Destin History and Fishing Museum

Destin, Florida

Let's find your adventure!
Dec 9 ~ Dec 15
The Destin History and Fishing Museum is a local landmark and staple, and a time capsule that preserves Destin’s past. This family-friendly attraction showcases the history of this once tiny fishing village through stories, artifacts, photographs, and more, dating back over 175 years! View over 75 mounts of locally-caught fish, walk through the outdoor Museum Historic Park Complex, enjoy interactive exhibits, take a guided or self-guided tour, and dive into Destin’s history and culture at the Destin History and Fishing Museum!

Destin History and Fishing Museum Visitors Guide

Destin is known far and wide as, “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” but have you ever stopped to wonder how this once tiny fishing village ended up touting such an impressive title? Luckily, Destin’s history, which dates back nearly 200 years, has been preserved in a 5,500-square-foot time capsule known as the Destin History and Fishing Museum! The museum itself is set up like a timeline, and takes visitors through the area's fishing history and development.

This museum is so much more than a history lesson, however, as the displays are both intriguing and awe-inspiring. They are known for showcasing antique fishing gear, including a reel once used and owned by Ernest Hemingway, over 75 locally-caught fish mounts, the oldest seine fishing boat in the world, The Primrose, which was built in 1925, the original Destin Post Office building, vintage photos, artifacts, and so much more!

Read more
video-preview
Destin-History-and-Fishing-MuseumDestin-History-and-Fishing-MuseumDestin-History-and-Fishing-Museum
+3
Sorting:
Best Match
Dec 9 - Dec 15
image-7175
image-22
image-7176
image-7175
image-22

Daytime Dolphin Watch & Sunset Cruises - Tour East Pass, Harbor, Crab Island

11,451 ratings
1.5 Hrs.
Set out to sea in search of dolphins aboard the Hannah Marie. Destin Dolphin Watch and Crab Island Sightseeing Cruise is complete with a spectacular glass-bottom, snack bar, and a climate-controlled cabin. This family-friendly trip is the perfect recipe for maritime bliss. Take in scenic views of the Destin, Florida Harbor and learn about the history as you enjoy the fresh ocean air. Both convenient and comfortable, these tours depart daily and provide plenty of seating for the whole crew. Book your experience today!
Read more
Booked 6 times in last 48 hrs
image-63-838
image-63
image-63-924
image-63-838
image-63

24 ft Destin Pontoon Boat Rental (Up to 12 passengers)

281 ratings
4 - 8 Hrs.
If you are looking for some fun out on the water in Destin, Florida then this is the activity for you! Grab your crew and set out on an excursion seeking lots of suntans and laughs. Be the captain of your day as you leisurely cruise to Crab Island to hang out at the sandbar or spend your time low-key in the Choctawhatchee Bay just floating around taking it all in. Enjoy reliable boats and easy fun, all that is missing is you and your friends! Book your 24 ft Destin Pontoon Boat Rental today!
Read more
image-706-682
image-706
image-706-990
image-706-682
image-706

Crab Island Waverunner Rental

165 ratings
Whether it’s a high-speed bay adventure or slow cruise around Crab Island, you'll create vacation memories of a lifetime with these 3 seater Seadoo! Discover Crab Island and Choctawhatchee Bay with your friends and family on skis that can go up to 50 mph. You will depart 300 yards from Crab Island with a no-wake zone, so you won't have to battle the Destin Harbor boat traffic. You'll get more time on the water! What are you waiting for? Book now!
Read more
image-606-059
image-606
image-606-372
image-606-059
image-606

Destin Crab Island Parasailing

356 ratings
1 Hr.
Soar to astounding heights above the Emerald Coast on a Destin Crab Island Parasailing excursion. Feel the calmness of the air as you glide over the emerald green and blue water of the Gulf of Mexico. With safety always in mind, you can trust that this will be one of the most memorable parasailing experiences ever. Photo packages are available to capture each exciting moment. Don't miss your chance to fly high like a bird in the sky, book your [Crab Island parasailing](https://www.tripshock.com/attractions/destin/parasailing/ "Crab Island parasailing") adventure today!
Read more
Booked 3 times in last 48 hrs
image-1179
image-66
image-250
image-1179
image-66

