Christmas in Destin: 2026 Ultimate Guide to the Holiday Season

Pinterest Pin for Christmas in Destin

Thinking about visiting Destin, Florida, Miramar Beach, or somewhere along the Emerald Coast during the holiday season? This 2026 Christmas in Destin guide covers the main events and seasonal things to do from mid-November through the end of December, plus a few practical tips for visiting in November and December.

In this post, you’ll find:

  • The best holiday events and parades
  • Top spots to see Christmas lights
  • Photo spots for holiday pictures
  • Restaurant recommendations for Christmas Day
  • What to expect weather-wise in Destin during November and December
  • What to pack for a winter visit
  • Destin-themed gift ideas
  • And more

If you’re planning a holiday trip, this guide is meant to help you get a feel for what’s happening around town, what the weather can be like, and which events are worth putting on your calendar.

Is the Christmas Season a Good Time to Visit Destin?

Destin in November and December can be a great trip, but it really depends on what you’re hoping for. Crowd levels and weather are the two biggest things that change week to week.

Warm, sunny stretches usually bring more visitors, while colder or rainy days keep people off the beach and make the area feel noticeably quieter.

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

Thanksgiving week is typically one of the busier times because families are off school and Florida weather still feels “vacation-y,” especially compared to most of the country.

Early December is usually calmer once schools are back in session and holiday travel hasn’t picked up yet.

Crowds start to build again around mid-December through New Year’s when the holiday break begins. It’s not summer-level busy, but it’s definitely more active than the rest of the off-season.

December Sunrise in Destin
Winter Sunrise on Okaloosa Island

November and December Weather in Destin

Weather in Destin in November and December is a little unpredictable. Some years you’ll get sunny days in the low 70s that are perfect for a beach walk, and other years it can dip into the 40s with a cool coastal breeze. It can change quickly, so it helps to pack with layers in mind.

Also, the wind off the Gulf can make it feel colder than the temperature on your phone. Even 60 degrees can feel chilly if it’s humid and breezy.

Winter sunrise in Destin Florida on the Beach
Winter sunrise in Destin

Even with the unpredictability, November and December are still nice months to visit. The colder winter weather usually shows up more in January and February, so you can often catch mild days and beautiful sunsets before it really feels like winter.

Most people find the Gulf too cold for swimming this time of year, but you’ll still see a few brave swimmers on warm, sunny afternoons. If swimming is important to you, try to book a place with a heated pool or hot tub so you can still enjoy the water during the cooler season.

Winter Sunrises and Sunsets in Destin

November and December are some of my favorite months for sunrises and sunsets in Destin. This is the time of year when the sun sets more directly over the Gulf of Mexico instead of over land, which usually happens from about October through March.

People in Destin watching the sunset over the water in Winter
Winter sunset on the beach in Destin

By December, the sun is as far out over the water as it gets before it starts shifting back toward land in the spring. The result can be some of the most colorful sunsets of the year.

If you’re visiting in winter, try to fit in at least one sunrise walk and one sunset walk on the beach. The cooler air, calmer water, and glowing sky make it feel extra peaceful.

If you want more ideas for where to go, here’s my full guide to the best sunset spots in Destin: Sunset in Destin: The 6 Best Places to Watch

Christmas Events in the Destin Area

Destin Commons Christmas Tree Lighting and Fireworks

The Christmas season in Destin officially kicks off at Destin Commons when Santa arrives to light the biggest Christmas tree on the Emerald Coast.

This annual event features live entertainment, holiday music, free face painting, and photo opportunities with festive characters like Rudolph and Frosty.

Destin Commons decorated for Christmas

Santa makes his grand entrance during the parade along Main Street at 7:00 pm, followed by a colorful fireworks show launched from the parking garage. The fireworks burst right above the Christmas tree and shops, creating a picture-perfect holiday scene.

Santa in the parade at Destin Commons

The fireworks display isn’t long, but it adds the perfect touch to the evening’s festivities. It’s a great way to start the holiday season in Destin and experience the cheerful atmosphere at the Commons.

