Area Stats
Zip Codes: 32540, 32541, 32550
School District: Okaloosa County School District
School Rating: 8/10
Median Home Value: $625,000
Destin offers white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters along Florida's Panhandle. Known for world-class fishing and waterfront dining, this Gulf Coast city attracts families and retirees looking for a coastal lifestyle. The area features a mix of beachfront condos, single-family homes, and luxury properties near popular spots like Destin Harbor and Henderson Beach State Park. With top-rated schools, shopping at Destin Commons, and year-round outdoor activities, Destin provides a balance of vacation appeal and full-time livability. The real estate market stays active due to strong tourism and steady population growth.
Best Places To Eat
Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House: Waterfront dining on the harbor with fresh Gulf seafood and sunset views.
The Boathouse Oyster Bar & Grill: Casual spot known for oysters, grouper sandwiches, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Marina Café: Upscale dining featuring creative seafood dishes and an extensive wine list.
Dewey Destin's Seafood Restaurant: Family-owned establishment serving fried seafood platters and local favorites since 1979.
Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer: Local favorite offering steamed seafood, po'boys, and a casual coastal vibe.
Must Visit
HarborWalk Village
HarborWalk Village sits along the Destin Harbor and serves as the heart of the community. This waterfront destination features local shops, restaurants, and entertainment with views of charter fishing boats coming and going throughout the day. Walk the boardwalk to watch dolphins, grab fresh seafood at harborside eateries, or browse art galleries and boutiques. The area comes alive with live music, seasonal events, and festivals that draw both locals and visitors. Whether you're exploring Destin for the first time or have lived here for years, HarborWalk Village captures the authentic coastal culture that makes this area special. It's where the fishing village heritage meets modern Gulf Coast living.
Did You Know?
Destin was founded by a New England fishing captain named Leonard Destin in 1845. He discovered the incredibly rich fishing grounds just offshore and decided to settle his family on the isolated peninsula. For over a century, Destin remained a small fishing village accessible only by boat, with fewer than 100 residents well into the 1930s. The area became known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village" because of the deep waters close to shore that attract game fish. It wasn't until the completion of the Destin Bridge in 1935 that the town connected to the mainland by road. Today, Destin still celebrates its fishing heritage with the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo, which has run continuously since 1948.