Destin Crab Island Jet Ski Rental

212 ratings
1 - 8 Hrs.
Experience the thrill of a lifetime with Destin Crab Island Jet Ski Rental. Jet through the sparkling water of Destin Harbor on a premium Yamaha Jet Ski. You also can enjoy the convenience of having one of the closest departure location points to Crab Island! Feeling adventurous? This is an experience like no other, you can search the Choctawhatchee Bay for happy dolphins or cruise through the miles of open water until your heart is content. Bring up to two friends for a total of three riders and explore Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and beyond! Book your rental today!
Read more
Booked 2 times in last 48 hrs
image-6209
image-42
image-86
image-6209
image-42

Semi-Private Group Fishing Charter

688 ratings
4 - 12 Hrs.
This Semi-Private Group Fishing Charter with Olin Marler is an authentic deep-sea fishing experience. The Semi-Private Group Fishing Charter gives you all the perks but with fewer passengers. This fishing adventure offers more space, shorter waits for crew assistance, and better chances at hooking more fish. The crew will even fillet and bag any fish that the customer catches on the trip for tips. Spend your day in Destin reeling in the big one with this Semi-Private Group Fishing Charter. Reel in this fishing deal and book today!
Read more
Booked 2 times in last 48 hrs
image-1513-899
image-1513
image-19230
image-1513-899
image-1513

Crab Island 24ft Pontoon Boat Rental (12 Person Max)

496 ratings
4 - 8 Hrs.
Enjoy the perfect set up for a fantastic day in the emerald green and aquamarine water of Destin, Florida and just 300 yards from Crab Island! Rent a pontoon and be in control of your own adventure as you cruise the Destin Harbor and pass or just hang out on Crab Island and chill like a local. If you are looking for some fun and a great way to have an unforgettable day in Destin, book this Crab Island 24-foot Pontoon Boat Rental for up to 12 passengers.
Read more
image-5269
image-1503
image-5270
image-5269
image-1503

The Hydrojet - The World's Largest Jet Ski!

1,410 ratings
1 Hr.
If you are searching for some fun, then look no further than the Hydrojet dolphin cruise. Known as the world's largest jet ski, the Hydrojet jumps waves while cruising along the mesmerizing emerald coast in search of dolphins and native wildlife. So join in on the fun and catch a thrilling cruise today on Destin's one and only Hydrojet!
Read more
image-7573
image-738
image-7574
image-7573
image-738

Crab Island Catamaran Excursion from Destin Harbor

810 ratings
4 Hrs.
Cruise to the popular hangout Crab Island aboard a comfortable catamaran. Chill out and play in the pristine, sparkling water while the crew takes care of everything. Bring your favorite beverages and water toys to enhance the experience. Meet and greet with fellow Crab Island boaters and explore all the exciting things to do. This trip is the perfect alternative to [renting a boat](https://www.tripshock.com/attractions/destin/pontoon-boat-rentals/ "renting a boat"), or those not experienced enough to drive a pontoon boat. Book your catamaran excursion today!
Read more
image-7191
image-1705
image-7193
image-7191
image-1705

Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise Aboard The Hannah Marie

159 ratings
1 Hr.
Watch a dazzling fireworks show over the Destin Harbor aboard the Hannah Marie. The Hannah Marie is the talk of Destin, known for its great service and friendly staff. Family owned and operated, this is an ideal way to enjoy a relaxing, fun filled experience. Light up the night and enjoy Hannah Marie's Fireworks Cruise, Book today!
Read more
image-2911-439
image-2911
image-2911-505
image-2911-439
image-2911

Famous & Original Crab Island Tiki Boat

382 ratings
3 Hrs.
Climb on a floating tiki bar for a truly unique [Crab Island sandbar](https://www.tripshock.com/attractions/destin/crab-island-tours-and-activities/ "Crab Island sandbar") adventure. Enjoy a seat at the bar as you journey the sparkling Gulf water on your way to Crab Island. Enjoy swimming and fun activities in this on-the-water hotspot as you soak up the tropical sun. Don't miss the fun, book your Famous & Original Crab Island Tiki Boat today!
Read more
image-2765-877
image-2765
image-2765-967
image-2765-877
image-2765

