
Families have a harder time finding a dull moment than things to do in the Emerald Coast City of Destin, Florida. One of the most popular day activities for spring breakers is sinking your toes into the sugar white sand at one of Destin’s many beach locations. For a more secluded beach experience, try one of the beaches along Okaloosa Island or Henderson State Park. There is a small entrance fee for Henderson, and they close at sunset, but the atmosphere of the beach is perfect for families.
A day at the beach for families is filled with excitement, from building sand castles to splashing around in the water. If you want to step up your sand castle building skills, check out Beach Sand Sculptures and schedule a private lesson! Check out Kitty Hawk Kites and SUP board rentals to add to your enjoyment. Remember to bring towels, sunscreen, and flip flops. If you’re visiting in early to mid-March, bring along a light jacket for morning and evening temperature drops!
Family Deep Sea Fishing in Destin with the Finest Kind
Family Deep Sea Fishing Trips
Deep sea fishing in Destin is an activity that is loved by all ages! It’s also king of the trademark of the city. You could travel the world over and never experience deep sea fishing excursions like those found in Destin. Chartering a deep sea fishing boat and crew in the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” is a must do if you plan on visiting Destin for Spring Break. Without sinking a hook, in the Gulf of Mexico with a fisherman guide who knows all of the best fishing spots, you’re just not getting the full Destin, Florida experience. The fishing season is really picking up during the months of March and April, and fishing tournaments draw in some of the most famous fishermen in the world.
There is no age limit for fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, and a variety of trips are available depending on the level of interest that you have in the sport. Half day charters are available for families traveling with small children, and ¾ day, full day, and overnight charters are reserved for those seeking a deeper fishing experience! Families may charter a boat privately, or schedule with other groups seeking the same schedule! Fishing license, bait, and ice are included in your charter, but the best part is the willingness of the crew to teach your family the secrets of successful fishing in the Gulf of Mexico!
A day in HarborWalk Village is just the ticket for a one of a kind Destin experience, no matter which season you choose to visit, but Spring Break is one of the best times to explore Destin’s Boardwalk! Check out the largest fishing fleet in the state as you stroll along the docks, and watch in amazement as you witness the day’s catch! Your family will enjoy live entertainment, adventurous activities on the dock and in the water, and shopping that exhibits true coastal living. Dine in one of Florida’s famous harbor restaurants that serve fresh seafood with catches coming in from the Gulf of Mexico. Hop aboard a dolphin cruise, boating tour, or snorkel adventure to explore the emerald waters of Destin, or rent your own pontoon boat and wave runners for a private view of the Choctawhatchee Bay! Everyone in the family will have a blast at HarborWalk Village. Start planning your day at HarborWallk Village!
HarborWalk Village of Destin, Florida has solved the dilemma of sacrifice when choosing between relaxation, entertainment, and adventure for your vacation destination! Offering everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, it seems as though HarborWalk Village has thought of every detail for families who want to experience a great vacation. The harbor is loaded with action, entertainment, and excitement for every member of the family!
From the unique landscape of the village’s dining, shopping, and recreational activities, to the amazing scenery found along the harbor, HarborWalk Village has revolutionized the expectations of luxurious vacation destinations. With so much to offer, there is plenty of opportunity to meet everyone’s vacation agenda! The tug of war is over, and now is the time to enjoy your family. Visit this best kept secret retreat that sets itself apart from any other destination in the world!
Beginning with a breathtaking resort, the Emerald Grande represents the grandeur of this amazing venture to the most exquisite location in Destin! Free Wi-Fi, stainless steel appliances, in room safes, and washers and dryers in every unit are the basic starters to describe the indulgences of luxury housed in this resort. The Emerald Grande highlights waterscape views with private balconies in each room overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Destin’s East Pass, HarborWalk Village, Crab Island, and the heart of the city of Destin.
With one, two, three, and four bedroom luxury condominium style suites, the spacious floor plans, large plush beds, and gourmet kitchens serve families of all sizes. A daily maid service, 24-hour security, full service concierge, and room service availability for breakfast, lunch, and dinner sets the scene for tension free vacationing. A gift shop is on site enhances the convenience of stay for any items forgotten from home.
Tension release from life’s everyday stress for the Emerald Grande’s guests can be found at the full service European spa and fitness center, as well as the indoor and outdoor heated pools and Jacuzzis alongside breathtaking views of Destin’s coastal waters. The 2,500 square foot outdoor pool is found on the fourth floor. The outdoor pool is open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, where sunset views seep into your soul.
If you’re planning a company event, reunion, or destination wedding, this venue offers a variety of options for opulent scenery, grand ball and party rooms, catering, and business centers. The resort is home to the Grand Vista Bar and Grill, as well as 10 on the Harbor. Best of all, the Emerald Grande’s location positions guests for full access to all fishing charters, activities, dining, shopping, and nightlife within walking distance to HarborWalk Village.
Private Beaches
The sugary-white sand and emerald green water has long been an attraction of the Destin area. The Emerald Grande features two private, secluded beach locations to choose from, including the Cove Beach and Jetty Beach of Noreiga Point. Guests are transported via shuttle vessel, leaving every 30 minutes. Summer hours for the shuttle service are from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with the last beach trip at 5:00 pm, and the last departure from the beach is 6:00 pm. No where else in Destin can you find lodging with so many beautiful views, and a private beach! With beach attendants furnishing complimentary chairs, umbrellas, and towels to guests of the Emerald Grande, vacationers are offered a serene escape from largely populated beaches elsewhere along the Gulf Coast! Beverages are available for purchase on the shuttle, and the Grande Vista Bar & Grill offers a beach side service! No more lugging beach bags, chairs, towels, and coolers to your beach outing! It seems as though the Emerald Grande has thought of everything!
Shopping
Shop till you drop at HarborWalk Village. As a market that allows you to bring the style of the Emerald Coast home, browse the many boutiques along the harbor, and become inspired! From apparel and accessories, art, collectibles, bait and tackle, sports gear, photography, gifts and souvenirs, to toys you’ll find something for everyone in the shops of HarborWalk Village! All shopping boutiques, kiosks, and services have seasonal hours throughout the year, so be sure to call before you go to find out the current hours of operation! Are you looking for a particular store? Click on the directory map and find your way around the village!
Aloha Surf Company: With brands like Quicksilver, Billabong, Roxy, Volcom, Reef, North Face, Maui Jim, O’Neill, and Hurley, Aloha Surf Company is your go to spot for coastal sportswear, swimwear, sandals, and accessories!
Del Sol offers unique clothing and accessories that actually change colors with sun exposure. Shirts, shorts, sunglasses, bags, flip flops and even nail polish help you to keep a check on the level of UV ray exposure that you experience while on the water, using the molecular excitation of organic crystals! These items give you two looks, and change color within seconds!
Cariloha offers clothing, jewelry, handbags, home décor, and bed and bath sets that are constructed from bamboo blends. Cariloha is the only one of its kind in the world, and is worth a browse to feel the difference of the ultra-soft fabric used to make the merchandise in this store!
Sunset Lifestyles: You’ll find coastal style and luxury footwear for both men and women at Sunset Lifestyles! Spend the day browsing through trends that fit the scene of HarborWalk Village! Vera Bradley, Toms, UGG, Yeti, and more!
Life is Good: The Mission: to Spread the Power of Optimism! The goal: to empower others to enjoy the ride of life! Life is Good! Join the movement for change along with Bert and John, as 10% of net profits are given to grow the good in the lives of underprivileged children! For a kicked back style of clothing that represents the down to earth people of Destin, check out Life is Good apparel. The message is strong, but the comfort will have you thinking about how good life truly is, while strolling down the harbor in this brand!
The official stop for all of your pelagic gear and sportswear needs, the High Performance Offshore Pelagic Storeis a must see. Offering the latest trends of oceanic style, this shop meets the needs of apparel, accessories, and equipment for all water sports along the harbor, but they are famous for their specialty in big game fishing gear!
The HarborWalk Marina, and gift shop, Nautical Treasures, have been around since 2007, caring for the needs of captains and crew, Crab Islanders, and vacationers! Accessible by land or water, this marina is an acting fuel station, convenience store, ice, tackle, and bait shop, apparel and accessories boutique, and nautical gifts and souvenirs shop that represents life on Destin’s famous harbor; this one stop shop has it all!
Sunglass World: Catering to all of your eye-wear needs, Sunglass World offers sunglasses from brands like Costas, Oakley, Maui Jim, Maui Jim, Gucci, Tiffany, Prada Sport, Tory Burch, Versace, Spy, Ralph Lauren, Electric, Smith, Tag Heuer, Serengeti, Shwood, Ray Ban, and many more!
