Why Destin is Great for Snorkeling Experiences
Destin, Florida, is a paradise for anyone who loves crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. The calm Gulf waters make snorkeling accessible for all skill levels, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned swimmer. What sets Destin apart is its variety of tours that combine wildlife sightings—especially dolphins—with underwater explorations of reef systems and shipwrecks. For a memorable outing, we recommend the Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching Experience in Destin, which combines dolphin sightings with underwater fun, sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
From private charters to family-friendly excursions, Destin offers something for all. Whether you want to relax on a luxury boat or go exploring with a group, the options are varied, well-reviewed, and packed with wildlife encounters.
Quick Overview of Destin Snorkeling Tours
Our list features a broad selection of guided tours, private charters, and eco excursions. Some highlight dolphin watching (like the popular Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching Experience), while others focus on coral reefs, shells, or shipwrecks. You’ll also find family-friendly options, private sailing adventures, and speedboat tours—all showcasing the best of Destin’s underwater and coastal scenery.
Now, let’s dive into each one to see what makes them special.
1. Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching Experience in Destin
This group dolphin-spotting and snorkeling trip is a top-rated choice with a perfect 5.0 rating from 136 reviews. For just $44 per person, you get about three hours of cruise, dolphin watching, and snorkeling. The crew takes care of everything, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed day on the water. The boat heads out to the captain’s favorite spot where you’ll have a good chance of seeing dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish. Afterward, you can hop in the water and explore the underwater world yourself. Kids are welcome, making this a family-friendly option.
The tour shines for its friendly crew and the opportunity to shell, which adds an extra layer of fun. Reviewers rave about seeing dolphins, horseshoe crabs, and fish—”highly recommend,” says one. The value for the price is excellent, especially considering the three hours of activity and wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families and first-time snorkelers who want a relaxed, wildlife-filled experience with good reviews and fair pricing.
2. Destin: Snorkeling Cruise with 2 Stops and Dolphin Watching
At number 2, this 2.5-hour guided cruise offers two snorkel stops plus dolphin sightings for $45 per person. It’s slightly shorter than the first tour but packs in diverse marine life and the thrill of watching playful dolphins along the way. The boat is described as modern and comfortable, making the experience enjoyable even for those prone to seasickness. The cruise takes you to less-traveled spots, giving snorkelers the chance to see vibrant marine life in clear waters. You might even get to feed the fish during the last stop, a highlight for kids and adults alike.
Guests mention the friendly crew and the excitement of spotting dolphins, which adds a memorable touch. It’s a good pick if you prefer a structured trip with multiple snorkel stops in a shorter window.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of dolphin watching and snorkeling, with a focus on comfort and diverse marine encounters.
3. Family-Friendly Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour from FWB
For $70, this 3-hour family tour is designed specifically for those traveling with children. It emphasizes safety, accessibility, and fun. The crew ensures everyone stays safe while exploring the waters around Destin and Fort Walton Beach. The trip includes a snorkeling stop where you can look for sharks, manatees, turtles, and dolphins. Plus, if your family prefers, you can enjoy shelling instead of snorkeling.
This tour is praised for its stroller and wheelchair accessibility and for being suitable for all ages. The itinerary includes a stop at Crab Island, famous for its shallow waters and lively atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the friendly crew and the chance to see a variety of marine animals.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families seeking a safe, accessible, and varied marine experience that includes wildlife, shells, and the chance to relax together.
4. Destin Private Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour 3 or 4hrs
This private charter offers up to six people a highly customizable day on the water for $455. Starting from Destin, you can sail to Crab Island, snorkel, and swim at your own pace. The tour includes snorkeling gear, and the boat’s amenities—cooler, bean bag chairs—make it perfect for relaxing. The trip focuses on personalized experiences, so you can tailor your trip to include dolphins, shells, or just lounging.
Guests mention Kip, the knowledgeable captain, who is attentive to weather changes, ensuring safety and smooth sailing. The flexibility, intimacy, and direct control over your schedule make this tour stand out, especially for groups celebrating special occasions.
Bottom Line: Excellent for small groups wanting a private, flexible, and luxurious outing with personalized service.
5. 2-Stop Snorkeling and Dolphin Cruise from Destin
This 2.5-hour cruise costs $50 per person and focuses on dolphins and snorkeling at two different sites. It’s perfect for those who want quick but quality marine encounters. The tour includes all snorkeling equipment and often features dolphin sightings along the coast—an experience both kids and adults love.
Reviewers note the friendly crew and the beautiful scenery, with some mentioning seeing sharks and sea turtles. It’s ideal for a morning or midday activity, especially if you want to pack in wildlife sightings without a long trip.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a short, active tour with dolphin sightings and reef snorkeling.
