Destin is a city on the Gulf Coast of Florida, but unlike many Gulf Coast vacation spots, Destin is not located along the western edge of the large peninsula that makes up the state of Florida. Instead, Destin is located in Okaloosa County, which is in the "panhandle" of the state. Okaloosa County spans a strip that stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the northern border of Florida.
Destin holiday homes allow tourists to enjoy one of the most popular cities in its local region. According to the Environmental Protection Department in Florida, more than 4.5 million tourists visit the local area, known as the "Emerald Coast" each year. Of these, more than 80% visit Destin to take advantage of the white beaches and emerald-hued sea waters that give the entire region its name.
Destin publicizes itself as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," and claims as part of this heritage the largest fleet of fishing vessels in all of Florida. Certainly, tourists here can see a wide variety of fishing boats, some of which are available for charter. There are more than 12 access points to the beach; after a day enjoying the surf and sand, tourists can dine in restaurants that serve fresh seafood. Fishing has been a way of life in Destin since Captain Leonard Destin first settled in the region during the mid-1800s.
The city limits of Destin encompasses more than eight square miles, but of this area, almost 8% is water.