Bleu Tropics offers unique jewelry and accessories that capture the essence coastal living! This is a great place to find something that adds a touch of Destin to any outfit, or to pick up a souvenir of HarborWalk Village!
Hove’ Parfumeur and Fine Clothing: As a high end fragrant and fine clothing retailer, Hove’ Parfumeur uses ingredients that supply the aroma for pleasure and wellness. This classic French boutique offers merchandise for men and women, including apparel, antiques, soaps, lotions, powders, and fragrances!
U-Name-It offers hand stamped and engraved personalized jewelry, keepsakes, and customized gifts. Their products include leather bracelets, key tags, military tags, pet ID tags, personalized license plates, vinyl lettering & numbering, window stickers, and much more! Find something of meaning with this stop’s trinkets, and reveal your thoughts with custom-made jewelry that describes the real you! U-Name-It has seasonal hours of operation, but the local artists are always available via telephone. Get your souvenir personalized while on the harbor, or order online!
Kitty Hawk Kites offers kites, wind art, apparel, toys, and games! Not just a toy shop, this imagination fueling boutique offers so much for outdoor activities by air, and by water. Kitty Hawk Kites also offers kayak and SUP rentals!
Bricks & Boards: Building toys and board games are the feature of Bricks & Boards at HarborWalk Village. Inviting children of all ages, join this innovative toy store or daily games and toy building that the whole family will enjoy!
Bright Ideas and Light Up Toys: Make your child’s day with this stop that offers innovative light up toys and more! Fill your day with sparkle and discover the bright ideas that inspire children to see beyond a blank canvas! Fun shopping for the whole family!
People Painters and Airbrush Tattoos: Get stamped with a harbor style temporary tattoo! These airbrush artists will keep you smiling as they paint your favorite illustrations and words on the case of your soul. Fun for all ages, this attraction will have the whole family giggling with excitement!
Legacy Heir Airbrush and Gifts: Airbrush shirts and accessories make great souvenirs that cater to those who want to represent on their vacation. Henna tattoos are all about artistic expression! You dream it up, and have Legacy Airbrush and Gifts tat it up! The good news is, though they last quite a while, henna tattoos are not permanent! Airbrushing and henna tattoos are tradition for Florida vacationers, and you won’t have to travel far to get one of these memory making creations!
Cartoons by Deano: Deano Minton is a professional cartoon illustrator who studied caricature in Europe, and has settled in at HarborWalk Village to entertain and create memories, as he draws visitors of Destin, Florida. Stroll on over to meet artist Deano Minton, and have a cartoon drawing made of yourself, your family, or just bring a picture of a friend, and have this artist create a gift that will bring joy for years to come! His available everyday from March through October, and you’ll find him on the weekends in November through Feburary. Once you find his kiosk between Harry T’s and Jackacuda’s sign your name to the list, and he will call you when it’s time for your session!
Destin Beach Photography Company: Capture special memories of your HarborWalk Village of Destin vacation! Check out the Destin Beach Photography Company to help you materialize your memories into captivating photos! These professional photographers book up fast, so make sure to reserve an appointment! For Beach Photos, Weddings, and Events, schedule about 3 weeks in advance! Once you step off your charter, these are the photographers who walk along the dock to snap a shot of your catch!
True Colors Studio featuring artist Kelly Pierre: Observe this amazing artist who paints on the scene of HarborWalk Village, and browse his creations that capture the beauty of coastal living. With a Native American and French heritage of saltwater fishing and strong work ethic, this artist materializes what is written on his heart from generations of living by the sea. Originally from the bayou of Grand Caillou, Louisiana, Kelly Pierre now paints by the inspiration of captivating beauty found in the emerald waters and pink sunsets along Desin’s HarborWalk Village. Shop Pierre’s unique collection and watch in awe at the detail in his one-of-a-kind, custom art pieces on a variety of canvases.
Judy Shillingburg’s Special Touch Gallery: Judy Shillingburg is a famous name around Destin, Florida, for her amazing detail in capturing the colors and beauty of the Emerald Coast. As an established artist, Judy has opened a studio in HarborWalk Village, where she and thirty-two of local artists work and display their magnificent creations. The inspiration of the Emerald Coast breaths creativity into the hearts of artists in many forms, and the Special Touch Gallery offers guests the opportunity to browse and shop the creations of these profound artists! Touring through the gallery, you will encounter oil and water color paintings on a variety of canvases, jewelry, wood carvings, metal art, sculptures, ornaments, photography, sketches, and more. From fine to folk art, you are sure to find something amazing in this studio. They also have a custom framing shop on site, so any canvas can be cased in a frame within the convenience of your stay.
TIP* After your fishing trip, take the measurements of your fish, and the name of your charter boat to Judy Shillingburg’s Special Touch Gallery, and they will paint a portrait of your catch, including information about the charter and fish! What an amazing keepsake for your adventure at HarborWalk Village! Call the studio for more information about the catch portrait!
Dining at HarborWalk Village
From a quick service snack, to a set down dinner, HarborWalk Village has everything within a few steps from the Emerald Grande! The Destin harbor offers venues for private groups and intimate dinners and has an abundance of family friendly restaurants! If you’re looking to have a cocktail with your friends after a day of fishing, this is the spot for you! There is something for every flavor preference around the dock, but Destin is most famous for the fresh seafood cuisine served at several locations along the harbor. From casual, to upscale, again, they’ve got it all!
10 on the Harbor is a full service banquet space that offers a view of the Gulf of Mexico, and luxury seafood cuisine! Currently closed to the public, reservations for private events can be made by calling (850) 337-8100 EXT 1553. Location: 10 Harbor Blvd. 2nd Level of HarborWalk Village. Menu
Crab Island Cantina offers one of the best views on Destin’s coastal waters! With a Latin Inspired Mexican menu, seafood, and outdoor seating, this full service restaurant caters to a variety of pallet favorites! Join Crab Island Cantina for a little spice and live entertainment! Phone: (850) 424-7417. Location: 2 Harbor Blvd. Suite 100. Menu
Grande Vista Bar & Grill is the Emerald Grande’s feature restaurant with all of the services that you would expect from such a fine establishment. A primary view of the coast on the Captain’s Deck, outdoor seating, signature sandwiches, local seafood, and mouthwatering burgers, all sound wonderful, but they take it even further. The Grande Vista Bar & Grill offers breakfast, brunch/lunch, and dinner, room service for guests staying at the Emerald Grande, an option to cook your catch after your deep sea fishing adventure! Phone: (850) 337-8100 Ext. 1550. Location: 10 Harbor Blvd. Menu
Harry T’s Seafood-Spirits-Sunsets are the themes of this Destin tradition. With a new location to join the excitement, Harry T’s now overlooks the East Pass, Crab Island, and Noriega Pointe. Serving famous appetizers, seafood, burgers, pasta, and cocktails, enjoy live entertainment, great service, and much more! Phone: (850) 654-4800 Location: 46 Harbor Blvd. Menu
Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi is a local favorite for brunch, dinner, and nightlife with live entertainment, sushi, and seafood. This “New South” with a twist restaurant is making its mark at owners Tyler Jarvis and Chris Ruynen think outside of the box, bringing flavors to savor for guests. With outdoor seating and a water view, check out Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi! Phone: (850) 424-3507 Location: 56 Harbor Blvd. Menu
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville is right on the water, and you’re invited to get lost with live music and a volcano flowing with margaritas! Join the party with island-inspired food, four unique bars, and two levels of outdoor seating! It’s always 5:00 at Margaritaville! Phone: (850) 460-7700 Location: 76 Harbor Blvd. Menu
La Familgia on the Harbor offers a menu of authentic Italian dishes, a view of the Destin Bridge, and outdoor seating. Italian recipes perfected through the generations have put this ristorante and pizzeria on the map as one of the best places to eat in Destin! Phone: (850) 424-7441 Location: 2 Harbor Blvd. Menu
Coyote Ugly-Nightlife fun to kick up your heels and have a drink. Phone: (850) 460-7065 Location: 100 Harbor Blvd. Website
Dock Action
If you haven’t found something for you at HarborWalk Village yet, let’s keep going! The Emerald Grande, beach, shopping, and dining are all great, but we’re only half way through all that the Destin harbor has to offer! Check out these activities just for land dwellers, and we’ll see if your action-packed blast can be found on the harbor!
