Giving Thanks In Paradise: Spend Thanksgiving In Destin, Florida

As the holiday season ushers in a sense of warmth and togetherness, consider stepping away from tradition and celebrating Thanksgiving enjoying the beautiful beaches and turquoise water of Destin, Florida. With its mild temperatures, stunning coastal views, and array of family activities, Destin offers a unique and unforgettable Thanksgiving experience. And for those coming from colder climates, spending Thanksgiving in Destin is a perfect way to recharge before winter fully sets in. 

Thanksgiving Atmosphere in Destin

November marks the beginning of the off-season in Destin, meaning you can enjoy warm sunny days with fewer crowds on the beaches and around town. The temperatures hover around the mid-60s to 70s °F (18-24°C), creating a perfect climate for outdoor activities and beach exploration. Picture yourself basking in the sun while taking in the tranquil ocean waves—a picturesque Thanksgiving backdrop indeed!

What to Do in Destin Around Thanksgiving

1. Beach Bliss: Give your Thanksgiving a tropical twist by spending quality time on Destin's renowned beaches. Take leisurely strolls, play beach games, or simply relax and enjoy the serene ambiance.

2. Cruise and Dolphin Tours: Hop aboard a sunset cruise or dolphin tour to experience the Gulf of Mexico in a unique way. Witnessing dolphins playfully swim alongside your boat is a memory that will stay with you long after the holiday.

3. Golfing Getaway: For golf enthusiasts, Destin boasts several top-tier golf courses where you can tee off amidst stunning coastal views.

4. State Parks Exploration: The slightly cooler weather in November makes it the perfect time to explore the beauty of state parks around Destin, such as Henderson Beach State Park, which offers nature trails and picnic spots for a Thanksgiving al fresco feast.

5. Oysters and Drinks: The Boathouse Oyster Bar is open every day at 11am, and they open at 2pm on Thanksgiving for oysters and drinks. This local’s favorite on the Destin Harbor is a fun place to spend a couple hours over the Thanksgiving long weekend!

6. Go Ice Skating - Yes You Read that Right! Every year around the holidays, the Village of Baytowne Wharf features Baytowne on Ice, a ice skating rink for all to enjoy. Ice skating in a tropical location will be something the whole family will love!

Thanksgiving Events

Destin embraces the holiday spirit with a variety of events on and around Thanksgiving, including a turkey trot and fun run at Sandestin, church services on the beach, farmers markets, and more. Keep an eye on the local event listings to find the perfect activities for your holiday weekend.

Thanksgiving Dinner in Destin

Many local restaurants and resorts in Destin go the extra mile to make your Thanksgiving memorable. Some popular options for Thanksgiving feasting include:

1. HarborWalk Village: Enjoy a Thanksgiving feast at one of the waterfront restaurants at HarborWalk Village, offering traditional holiday fare with a coastal flair.

2. The Henderson Beach Resort: This luxurious resort often hosts a grand Thanksgiving buffet, complete with all your holiday favorites and a touch of Southern charm.

3. Beachfront Dining: Numerous beachfront restaurants in Destin offer special Thanksgiving menus, allowing you to savor your meal with a view of the Gulf. Some favorites include: Royal Palm Grille, which has a special Thanksgiving menu all day, Marina Cafe with a buffet style Thanksgiving meal, The Crab Trap, and Beachwalk Cafe serving a 4-course special Thanksgiving dinner. 

Where to Stay

The luxury Destin vacation rentals offered by Destin Dreamers are the perfect setting for your Thanksgiving getaway. Staying in a vacation rental is the best way to create lasting family memories. Many of our Destin homes feature enough bedrooms for a multi-generational gathering, or for several families to share, and the expansive family rooms and living areas are perfect for games, watching football, and sharing quality time together. Our homes all come with fully equipped kitchens as well, so cooking Thanksgiving dinner, or any meal during your vacation, will be a breeze. Book a home with a private pool, and you’ll have everything you need right on property. Many of our Destin vacation rentals even come with a golf cart for easy access to the beach, or for taking scenic rides around the neighborhood. 

This Thanksgiving, exchange snowy landscapes for sandy shores and indulge in a unique holiday experience in Destin, Florida. With its mild climate, serene beaches, and a variety of activities, Destin provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting holiday memories. From outdoor adventures to luxurious dining options, your Thanksgiving in Destin promises to be both memorable and refreshing. Embrace the opportunity to celebrate gratitude in this coastal paradise, where the beauty of the surroundings mirrors the warmth of the season.

Published by Brynn Flaherty
Friday, August 11, 2023