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Christmas in Destin: Ultimate Guide to the Holiday Season

Pinterest Pin for Christmas in Destin

Thinking about visiting Destin, Miramar Beach or somewhere on the Emerald Coast during the Christmas season? My guide to Christmas in Destin has everything you need to know about the best of the holiday season.

In this post I will cover all the best holiday events and parades, where to see amazing Christmas lights, Christmas photo spots, and restaurant options for Christmas Day.

I will also talk about the weather in Destin in November and December, packing tips for a winter visit, Destin-themed gift ideas, and lots more.

This post will cover the time period of mid-November through the end of December. This is when you will find the best Christmas events and holiday decorations in the Destin area. I hope this post helps you plan the perfect Christmas visit to Destin.

Is the Christmas Season a Good Time to Visit Destin?

There are pros and cons to visiting Destin in November and December during the holiday season. The crowd levels vary quite a bit depending when you are here.

Thanksgiving week is usually pretty busy with many people taking advantage of the warmer Florida temperatures and off-season rates.

December Sunrise in Destin
Winter Sunrise on Okaloosa Island

Early December will quiet down as kids go back to school but then the crowds will spike up again starting around December 18th when they go on Christmas break and continuing through New Years.

Christmas crowds in Destin are nothing in the realm of summer crowds but still higher than you might expect in off-season.

The crowds also depend on the weather. If it’s uncharacteristically warm, that will bump up the crowd levels while colder temperatures make a beach visit less appealing and can cause them to drop.

December and November Weather in Destin

November and December are hit or miss when it comes to the weather so it’s hard to predict what the temperatures will be.

There have been some Thanksgivings and Christmases when temperatures were in the 70’s and sunny for a perfect beach day but I also recall some that have been in the 40s and extremely chilly. You just never really know what this time of year will be.

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

60 degrees in Florida can also feel a lot colder than the same temperature feels elsewhere because the humidity and the wind chill off the Gulf of Mexico gives the air some extra bite.

I’m not trying to scare you off with weather warnings since November and December are often quite pleasant with the coldest months in Destin being January and February. But just keep in mind that it can vary a lot that time of year and it’s not always hot and sunny in Florida.

Most people consider it too cold to swim at the beach in Destin in November and December, but some people still do, especially on the hot sunny days. This is a good time to consider accommodations with a heated pool or hot tub.

Winter Sunrises and Sunsets in Destin

November and December in Destin are some of the best times to enjoy sunrises and sunsets at the beach. This is because the sun sets over the water in Destin from about October through March while it’s over land in the summer.

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

The sun is as far over the Gulf of Mexico as it will get in December before it turns around and starts slowly creeping back towards land. So be sure to set aside time for sunrise and sunset walks on the beach if you are here in winter.

If you want to understand more about sunsets in Destin and get ideas for the best places to watch them, check out this more detailed post: Sunset in Destin: The 6 Best Places to Watch

Christmas Events in the Destin Area

Destin Commons Christmas Tree Lighting and Fireworks

Christmas season in Destin kicks off every year in November when Santa arrives to light the biggest Christmas Tree on the Emerald Coast at Destin Commons.

Destin Commons decorated for Christmas

This event will include free face painting and photo opportunities with Rudolph and Frosty characters all set to festive holiday tunes.

Santa will ride in the holiday parade down Main Street in Destin Commons to arrive at the tree lighting. The parade will start at 7pm and fireworks will immediately follow.

Santa in the parade at Destin Commons

The fireworks for this event are set off from the parking garage so they will be directly over the Christmas tree and shops in the Commons.

It’s not the longest fireworks show in town so I wouldn’t go just for those but it’s a fun addition to the holiday festivities and tree lighting.

Baytowne Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights at Sandestin

Another early holiday favorite event is the Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights festival at Sandestin. Stroll the beautifully decorated streets of Baytowne Wharf enjoying an evening full of holiday spirit, delicious appetizers, and sparkling wine. 