Amusements USA, LLC: Hamster balls, bungee trampolines, and the HarborWalk Mining Co. are offered by Amusements USA, LLC, right on the Destin harbor. As a designated kid zone, children will have a blast with this attraction as they flip and fly through the sky on the bungee trampolines, roll around in the water sphere hamster balls, and mine for fossils in the miniature mining company. Phone: (850) 543- 4291 Location: 82B and 20F Harbor Blvd.
Cubby Caboose: Another one for the kiddos, the Cubby Caboose is a miniature train ride that takes children for a choo-riffic adventure along the harbor. The miniature train has seasonal hours, so always call before planning your Cubby Caboose ride! Phone: (850) 251-8259 Location: HarborWalk Village
Fun Spots: A mirror maze, shooting gallery, and an atomic rush appeals to children, teens, and adults! Have a blast with the 4D mirror maze with surprising corners, dead ends, and continuous circles to become a maze master. Take your best shot at the Critter George Shooting Gallery! Check out the Atomic Rush game for 1-4 players to keep track of your color, in this interactive arcade masterpiece! Phone: (850) 543-4291 Location: 34 Harbor Walk Village 2nd Floor – Suite 242
Ultimate 7D Interactive Movie Ride: Take a 4-minute ride on your choice with thrilling special effects and spectacular footage in the Enhanced 7D Simulator. Choose from 5 different movies playing every day, Alien Attack, Los Banditos, Zombies, Forbidden Mine and Gigamon. No set movie times! Guests choose their movie and experience the excitement whenever they choose to come in! Accommodating up to 8 people at a time and offering group rates! Phone: (850) 837-7007 Location: 34 Harbor Blvd., Suite 246
World-Class Attractions: A bundle of adrenaline rushes, fly high on the zip line, free fall from 90′ above the harbor, and rock climb with an interactive, LED Rockwall! Availability for day and evening adventures, this truly is a thrilling adventure for older children and adults. All in the convenience of HarborWalk Village, you won’t want to miss this entertaining and adventurous feature over the Destin Harbor! Phone: (850) 543-4291 Location: 70A & 94A Harbor Blvd.
Water Action
Still not enough? Well you’re about to find your thing! Destin’s excellent location on the Gulf of Mexico puts every water sport and activity at its fingertips! HarborWalk Village is home to the access point of coastal waterways. All of this sets you up to have a chance to experience the bays, the pass, and the gulf! Get ready to get wet! Check out all that HarborWalk Village has to offer for water activities departing right out of the harbor! Glass bottom, pirate, sunset, and speed boat cruises, pontoon and jet ski rentals, parasailing, scuba diving and snorkeling, kayak and stand-up-paddle board rentals, and inshore and deep sea fishing are all within reach at HarborWalk Village! When making a reservation to experience one of these amazing adventures, remember to keep the cancellation policies in mind! If you are unsure, always ask any questions that you may have by calling each company directly! Always reserve enough time for yourself to check-in with your water adventures about 30 minutes to an hour in advance regarding the time that your vessel is scheduled to depart! The busier the season, the earlier you will want to check-in to avoid standing in long lines to get boarding passes, tickets, or instructions for private operating rentals! The cruise companies recommend making reservations 24-48 hour in advance, and let them know if you have coupons when you make your reservation! The Emerald Grand offers discounts to their guests for several water activities in HarborWalk Village! Always check with your concierge to learn about special promotions, and pick up a travel booklet for coupons whenever you get into town!
Boogies Water Sports offers waverunner and pontoon boat rentals, dolphin excursions, parasailing, and glass bottom boat tours. Rent a waverunner or pontoon boat, and head out to one of Destin’s famous hot spots, Crab Island! Pontoon boats are bay bound, but they get you to the action and entertainment of the once island, now shallow water party grounds! Once you leave the Destin Harbor, hang a right, and proceed under the Destin bridge! You’ll see the crowd, hear the music, and experience the fun! Try to book your pontoon rental at least a couple of days in advance!
Boogies has an abundance of waverunners, so you should be good with walking up. However, if you want to be sure to have waverunners waiting for you, call and reserve them ahead of time! The waverunners will hold up to 3 people, but the recommendation is a maximum of 2 passengers to ensure comfort! Boogie’s uses a buddy system for keeping track of waverunners. You must have two or more in your group to proceed into the gulf with your waverunners. Otherwise, single waverunner rentals are bay bound! Join Boogie’s Water Sports on a dolphin excursion, while riding waverunners for an up-close encounter with Destin’s sea life. The dolphin excursion is a 2 hour, guided tour that takes groups on a search for dolphins into the Gulf of Mexico! Boogie’s recommends bringing a water-proof camera along and advises that you only bring items that are okay to get wet!
The Glass Bottom Boat offers 2 hour cruises of the harbor and the Gulf of Mexico, while searching for dolphins, educating passengers on crab traps, and even using a shrimp net to pull sea life up for examination! The boat offers daytime and sunset cruises, and can be reserved for private parties, weddings, and events! See the coast from a different platform while parasailing through the sky, 600 to 800 feet above the water! The parasailing equipment at Boogies is Coast Guard inspected, and updated at least once each year!
Safety is the first concern of Boogie’s parasailing captains, and each sailor is equipped with USCG life vests before each experience. One of four boats will take you into the harbor, allow you to stand on the flight deck with harness equipment in place, and hydraulically lifted into the air for about 10-12 minutes! The captains are responsible for going over the details of safety and advising for the best parasailing conditions! Show your Emerald Grand room key, and recieve 10% off at Boogies! Only one discount, coupon, or special offer can be used per transaction, so double check those travel coupon booklets, your concierge, and Boogie’s website to find the best offer! To learn more about everything that Boogies offers, visit the Boogie’s Watersports Website or call (850) 654-4497. LOCATION: 16 Harbor Blvd, in front of Margaritaville.
Southern Star Dolphin Cruises offer amazing, guided tours of the Emerald Coast, where you will encounter dolphins and other sea life! The Southern Star is an 80′, walk around, glass bottom boat with a double-deck, a climate-controlled cabin, and galley. Snacks, soft drinks, hot dogs, smoothies, souvenirs, and more are available in the galley. The two-hour cruise begins with a narrated tour of the Destin harbor, as your captains points out some interesting places, and shares facts about the history of Destin.
When exiting the harbor, crew members will distribute food, and assist guests in feeding seagulls from the boat! To ensure the safety of passengers, the Southern Star captain chooses one of two courses that contribute to the best conditions for the weather. For calm seas, the captain will proceed through the East Pass, and along the beach of Holiday Isle and Noriega Point for sight-seeing and dolphin encounters. If the seas are rough, the captain will travel under the Destin Bridge, and into Choctawhatchee Bay to help to avoid seasickness during this memorable experience. Dolphin encounters are just as likely to occur in the bay, as they are in the Gulf of Mexico.
All children are offered a chance to experience driving the Southern Star during each cruise, as they become Junior Captains, complete with a certificate and a memory that will last a lifetime! Sunset cruise schedules vary according to the time of year to give guests the best view each evening. The Southern Star offers private tours for groups, weddings, and special events. The vessel is coastguard approved for up to 149 passengers! Call 850-837-7741 to learn more about the Southern Star, or reserve your tickets online, check out the Southern Star’s Website! LOCATION:Address: 100 Harbor Blvd. Unit A.
The Buccaneer is a one-of-a-kind ship that invites you to set sail for a pirate adventure right out of HarborWalk Village! Designed for entertainment and capturing the imagination of children, the Buccaneer is a 100′ vessel with a double-deck, a climate-controlled cabin, a state-of-the-art sound system, restrooms, and a galley where hot dogs, smoothies, sodas, beer, wine, and other snacks are available for purchase. The cruise begins with a tour of the Destin Harbor, and travels into Choctawhatchee Bay, as the crew members remain in pirate character with theatrical entertainment for adults and children alike. Guests will experience pirate lessons, sword fighting, water gun battles, dancing, storytelling, and treasure hunting. The passengers help to locate the treasure mark, and to pull the treasure aboard the Buccaneer.
