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The 16 Best Tours in Destin
Destin, Florida, isn’t just about stunning beaches and emerald waters — it’s a place where you can find a wide range of memorable tours suited to all kinds of travelers. Whether you want to float above the coast with a parasailing experience, chase dolphins on a dolphin cruise, or relax at Crab Island on a tiki boat, Destin offers options that combine fun, nature, and local charm. We especially like the Original Cruisin' Tikis Crab Island Sandbar Adventure for its lively vibe and family-friendly atmosphere. Imagine being on a tiki-themed boat, swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sunshine at one of Destin’s most famous spots.
Whether you’re chasing thrills or looking for leisurely scenic views, Destin’s tours deliver. With options that cover everything from eco-adventures in limestone caves to sunset dolphin watching, it’s a place where every day on the water feels like a new adventure. Want to see dolphins, explore marine life, or just relax with a drink in hand? There’s a tour here for you.
Quick Overview
Destin is renowned for its water-based activities. You’ll find everything from half-day cruises to full-day rentals, with some tours perfect for families, others ideal for couples or groups of friends. Popular options include sandbar excursions like Crab Island tours, exhilarating parasailing tours such as the Destin Parasailing Experience, and eco-adventure kayak trips like the Clear Kayaking Eco Tour. Each offers a distinct perspective of Destin’s natural beauty and fun.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of the best 16 tours, so you can decide which one fits your desires and schedule.
1. Original Cruisin' Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure
This 3-hour cruise takes you out to the famous Crab Island sandbar aboard a tiki bar-themed vessel. It’s perfect for families or groups who want to relax while swimming, snorkeling, or visiting floating restaurants. The boat’s design makes it stand out, and the coolers provided mean you can bring your own drinks and snacks for a true laid-back vibe. Guests consistently give it a perfect 5-star rating for its fun atmosphere and friendly crew. Captain Kirk and Easton, the guides, are praised for their local knowledge and helpfulness, making this trip a top choice. It’s especially good for those wanting a mix of socializing and water play in a safe, family-friendly environment. Expect lively music, plenty of floaties, and dolphin sightings.
Bottom Line: A lively, family-friendly way to enjoy Crab Island with everything you need onboard — just bring your drinks and get ready for fun.
2. Parasailing Experience in Destin
For around $62.59, this 1 hour 30 minutes parasailing trip offers breathtaking views of Destin from 400 feet in the air. It’s perfect for adventure-seekers and first-timers alike, with an experienced crew dedicated to making you feel at ease. Many review comments highlight how smooth the takeoff and landing are, and how the staff helps nervous flyers enjoy the ride. From this vantage point, you’ll see local wildlife, the Gulf of Mexico, and Destin’s coastline — a perspective you won’t forget. The crew is known for their friendly and professional service, whether you’re flying solo or with a loved one.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick but unforgettable thrill with panoramic views, this parasailing tour is hard to beat.
3. Original Cruisin’ Tikis Sunset Cruise
This sunset cruise offers a relaxed way to end your day with stunning views of Destin’s skyline. Taking about 1 hour 30 minutes, the BYOB vessel sails into the bay, where you’ll catch a memorable sunset. Dolphins often join the cruise, adding to the magic. The vessel’s unique tiki style and island tunes create a fun, festive atmosphere perfect for friends or couples. The reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful the experience is, even when the weather is a bit choppy. With ice and coolers provided, bringing your favorite drinks makes this a customizable, laid-back outing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for sunset lovers and those wanting a scenic, relaxing evening on the water.
4. Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna
This small-group tour takes you through underwater caves and limestone bluffs near Marianna. It’s perfect for nature lovers and families, with opportunities to see turtles, fish, and birds. Your guide helps you spot wildlife and explains the geological features along the way. The calm waters and crystal-clear kayaks make it accessible for all skill levels, and the option to swim in springs or caves adds extra fun. Guests praise Elijah’s knowledge and patience, making the trip especially engaging for kids and adults alike. It’s a good value at $75 per person, given the unique eco-experience and wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, educational adventure into Florida’s hidden springs and caves, ideal for families and eco-minded travelers.
5. Banana Boat Ride in the Gulf of Mexico
This 1 hour 15 minutes banana boat ride is a classic thrill, perfect for kids and adults craving some water action. Riding out from Destin Harbor, you’ll enjoy views of the harbor, the Gulf, and possibly dolphins. The crew helps you get comfortable, and the equipment is all safe for first-timers. Many reviews mention dolphin sightings and how fun the ride is — falling off is part of the experience! You can upgrade to ride solo or with friends, making it a flexible adventure.
Bottom Line: A fun, energetic way to cool off and see marine life, suitable for families and groups looking for a lively outing.
6. 4 Hour Destin Harbor Crab Island Excursion
This 4-hour tour combines sightseeing and water fun, with your captain guiding you to Crab Island and Destin’s best spots. The music, floats, and snorkeling gear create a party atmosphere. It’s great for travelers wanting to relax and socialize, with plenty of time for sunbathing or jumping into the water. The crew’s helpfulness and clean boat are consistently praised. For just $79.50, you get a well-rounded experience with the flexibility to swim or explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: A medium-length, social experience perfect for those wanting both relaxation and a bit of adventure.
7. Tailfins Tiki Boats Crab Island Sandbar (3hrs)
This small-group tour on a tiki boat offers a cozy, intimate trip to Crab Island, with no more than 12 people onboard. You bring your own drinks, and the boat features a restroom for convenience. Captain Cameron and Captain Al are praised for their hospitality and dolphin sightings. It’s ideal for bachelor(ette) parties, birthdays, or just a fun day with friends. The relaxed pace and personal touch make it stand out. The reviews highlight how fun and easy it is to hop off and on the boat while anchored.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups seeking a personalized, fun-filled day on the water with dolphin sightings.