Baytowne Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights at Sandestin

Another early holiday favorite is the “Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights” festival at Baytowne Wharf. Stroll the beautifully decorated streets and enjoy an evening full of holiday cheer, delicious appetizers, and sparkling wine.

Sparkling Wine and Appetizers at Baytowne Wharf

Anyone can walk through the Village and enjoy the decorations, but you’ll need a ticket to sample food and wine from the participating shops and restaurants.

The event concludes with the first tree-lighting of the season and a sneak peek at Baytowne Wharf’s choreographed light show, “12 Nights of Lights.”

Wine glass in front of Christmas Lights at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin

I wrote a detailed post about this event with photos and more info: Baytowne Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival at Sandestin: 2026 Guide

This is one of the most popular holiday events in the area. Tickets usually sell out, so mark your calendar and grab yours early.

Polar Express Movie Night at Baytowne Wharf

Kids watching a movie on the lawn at Baytowne Wharf

Every year Baytowne Wharf shows the holiday film The Polar Express on the Events Plaza Lawn. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and your favorite snacks to enjoy this seasonal favorite under the stars.

Santa’s Arrival at Harborwalk Village

Holiday on the Harbor kicks off every year with Santa’s grand entrance at Harborwalk Village. Enjoy a Rudolph-themed treasure hunt, holiday activities, and pictures with Santa. Guests receive a free 4×6 photo.

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

Visits with Santa continue every weekend (Saturday & Sunday) from 1:00–4:00 pm throughout the season.

There will also be plenty of other opportunities to visit Santa again at Harborwalk Village before Christmas (see the “Where to see Santa” section below).

Santa’s Arrival and Fireworks at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin

  • When: Saturday • November 28, 2026 • 6:00–9:00 pm
  • Where: The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://www.baytownewharf.com

Baytowne Wharf takes holiday Santa visits to the next level with a festive celebration welcoming Santa for the season. His method of arrival varies. Past years have included a train, golf cart, or horse-drawn carriage, and it’s always a highlight.

Santa arriving to Baytowne Wharf by Zip Line
Santa Zip Lining at Baytowne Wharf

Santa’s grand entrance begins at 6:00 pm with a horse-drawn carriage (or another surprise arrival), followed by a parade around the Village. He arrives at the stage around 6:15 pm, where he lights the Christmas tree and triggers a fireworks show (expect fireworks starting shortly after the lighting).

Santa arrival route map at Baytowne Sandestin
Santa’s route around Baytowne on horse and carriage starting near the playground and ending at the events stage

The fireworks during this event happen earlier than regular summer shows, so don’t miss them by assuming they’ll go off later. This special holiday fireworks display lasts about 5–6 minutes and is choreographed to popular holiday music.

Santa watching fireworks at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin at Christmas

After the fireworks, Santa will be available for visits and photos. The lines can get long on arrival night, but don’t worry, there will be multiple opportunities to see him again at Baytowne before Christmas.

Fireworks over the lagoon with a Christmas tree at Baytowne Wharf Sandestin

Also included: kids’ crafts, face painting, and the seasonal ice skating rink will be open for extra fun.

Family visiting Santa at Baytowne Wharf

I wrote a post about the best Baytowne Wharf fireworks viewing spots here if you want more information: Where to Watch the Baytowne Wharf Fireworks

Baytowne Wednesday Night Concert Series Holiday Edition

  • When:
  • Wednesday • December 2, 2026 • 7:00–9:00 pm
  • Wednesday • December 9, 2026 • 7:00–9:00 pm
  • Wednesday • December 16, 2026 • 7:00–9:00 pm
  • Where: Events Plaza Lawn at Baytowne Wharf
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://www.baytownewharf.com
Christmas Concerts at Baytowne Wharf

This holiday edition of the Wednesday Night Concert Series invites you to bring your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy live holiday-themed music under the stars. Each week features a different band, a festive atmosphere, and plenty of holiday cheer.

Ice Skating Extravaganza at Baytowne Wharf

  • When: Mid-December 2026 • Exact date and time TBA
  • Where: Events Plaza Lawn at Baytowne Wharf
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://www.baytownewharf.com

Each year, Baytowne on Ice hosts its annual Ice Skating Extravaganza featuring two short performances by professional ice skaters.

