4 Memorable Movies Filmed in Destin, Florida

Mike Fisher

Destin, Florida and the surrounding Emerald Coast region has become one of Hollywood's favorite filming locations over the years. Movies filmed in Destin, Florida range from action to drama, with the world's biggest stars descending upon the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village" to strut their stuff for the camera.

With all the exciting things to do in Destin including world-class beaches, exciting water sports, and fresh seafood dining, it's no wonder film crews love working in Destin! Discover 4 Destin, Florida movies that capture the beautiful, serene, albeit adventurous lifestyles of Florida Gulf Coast residents!

Jaws 2 (1977)

courtesy of Pinterest user Beach Bound

From Destin to Navarre, Florida, and up to the sleepy town of Shalimar, Jaws 2 filming enveloped the Emerald Coast back in the summer and fall of 1977. Out of all the movies filmed in Destin, Florida, Jaws 2 sticks in the mind of locals as many were allowed to function as extras in the beach and town scenes. Even though the movie was filmed almost 40 years ago, lots of the shot locations are still up and running, including the legendary Hog's Breath Saloon in downtown Destin! Not only did this classic horror flick place Destin on the map, but it began a long-lasting trend of celebrity visits! From celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, to rumors of the late-great Michael Jackson, the rich and famous have been frequenting Destin, Florida for decades. Check out our blog, Which Celebrities Vacation in Destin, Florida, to discover who you may run into on a Destin beach!!

Want to catch your very own Jaws? Destin Shark Fishing excursions target sharks in the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico!

Eagle Eye (2008)

The epic action film, Eagle Eye starring Shia Labeouf, was shot across the country, with just a few select scenes filmed at Eglin Air Force Base in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Due to Eglin's size and rich history, the Air Force Base is often utilized as the backdrop for military themed movies. Destin vacationers known Fort Walton Beach, and its island community Okaloosa Island, as Destin's more residential neighbor.

There are tons of fun things to do in Fort Walton Beach. Learn more with 5 Fort Walton Beach Family Vacation Ideas!

Truman Show (1998)

Image from Flickr

Jim Carrey, Laura Linney, and Ed Harris lead the talented cast in this celebrated drama about the greatest "reality TV show" ever made. One of my personal favorite movies, The Truman Show was shot in Seaside, Florida, a picturesque coastal village just a short drive from Destin. Emerald Coast travelers will recognize the distinct building architecture and scenic views that the 30A community offers. Ask Destin and Seaside locals and many still remember the cast and crew visiting local shops and restaurants.

Destin, Florida movies give viewers a glimpse into Emerald Coast lifestyle. Browse dozens of Seaside, Florida things to do online to get a true taste of Emerald Coast lifestyle!

Ruby in Paradise (1993)

photo courtesy of RoberEbert.com

Ashley Judd stars in this early 90s indie film based on Jane Austen's historic novel, Northanger Abbey. Filming took place less than an hour from Destin in Panama City, Florida, and although this film never reached widespread audiences, the highly accomplished cast and crew received major film festival honors including the Grand Prize Winner of the 1993 Sundance Film Festival!