The Treasure Ship Cruise lasts for 2 hours, and is sure to keep your little pirates entertained, while creating memories for year to come! Customized experiences are available for private parties, weddings, and special events. Let the Buccaneer help you plan your child’s next birthday party aboard the cruise! Offering a private area on the quarter deck, paper products, decorations, a complimentary group photo, a flag raising ceremony, a souvenir flag, and the opportunity for birthday pirates to steer the ship, the crew is flexible in adding food vouchers or booty bags to accommodate the needs of each group! We can also add on food vouchers or booty bags. The Buccaneer is Coast Guard approved for 149 passengers and strives to ensure quality entertainment and family fun on all pirate cruise adventures. For more information about scheduling an adventure, check out the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise Website, or give the crew a call at 850-269-0896. Reserve your tickets online to get $2 off the price of one adult’s admission! LOCATION: Address: 100 Harbor Blvd. Unit B
Destin’s Original Seablaster Dolphin Tours offers several exciting and affordable family adventure opportunities! With Seablaster I & II you can expect a thrilling excursion on one of two 72′ speedboats for snorkel, daytime, sunset, and fireworks cruises! All cruises are seasonal, so always call for times and availability before planning your adventure. Snorkel cruises last for 3 hours, are held in the morning of spring, summer, and early fall months. The tour includes 90 minutes of dolphin cruising, and 90 minutes of snorkeling. Initially, the entry point is 6 feet deep, but passengers can snorkel up to the shallow shoreline, or into 25 feet of deep water. All equipment and life jackets are included!
Daytime cruises last for 1.5 hours, while sunset cruises last for 2 hours. You can expect a tour of the Destin Harbor, the East Pass and beach, or the Choctawhatchee Bay, depending on weather conditions conducive to a safe and exciting experience. Dolphin encounters are part of all of the Seablaster’s cruises! During the summer daytime cruises, you can expect to get wet from water canons, so dress accordingly! Every Thursday between Memorial Day and Labor Day, a fireworks cruise is offered, which last for a hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 pm. These cruises consist of a 15-minute harbor tour and is followed by the boat parking with the best view on the water for the fireworks. The Fourth of July fireworks cruise lasts for 1.5 hours and includes a tour of the harbor and the Gulf of Mexico, and, again, parks under the fireworks display for the big show with the best view!
The Seablaster boats offer private cruises for groups, weddings, and events, with one speedboat coastguard approved for 119 passengers, and the other approved for 130 passengers! These trips include free water, beer, wine, and soda! Though snacks are not sold on board, you are welcome to bring a small cooler with your snacks! Children ages 4 and under are free, and all children are given the opportunity to drive the speedboat during the trip. Check out Destin’s Original Seablaster’s Website to learn more or give them a call at (850) 654-6888. Print a copy of the Seablaster’s COUPON or show the coupon on your mobile phone when you get to the window to pay for your reservation! BOOTH LOCATION: Pirate’s Alley 60G Harbor Blvd.
Destin Snorkel offers a variety of tours, including the Two Stop Snorkeling tour, SNUBA Adventures, the Shelling tour, dolphin cruises, fishing, and private tours. The Two Stop Snorkeling tour is a 3 hour guided snorkeling adventure that includes a trip to the bay to encounter shells and crabs, and into the jetties to encounter fish, as well as a trip into the gulf to search for dolphins. While snorkeling at the jetties, free single and double kayaks are provided for guests on the Two Stop tour. SNUBA Adventures are designed to allow customers to explore depths of up to 20 feet without going through the training certification of scuba diving. Guests are given a 30-minute instructional demonstration, and then guided underwater to explore sea life with the ability to breath with ease, with the equipment offered by Destin Snorkel. On the Shelling tour, passengers join crew members into the bay to search for shells and crabs, and continue into the gulf to search for dolphins, and watch the sunset! Dolphin, sunset, and fireworks cruises are also offered with flexibility of exclusive sighting without snorkel, SNUBA, or shelling adventures. Fishing charters are available on Destin Snorkel’s 38-foot classic Hatteras called Fish Tales for up to 6 passengers! Destin Snorkel offers private tours for special events and private groups. Free soda and bottled water are offered on all tours, and free wine and beer are offered on sunset and fireworks cruises. For more information, check out Destin Snorkel’s Website, or give them a call at (850) 269-2329. LOCATION: Pirate’s Alley 60 C&F Harbor Blvd.
Kitty Hawk Kites offers kayak and stand-up paddle board (SUP) rentals right out of HarborWalk Village Get active on the water with these experiences and travel on through the harbor, to Crab Island, or throughout Choctawhatchee Bay! Kayaks and SUPs are rented by the hour, and life vests are supplied by Kitty Hawk Kites! The recreational watercrafts are not recommended for gulf exploration, but if you choose to transport on of the crafts elsewhere for the duration of the rental, then you must supply your own straps for tie-downs. You must be 18 years of age to rent a kayak or SUP, and 16 years of age to ride with an accompanying adult! Rentals are seasonal, so always call before you plan your adventure, and customers are served on a first come, first serve basis! Check out Kitty Hawks Kites Website to learn more about what they have to offer, or call (850) 837-2800. Be sure to ask about special kite-flying events along HarborWalk Village! LOCATION: Harbor Blvd. Kiosk 26.
Backcountry Outfitters specializes in private, light tackle, inshore fishing! These charters are great for small family groups who are interested in half-day bay fishing on center console boats! Bait, tackle, and fishing license are included, and you can expect to experience great fishing inshore, with experienced captains who are known for their ability to put people on fish. Bay fishing is a different experience from deep sea fishing, and the expectant catches vary, as well! If you have the opportunity to tackle both inshore fishing and deep sea fishing during your stay, try them on separate days, and you’ll see that they are both profoundly exciting fishing adventures in different contexts! For more information about inshore fishing, give them a call at (850) 654-5566.BOOTH LOCATION: Pirates Alley, 60 I Harbor Blvd.
Catch from the Finest Kind Charter Boat
Take away all of the luxury and indulgence found in HarborWalk Village, and you’ll still be left with one of the most amazing features of the Gulf Coast. As a matter of fact, the attraction of luxury on the harbor was drawn by the title given to this location, dating back to 1835. Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin’s harbor is home to the best deep sea fishing fleet in the Gulf of Mexico! This primary feature has appealed to families from long ago, and continues to create memories for visitors, both young and old.
Now the harbor has grown to become the best family destination in the country and continues to show off fishing skills that leave guests craving a taste of the deep sea adventure. After one day of strolling the dock, you’ll be looking to join the fun by booking a charter and making memories for your family, to last a lifetime!
With private and group charters ranging from half, 3/4, and full schedules, you are sure to find something that fits perfectly with you family’s agenda! If you want even more action, there are overnight trips available to feed your need for an epic trip into the Gulf of Mexico! If you’re curious about how to plan your deep sea fishing charter, check out the Planning the Greatest Deep Sea Fishing Adventure of Your Life post! Get your name on the books, because HarborWalk Village revolves around what’s biting. People can travel to Destin for their entire lives, but until they have gone deep sea fishing, they’ll never feel Destin’s heartbeat! Once you experience deep sea fishing, you’ll be HOOKED!
Find out more about going Deep Sea Fishing or reserve now with the Finest Kind!
As anglers, we have all seen fun and unique boat names that show a little bit about the personality of the owner. Here are 101 favorites. When available, the explanation behind the name is given, but all of them are fun regardless of what prompted being christened with such personality.
33 Megabites – So named because the owner is a software engineer; using “bites” instead of “bytes” implies fish biting.
A Little Nauti – Enough said!
After Taxes
Allmine
Almost Home
Aloan Again
Aloan at Last
Aquabums
Aqua-holic
At Eaze
Aye Sea U
Beached Buoys
Beats Shopping
Blown Assets
Boat-of-us
Boatox
Boatrupt
Boatwiser
BONU$$
Can’t Take it With Ya – Nope, you can’t. So you might as well enjoy the time you have.
Carpe Diem
C-H20 (sea water)
Channel Surfer
Clairebuoyant
Contagious Habit
Couple’s Therapy
CTRL + ALT + DELETE
Cyrohsis Of The River – The owner of the boat apparently liked to play bartender, too!
Decisions, Decisions
Dijabringabeeralong – Well? It’s BYOB up in here.
Don’t Panic – (written upside-down on the hull)
Due South
Easily Amused
Empty Pockets
Fah Get A Boat It
Far Fetched – So named because “to fetch” in nautical terms means to arrive at or to reach (or to hold a course or veer).
Finding Nemo – Named in honor of the couple’s toddler’s favorite movie.
Fish Bone
Fish Tales
Fish Tank
Fishfull Thinking
Flats Rascal – The owners enjoy fishing the flats of the north Florida gulf coast, and music by Rascal Flatts.
For Sail
Fuelish Behavior – Apparently, the boat had a larger engine than was actually necessary!
Genuine Draft
Hammer Head – the owner of this boat worked in the construction field, when not out fishing.
If You Can Read This Flip Me Over -(written upside down)
Just Messin’ About – taken from the story of the Wind and the Willows.