Baytowne Wharf Ice Skating Show at Sandestin

Between and after the shows, the pros stay on the ice to skate with guests and share a few tips. It’s a fun, relaxed event to watch or take part in if you plan to go skating during your visit.

City of Destin Christmas Parade

Cars in the Destin Christmas Parade

The annual Christmas parade in Destin travels along Highway 98 from Main Street to Stahlman Avenue. Spectators are encouraged to stand on the north side of the route.

Boat in the Christmas Parade

Expect a mix of decorated floats, cars, golf carts, local bands and dance teams, and the parade will conclude with Santa arriving on a fire truck.

Santa waving from a Fire Truck in the Destin Christmas parade

One thing to keep in mind: this section of Highway 98 will be closed for several hours that morning, so plan for possible traffic or parking changes.

Tuba Christmas at Baytowne Wharf

  • When: Saturday • December 12, 2026 • 5:00–7:00 pm
  • Where: Events Plaza Stage at Baytowne Wharf
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://www.baytownewharf.com

Tuba Christmas is a holiday tradition at Baytowne Wharf featuring over 30 brass instruments performing holiday classics on the Events Plaza stage. You’re welcome to bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on the lawn in front of the stage.

Band at Baytowne Wharf

This event is a festive annual Christmas tradition in Sandestin where you can also enjoy other holiday fun such as the 12 Nights of Lights show, ice skating, and photos with Santa (more on those events below in the Christmas lights and other things to do sections).

Breakfast with Santa at Emerald Grande in Destin

Adults and children of all ages can enjoy a buffet breakfast with Santa in the HarborView Room at Emerald Grande. During the event, kids can write letters to Santa, make their own hot chocolate, visit the candy station, and take photos with Santa.

Santa talking to Kids at Breakfast with Santa at Emerald Grande

Santa walks around the room greeting families before sitting down for photos with each child. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly event that’s very well done and a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Kids having breakfast with Santa

The buffet typically includes holiday-themed favorites like Frosty’s Fruit Display, Elfie’s Scrambled Eggs, Blitzen’s Bacon, Holiday Home Fries, Mrs. Claus’ Quiche, Fa La La La French Toast, and Dasher’s Doughnut Station.

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

This event usually sells out early, so it’s best to make reservations as soon as the official dates are announced. Tickets will be available through the Emerald Grande or Harborwalk Village website.

Olde Holiday Market at Harborwalk Village

The Olde Holiday Market is a festive marketplace at Harborwalk Village featuring holiday-themed activities, live music, and local vendors selling handmade art, seasonal goods, and gifts. It’s a good way to support local businesses and find unique holiday items while visiting the area.

Christmas baskets at Olde Holiday Market Harborwalk

Destin Harbor Lighted Christmas Boat Parade and Fireworks

This annual holiday tradition features tour boats, charter vessels, and private boats decorated with lights parading on Destin Harbor.

Boats parading at the Destin lighted boat parade

Viewing spots include restaurants and docks at Harborwalk Village, the Destin Bridge pedestrian walkway, and the beaches at Norriego Point.

Destin boat parade boats lit up on Destin Harbor

For more information and photos of the Destin Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, check out my more detailed post here: Destin Lighted Boat Parade: 2026 Parade Route and Best Viewing Spots

Where to Visit Santa Claus in Destin

Visits with Santa at Harborwalk Village

  • When: Saturdays & Sundays • November – December 2026 • 1:00–4:00 pm • Exact dates TBA
  • Where: Harborwalk Village
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://harborwalkvillage.com

During the “Visits with Santa” event at Harborwalk Village, children can enjoy crafts, face-painting, and a Rudolph-themed treasure hunt on Santa’s arrival weekend.

Kids visiting Santa at Harborwalk Village

There’s a special North Pole mailbox near the stage where kids can drop letters for Santa. For every letter received, $1 is donated to a local children’s charity. Each child also receives a free 4×6 photo with Santa.

Santa’s send-off event at Harborwalk Village takes place on Saturday, December 18 and Sunday, December 19 from 1:00–4:00 pm and is the final weekend to visit and get photos with him. The send-off weekend will also feature live performances on the main stage.

