Best Kid-Friendly Attractions in Destin, Florida (2025 Guide)

Planning a family vacation to Destin, Florida? You’re in luck—this Emerald Coast hotspot isn’t just about stunning beaches and seafood restaurants. It’s packed with kid-friendly attractions and fun things to do that will keep your little adventurers entertained from sunrise to sunset.

Whether you’ve got toddlers, tweens, or teens, this local-approved list features the best water parks, animal encounters, museums, and hands-on fun in Destin for kids in 2025. And yes—there’s air conditioning involved for many of these, because Florida.

🎢 1. Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park

Why kids love it: Waterslides, lazy river, wave pool, and mini golf—Big Kahuna’s is Destin’s go-to water park for good reason. With over 40 attractions, there’s something for every age, from thrill-seeking teens to splash-happy toddlers.

Local mom tip: Arrive early and bring water shoes—the pavement gets hot, and shaded areas fill up fast. And remember: Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park is open seasonally, so check the calendar before you go!

👉 Book Big Kahuna’s tickets now

🐬 2. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Why kids love it: Dolphins, sea lions, otters, and more! The Gulfarium is a classic family stop on Okaloosa Island with marine shows and hands-on animal encounters. Kids can even feed stingrays or book an encounter with a harbor seal.

Local mom tip: Sit toward the back of the dolphin show if your kids don’t love getting splashed—and wear sunscreen, even in the stadium seating.

👉 Get Gulfarium tickets

🏴‍☠️ 3. Buccaneer Pirate Cruise

Why kids love it: It’s a pirate-themed party on a boat—with sword fights, treasure hunts, and water cannon battles in the middle of Destin Harbor. Captain Cannonball of the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise and crew go all-in with costumes and storytelling that the younger lasses and lads just love.

Local mom tip: Bring a towel and a change of clothes. Yes, they will get soaked—and possibly ask to go again tomorrow.

👉 Browse more family-friendly boat tours

🎩 4. MAXIMUM MAGIC Show at HarborWalk Village

Why kids love it: Noah and Heather Wells put on a fun, fast-paced magic show filled with illusions, comedy, and audience participation. It’s a great way to end a busy beach day—and a guaranteed hit with grandparents too.

Local mom tip: It’s indoors, air-conditioned, and conveniently located in HarborWalk Village—perfect for a post-dinner surprise.

👉 Book magic show tickets

🧗‍♂️ 5. HarborWalk Adventure Zone

Why kids love it: Ziplining over the harbor, climbing ropes, and racing through the mirror maze? Yes, please. This activity zone is tucked inside HarborWalk Village, so you can mix in snacks and shopping between adrenaline rushes.

Local mom tip: Younger kids may prefer the aqua spheres or mini rock wall if the zipline looks a little too intense. Keep an eye on height and weight restrictions.

👉 See HarborWalk zipline

🧪 6. Emerald Coast Science Center

Why kids love it: Interactive exhibits, robotics, animals, and hands-on STEM activities make this small museum surprisingly fun. The outdoor space also includes a butterfly garden and kinetic play area.

Local mom tip: Great for rainy days, overly sunny days, or nap-time breaks. It’s a hidden gem for families who love a little learning with their play.

👉 Get science center tickets

🌊 7. Crab Island (Weekdays Are Best!)

Why kids love it: Crab Island is a shallow, sandy underwater sandbar where boats anchor and families play. On weekdays, it’s calmer and more kid-friendly—with floating food vendors, calm water, and space to splash around.

Local mom tip: Let’s talk getting to Crab Island. Book a captained Crab Island tour so you can relax while someone else navigates. Rather be at the helm? Renting a boat in Destin is just as fun too. Just be sure to bring water toys, snacks, and plenty of sunscreen, whichever one you choose!

👉 Browse Crab Island tours for families

🐬 8. Dolphin Cruises

Why kids love it: Dolphins are practically Destin celebrities—and spotting them from a boat is a thrill. Many cruises include music, snacks, and narration to keep kids entertained while you soak in the views. Some tours even use thrilling speed boats that bounce across the waves, while others offer air-conditioned cabins for a more relaxed ride.