Knot Hers – A husband’s reminder that the boat was his, as his wife wanted nothing to do with fishing.
Knot So Fast
Knot4Sail
Lazy Sunday
Le’MiGeaux – A made up French word to say – Let Me Go!
Les Go – Named in memory of the owner’s dad, Les, who was known for often saying, “Le’s go!” in regards to fishing.
Marlin Monroe
Maybe Later
Minor Key
Moor Often then Knot
Mortrubl – it was the owner’s second boat, purchased after their first one had sunk.
Motion Sustained
My Miss Stress
Notta-Yachta
Off road
Off the Hook!
Our Little Secret – Where did the name come from? We can’t tell you- it’s a secret!
Pepsea
Perfect Form
Pier Pressure
Present Perfect
Prop a Sea (prophecy)
Puddle Pirate – The owner is a Coast Guard reservist.
Queen of Denial – Work? What work?
Reality Bytes
Reel Distracted – The owners of this boat found that being on the water and fishing kept them distracted from the humdrum of daily activities.
Relatively Faithful – Named to reflect the mindset shared by the boat and the owner.
Sails Call
Saltwater Taffy
Seaduction
Seas the Day
Sea-U-Late-Oar
She Got the House – Named by a man who obviously valued his boat.
Ship’s ‘bout to Get Real!
Sir Osis of the River
Smells Like Fish – After all, what boat doesn’t?
Taco the Town
The Cod Father
The Late Show – The couple who owned this boat, purchased it after they retired.
This End Up
Three Sea Sons – Owners named it as such, because there are 3 seasons most common for fishing, and the fact that they had 3 sons.
Undertow
Vitamin Sea
Wake Up Call
Wave Runner
Wave Slicer
Wave walker
Weak Moment
Whatever Floats Your Boat…
Windansea – A reference to the owner’s time in Wilmington, NC.
el.com/aboard
Yeah buoy
YOLO
Have more boat names to add? Feel free to share them in the comments.
A deep sea fishing charter in Destin, Florida is more than just a saltwater fishing trip. It’s a time when life-long bonds are created between family members, friends, and even strangers. With emerald green water, white sand, and blue skies as a canvas, the scene is set to make memories that will build and encourage groups to see life through the eyes of the ocean. The excitement of open water and adventure lurks in the distance of chance upon encounters of the unknown.
The mission of the Finest Kind is to set the scene for those amazing memories that will keep you reminiscing about your adventure at gatherings, reunions, and around the kitchen table for years to come. Even if you’re just looking for something fun to do on vacation, your experience will be much more than a simple day of fishing, and your group will catch much more than fish. We live for those memories, when a father will encourage his children to cast out the line, and reel in life’s blessings, a groom fishing alongside his prized catch, and those competitions that prove ever so surprising when one friend outsmarts his peers in technique and humility. These are the lessons that bring individuals together as a group. Travel away from all of the hustle and bustle, and find yourself in a place where some see life more clearly than ever before.
Whether your goal is to make memories with family and friends, to experience something different in life, to find yourself, or just to see what you can catch out of the depths of the sea, there is something for everyone with Destin, Florida’s deep sea fishing. To make your charter the greatest deep sea fishing trip of your life, check out these planning tips, and we’ll meet you behind the boat on the morning that you have scheduled your adventure!
Whether you are planning a trip with your family, a destination wedding, a reunion with old friends, or you just want to join in for a day of deep sea fishing out of Destin, the first thing to consider is choosing the appropriate length of your charter. Half-day, ¾ day, full-day, and overnight trips are available for private charters with up to 22 passengers. The Finest Kind’s 53′ G&S Sportfish custom boat offers all of the comforts of home, while giving serious fishermen room to move around. Group charters are also available for those who want to join other passengers to split the cost of the trip.
How long should my deep sea fishing charter last?
Memory Maker
Half-Day (4, 5, or 6 hours) – A half day trip is designed to allow you and your group to test the waters. Perfect for a first-time fishing adventure with small children, someone trying to fit in a little time on the water, and a need to fulfill the curiosity of saltwater fishing. This is the best trip to “test out” the adventures of deep sea fishing. If you want to make a special memory with your young children, go for the half day charter, and introduce your family to the sport of saltwater fishing.
Group Bonding
3/4 Day (8 to 10 hours) – If you’re a little more serious about fishing, go for a ¾ day trip. These trips offer you the chance to hit the depths needed to catch a variety of fish. This adventurous outing reveals the character of individuals, initiates team building skills, and sets the scene for creating lifelong bonds. The ¾ day fishing charters are suitable for company trips, wedding parties, adventurous families, and those who are serious about deep sea fishing.
Mission Fishin’
Full-Day (12 to 18 hours) – For those who seek an offshore adventure, the full-day fishing trip offers the opportunity to stretch your sea legs, and gain ground with some of the big ones! With a combination of trolling and bottom fishing, you are sure to land some great catches. Talk about making memories! Your friends and family will mark a full day trip as one of the highlights of their lives. The full day deep sea fishing charter is best for a family of thrill seekers, friend and family reunions, and profound fishermen.
Legacy Creator
Overnight (24 to 72 hours) – Overnight trips are the ultimate experience in deep sea fishing. Designed to give anglers the maximum opportunity that deep sea fishing offers, overnight trips allow you to keep a two-day limit of fish, and get into the territory of big game fish. This distance gives you a better chance of landing that trophy fish to hang over your mantel! Overnight trips are perfect for ultimate fishing prodigies, those on a mission for monumental fishing experiences, and pioneers who want a trip that exceeds the expectations of an extraordinary adventure. An overnight deep sea fishing trip is a must for the bucket lists of true fishermen.
The Difference Between Private and Group Charters
Private Charter
Private Charters are just that. Private! Aside from the captain and his crew members, those who you choose to invite on the charter are the only ones who share the boat. A private group is paying for the services of a captain and his crew members, who practically live on the water every day. They know the legal regulations, where the prime fishing spots are, and they also supply the gear! These experienced professionals have the knowledge and skills needed for fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Private charters charge by the hour for the first six passengers, and an additional 10% per person after the first six. Individual groups usually split the cost between each person, but also nominate one person from the group who is responsible for processing the deposit, upholding the cancellation policy, and settling the balance before the trip departs from the dock.
Group Charter
Group Charters offer a semi-private setting, where multiple parties share the boat. This options helps to cut the cost for those who want to go fishing, but don’t necessarily want the boat all to themselves. A great option for those struggling to get a group together, group charters offer the flexibility of time on the water, without paying for privacy. Just remember that you will be sharing space with others, so it is a good idea to bring a smaller cooler and bag. Call the charter service and see what they have scheduled for the time that you have allotted for fishing, and get hooked up with others who desire similar experiences. Many life-long friendships are initiated during group charters!
Now that you have an idea as to which deep sea fishing trip best meets the needs of your group, it’s time to start scheduling your charter. Before setting a definite day and time with your group, always call to check availability. When you call, you should ask about the day that you desire first, but remain open-minded about other days close to your desired date. Once you have confirmed with your group that the availability of the charter fits a day in your schedule, call to book your deep sea fishing trip. A credit card number will hold your spot on the calendar until a deposit is made. One person from your group should communicate with the agency, and process the deposit. The same person is responsible for upholding the cancellation policy as it stands at the time of booking your charter.
How do I schedule a deep sea fishing charter?
Checking availability – The moment that you confirm with your group that deep sea fishing should be on the vacation agenda, and you have chosen a length that fits your needs, go ahead and call to check availability. The process between checking availability and booking your charter should be handled swiftly. A charter cannot be held without a credit card number or deposit, and another group may call to book the day that you inquired about before you call back. Depending on the time of sunrise and sunset, for the given time of year, charters typically leave between 5:00 am and 7:00 am. However, if you have scheduled a half day charter, your captain may run two trips for that day, which offers the possibility to leave in the afternoon. For overnight charters, leaving in the evening around 6:00 pm or 12:00 am is common, depending on the length of your trip. The captain will choose the time that offers his group the best advantage, given the time of year and the current fishing conditions. If you only have one day to fish, and the boat is already booked, consider leaving your name on the waiting list. You never know what could happen. Checking availability should give you an idea as to the best day and time for your group. Once you know what your options are, confirm with your group, and call back to book your deep sea fishing trip.
Pricing – Private charter fees run about $200.00 per hour for the first six passengers, and an additional 10% per person after the first six people. For more information about pricing, check out the Fishing Rates tab, where current pricing information is outlined for each charter. For private charters, the payment is made by one person in the group, so the agreement of who pays what should be handled between your own group. For a group charter, the pricing varies depending on the amount of people, the length of the trip, and availability. Always call to confirm pricing information.