8. Destin Dolphin Cruise
This 1 hour 30 minutes cruise on a Corinthian Catamaran is a favorite for dolphin lovers. It’s a relaxed, scenic tour around Destin Harbor, with ample opportunities to spot wild dolphins. The boat’s design allows for close-up views, and the guides share interesting facts about local wildlife. It’s especially good for families or anyone wanting a gentle, educational experience. The reviews mention how the guides are friendly and that the trip is well-paced.
Bottom Line: A short, family-friendly dolphin cruise that combines wildlife viewing with scenic harbor views.
9. 1.5 Hour Destin Parasailing Experience
For a more extended parasailing adventure, this 1.5-hour trip lets you soar 400 feet above the coast. It’s suitable for first-timers and seasoned flyers, with the crew making safety a priority. Many guests rave about how smooth and fun the experience was, highlighting the fantastic views and professional staff. Whether you’re flying solo or with friends, it’s a memorable way to see Destin from above.
Bottom Line: Ideal for thrill-seekers who want more time in the sky and a chance to take in the coast from a bird’s perspective.
10. Destin: Dolphin Watching Cruise
This 1.5-hour dolphin cruise offers a quick, high-energy way to see dolphins and enjoy Destin’s scenery. The boat cruises through Destin Harbor, with frequent dolphin sightings and opportunities to see Crab Island and the Gulf. It’s a good choice if you want a shorter experience with plenty of chances to see wildlife, with many reviews emphasizing how friendly and knowledgeable the crew is.
Bottom Line: A fast-paced, fun trip for dolphin spotting and sightseeing without taking up your whole day.
11. Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL
This 1 hour dolphin cruise is operated by Hydrojet, offering an energetic ride that explores East Pass and the Gulf. It’s perfect for those who want to see dolphins and marine life in their natural environment while cruising past luxury homes and scenic spots. The boat stops for photos, making it ideal for travelers wanting a quick, yet comprehensive, water tour.
Bottom Line: Great for a compact, wildlife-focused outing that doesn’t cut into your day.
12. Crab Island: Pontoon Boat Rentals
Rent your own pontoon boat for up to 8 hours and explore Crab Island at your own pace. This is perfect if you prefer a self-guided adventure, with space for up to 12 people and a cooler included. It’s a flexible way to enjoy the water, whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or explore nearby islands. Reviews highlight how easy it is to drive and how well-maintained the boats are. It’s especially suited for groups who want to avoid scheduled tours and create their own itinerary.
Bottom Line: The best choice for independent travelers wanting total control over their day on the water.
13. 3 Hour Crab Island and Harbor Tour from Destin Non-Private
This 3-hour guided tour combines harbor sightseeing and Crab Island fun. The captain handles navigation, leaving you free to relax or snorkel. The trip includes floating loungers, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards, making it a versatile outing. It’s perfect for families or groups who want a mix of relaxing and active options. Reviewers praise the friendly, attentive crew and how much they enjoyed the dolphin spotting.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour that balances sightseeing, water play, and wildlife viewing, tailored for a flexible, enjoyable experience.
14. Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching Experience in Destin
This 3-hour tour combines snorkeling with dolphin watching, making it ideal for aquatic explorers. You’ll sail to favorite spots, possibly spotting dolphins before slipping into the water to see tropical fish and sea turtles. Kids and adults alike enjoy the chance to swim and shell. The crew’s knowledgeable, friendly approach ensures a rewarding experience, with reviewers noting how much they loved the crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife.
Bottom Line: For those who want both snorkeling and wildlife viewing, this trip balances adventure and relaxation.
15. Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise
This 1 hour 30 minutes cruise offers excellent dolphin sightings at sunset. The boat’s design allows for close-up viewing of dolphins and other marine life, including sharks and manatees. It’s an educational yet fun experience, perfect for families or couples. The sunset backdrop makes it especially romantic, with reviews praising the knowledgeable crew and pictures of dolphins taken during the trip.
Bottom Line: A scenic, wildlife-rich cruise ideal for a relaxed evening with the family or a romantic sunset.
16. Sunset Dolphin Cruise
Ending with a 2-hour sunset cruise, this tour captures the magic of Destin’s dolphins and sunset. The friendly crew keeps a lookout for dolphins, sharks, and manatees, while children can take the wheel. It’s a gentle, engaging way to wind down, with many reviews highlighting the beautiful sunset and friendly atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a memorable, peaceful evening with family or friends, combining wildlife and scenery.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding which Destin tour suits you best, consider your budget, physical activity level, and interests. If you’re traveling with family or kids, Crab Island tours or Dolphin cruises provide safe, fun experiences. For thrill-seekers, parasailing and banana boat rides deliver adrenaline rushes. Want to explore at your own pace? The pontoon boat rental or self-guided sandbar tours give you independence. When choosing, look at reviews for insights on crew friendliness, boat condition, and wildlife sightings.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
From relaxing sunset cruises to adventurous dolphin watching, Destin’s tours can create memorable moments for any traveler. If you’re seeking a lively social scene, the Tiki boat trips stand out. For wildlife enthusiasts, the eco kayak tour and snorkeling adventures deliver close encounters with nature.
Whether you want a family-friendly outing, a romantic sunset, or a thrilling flight, Destin’s diverse tour options won’t disappoint. Remember to book ahead — these experiences fill up fast, especially during peak times. Now, pick your favorite and get ready for an unforgettable day on Florida’s Gulf Coast.