Christmas in Destin: 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? My updated “Christmas in Destin” guide includes everything you’ll want to know for this year’s holiday visit.

In this post, you’ll find:

  • The best holiday events and parades
  • Top spots to see dazzling Christmas lights
  • Perfect photo-ops for your holiday snapshots
  • Restaurant recommendations for Christmas Day
  • What to expect weather-wise in Destin during November and December
  • Smart packing tips for a winter visit
  • Destin-themed gift ideas
  • And much more

This guide focuses on the period mid-November through the end of December, when the area is fully decked out for the holidays. I hope it helps you plan the perfect Christmas getaway to Destin.

Is the Christmas Season a Good Time to Visit Destin?

There are definitely pros and cons to visiting Destin in November and December. Crowd levels and weather both factor in.

Weather plays a role: Unusually warm days often draw more visitors, while colder or rainy weather tends to discourage beach trips and can reduce crowds.

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

Thanksgiving week tends to be busier, as many people take advantage of the warm Florida weather and off-summer rates.

Early December is typically quieter as schools return and fewer families are traveling.

Crowds pick up again around mid-December through New Year’s as the holiday break begins. While not comparable to summer peak crowds, holiday season crowds are noticeably higher than the off-season.

December Sunrise in Destin
Winter Sunrise on Okaloosa Island

December and November Weather in Destin

Weather in Destin during November and December can be unpredictable. Some years bring sunny days in the low 70s, perfect for a beach walk, while others dip into the 40s with a cool coastal breeze. You really never know what you’ll get this time of year.

Even when the temperature reads 60 degrees, it can feel colder than expected because of the humidity and the wind off the Gulf of Mexico. The chill in the air has more bite here than in drier places.

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

That said, November and December are still pleasant months to visit. The truly cold weather usually hits in January and February, so you can still enjoy mild days and beautiful sunsets before winter really sets in.

Most people find it too chilly to swim in the Gulf during November and December, but you’ll still see a few brave souls out there on the warmer, sunny days. If swimming is a must for you, look for a place to stay with a heated pool or hot tub to make the most of the cooler season.

Winter Sunrises and Sunsets in Destin

November and December are some of the best months to enjoy sunrises and sunsets in Destin. During this time of year, the sun sets directly over the Gulf of Mexico instead of over land, which only 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 begins shifting back toward land in spring. The result is some of the most stunning, colorful sunsets you’ll see all year.

If you’re visiting in winter, make time for at least one sunrise and one sunset walk along the beach. The cool air, calm waves, and glowing skies make it a peaceful experience you won’t forget.

If you’d like to learn more about when and where to catch the best sunsets in Destin, check out my full guide to Destin sunsets.: 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 p.m., 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, 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: 2025 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 — and 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 22, 2025 • 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 immediately 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 3, 2025 • 7:00–9:00 pm
  • Wednesday • December 10, 2025 • 7:00–9:00 pm
  • Wednesday • December 17, 2025 • 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, festive ambiance, and plenty of holiday cheer.

Ice Skating Extravaganza at Baytowne Wharf

  • When: Mid-December 2025 • 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 13, 2025 • 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 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

  • When: Sunday • December 14, 2025 • 6:00 pm
  • Where: Destin Harbor, from Boshamps Restaurant (east side) to HarborWalk Village / Emerald Grande (west side)
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://harborwalkvillage.com

This annual holiday tradition features tour boats, charter vessels, and private boats decorated with lights parading on Destin Harbor. The route runs from the east side near Boshamps Restaurant, past HarborWalk Village, and ends near the Destin Bridge/East Pass area.

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: 2025 Parade Route and Best Viewing Spots

Where to Visit Santa Clause in Destin

Visits with Santa at Harborwalk Village

  • When: Saturdays & Sundays • November – December 2025 • 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 18th and Sunday December 19th from 1-4pm which is the final day to visit and get photos taken with him. The weekend send off event will feature live performances on the main stage.

Visits with Santa at Baytowne Wharf

  • When: Wednesdays • December 3 & December 17, 2025 • 6:00–8:00 pm
  • Where: The Village of Baytowne Wharf
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://www.baytownewharf.com

During these 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 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. I live in a small apartment now but decorating for Christmas is one thing I miss about living in a house.There’s just something so magical about being out at night surrounded by the glow of holiday lights.

While I don’t participate in decorating for Christmas anymore, I find immense joy viewing and photographing other people’s Christmas light displays during the holiday season.

Luckily there are plenty of great options for viewing Christmas lights in Destin and surrounding areas during the holiday season. All the details are below.