When to book – Book your charter the moment that you have confirmed with your group that the availability of the charter lines up with your schedule. Some people book a year in advance, and some the day before the trip. The difference is that the people who reserve the boat well in advance have a confirmed charter with a great fishing guide. The ones who wait until they get into town risk either not having a trip, or going with someone who has a hard time finding people to pay for their guidance. You can get lucky, so still check to see if you are already in Destin, but a good rule of thumb is to book as soon as you know that you are committed to the trip. The same goes for group charters, as well. Get your name on the books, and if there aren’t enough people interested in the same trip that you desire, the captain can hook you up with another good captain, instead of you risking the dock-walk the night before your only day left to go fishing!
Deposit – Every charter must be held with a credit card number until a deposit is made for the reservation. The deposit is usually sent via check to avoid a 5% surcharge added to credit card deposits. The purpose of the deposit is to ensure that customers are not turned away for a reservation by someone who just likes their name to appear on the schedule, but never really shows up. The captain and crew members are left with a hefty out of pocket bill for fuel, bait, tackle, maintenance, and ice, and the person who reserved the charter for that day in a cozy bed somewhere. Deposits are required as a contract that you will be at the dock and ready to fish the morning of your scheduled trip.
Cancellation policy – There are reasons that a trip must be canceled from time to time. This is referred to as a day when “something went wrong!” Let your captain cancel for weather related problems. Since Florida’s weather is sometimes unpredictable, a typical weather radar app is inconsistent when determining the best fishing conditions. A captain will rely on the height of the sea waves, white capping in the bay, and wind. Rain does not make for negative fishing conditions in the Gulf of Mexico. Quite the opposite! Some of the best fishing occurs during the rain showers of Destin, Florida. If the captain cancels a trip as a result of weather, you have the option to reschedule, or request a refund. Rest assured that he will not take you out in dangerous conditions. However, if you cancel the trip within your cancellation policy restrictions, then the contract is broken, and you risk losing your deposit, or the entire cost of the trip, depending on how close you are within the time of your charter reservation.
The charter boat will provide the bait, tackle, ice, and fishing license for both private and group trips. A saltwater fishing experience is quite different from a freshwater encounter, and the supplies that you will need are likewise, different. When chartering a captain’s expert guidance, most everything that you need will be on the boat. What you should concern yourself with packing is appropriate clothing and shoes, protection from the sun, a cooler for food and drinks, another cooler for your catch, seasickness aid, any prescription medication that you normally use, your camera, photo ID, necessary receipts, and sleeping gear and toiletries for overnight trips.
What should I pack for a deep sea fishing charter?
Maps, Addresses, and Phone Numbers
Make sure to keep printed maps and addresses with your important papers while you travel. If you use your cell phone for a GPS as your primary navigational tool, you never know when you will lose service, or when the directions will be incorrect. Always have a hard copy to back you up while driving to any destination. It is also a good idea to keep the phone numbers of your destination with you at all times. If you happen to be driving to find your hotel or charter boat and get lost, you’ll have an easy reference handy to call for directions. Pack these papers in your carry-on!
Receipts for Deposits on Lodging and Charter Reservations
Keep receipts for deposits, confirmation numbers, and dates of payment records with your maps and telephone numbers. If there is a mix-up with your accommodations, you’ll be ready with proof of payment, and avoid the hassle of waiting to get to the bottom of mismatched records.
Weather Appropriate, Comfortable Apparel for Fishing
.The seasons bring different temperatures to Destin, and you’ll want to check them out before packing your clothes. Layers are always a great option, since the temperatures can vary throughout the day. Go for stain resistant and quick-dry materials. Bathing suits, t-shirts, and lightweight bottoms will do the trick, but you must consider the elements that you will be exposed to on your charter. You’ll need protection from the sun, something that won’t ruin with exposure to saltwater or fish slime, and an outfit that you can move around in comfortably. Check out our What to Wear Deep Sea Fishing post for more ideas on outfits for deep sea fishing.
Light Colored and Rubber Soled Shoes
Boat decks can be very slippery with the high level of exposure to water. Even the morning dew can make the boat deck slick enough to bust a rump. Always wear shoes with good rubber soles on the bottom to battle the risk of falling. Choose a light-colored sole, as well. Dark bottoms on shoes sometimes leave scuff marks on the boat deck. Keep in mind that your shoes are likely to get wet, so look at shoes designed for deep sea fishing.
A Small Tote or Backpack with Essentials for the Fishing Trip
Space is limited, so you don’t want to bring a suitcase aboard your charter. Bring a tote or backpack along to make packing what you’ll need on the boat simple and efficient. Pack your bag when you get into town, and make sure that you are prepared for any circumstantial changes in weather. One of the most important preparation items is sunscreen lotion with at least a 30+ SPF. Sprays can get messy and make the deck more slick, so go with the lotion. Also bring wet wipes to easily remove the lotion from your hands, because the scent of lotion can leave your bait with an adverse smell for fish. Consider picking up a pair of fishing gloves to protect your hands while handling tackle and fish. A wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses help to fight the reflection of the sun on top of the water, which helps to prevent excessive exposure to the sun. The sun shines bright in Destin, Florida, and the last thing that you want is a sunburn on your ears, nose, or neck, or sun damage to your eyes. Saltwater fishermen usually opt for gray lenses, as they provide the best clarity and safety. Make sure to pack a poncho or rain gear, because Destin’s pop-up rain showers can occur even on days with the brightest sunshine. A dry towel will also come in handy, just in case you get soaked. Don’t get caught at sea without the proper gear in your carry-on bag.
A Waterproof Bag
There are certain items that you will want to keep dry while on your deep sea fishing charter. Pick up a waterproof bag or pouch big enough to store items that are not made to withstand liquid! The waterproof bag should be able to contain your prescription medications, motion sickness aid, a photo ID, camera, cell phone, and cash. Always bring any regular medications along with you, in case you need them while on the water. It may take a while to get to shore, and we want you safe and comfortable while on the charter. Motion sickness aid should be taken the night before the trip, and the morning before, unless you have chosen to use patches or bracelets. You’ll want to keep your photo ID with you, which will probably remain in your wallet, and most wallets last longer if not submerged in water. Unless you have a waterproof camera to catch memories in the making, leave your camera in the pouch while you are not using it. Most cell phones are not waterproof, so keep them out of the way, and in your bag. Just have your phone in case your family needs to contact you in the event of an emergency. The deckhands that help to make your fishing adventure a hit work for tips. You’ll want to bring cash for tipping the mates, which is usually around 20% of the cost of your trip! Keep important items dry, so your fishing charter memories aren’t dampened by liquid disasters!
Cooler #1
You’ll want to pack two coolers. One for the food and drinks that you plan to take aboard your charter, and one to leave in your vehicle to store your catch in. The first cooler should be sized, according to the needs for your group. (A shorter trip and a SMALL group calls for a SMALLER cooler. A private trip and a LARGE group calls for a MEDIUM sized cooler). You should bring water and drinks, like Gatorade or Powerade, and soda. If you prefer beer, bring it in a can, because glass is not permitted near the water in Destin, Florida. Your cooler should also be big enough to hold food that needs to be cooled. Common snacks include premade sandwiches, chips, and fruit. Whatever you bring to eat, make sure that there is little need for preparation. You don’t want to be stuck in the cabin preparing meals for long.
Cooler #2
Your back-up cooler should stay in your vehicle until you get back to the dock from your trip. Once your mate fillets your catch, it is easier to ice down your bags of fish in a separate cooler. Save your left-over snacks and drinks from your charter to use during the rest of your vacation, or on your trip back home.
Extras for Overnight Trips
For overnight charters, you’ll need to bring a few extra items, as well as more food and drinks, motion sickness aid, appropriate medications, and an extra change of clothes. In addition to your extra supplies, bring a pillow, a sleeping bag or blanket, and coffee (if you’re a coffee drinker). You may also want to consider a pair of ear plugs and a sleeping mask. There are bunk beds available, but the tight sleeping quarters of a charter boat can leave an angler sleepless if he or she must have silence or total darkness to sleep. Consider picking up a pair of slip-on shoes to wear at night for trips back and forth around the saloon. However, when you plan to go out onto the deck, whether daytime or night, make sure that your non-slip shoes are on your feet. A microwave and refrigerator are also available, but it is still a good idea to bring your own cooler with enough food to last you the length of your trip. The maximum capacity for overnight charters is 12 passengers, and you can catch a two day limit of fish! The charter boat is also has restrooms, a stereo, and Satellite TV and DVD. Get everything that makes you comfortable through the night, and stay focused on the fishing!