6. Destin: Snorkeling, Dolphins, and Crab Island
This customizable private tour for up to 6 people costs $435 and can last from 3 to 8 hours. It’s perfect for groups wanting control over their day, combining snorkeling, dolphin watching, and visiting Crab Island. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, and the itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
The reviews praise the flexibility and intimate nature of the trip, with many mentioning the personal attention and beautiful scenery. It’s suited for travelers who want a bespoke adventure and the chance to include specific activities.
Bottom Line: A top choice for groups or families who prefer a custom experience with all the essentials of Destin’s marine life.
7. Snorkeling, Shelling & Eco Excursion
For $56, this 2.5-hour eco tour emphasizes snorkeling and shell collecting. It’s family-friendly and focuses on learning about the local ecosystem. The tour includes snorkel gear and offers flexible start times. Guests often highlight the personalized experience and the ability to see dolphins, crabs, and colorful fish.
The crew goes out of their way to ensure safety, especially on windy days, and makes it a fun learning experience for children and adults alike. It’s a good choice if you want a balance of education and adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families seeking a relaxed, educational outing that combines wildlife with nature exploration.
8. Destin: Reef Snorkeling Adventure
This group reef snorkeling trip at $435 for up to six people lasts 3 to 6 hours and explores the man-made reefs of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s ideal for those interested in marine biology and coral reefs. The tour offers a chance to swim about 700 feet from shore, with the reef teeming with tropical fish and other marine species.
The experience stands out for its less crowded reefs and the opportunity to see vibrant marine life in a protected environment. It suits travelers who want a less commercialized snorkeling experience with an educational twist.
Bottom Line: Suited for reef enthusiasts and families wanting a guided, reef-focused adventure.
$435 per group up to 6
9. Destin Dolphin and Snorkeling Adventure Speedboat Tour
At $350, this speedboat tour is all about speed, thrill, and wildlife. It’s perfect for adrenaline lovers and families who want to combine dolphin watching and snorkeling in a high-powered boat with a 300HP engine. The trip lasts 3-4 hours and includes dolphins leaping alongside the boat, plus exploring man-made reefs.
Guests love the fast-paced ride and the interactive dolphin encounters. The boat’s speed allows access to multiple spots quickly, making the most of your time on the water. The trip is well-suited for travelers looking for a more energetic experience.
Bottom Line: Best for thrill-seekers and those wanting an active, fast-paced marine adventure.
$350.00 per group (up to 6)
10. 2 Hour Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour
This private tour, costing $330 for up to six people, focuses on Shell Island and the surrounding waters. It includes snorkeling, dolphin sightings, and wildlife viewing in a short, two-hour window. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager for a quick yet fulfilling marine experience.
The tour provides snorkel gear and offers magnificent wildlife, including dolphins and in some cases, manatees or rays. The privacy and flexibility appeal to those wanting a custom and personalized outing.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a short, private adventure that hits all the highlights.
$330.00 per group (up to 6)
11. Dolphin and Snorkeling Activity in Panama City Florida
This 3-hour activity at $80 per person offers a biodiversity-rich experience exploring St. Andrews Bay. You’ll encounter dolphins, sunken boats, and marine ecosystems. The captain is US Coast Guard certified, ensuring safety and local expertise.
While reviews are sparse, the focus on marine diversity and exploring two different prime snorkeling spots makes this a compelling choice for those staying in Panama City or nearby. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a more varied experience blending dolphin watching with underwater exploration.
Bottom Line: Good for those wanting a combination of dolphin sightings and underwater discovery in a scenic area.
$80.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Snorkeling Experience in Destin
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you travel with family or prefer a relaxed pace, tours like Family-Friendly Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour or Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching Experience are prime options. For those seeking privacy or customization, the Private Catamaran or Dolphin and Snorkeling Private Tour provide tailored experiences.
Budget-conscious travelers will find the 2-Stop Snorkeling Cruise offers excellent value, while thrill-seekers might prefer the Speedboat Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour for its high-speed adventure.
Booking early is wise, especially in summer months, to secure your preferred date and tour type.
Final Thoughts
Destin offers a remarkable range of snorkeling and wildlife experiences, from relaxing group tours to private charters. Whether you want to spot dolphins, explore coral reefs, or shell along the coast, there’s something that matches your style and budget. For family trips, the family-friendly options are hard to beat, while private tours cater to those wanting a more personalized outing.
In the end, booking early—especially during peak season—is the best way to ensure your spot. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect way to enjoy Destin’s underwater beauty.