City of Destin Christmas Decorating Contest

Before getting into some more official stops for Christmas lights in Destin, you should know that there will be festive light displays all around town competing in the City of Destin decorating contest.

A home in Destin decorated for Christmas in colorful lights

Judging for the contest takes place December 1st-15th for nominated homes and businesses in the City of Destin.

Winners will be announced a few days before Christmas and are recognized the following month at a City council meeting with a plaque from the mayor.

Awards are given in the five categories listed below:

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

You can drive around Destin during the holidays looking for spectacular light displays in neighborhoods or look for them from the water on Destin Harbor.

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

Tiki boat with Christmas lights on Destin Harbor

An evening cruise on Destin Harbor is a good way to see decorated homes on the water. Consider the “Harbor Lights” cruise with Cruisin’ Destin Tikis if you want to explore the harbor at night during Christmas on a decorated tiki boat.

Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard

Festival of Trees is an annual event in the park at Grand Boulevard shopping center showcasing uniquely decorated Christmas trees from twelve local, non-profit organizations.

The trees debut the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and remain in the park through Christmas Day for the public to enjoy and learn more about the missions of these organizations.

Christmas Lights at Festival of Trees

The first night kick-off event is on Tuesday November 21st, 2023 where the participating organizations will be competing to win cash prizes totaling $7,000 and you will have a chance to cast your vote for the People’s Choice award.

Candy Cane Lane in Destin

Every year during the holidays, Sea Oats Drive in Destin transforms into Candy Cane Lane as neighbors do their part to keep up their reputation as the most festive and decorated street in town. The displays get bigger and better every year.

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

If you want to get out and enjoy a holiday light display, don’t miss a stroll down Candy Cane Lane. It is guaranteed to put your whole family in the Christmas spirit.

To get the most enjoyment out of visiting Candy Cane Lane, park at Cornerstone Presbyterian Chrurch at the intersection of Beach Drive and Sea Oats Drive to walk the road. The street is only 0.25 mile long so it’s an easy walk, even for kids.

Sea Oats Drive aka Candy Cane Lane in Destin Street Map

The lights will usually be up by Thanksgiving but definitely by December 1st since a lot of these residents participate in the City of Destin Christmas decorating contest. The lights will stay up through New Years Eve.

Christmas lights on Candy Cane Lane in Destin

The lights on Candy Cane Lane come on at dusk each day and usually shut off at 10 p.m on weekdays and midnight on weekends. On Christmas Eve and Christmas, displays are on all day and night.

12 Nights of Lights at Baytowne Wharf

The Baytowne Wharf Village at Sandestin will be beautifully lit up in Christmas Lights all season but they will add a special lights show on Wednesday nights in December leading up to Christmas.

Christmas Lights at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin

During this festive light show nights, the tree lights in the events plaza will dance and blink to music at 6pm, 7pm and 8pm.

Christmas Lights around the lagoon at Baytowne Wharf Sandestin

Baytowne will be a beautiful place to see Christmas lights anytime during the season. Stroll around this quaint village in Sandestin to enjoy the decorated shops, restaurants and streets of Baytowne Wharf.

Christmas Reflections in Defuniak Springs

If you want to see one of the most beautiful Christmas displays around and don’t mind a bit of a drive, the Christmas Reflections display on the lake at Chipley Park in Defuniak Springs is a must-see.

Christmas Lights in Defuniak Springs

Christmas Reflections in Defuniak Springs offers a light display like no other in our area with over 10 million lights reflecting on the lake and throughout the park. You can view the lights by walking, driving or even taking a horse-drawn carriage ride.

A variety of Victorian figures, the Grinch, animal and toy soldiers, Santa’s workshop, and the grandfather clock ticking away are among the thousands of decorations that will adorn these historic grounds. There is a small admission charge but children 5 and under are free.

The light show runs 5:30-9pm nightly from the day after Thanksgiving through New Years Eve. For more details about the Christmas Reflections event, visit https://www.defuniaksprings.net/1097/Christmas-Reflections

Christmas Lights on 30a

Another great place to see Christmas Lights is in all the little beach towns along Scenic Highway 30a. You can drive this stretch of highway after dusk in December stopping at the picturesque town squares to look at their lights and decorations.

The most decorated towns along 30a are Watercolor, Alys Beach, Seaside, and Rosemary Beach.

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

If you are only going to visit one town along 30a for holiday lights, Seaside is a great choice because there is plenty to see in a walkable area.

