Graced with miles and miles of sugar white sand beaches and crystal-clear emerald water, Destin is the vacation destination of choice each year for millions of fishermen, boaters, divers, and beachcombers. And though dogs aren't allowed on beaches in Okaloosa County, Destin is still a good choice for those of us who always travel with pets.
This is largely due to the fact that most visitors spend more time out on the water in Destin than they do on the beach. Destin is home to one of the largest charter boat fleets in the United States, and many of the Captains allow well-behaved dogs on board. So even if you don't have your own boat, your dog can still take part in an exciting deep sea fishing excursion in "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village." Of course if you're not into fishing, you could take part in a sailing adventure, snorkeling trip, or dolphin cruise instead.
When you're ready to get out of the water, tee off at one of Destin's top-notch golf courses, head to Destin Commons or Silver Sands Factory Stores for some serious shopping, or enjoy the catch of the day at a local seafood restaurant. If you still have energy left after all of that, you can burn it off by racing around the "Wild Woody" go-cart course at The Track, or head over to Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park which has dozens of thrilling water slides and a relaxing lazy river, as well as the largest man made waterfall in the world.
When you're in Destin, be sure to bring your dog to Henderson Beach State Park. The park has more than 6,000 feet of scenic shoreline and a gorgeous beach with pristine white sugar sand and crystal clear emerald-green water.
Dogs aren't allowed on the beach or boardwalk, but they can enjoy the picnic area and nature trail with you on a 6-foot leash. The nature trail begins in the picnic area and winds through the dunes for about a mile before reaching a high dune that developed around the remnants of an old military bunker. From here, you'll have a great view of the park. Come at sunset and you may even spot dolphins playing in the water just offshore at. There's no better way to end a day at the beach.
Henderson Beach State Park is located just east of Destin on Highway 98, across from Wal-Mart. The park is open from 8am to sunset, 365 days a year. There is an admission fee of $4.00 per vehicle, but pets are free. If you'd like more information, you can contact the park directly at 850-837-7550.