Sparkling Wine and Appetizers at Baytowne Wharf

Anyone can walk around the Village and enjoy the Sparkling Wine Festival but you will need a ticket to sample the food and wine that’s available outside the participating shops and restaurants.

The event will end with the first tree lighting of the season and a sneak peek at Baytowne Wharf’s choreographed light show, 12 Nights of Lights (more on the light show below in the “Where to see Christmas Lights” section.)

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

I wrote a detailed post about the Baytowne Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights event with photos from prior years and more information here: Baytowne Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival at Sandestin: 2023 Guide

This is one of the most popular holiday events in town and it ALWAYS sells out well in advance so get your tickets early!

Polar Express Movie Night at Baytowne Wharf

Kids watching a movie on the lawn at Baytowne Wharf

Every year Baytowne Wharf shows the classic holiday film, Polar Express, on the events plaza lawn.

Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and your picnic supplies to enjoy this Christmas favorite movie under the stars. Baytowne Wharf provides free popcorn for this event.

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 will receive a FREE 4×6 photo.

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 25th 2023 from 6-9pm
  • 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 this awesome Christmas celebration welcoming Santa to the Village for the season.

Santa has different methods of arrival into the Village each year. Sometimes he arrives by train, sometimes by golf cart and sometimes by a horse drawn carriage. Santa will be arriving by Zip Line in 2022.

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

Santa’s arrival is a very popular event so be sure to arrive early for a spot in the parking garage.

Santa will start his horse drawn carriage journey into Baytowne Wharf at 6pm and parade around the Village arriving at the stage about 15 minutes later.

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

Once Santa arrives at the stage, he will say a few words and flip a switch to officially light up the Christmas tree for the holiday season. The fireworks will go off immediately after he lights the tree.

A lot of people accidentally miss the fireworks for the Santa’s arrival event because they are not expecting them to go off so early. All other Baytowne Wharf Fireworks shows start between 8-9:15 but the Christmas fireworks are much earlier.

Santa watching fireworks at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin at Christmas

There is no exact time for the fireworks during the Santa’s arrival event but you should expect the show to start sometime between 6:15 and 6:30.

The Christmas fireworks at Baytowne Wharf are a special holiday display with a variety of colors and bursts that differ from the summer shows. The fireworks display will last 5-6 minutes and are synched to popular holiday music.

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

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

After the fireworks, Santa will begin an evening of visits and photos. The lines to see Santa can get pretty long on his arrival night but there will be plenty of opportunities to visit him again at Baytowne before Christmas (see the “Where to see Santa” section below.)

Family visiting Santa at Baytowne Wharf

There will also be free kids crafts and face painting at the Baytowne Wharf Santa’s arrival event and the seasonal ice skating rink will also be open. More about the skating rink is discussed further down in this post.

Baytowne Wednesday Night Concert Series Holiday Edition

  • When: Wednesday December 6th, 13th, and 20th 2023 from 6-8pm
  • Where: Events Plaza Lawn at Baytowne Wharf
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://www.baytownewharf.com
Christmas Concerts at Baytowne Wharf

This is the holiday edition of Baytowne’s popular Wednesday Night concert series that takes place from spring through fall. Bring your blanket and lawn chairs to enjoy holiday music under the starts from a different band each week.

Ice Skating Extravaganza at Baytowne Wharf

Baytowne on Ice is hosting their 7th annual Ice Skating Extravaganza featuring two performances by professional ice skaters.

Baytowne Wharf Ice Skating Show at Sandestin

Before and in between the shows, lace up those skates and skate around with the pros who will be on the ice sharing tips and tricks. 

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl at Harborwalk Village

Dress in your best (or worst!) ugly Christmas sweater for this festive drinking event at Harborwalk Village.

People dressed as Santa at HarborWalk Village

Eat, drink and be merry with a game of drink specials bingo! The Santa Cause Pub Crawl will have a full schedule of stops at the various bars and restaurants around Harborwalk Village offering drink specials for participants. There will also be raffle prizes and live music on the main stage to enjoy.

