Guess Which Celebrities Vacation in Destin, Florida?

Destin, Florida might be known for its sugar-white sand and sparkling Gulf water—but it also has a quieter reputation as a celebrity hideaway. Stars from music, film, and pro sports have all been spotted enjoying the laid-back luxury of the Emerald Coast.

And it’s not just vacationers—Hollywood has come calling, too. With its stunning beaches and picturesque towns, Destin and the surrounding area have played host to several well-known movies and TV shows.

Whether you’re star-gazing or scene-spotting, here’s your ultimate guide to the famous faces and film sets that make Destin sparkle.

Celebrities Who Love Destin (Or Own Homes In the Area)

Destin may not be as flashy as Miami or LA—and that’s exactly why celebrities love it. It offers privacy, beauty, and a slower pace that makes it easy to unwind. Many A-listers visit without fanfare, enjoying the beaches, boating, and dining without paparazzi or press.

Britney Spears

Queen of pop and the Gulf Coast? Britney Spears has deep roots in Destin—she reportedly bought a vacation home here in the late '90s. Locals have shared sightings of Britney at everything from Crab Island to the local Walmart. While her ownership status is unclear today, she’s long been tied to the area and still pops in from time to time.

Keith Urban

Before topping the charts and judging American Idol, Keith Urban lived just outside of Destin in Fort Walton Beach. The country star still makes his way back to the area where it all started—and it’s not uncommon to hear he’s been spotted soaking up the sun or dining out.

Sheryl Crow

If you feel like soaking up the sun on 30A, you’re in good company. Grammy-winner Sheryl Crow has a home near The Red Bar in Grayton Beach and is known to keep things low-key when she’s in town. She’s been spotted around Seaside and loves the laid-back Gulf Coast lifestyle.

Emeril Lagasse

Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse doesn’t just visit—he eats like a local. He’s been seen browsing the Destin docks for the freshest seafood and even opened restaurants in the area. BAM! You might just catch him out fishing or cooking up something delicious along the coast.

Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood

This country power couple has reportedly jetted off to Destin for peaceful beach escapes. With Nashville just a quick flight away, it’s no surprise they’ve made their way to the Emerald Coast for a little R&R.

Jimmy Buffett

The late, great Jimmy Buffett knew a thing or two about the good life—and Destin fit the bill. He opened restaurants in the region and loved its laid-back, tropical energy. His Margaritaville spirit lives on in every beach chair and boat drink around here.

Matthew McConaughey

Alright, alright, alright—Matthew McConaughey has been known to cruise through Destin and neighboring 30A towns. He’s the epitome of chill, and we can totally picture him barefoot on the beach with a drink in hand.

Peyton and Eli Manning

The Manning brothers, legends on the football field, are fans of the Destin area too. They’ve been spotted at Baytowne Wharf enjoying family-friendly events and seasonal celebrations—just regular dudes… who happen to be NFL royalty.

Other Notable Sightings

• Jim Carrey filmed The Truman Show in nearby Seaside—yep, that picture-perfect town really exists!

• John Travolta has been spotted relaxing on Holiday Isle in Destin.

• Jessica Simpson is known to vacation around 30A, especially in Seaside.

• Katie Holmes is known to enjoy the beauty of the Emerald Coast.

• Tony Romo and Troy Aikman, two Dallas Cowboys legends, have also been seen enjoying Destin’s beaches.

Movies and TV Shows Filmed in Destin and Along the Emerald Coast

It’s not just vacationers who fall in love with Destin—the Emerald Coast has played a starring role in several Hollywood films and reality TV shows, thanks to its pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, and laid-back atmosphere.

Over the years, actors like Jim Carrey, Shia LaBeouf, and Megan Fox have filmed scenes here, while reality TV crews and design shows have spotlighted the area’s scenic neighborhoods and dreamy waterfront homes.

The Truman Show (1998) – Starring Jim Carrey

Seaside, just east of Destin, served as the surreal, pastel-perfect setting for this iconic film. Jim Carrey spent weeks on location, and the town has since become a tourist destination of its own. Visitors often recognize the white picket fences and charming town square from the movie.

Jaws 2 (1978)

The sequel to Spielberg’s legendary shark flick was filmed across Destin, Navarre Beach, and Okaloosa Island. The production featured dozens of locals as extras, and many longtime residents still share stories of spotting the cast and crew along the beach.

Eagle Eye (2008) – Starring Shia LaBeouf

This fast-paced thriller shot multiple scenes at Eglin Air Force Base just outside Destin, with LaBeouf on set. The area’s modern military infrastructure and coastal visuals gave the film a unique backdrop.

Many films, just like this one, shot scenes just west of Destin in Fort Walton Beach. If you’re deciding where to stay, here’s a full Destin vs. Fort Walton Beach comparison.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011) – Starring Shia LaBeouf and Megan Fox

The third Transformers installment also filmed at Eglin AFB. The location’s high-security and high-tech setting made it a great fit for Michael Bay’s blockbuster action sequences.

Frogs (1972)

This cult-classic horror film was shot at Eden Gardens State Park in nearby Santa Rosa Beach. The moss-covered oaks and the historic Wesley House added eerie atmosphere to this early eco-horror flick.

Dr. Strangelove (1964) – Directed by Stanley Kubrick

Parts of this Cold War satire were filmed around Destin Harbor, giving the area some serious vintage cinematic credibility.

Reality TV Moments on the Emerald Coast

Several popular reality TV shows have also filmed in and around Destin:

• House Hunters and Beachfront Bargain Hunt featured beach homes and condos throughout the Emerald Coast, showcasing the area’s real estate appeal.

• The Real Housewives of Atlanta brought their signature drama—and luxury beach style—to Destin for a girls’ getaway episode, confirming what locals already know: this town is reality TV-worthy.

Where You Might Spot a Celebrity

While there’s no guarantee of a run-in, a few places have a reputation for attracting famous faces:

• Crab Island – A floating hangout spot accessible only by boat. It’s popular with locals, tourists, and the occasional celeb—here’s how to experience it yourself.

• HarborWalk Village – Great for casual celeb-spotting with its mix of restaurants, shops, harbor views and family-friendly vibe.

• The Red Bar (Grayton Beach) – This laid-back, funky favorite has long been a celebrity go-to for its live music and unpretentious vibe. Want more ideas for after dark? Here’s a roundup of things to do at night in Destin—from live music to dinner cruises.

• 30A – Known for luxury rentals, upscale shopping, and a strong chance of spotting a famous face incognito.

Experience Destin Like the Stars

Whether you’re chasing dolphins on a sunset cruise, enjoying live music at The Red Bar, or walking the same streets Jim Carrey filmed The Truman Show on, it’s easy to see why Destin draws attention from Hollywood—and Hollywood’s favorite people.

While celebrities may come year-round, the cheapest time to visit Destin might surprise you—it’s easy to plan a luxurious vacation here without the A-list budget and enjoy Destin like the stars:

• Charter a sunset cruise or dolphin tour— and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for these friendly Gulf Coast marine creatures

• Rent a private pontoon to explore Crab Island

• Book a sailing charter or fine dining cruise

• Dine at local favorites like Louisiana Lagniappe or Beach Walk Café

• Stay in a luxury beachfront condo or resort

Explore the top-rated things to do in Destin, Florida and start planning your own star-worthy getaway.