Local mom tip: Try a late afternoon cruise so you can catch dolphins and the sunset. Bonus: many boats depart right from HarborWalk.

👉 Book a dolphin cruise in Destin

🎣 9. Kid-Friendly Fishing Charters

Why kids love it: Catching their very first fish? Total core memory. Several Destin fishing charters cater specifically to families and beginners, offering calm inshore waters and shorter trip lengths perfect for younger anglers.

Local mom tip: Look for charters that advertise kid-friendly or family-focused experiences—some even offer catch-and-release just for fun.

👉 Explore kid-friendly fishing trips in Destin

🤿 10. Snorkeling Tours

Why kids love it: Snorkeling gives them a peek at fish, shells, and maybe even a sea turtle—all just under the surface. Many Destin tours are beginner-friendly and include shallow-water spots with calm conditions.

Local mom tip: Bring an underwater camera or waterproof phone pouch—it’s worth it.

👉 Browse snorkeling excursions

🪂 11. Parasailing

Why kids love it: Floating 400 feet above the Gulf? It’s a thrill like no other. If your kids are brave enough, parasailing is a unique way to see Destin from the sky—safe, scenic, and unforgettable.

Local mom tip: Most providers require participants to be at least 6 years old. Tandem or triple rides with an older sibling or a parent make it less intimidating.

👉 Book a parasailing experience

🍌 12. Banana Boat Rides

Why kids love it: It’s fast, it’s bouncy, and it’s hilarious. Banana boat rides offer all the thrill of a roller coaster—on water. Great for older kids and tweens who want something more exciting than a cruise but not quite as intense as jet skis.

Local mom tip: Most banana boat tours are for kids ages 6+ and always include life jackets and a trained guide. Be ready to get soaked—and laugh a lot.

👉 Book a banana boat ride in Destin

📸 13. Beach Photography for Family Memories

Why families love it: A Destin sunset is stunning—but add your whole crew dressed in beachy neutrals and you’ve got a frame-worthy moment. Booking a local beach photographer is a great way to capture your trip while the kids are still sandy, salty, and smiling.

Local mom tip: Book your photo session early in your trip when everyone’s still fresh (and hopefully not sunburned). Morning and golden hour are best for lighting, and many photographers offer quick 15- or 30-minute packages.

👉 Explore beach photography options in Destin

🎇 14. Free and Cheap Family Fun in Destin

• Walk the Destin Boardwalk and watch boats come in

• Watch fireworks over the harbor every Thursday night in summer

• Grab treats from Kilwins or The Fudgery and people-watch

• Build epic sandcastles at Henderson Beach State Park

• Bring a blanket and catch live music or street performers at HarborWalk

👩‍👧 FAQ from Local Moms

Q: When is the cheapest time to visit Destin with kids?
If you’re hoping to stretch your budget, aim for spring or fall. These months bring smaller crowds, better lodging deals, and weather that’s still warm enough for beach days and boat rides. Get even more tips in our guide to the cheapest time to visit Destin.

Q: What are the best things to do with toddlers in Destin?
Toddlers love Big Kahuna’s splash areas, the hands-on exhibits at the Science Center, and spotting dolphins from the boardwalk. For a full list of age-appropriate ideas, check out our Destin activity guide for toddlers.

Q: What’s the best rainy-day activity in Destin for kids?
The Emerald Coast Science Center is a top pick for indoor learning and hands-on fun. The Gulfarium is also a great rainy-day option—many shows are covered or semi-indoor, and the dolphin tanks are just as magical under cloudy skies.

Q: Can I bring a stroller to HarborWalk?
Yes, though some areas have uneven pavement and tight corners—especially during festivals and busy nights. A baby carrier might be easier in spots like HarborWalk Village, the Destin Boardwalk, or while navigating crowds at the docks.

🎟️ Plan Your Destin Family Trip with TripShock

TripShock makes planning your family vacation to Destin easy. From water parks and pirate ships to dolphin tours, ziplining, and beyond, we’ve got your reservations covered in one spot.

Need help deciding? Our friendly, locally based reservations team is full of fellow parents know Destin like the back of their hand—and they’re happy to help you choose the perfect kid-friendly experience for your crew.

👉 Browse all kid-friendly things to do in Destin