End the evening with an ugly Christmas sweater contest at 9pm at Coyote Ugly. Proceeds from this event will benefit Panhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).

Santa Paws at Harborwalk Village

Bring your furry friend to get a picture with Santa and receive a FREE 4×6 photo. Panhandle Animal Welfare Society will be on-site with pets looking for a new home.

Santa posing with a dog at Harborwalk Village

Come out and get a photo with your dog and/or adopt your new best friend!

City of Destin Christmas Parade

Cars in the Destin Christmas Parade

The City of Destin’s 37th annual Christmas Parade will start at the Downtown Destin Shopping Center (Old Time Pottery) and travel west down Highway 98 (Harbor Blvd.) to Stahlman Avenue.

Every year is a different theme for the Christmas parade. The 2022 parade theme has not been announced yet but I will update here when it does.

Boat in the Christmas Parade

This section of Highway 98 will be closed for several hours during the Christmas parade so take that into account if you are trying to go anywhere that day.

Spectators should stand on the north side of 98 anywhere along the route. This is a big parade with a long parade route so there is plenty of space to find a spot to spread out and watch.

The Destin Christmas Parade will have a few fancy floats but it’s mostly decorated cars and golf carts. They will throw candy and other items to people along the route. There will also be local bands and dance companies participating.

Santa waving from a Fire Truck in the Destin Christmas parade

Santa will close the parade with his grand entrance on a fire truck. This parade is fun but it’s very long. I haven’t made it through the whole thing yet.

Tuba Christmas at Baytowne Wharf

Tuba Christmas is a unique holiday event taking place every year at the Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin. This event will feature over 30 brass instruments playing your holiday favorites on the events plaza stage.

Band at Baytowne Wharf

You can bring chairs and blankets to enjoy Tuba Christmas from the lawn in front of the events plaza stage.

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

  • When: TBA for 2023 but most likely dates: December 10th, 16th, 17th and 18th
  • Where: Emerald Grand at Harborwalk Village
  • Cost: $18 Kids | $25 Adults plus tax & gratuity
  • Website: https://harborwalkvillage.com

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to enjoy a buffet breakfast with Santa in the HarborView room at Emerald Grande.

During the Breakfast with Santa event, kids can enjoy a Santa letter writing station, build your own hot chocolate station, candy station and photos with Santa.

Santa talking to Kids at Breakfast with Santa at Emerald Grande

I attended this event as a photographer for Emerald Grande and was very impressed at how well it was done. I can’t imagine a better Breakfast with Santa event.

Santa was there the entire time walking around to each table greeting everyone. He then sat in his chair to take photos with kids. Everyone had a great time and there was plenty of opportunity for all the kids to get their photo with Santa.

Kids having breakfast with Santa

Buffet breakfast items included Frosty’s Fruit Display, Elfie’s Scrambled Eggs, Blitzen’s Bacon, Starry Night Sausage Patties, Holiday Home Fries, Mrs. Claus’ Quiche, Jingle Bell Biscuits, Fa La La La French Toast, and Dasher’s Doughnut Station.

This event will sell out so make your reservations early. Tickets are available on Emerald Grande’s website here: https://www.emeraldgrande.com/events-3/

Olde Holiday Market at Harborwalk Village

Olde Holiday Market at Harborwalk Village is a festive marketplace featuring holiday activities, live music, and local art and goods for sale. Support local vendors while getting some of your holiday shopping done at Olde Holiday Market.

Christmas baskets at Olde Holiday Market Harborwalk

Destin Harbor Lighted Christmas Boat Parade and Fireworks

The Destin Harbor Christmas Lighted Boat Parade is an annual holiday tradition that takes place in early December on Destin Harbor.

Boats parading at the Destin lighted boat parade

Participants will include area tour boats, dolphin cruise boats, fishing charter boats, and private boats.