Visits with Santa at Baytowne Wharf

  • When: Select Wednesdays in December 2026 • Exact dates TBA • 6:00–8:00 pm
  • Where: The Village of Baytowne Wharf
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://www.baytownewharf.com

During select Wednesday nights in December, Santa will be available on his sleigh in front of the large Christmas tree for photos and visits.

Family getting photos with Santa at Baytowne Wharf

You can also see Santa at Baytowne Wharf at his arrival celebration and during the Tuba Christmas event, both mentioned previously in this post.

Visits with Santa at Bass Pro Shops

Daily visits with Santa are a holiday tradition at Bass Pro Shops in Destin. In-store activities often include crafts, games, and letter-writing stations for Santa’s mailbox.

Kids with Santa at Bass Pro in Destin

The national “Santa’s Wonderland” event at Bass Pro Shops includes a free 4×6 studio-quality photo with Santa and a shareable video for guests.

Where to see Christmas Lights in Destin

I think Christmas lights are one of the best parts of the holiday season. There’s just something about being out at night, surrounded by the glow of holiday lights, that instantly puts you in a festive mood.

Luckily, there are plenty of great ways to see Christmas lights in Destin and the surrounding areas during the holiday season, from organized displays to neighborhood homes that go all out. Below are some of the best ways to experience them.

City of Destin Christmas Decorating Contest

Before getting into more official Christmas light stops, it’s worth knowing that Destin hosts an annual Christmas decorating contest for homes, businesses, and organizations within the city limits. During the holidays, you’ll see festive displays all around town from people competing in the contest.

A home in Destin decorated for Christmas in colorful lights

Judging typically takes place from December 1–15 for nominated homes and businesses in the City of Destin. Winners are announced a few days before Christmas and are recognized the following month at a City Council meeting, where they receive a plaque from the mayor. of Destin.

Awards are given in the five categories listed below:

  • Best Decorated Home: Single homes, duplexes, mobile homes, etc…
  • Best Decorated Business: Restaurants, shops, department stores, schools, professional offices, etc…
  • Best Decorated Organization: Entrances to homeowner’s associations, golf courses, etc…
  • Best overall Holiday: All homes, business, and organizations throughout the City Limits that go above and beyond.

I entered the contest last year with one of my vacation rental homes that I decorated for the holidays. I didn’t win, but in hindsight, that might have been because the display wasn’t easily visible from the street. The house faces the harbor, so the lights were best viewed from the water.

You could see the display from across the harbor near Marina Cafe and Boshamps, and it also became a regular stop for evening tiki cruises. I’ll share a few photos below so you can see what it looked like:

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

I also decorated several palm trees in my neighborhood, which ended up being more time consuming than I predicted, but they were really fun and the neighborhood enjoyed them:

I’m not sure yet what Christmas decorating will look like for me in 2026. I loved bringing something special to the community, and it was absolutely worth the effort, but it also took months of planning and work. That said, if you happen to see a large Christmas light display around Holiday Isle in Destin, there’s a decent chance it might be one of mine. I manage 5 vacation rentals on Holiday Isle, so my holiday decorating tends to move around.

Whether it’s my own displays or someone else’s, I get a lot of joy out of viewing and photographing Christmas lights during the holidays. I truly appreciate the time and effort people put into creating that sense of seasonal joy for the community.

During the holidays, you can drive around Destin looking for decorated neighborhoods, or take in the lights from the water along Destin Harbor.

Tiki boat with Christmas lights on Destin Harbor

An evening cruise on Destin Harbor is a fun way to see decorated waterfront homes during the holidays. If you’re looking for something different, the Harbor Lights cruise with Cruisin’ Destin Tikis is one option that lets you explore the harbor at night on a decorated tiki boat. I went on one of these cruises last year and it was lots of fun.

Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard

The Festival of Trees is an annual holiday event held in the park at Grand Boulevard in Miramar Beach. The display features uniquely decorated Christmas trees created by twelve local nonprofit organizations.

The trees typically debut the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and remain on display in the park through Christmas Day. Visitors can stroll through, enjoy the decorations, and learn more about the missions of the participating organizations.