Once you arrive into town, your first stop should be checking in with your hotel. If you are coming in from I-10, there are several ways to access Destin. Some of the common traveling routes are through Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and Freeport. You will travel along HWY 98 for most everything from food, to shopping, and entertainment. Get a map of HWY 98, and study the sites before you get to Destin. After you’ve checked in for lodging and found your way around Destin, you’ll want to get ready for your deep sea fishing trip within 24 hours of the time that the boat is scheduled to leave the harbor.
Bypass from State Road 85 to the Mid-Bay Bridge
For those who choose to make a B-line for Destin, and don’t mind shelling out a little extra cash, the Mid-Bay Bridge that stretches across the Choctawhatchee Bay has now opened the Mid-Bay Bridge Connector route. Once you exit I-10 in Crestview, follow SR 85 to the connector, which is just before you get to Niceville. The connector route is tolled by taking a photograph of your tag, and a bill is sent to the address that your tag is registered to. This “Toll-By-Plate” system charges $2.00 per two axle vehicle, plus $2.00 for each additional axle. You will have to pay another toll fee to cross the bridge, which is $4.00 per two axle vehicle, plus $4.00 per additional axle. The Mid-bay bridge only accepts cash, so be prepared. If you would rather not pay the connector route fees, check out some other ways to get to HWY 98 in Destin, listed below.
From Fort Walton Beach to Destin
If you are using Crestview’s exit from I-10, head south on State Road 85. You can get to Fort Walton Beach by taking a right at Intersection 123. Keep right at the merge, and you’ll end up back on SR 85, which will turn into Eglin Parkway. Turn left onto Perry Avenue when you see Jimmy’s Gun and Pawn Shop. Follow Perry Ave to Miracle Strip Parkway, and turn left. You are now officially on HWY 98. Go over the Brooks Bridge, through Okaloosa Island, and over the Destin Bridge. See that huge building there on the right? That is the Emerald Grande, and the entrance to HarborWalk Village is at the first stop light after the Destin bridge!
From Niceville to Destin
Now if you pass Intersection 123, you’ll end up in Niceville. Keep heading straight until you run our of SR 85. You’ll take a left onto SR 20. Go through Niceville, Blue Water Bay, and a little town called Seminole, and you’ll see an overpass. Take a right and you will be on the Mid Bay Bridge Toll road. As of October 01, 2015, they are charging $4.00 per two axle vehicle, plus $4.00 per additional axle. If you choose to go through the toll, bring cash, because they will not take any other method of payment. When you get over the bridge, go to the second stop light, and take a right. You are now on HWY 98. Follow HWY 98 for about 5.5 miles, and you’ll see HarborWalk Village on the left. If you cross a bridge on HWY 98, you’ve gone too far! Turn around, (U-turns are legal in Florida), go back over the Destin bridge, and HarborWalk Village will be at the first stop light. Turn right.
From Freeport to Destin
If you choose to get to Destin through Freeport, you’ll exit I-10 at Defuniak Springs, and head south on HWY 331. After about 28 miles, you’ll hit HWY 98. Take a right, and follow HWY 98 West for 22 miles. You’ll see HarborWalk Village on the left. If you cross a bridge on HWY 98, you’ve gone too far! Turn around, (U-turns are legal in Florida), go back over the Destin bridge, and HarborWalk Village will be at the first stop light. Turn right.
Finding the Finest Kind Charter Boat
Make sure that you know exactly where the boat is before the morning of your charter. When you find HarborWalk Village, you should find a parking spot as close to the south side of the lot as possible. Walk down the steps to the harbor. Find your boat’s slip close to HarborWalk Fishing Charters. Finding the charter will help you to know exactly where you are supposed to be the next morning, so you are not wondering around the dock searching for the boat.
Settle Your Balance
Use this time to settle up your balance with your charter boat booking agency, or the captain, if you have booked directly with him. Don’t wait until the morning of the trip to learn that the ATM machines are all going crazy, or that you have forgotten your checkbook at home. If you have booked with an agency, meeting the day before to settle your balance will keep you from having to wait in long lines with others paying for their trips. Once the captain has payment, the booking agency will send a manifest to him. Once the captain has his manifest in hand, you can leave the dock! Get this over with the day before your charter, so you can get down to fishing the morning of your trip!
Last Minute Shopping
Now that you have found your charter, and you’ve settled your balance, start gathering the items that you plan to take aboard the boat in the morning. If you have forgotten anything from the list, or if you waited to get into town to get your drinks and snacks, there is a Walmart in Destin that has everything you could possibly need. There is also a Winn Dixie and a Publix close by if you just need food items. Make sure that you have your motion sickness aid! Also, if you’ve forgotten to pick up quick-dry material clothing for your deep sea fishing trip, try the Bass Pro Shop at the Destin Commons. All of these stores are accessible from HWY 98, east of HarborWalk Village. Once you have made your last minute shopping stops, grab your backpack or tote, your carry-on cooler, and your waterproof pouch, and make sure that you are ready to go in the morning.
Plans for Breakfast
Go ahead and make plans for where you will eat in the morning. This will help to avoid the inability to decide, which could result in being late for your charter. Deep sea fishing charters leave early, so make sure that the place where your breakfast will come from opens early enough to be at your boat 30 minutes before you are scheduled to leave. The top picks around Destin for eating breakfast out are: The Donut Hole (Can get super busy, so have a back up!), Harbor Docks, and Another Broken Egg Cafe. The hours change throughout the seasons so double check the times of opening before you commit to one of these restaurants. IHOP is always a good backup! If you prefer fast-food, Whataburger is located just across the street from HarborWalk Village. They are open 24 hours a day, and they do serve breakfast. You could choose to get your breakfast to-go, and eat once you are on your charter! Plan to pick up some ice for your food and drinks before, or after, breakfast. Though there is ice on the boat, it is typically used to ice your catch.
A Good Night’s Sleep and Seasickness Prep
So, you are all packed and ready, you know what your first three steps will be in the morning, and you are ready to go to bed early to avoid adding any pressure to yourself during your awesome deep sea fishing adventure. Before you go to sleep, double check your motion sickness medication, and if you have chosen a pill form, like Dramamine or something similar, go ahead and take a half of a dose to get the medication in your system. Follow the directions in the morning, first thing when you wake up. Don’t forget your motion sickness meds and remedies, and don’t wait until you are already on the boat to use them! Get them in your system ahead of time! Now, settle in, go to sleep, and dream of catching the big one!
It’s Time for Your Deep Sea Fishing Charter
Well, you’ve done it! You’ve planned a great deep sea fishing trip! Now the alarm sounds before sunrise, and it is time to get going. You already have your outfit picked out, and you’re getting ready to go to breakfast! Now is the time that you will want to take your second dose of motion sickness aid! Then off to breakfast, pick up some ice, and get to the back of the boat for your charter! Here are some tips to help make sure that your adventure goes as well as your planning!
Are You Ready?
Make sure that you have taken your motion sickness aid before you leave your room, and well before your trip.
Grab your early breakfast, your ice for food and drinks, and head to the boat.
Arrive on the dock behind your charter boat about 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
You can drive down to the dock to unload your cooler and bags, but you must park on the hill in the HarborWalk Village parking lot. This benefit makes it easy for guests who cannot walk for long distances. Leave your group at the boat, and have one person park the car, and walk back down.
Never board a vessel without the captain or first mate knowing you are there. A member of your group could slip into the harbor between the boat and dock, which could result in injuries.
Take your belongings into the cabin to keep the back deck clear during your trip.
Listen to the safety instructions provided by your captain or first mate, and go over the agenda for today’s charter!
Listen to the instructions given by your captain and his crew. Even if you have chartered with someone else who approached fishing differently, each charter is unique in regards to technique and specialty. You may learn something you never knew with patience and optimism.
Have fun and reel in some memories!
You’ve made it through the best deep sea fishing adventure of your life with great planning and ample luck! Now your charter is creeping up to the dock, and you get to show off how well those newly acquired fishing skills paid off! A little extra planning can help you to stay a step ahead of the rest!
What Happens When the Boat Docks?
When the charter boat docks, your first mate will begin to unload your fish and hang them on the board. This is a great time for group pictures with your catch! Everyone back home will be waiting to see that “Hero Shot!” After the mate has arranged your catch, gather around the board. Get creative, and consider funny poses for at least one of your photos! Sometimes, photographers walk along the dock and offer to take your picture for a fee. Never turn them away, because they may be snapping a photo for your captain. Other times, the local newspaper will be snapping pictures along the dock for an upcoming featured article. If a photographer asks to take your picture, go ahead and let them. You may love the printed photo and choose to buy a copy. If not, the mate can snap a picture with your camera, so even Mom can get in the shot!