6 Passenger Private Day Time Sailing Cruise

96 ratings
2 - 4 Hrs.
Climb aboard an authentic sailing cutter for an experience to remember on this Private Sailing Tour in Destin, Florida. Cut through the clear water of the Destin Harbor and along the stunning Emerald Coast spotting dolphins, sightseeing, and enjoying the warm salty breeze. An entertaining tour guide and sailing captain will teach you all about the history of the area as you explore. Put some wind in your sails and customize your private sailing tour today! Book yours now!
Read more
image-23980
image-1773
image-7431
image-23980
image-1773

Deep Sea Private Fishing Charter Aboard The Great Escape

79 ratings
4 - 12 Hrs.
Set out to sea to hook a prize-winning catch on a private charter with Great Escape Fishing Charters. With over 20 years of sportfishing experience Captain Jason and his crew will provide you with first-class fishing experience. Get ready to bottom fish for vermillion snapper, troll for shark, and sight fish for cobia in the deeper waters on a spacious 36' Tiara Motor Yacht equipped with Cummings engine and air-conditioned galley. All you have to do is hold on tight, reel hard, and let Great Escape handle the rest! Book your fishing experience on the Great Escape today!
Read more
image-3401-454
image-3401
image-3401-918
image-3401-454
image-3401

Captained Crab Island Cruise + Paddleboard

2 ratings
3 - 8 Hrs.
Sit back and relax on this Captained Crab Island Cruise + Paddleboard. Let your captain take charge, showing you the best that Destin has to offer. Coast through the beautiful emerald green water searching for dolphins, discover the multi-million dollar mansions hidden in the canals of Holiday Isle, or cool off in the shallow water at the local sandbar, Crab Island. The possibilities of your adventure are endless. The captain will happily tailor the cruise for you. Book your experience today!
Read more

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there restaurants and lodging near the Destin History and Fishing Museum?

The Destin History and Fishing Museum is located in the heart of Destin, which means it’s close to tons of great lodging and dining options. The Emerald Grande is one of the most popular places to stay when in Destin, as its location at HarborWalk Village is ideal for travelers looking to experience it all in one place! Village Inn of Destin and Inn on Destin Harbor are two additional nearby popular hotels, offering options for groups of varying sizes, budgets, and interests.

You definitely won’t go hungry here! The Destin History and Fishing Museum is also nearby tons of tasty restaurants, showcasing the best of Destin seafood, drinks, and more. Some of the top restaurants include Dewey Destin’s Seafood, McGuire’s Irish Pub of Destin, Harbor Docks, and Boshamps, just to name a few! For more information about the best places to eat in Destin, check out this recent TripShock blog: https://www.tripshock.com/blog/5-destin-restaurants-to-feed-your-beach-vacation/.

2. Do we need to book tickets in advance?

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00am until 4:00pm, and visitors are more than welcome to simply show up, purchase a ticket, and see the sights! Self-guided and guided tours are available, but if you would like a guided tour, or have a large group, it is recommended to purchase your tickets in advance.

3. Is this museum enjoyable for children?

The Destin History and Fishing Museum is perfect for children and adults, alike. Combining both education and fun, this is the perfect way to introduce the little ones to Destin, and learn about fishing and the local history in a fun and unique way. Kids will especially love the giant, locally-caught fish mounts, interactive displays, and the massive replica of a Megalodon Shark jaw!

4. How long does it take to make it through the entire museum?

This will simply depend on the person! With thousands of historic photographs, artifacts, and information to sort through, it could definitely take the thorough traveler a few hours to see it all. Generally, I would set aside at least an hour or two to get the most from your experience.

Destinations

FacebookYoutubeTiktokInstagram
© 2024 Tripshock
This website uses cookies. Please visit our Privacy Policy to learn how we use cookies and how to control your cookie settings. By clicking or navigating this site you consent to our use of cookies.