Christmas Lights at Festival of Trees

The kickoff event usually takes place on a Tuesday in late November. During the opening night celebration, the participating nonprofits compete for cash prizes totaling $7,000, and guests have the opportunity to cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award.

Candy Cane Lane in Destin

Every year during the holidays, Sea Oats Drive in Destin transforms into what locals call Candy Cane Lane. Neighbors go all out to keep their reputation as one of the most festive and decorated streets in town, and the displays seem to get bigger and better each year.

Christmas Lights and decorations on Candy Cane Lane aka Sea Oats Drive in Destin

If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly holiday light display, this is a great place to start. A stroll down Candy Cane Lane is almost guaranteed to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

For the best experience, park at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church at the intersection of Beach Drive and Sea Oats Drive and walk the street. It’s only about a quarter-mile long, so it’s an easy walk, even with kids.

Sea Oats Drive aka Candy Cane Lane in Destin Street Map

The lights are usually up by Thanksgiving and definitely by December 1, since many of the homeowners participate in the City of Destin Christmas decorating contest. Most displays stay up through New Year’s Eve.

Christmas lights on Candy Cane Lane in Destin

The lights typically turn on at dusk each evening and run until about 10:00 pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends.

12 Nights of Lights at Baytowne Wharf

The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights throughout the holiday season, but in December they add a special light show on select Wednesday nights leading up to Christmas.

Christmas Lights at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin

During these festive evenings, the Christmas tree in the Events Plaza becomes part of a choreographed light show. The lights dance and blink to music at 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm, and 8:00 pm, creating a fun, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of the Village.

Christmas Lights around the lagoon at Baytowne Wharf Sandestin

Baytowne Wharf is a beautiful place to see Christmas lights anytime during November and December. You can stroll through the quaint village, enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants, and then gather in the plaza for the light show. It’s an easy way to combine dinner, shopping, and a holiday event all in one evening.

Christmas Reflections in Defuniak Springs

If you’re willing to take a short drive outside of Destin, Christmas Reflections at Chipley Park in DeFuniak Springs is one of the most impressive Christmas light displays in the area.

Christmas Lights in Defuniak Springs

This annual event features more than 10 million lights illuminating the park and reflecting across the lake, creating a truly beautiful setting. You can experience the display by walking through the park, driving around the lake, or even booking a horse-drawn carriage ride.

The historic grounds are filled with a wide variety of decorations, including Victorian figures, the Grinch, animals, toy soldiers, Santa’s workshop, and even a grandfather clock display. There is a small admission fee, but children five and under are free.

The light show typically runs nightly from 5:30–9:00 pm, beginning the day after Thanksgiving and continuing through New Year’s Eve. For more details about the Christmas Reflections event, visit https://www.defuniaksprings.net/1097/Christmas-Reflections

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

Christmas Lights on 30a

Another great place to see Christmas lights near Destin is along Scenic Highway 30A. In December, the small beach towns along this stretch of road are beautifully decorated for the holidays. After dusk, you can drive from town to town and stop in the walkable town centers to enjoy the lights and seasonal displays.

Some of the most decorated communities along 30A include WaterColor, Alys Beach, Seaside, and Rosemary Beach.

Christmas Lights in Seaside, Florida at the Food Trucks
Christmas Lights in Seaside on 30a

If you’re only going to visit one 30A town for holiday lights, Seaside is a great option because everything is close together and easy to walk.

Start at the Seaside Amphitheater, where you’ll usually find a large Christmas tree in the center of the lawn. From there, walk over to Airstream Row, where the food trucks are lined with lights. The historic Seaside Post Office in Central Square is typically decorated beautifully, and you’ll also find a tree and lights in Ruskin Place just north of the square.

Christmas tree and lights at Town Square in Seaside
Christmas tree in Seaside, Florida on 30a

Don’t miss the large Christmas tree near the archway entrance to Seaside Neighborhood School, and be sure to walk down toward the beach access pavilion, which is usually lit up for the season as well.

If you have time to explore beyond Seaside, there are several other beautiful stops along 30A.