The Decorated parade boats will make their way from the east side of the harbor (near Boshamps restaurant) to the west side (Harborwalk Village/Emerald Grande) ending near the Destin Bridge and East Pass area.

Destin boat parade boats lit up on Destin Harbor

Viewing spot options for the Destin Boat Parade include Harborwalk Village Restaurants, the docks along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and Marina, the Destin Bridge, and the beaches of Norriego Point.

For more information and photos of the Destin Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, check out my more detailed post here: Destin Lighted Boat Parade: 2023 Parade Route and Best Viewing Spots

Dock the Halls Slacker Event at the Boathouse Oyster Bar

Christmas in Destin Boathouse Slacker Event

Individuals or teams will visit partner locations and put their skills to the test competing in activities such as hop scotch, hula hooping, toilet paper toss, corn hole and more. 

Grab all your slacker friends and come down to the Boathouse for a good cause. Slackers are asked to bring toys for charity in exchange for extra drink tickets. 

Where to Visit Santa Clause in Destin

Visits with Santa at Harborwalk Village

  • When: Saturday and Sunday November 25, 26, December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, & 17 2023 from 1-4pm.
  • Where: Harborwalk Village
  • Cost: FREE
  • Website: https://harborwalkvillage.com

Visits with Santa at Harborwalk Village starting on Saturday November 26th when Santa and Mrs. Clause make their arrival to the main stage. Kids can also enjoy crafts, face painting, and a Rudolph-themed treasure hunt on Santa’s arrival day.

Kids visiting Santa at Harborwalk Village

Bring your letter to Santa and drop it in the special North Pole mailbox located near the stage. For every letter received,  $1 will be donated to a local children’s charity.  All of Santa’s guests will receive a special treat and a FREE 4×6 photo.

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

Visit Santa every Wednesday night in December leading up to Christmas at Baytowne Wharf. Santa will be on his sleigh in front of the big Christmas tree providing the perfect backdrop for photos.

Family getting photos with Santa at Baytowne Wharf

You can also see Santa at Baytowne Wharf on Saturday November 25th at his arrival celebration event and during the Tuba Christmas event on Sunday December 3rd. Details about those events are further up in this post.

Visits with Santa at Bass Pro Shops

Daily visits with Santa are a holiday tradition at Bass Pro Shops in Destin. This event includes free games, crafts, and photos with Santa.

Kids with Santa at Bass Pro in Destin

Families who visit Santa receive a free 4×6 professional photo as well as a free digital download that can be shared on social media. Additional photo packages are also available for purchase.

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.

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.

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 are 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 2022 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 below. They are inexpensive, comfortable and never leak. I wore them every day on my sunrise beach shoots last season from November through May.

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.

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.

2024 Destin Calendar

My 2024 calendar will be available to order starting in fall. Check back for updates!. Made from my Destin beach photos on high quality premium paper.

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

Seas the Day Blank Journal

Another idea for a Destin-themed Christmas gift is my hardcover blank journal made from my Destin Beach photography.

Destin Photography lined hardcover journal

The Good Life Destin Tote Bags

The Good Life Destin Tote Bags are my newest product available on Etsy. They are very high quality and will remind you of Destin all year long.

Destin Tote Bags available on Etsy

Destin Guide Book or Activity Book

For someone who has a Destin vacation planned you could consider my Destin Bucket List Book or Destin Kids Activity Book to learn more about Destin.

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, books, journals, and calendars all made from my Emerald Coast photography and I also manage a few vacation rentals on beautiful Holiday Isle in Destin if you want me to be your helpful, knowledgeable host when you visit.Sarah's Holiday Isle vacation Rentals in Destin Florida…..🌴😃🐬 I have a few rentals including a large house with a boat slip, a 2-bedroom condo, and a 1-bedroom apartment. All are directly on Destin Harbor with private gated access to the most beautiful beaches in Destin. Destin Photography Prints FramedIf 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 🙂

Destin Bucket List Book on Amazon
Link to order Destin kids activity book on amazon

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