Look for the Christmas tree in the center of the Seaside amphitheater, lights around airstream row where the food trucks are, the perfectly decorated historic post office in Central Square, a tree and lights in Ruskin Place just north of Central Square, and the large tree in the archway to Seaside Neighborhood School. The tall pavilion at the beach entrance will also be lit up.

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

If you want to see other Christmas Light displays along 30a, stop in Watercolor to look for the big Christmas tree in Cerulean Park. You can also look for the huge Christmas tree on the lawn in Alys Beach surrounded by decorative wrapped gift boxes.

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

In Rosemary Beach, look for the Christmas tree at Town Hall and the lights in the trees around the fountain at Barrett Square. There will also be lights on the businesses along the charming Main Street.

Cat posing for Christmas pictures in Destin
My cat Stewie posing for Christmas pictures

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 display of Santa being pulled by 12 dolphins with Rudolph the red-nosed dolphin leading the pack.

Christmas display at the Back Porch in Destin

This is the perfect stop for Christmas photos on the beach during the daytime or under a colorful sunset sky.

Photo of a kid with the dolphins at Back Porch

Ice Skating at Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin

What better way to get in the winter and holiday spirit then ice skating?

The Baytowne Ice Rink is open from late October to Late January every year. The Baytowne outdoor ice rink is set up under a large tent directly in the events plaza. 

Kids ice skating at the Baytowne Wharf ice rink

The operating times vary each day depending on holidays and school schedules but Baytowne releases a calendar on their website each year with the operating dates and times for the season. Check the Baytowne Wharf events calendar for an updated schedule as the holidays approach.

The Baytowne skating rink is also available for private events such as birthday parties and class trips starting at $300.

Support bars are available for beginner children to hold onto while they skate around the ice. The cost for ice skating is $13 for a 90-minute skating session and $3 for skate rental.

Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in Destin

There is usually no shortage of restaurants open on Christmas Day in the Destin area since many people are here on vacation and prefer to eat out. Sometimes it’s a nice change to leave the cooking and holiday decorating to someone else.

Marlin Grill at Baytowne Wharf decorated for the holidays

Many of the restaurants open Christmas Day will have limited hours so be sure to check before going. Also some of the more upscale ones will have a special Christmas dinner menu requiring reservations.

I have not been able to confirm yet who will be open Christmas Day in 2025 but the list below will give you an idea of who has been open in the past. I will give more updates 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 a lot colder here than you might expect. Many December visitors end up buying expensive gift shop sweaters having arrived unprepared for the chilly nights, so it’s important to pack accordingly.

Check the forecast before you go to determine what you might need but in addition to looking over my Ultimate Destin Vacation Pack List and bringing some warm clothes, I would also recommend a few extra things during the holiday season that you might not think of.

Waterproof Boots

This is my absolute best recommended accessory for winter in Destin and it has nothing to do with rain. This is for walking on the beach.

Your family will laugh when you pack these but you will have the last laugh when they have chilly cold feet on your sunset beach walk while you stayed warm and dry even with the water lapping at your feet.

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

I actually can’t believe I survived so many winters in Florida without rain boots. It wasn’t until I saw my photographer friend show to our chilly December sunrise shoot wearing some that I realized what I had been missing.

I have never owned a pair of waterproof boots before living at the beach but the ones I got are pictured below.

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

Yes 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 recommend sizing up to accommodate thick socks if needed. Again, it just depends how cold it gets. It’s not as likely you would need these on a sunny day but you will probably enjoy them on winter sunrise and sunset walks.

Christmas Light Necklace

Obviously you need a Christmas Light necklace if you are going to any of the festive holiday evening events, especially Santa’s arrival at Baytowne or the Destin Harbor Boat parade.

Graphic about Sarah's Destin vacation rentals on Holiday Isle

A Christmas light necklace can even be a fun accessory if you are walking around Harborwalk or Baytowne Wharf in the evening close to Christmas.

And yes I have one of these. Or two. You can probably tell I love Christmas. Don’t worry, this packing list is almost over. Just a few more necessities.

Christmas Lights

No holiday vacation would be complete without decor for your condo and most importantly, your golf cart rental if you are getting one. This won’t apply to everyone but it’s crucial if you are staying beachfront, harbor front and especially if you are cruising around on a golf cart at night.

For example, if you are staying at Sandestin with a golf cart and driving around at night to Baytowne in a dark naked golf cart, is it even Christmas? No.

Sandestin Golf Cart decorated for Christmas

Most balconies have plugs so you can go all out with the lights. Anything from basic lights to icicles to lights synched to music will be great for a waterfront balcony. Lights for your golf cart need to be battery operated though like these.

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/

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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