In WaterColor, look for the large Christmas tree in Cerulean Park. In Alys Beach, there is usually a tall Christmas tree on the lawn surrounded by oversized decorative gift boxes. In Rosemary Beach, check near Town Hall for the Christmas tree and look for lights wrapped around the trees near the fountain at Barrett Square.

Other Christmas Must-Do’s in Destin

Visit the Dolphin and Santa Display at the Back Porch

Every year around Thanksgiving, The Back Porch Restaurant sets up a fun and uniquely Destin-style Christmas display featuring Santa being pulled by twelve dolphins, with Rudolph the red-nosed dolphin leading the way.

Christmas display at the Back Porch in Destin

It’s a quick and easy stop if you’re out looking at Christmas lights, and it makes a great photo spot—especially if you want something a little different from the traditional sleigh-and-reindeer setup.

Photo of a kid with the dolphins at Back Porch

Ice Skating at Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin

What better way to get into the winter and holiday spirit than ice skating?

The Baytowne Ice Rink typically opens in late October and runs through late January each year. The outdoor rink is set up under a large tent in the Events Plaza, right in the center of Baytowne Wharf.

Kids ice skating at the Baytowne Wharf ice rink

Operating hours vary throughout the season depending on holidays and school schedules. Baytowne releases an updated calendar each year with specific dates and times, so it’s best to check the Baytowne Wharf events calendar as the holidays approach.

The rink is also available for private events such as birthday parties and class trips, with rental packages generally starting around $300.

For regular admission, ice skating is usually around $13 for a 90-minute session, with skate rentals typically about $3. Pricing can vary slightly from year to year, so it’s a good idea to confirm current rates before visiting.

Support bars are available for younger or beginner skaters to hold onto as they make their way around the ice.

Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in Destin

There’s usually no shortage of restaurants open on Christmas Day in the Destin area. Many visitors are here on vacation and prefer to eat out, and sometimes it’s nice to leave the cooking (and cleanup) to someone else.

Marlin Grill at Baytowne Wharf decorated for the holidays

Keep in mind that many restaurants operate with limited hours on Christmas Day, so it’s always best to check ahead before heading out. Some of the more upscale restaurants may also offer a special holiday menu and require reservations.

I haven’t confirmed which restaurants will be open for Christmas Day 2026 yet, but the list below includes places that have been open in past years. I’ll update this section as the holiday approaches.

  • -Harry T’s Lighthouse Restaurant at Harborwalk Village
  • -Margaritaville at Harborwalk Village
  • -Grande Vista Bar and Grill at HarborWalk Village
  • -AJ’s Seafood and Oyster House on Destin Harbor
  • -Boathouse Oyster Bar on Destin Harbor
  • -Tailfins Seafood and Oyster House on Destin Boardwalk
  • -Primrose at the Henderson
  • -Marina Bar and Grill at the Sandestin Marina
  • -Sandcastles at the Hilton Sandestin

Packing Tips for Christmas and Winter Season in Destin

It might sound dramatic to call anything in Florida “winter,” but it can get colder here than many visitors expect. Every December, I see people buying expensive gift shop sweatshirts because they arrived unprepared for chilly evenings. It’s definitely worth checking the forecast before your trip and packing a few warm layers just in case.

In addition to reviewing my Ultimate Destin Vacation Pack List and bringing a light jacket or sweater, there are a few extra items I recommend during the holiday season that people don’t always think about.

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

Waterproof Boots

This is probably my most unexpected winter recommendation for Destin, and it has nothing to do with rain. It’s for the beach.

Your family may laugh when you pack waterproof boots, but you’ll feel pretty smart when they’re walking along the shoreline at sunset with freezing feet while you’re warm and dry—even with waves washing up around you.

Girl walking on the beach in Destin in Rain Boots at Christmas

I honestly can’t believe I went so many winters here without them. It wasn’t until a photographer friend showed up to a chilly December sunrise session wearing waterproof boots that I realized what I’d been missing.

I had never owned a pair before living at the beach, but they’ve become one of my favorite cold-weather items. I wear them on winter sunrise and sunset walks when the sand is damp and the wind is biting.

