How Did Destin and The Beaches of 30-A Get their White Sand? Destin’s sand begins its story in the Appalachian Mountains. More than 20,000 years ago, rising temperatures caused the ice caps to melt, and large volumes of water were sent to the oceans via rivers. The Apalachicola River carried water from the mountains into the Gulf of Mexico. This water contained quartz particles, and as the sea levels began to rise, this quartz began to form a new coastline. The sand in Destin and South Walton is made almost entirely of this fine quartz, which gives it its sugar-white color and texture.
What are the average temperatures in Destin? During the winter months (December, January and February), the air temperatures average around 62 degrees for a high and the low forties for a low. The winter water temperatures hovers around sixty four degrees. During the spring, high temperatures reach the low eighties, and the water temperature is a balmy seventy two degrees. The weather heats up in the summer, with highs easily reaching the mid-nineties in June, July, and August. In the fall, you can expect comfortable warm temperatures in the mid-eighties. The water temperature stays well above eighty from April-October.
When is it safe to swim? The Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay tend to be much calmer than the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans. Both Okaloosa and Walton County operate a flag safety system. Green Flags mean the water conditions are ideal. Yellow flags suggest caution should be used, as there may be currents, strong surf, or riptides. Red flags are used to warn swimmers that high hazards are present. Double Red Flags mean the beaches and water is closed to swimmers. Purple flags indicate that pesky marine life, like jelly fish, are present. You can get the most updated information about beach safety and water conditions on their websites.
What else is there to do in Destin? Destin is home to some world-class shopping centers and outlet malls, innovative restaurants, and championship golf courses. Known as the world’s luckiest fishing village, Destin is home to the largest charter fishing fleet in the country, so be sure to book a full, half, or multi-day fishing trip. Paddle boarding, surfboarding, and kayaking are also popular, especially in the rare coastal dune lakes of South Walton County.
Is it easy to get to Destin? Destin is the number two drive to destination in the state of Florida, and it is within a six hour drive of many major Southeastern Cities. Destin is serviced by three airports, Valparaiso, Northwest Florida Beaches International, and Pensacola Regional Airport.
What kind of accommodations are available? Condominium and beach house rentals are the most popular accommodations along the Emerald Coast. Whether you are looking for a cozy two bedroom condominium with all the perks and amenities of a resort or a luxurious beach front home that sleeps 12, you’ll find a variety of housing options suitable to all budgets and lifestyles.