Destin, FL Destin Real Estate | Homes for Sale in Destin, FL
Once a small, quiet fishing village, Destin, FL, has matured into one of the state’s most popular tourist towns. If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle of tourist season, Destin is a beautiful place to live, with lots of things to do and explore! From condos to townhomes to charming cottages, there is plenty of Destin Real Estate waiting to be purchased along the Emerald Coast.
Destin, FL
Destin’s inhabitant history goes as far back as the seventh-century Native Americans and then was discovered again by Spanish explorers in the 1500s. Destin was re-discovered in 1835 by fisherman Captain Leonard Destin who was impressed with the abundant fish in the Gulf. Settlers came in the early 1850s, and Destin was officially established.
With Captain Destin, Destin became known for its fishing industry. The largest and most equipped fishing fleet in Florida can be found here. Destin is home to more than 14,000 residents. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), of the 4.5 million vacationers the Emerald Coast receives annually, 80 percent of them visit Destin.
Year-Round Events and Must-See Attractions
There are several annual events, places to check out, and activities to do in Destin. Here is a quick overview of a few of them:
- Destin Fishing Rodeo
The Destin Fishing Rodeo was started over 70 years ago to help bring more people to Destin. It worked so well that the founders decided to move the Rodeo from May to October so that tourist season would last an extra month. While it was designed to bring in tourists, the Rodeo is a fun event for locals and benefits the area’s businesses.
- Destin Seafood Festival
This annual event was started a little over 40 years ago by the Women’s Auxiliary of the Destin Charter Boat Association. It features music and seafood and kicks off the Fishing Rodeo.
- HarborWalk Village
HarborWalk Village is located at the end of the boardwalk that borders the Destin harbor. The Village features shopping venues, live entertainment, watersports and activities, and restaurants such as Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, Harry T’s Lighthouse, and the Coyote Ugly Saloon. They also host events year-round, especially for the holidays.
- Baytowne Wharf
The Village at Baytowne Wharf features shopping boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. They also have recurring family-oriented events. Events include a seasonal farmer’s market, access to seasonal ice skating, an annual Christmas tree lighting, movie nights on the Plaza Lawn, and various outdoor concerts.
- Henderson Beach State Park
Henderson Beach State Park was created to preserve the natural geological features of the area, as well as the vegetation and wildlife. There are campsites and nature trails, and it’s a popular place for reunions and weddings.
- Destin Commons
Destin Commons is another venue in Destin to enjoy dining, music, shopping, and events. Annual events include a Mardi Gras Masquerade, BBQ and Fireworks Festival, Santa’s Arrival and Christmas Tree Lighting, and the Halloween Haunt.
Dining in Destin
If there’s one thing Destin does well, it’s food. Destin offers a diverse selection of places to eat, from seafood to pizza. These are just a few of the many places to eat in Destin:
- Brotula’s Seafood House and Steamer — Locally owned and operated, this is a favorite seafood restaurant for Destin locals.
- Louisianna Lagniappe — Another favorite seafood eatery, locals also love the waterfront dining experience.
- Vinny McGuire’s Pizza — This is a popular spot among locals and visitors. You can enjoy a variety of pizzas and even create your own. They also offer a wide selection of McGuire’s Irish Ale.
- Crackings — Known for their breakfast and brunch, Crackings is another family-owned and operated Destin favorite.
Make Yourself at Home in Destin, FL
If you’re ready to make Destin your landing place, there are plenty of Destin homes for sale that are sure to please you. Whether you’re looking for a magnificent beach home or a luxurious home in a cozy neighborhood, Counts Real Estate has several experts on Florida homes for sale that are eager to help you make your home in Destin. Don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can help!