They are the perfect height, affordable, comfortable, stylish, and never leak. I wore them on all my sunrise beach shoots last season from November through May. Here is the Link on Amazon: Sarah’s Rain Boots

I actually didn’t retire them until May because I got so used to enjoying beach walks without having to rinse sand off my feet.

I usually recommend sizing up slightly if you plan to wear thick socks. You probably won’t need them on a warm, sunny afternoon, but on colder mornings or breezy evenings, they make a big difference.

Christmas Light Necklace

If you’re heading to holiday events like Santa’s arrival at Baytowne Wharf or the Destin Harbor Lighted Boat Parade, a Christmas light necklace is a fun accessory to bring along.

They’re also fun if you’re strolling around HarborWalk Village or Baytowne in the evenings close to Christmas. Yes, I own one. Possibly more than one. No regrets.

Christmas Lights

If you’re staying in a condo or vacation rental during the holidays, consider packing a small strand of Christmas lights for your balcony or patio. It’s a simple way to make your space feel festive.

This is especially fun if you’re staying somewhere like Sandestin and renting a golf cart. Driving around at night during the holidays feels very different when your golf cart has a few lights wrapped around it.

Sandestin Golf Cart decorated for Christmas

Most balconies and outdoor areas have accessible outlets, so it’s usually easy to plug in a small strand.

Destin Themed Christmas Gift Ideas

If you are shopping for someone who loves Destin or has a Destin Beach trip planned, why not get them a Destin-themed Christmas gift?

Destin Gifts by The Good Life Destin

I might be biased but I think my Destin products would make a great Christmas present for someone who loves Destin.

Destin Photography Prints and Canvas Prints

I have both photography prints and canvas wall hangings available in my Etsy Shop if you want to give someone an image to remind them of Destin and the beach all year.

Destin Photography Prints and Canvas on Etsy
Destin photography prints and canvas on Etsy

I very much appreciate everyone who supports my Destin photography and blog writing by making a product purchase from me. Product sales are my main source of income so every sale means a lot to me and allows me to continue doing this work of sharing Destin with you.

Other Ideas for Destin themed Christmas gifts:

Destinopoly Board Game

Destinopoly is a board game in the style of the classic Monopoly game but with Destin landmarks and locations instead.

Destin Board Game Destinopoly on the Beach in Destin

Destinopoly is available at the Walgreens in Destin and the Destin Walmart. There is also a 30a version and a South Walton version available at the Santa Rosa Beach Walmart.

Destin Pioneer Settlers: A Land History of Destin, Florida, from 1819-1940

This book is a look at the interesting and colorful history of Destin, Florida and it’s founding families.

You, Me and Us Novel

A heartbreaking, yet hopeful, story of a mother and daughter struggling to be a family without the one person who holds them together. This novel is set in Destin, Florida so you will recognize many places and landmarks in the story.

Destin Christmas Ornament

You can find Destin Christmas ornaments at several local shops including Banana Barts, the Christmas Shop at Harborwalk Village, and the Candymaker near the Back Porch in Destin.


I hope my Ultimate Christmas Guide to Destin, Florida helps you plan the perfect holiday visit here.

Be sure to comment below if you have any questions or feedback. I love hearing from you and prefer to answer questions on here so my answers can help others as well. Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list so you don’t miss any posts!

Shop my Destin Photography Prints, Books, and Vacation Rentals

Hi, I’m Sarah — the creator, writer, and photographer behind this site. I sell prints and books featuring my Emerald Coast photography, and I also manage four vacation rentals on beautiful Holiday Isle in Destin. If you’re looking for a helpful, knowledgeable local host when you visit, I’d love to welcome you 🌴😃🐬My rentals include two 2-bedroom condos (one beachfront and one on the harbor) and two 4-bedroom homes, both located on Destin Harbor. You can check out my Destin vacation rentals here: https://thegoodlifedestin.com/vacation-rentals-by-sarah/

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

Destin Photography Prints Framed….If you enjoy my posts, please consider supporting my blog by shopping my products. I appreciate every sale, and it helps me continue to put out quality free content for you. Thank you SO much 🙂

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