Once photos are done, your mate will begin to fillet your fish. This is a good time for you to begin unloading your belongings from the boat onto the dock. Unloading is best done by staying in the boat and placing your items directly onto the dock. Don’t try to be a hero by carrying everyone’s belongings as you step off the boat. You may be the one needing a hero if you step in between the boat and the dock. Have someone run up and get the car, so you can easily load your vehicle from the convenience of the dock. While you have your vehicle, grab your back up cooler, and get some ice.
Allowing the mate to fillet your fish is an important part of the deep sea fishing experience. If filleting saltwater fish were an easy task, then the crew would just let you take your catch with you to fillet at home. These men are skilled with the know-how on what parts of the fish are good, and what parts are to be thrown with the carcasses. Cut a fillet the wrong way, and you have just ruined the taste of an amazing seafood cuisine. Also, the service is free to customers. The mates will supply bags for your fish, so you are all set!
The mates work for tips, which is why tips are emphasized on many of the charter fishing villages along the Gulf Coast. Once the fish are filleted, the appropriate time has come to tip your mate. Remember, 15% of the cost of your trip is customary, and 20% is complimentary!
When you are settled and packed up, consider bringing some of your catch down to one of the “cook your catch” restaurants along the harbor. AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar is the closest to your boat. You could leave your fish with the hostess, go back to your room for a shower, and meet back at the restaurant for a dinner consisting of your catch, french fries, hush puppies, and more!
Once your charter is over, you will be ready to start planning your next deep sea fishing trip. To stay in touch with your captain, and to remain aware of Destin’s current events, follow us on Facebook. There is always something going on around the town, and we would love to share in the making of memories created right in the heart of Destin, Florida!
Under 25? – The Struggle is REAL
With one, two, three, and four bedroom luxury condominium style suites, the spacious floor plans, large plush beds, and gourmet kitchens serve families of all sizes. A daily maid service, 24-hour security, full service concierge, and room service availability for breakfast, lunch, and dinner sets the scene for tension free vacationing. A gift shop is on site enhances the convenience of stay for any items forgotten from home.
If you’re planning a company event, reunion, or destination wedding, this venue offers a variety of options for opulent scenery, grand ball and party rooms, catering, and business centers. The resort is home to the Grand Vista Bar and Grill, as well as 10 on the Harbor. Best of all, the Emerald Grande’s location positions guests for full access to all fishing charters, activities, dining, shopping, and nightlife within walking distance to HarborWalk Village.
The sugary-white sand and emerald green water has long been an attraction of the Destin area. The Emerald Grande features two private, secluded beach locations to choose from, including the Cove Beach and Jetty Beach of Noreiga Point. Guests are transported via shuttle vessel, leaving every 30 minutes. Summer hours for the shuttle service are from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with the last beach trip at 5:00 pm, and the last departure from the beach is 6:00 pm. No where else in Destin can you find lodging with so many beautiful views, and a private beach! With beach attendants furnishing complimentary chairs, umbrellas, and towels to guests of the Emerald Grande, vacationers are offered a serene escape from largely populated beaches elsewhere along the Gulf Coast! Beverages are available for purchase on the shuttle, and the Grande Vista Bar & Grill offers a beach side service! No more lugging beach bags, chairs, towels, and coolers to your beach outing! It seems as though the Emerald Grande has thought of everything!
Sunset Lifestyles: You’ll find coastal style and luxury footwear for both men and women at Sunset Lifestyles! Spend the day browsing through trends that fit the scene of HarborWalk Village! Vera Bradley, Toms, UGG, Yeti, and more!
Bright Ideas and Light Up Toys: Make your child’s day with this stop that offers innovative light up toys and more! Fill your day with sparkle and discover the bright ideas that inspire children to see beyond a blank canvas! Fun shopping for the whole family!
Legacy Heir Airbrush and Gifts: Airbrush shirts and accessories make great souvenirs that cater to those who want to represent on their vacation. Henna tattoos are all about artistic expression! You dream it up, and have Legacy Airbrush and Gifts tat it up! The good news is, though they last quite a while, henna tattoos are not permanent! Airbrushing and henna tattoos are tradition for Florida vacationers, and you won’t have to travel far to get one of these memory making creations!
Harry T’s Seafood-Spirits-Sunsets are the themes of this Destin tradition. With a new location to join the excitement, Harry T’s now overlooks the East Pass, Crab Island, and Noriega Pointe. Serving famous appetizers, seafood, burgers, pasta, and cocktails, enjoy live entertainment, great service, and much more! Phone: (850) 654-4800 Location: 46 Harbor Blvd. 
Cubby Caboose: Another one for the kiddos, the Cubby Caboose is a miniature train ride that takes children for a choo-riffic adventure along the harbor. The miniature train has seasonal hours, so always call before planning your Cubby Caboose ride! Phone: (850) 251-8259 Location: HarborWalk Village
Fun Spots: A mirror maze, shooting gallery, and an atomic rush appeals to children, teens, and adults! Have a blast with the 4D mirror maze with surprising corners, dead ends, and continuous circles to become a maze master. Take your best shot at the Critter George Shooting Gallery! Check out the Atomic Rush game for 1-4 players to keep track of your color, in this interactive arcade masterpiece! Phone: (850) 543-4291 Location: 34 Harbor Walk Village 2nd Floor – Suite 242
Ultimate 7D Interactive Movie Ride: Take a 4-minute ride on your choice with thrilling special effects and spectacular footage in the Enhanced 7D Simulator. Choose from 5 different movies playing every day, Alien Attack, Los Banditos, Zombies, Forbidden Mine and Gigamon. No set movie times! Guests choose their movie and experience the excitement whenever they choose to come in! Accommodating up to 8 people at a time and offering group rates! Phone: (850) 837-7007 Location: 34 Harbor Blvd., Suite 246
Destin Snorkel offers a variety of tours, including the Two Stop Snorkeling tour, SNUBA Adventures, the Shelling tour, dolphin cruises, fishing, and private tours. The Two Stop Snorkeling tour is a 3 hour guided snorkeling adventure that includes a trip to the bay to encounter shells and crabs, and into the jetties to encounter fish, as well as a trip into the gulf to search for dolphins. While snorkeling at the jetties, free single and double kayaks are provided for guests on the Two Stop tour. SNUBA Adventures are designed to allow customers to explore depths of up to 20 feet without going through the training certification of scuba diving. Guests are given a 30-minute instructional demonstration, and then guided underwater to explore sea life with the ability to breath with ease, with the equipment offered by Destin Snorkel. On the Shelling tour, passengers join crew members into the bay to search for shells and crabs, and continue into the gulf to search for dolphins, and watch the sunset! Dolphin, sunset, and fireworks cruises are also offered with flexibility of exclusive sighting without snorkel, SNUBA, or shelling adventures. Fishing charters are available on Destin Snorkel’s 38-foot classic Hatteras called Fish Tales for up to 6 passengers! Destin Snorkel offers private tours for special events and private groups. Free soda and bottled water are offered on all tours, and free wine and beer are offered on sunset and fireworks cruises. For more information, check out 
As anglers, we have all seen fun and unique boat names that show a little bit about the personality of the owner. Here are 101 favorites. When available, the explanation behind the name is given, but all of them are fun regardless of what prompted being christened with such personality.
Whether you are planning a trip with your family, a destination wedding, a reunion with old friends, or you just want to join in for a day of deep sea fishing out of Destin, the first thing to consider is choosing the appropriate length of your charter. Half-day, ¾ day, full-day, and overnight trips are available for private charters with up to 22 passengers. The Finest Kind’s 53′ G&S Sportfish custom boat offers all of the comforts of home, while giving serious fishermen room to move around. Group charters are also available for those who want to join other passengers to split the cost of the trip.
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Weather Appropriate, Comfortable Apparel for Fishing
Extras for Overnight Trips
Allowing the mate to fillet your fish is an important part of the deep sea fishing experience. If filleting saltwater fish were an easy task, then the crew would just let you take your catch with you to fillet at home. These men are skilled with the know-how on what parts of the fish are good, and what parts are to be thrown with the carcasses. Cut a fillet the wrong way, and you have just ruined the taste of an amazing seafood cuisine. Also, the service is free to customers. The mates will supply bags for your fish, so you are all set!