Norriego Point 2024 Construction and Restoration Progress Update

Norriego Point is a white sand peninsula located at the end of Gulf Shore Drive on Holiday Isle. It is one of the 13 Public Beach Areas in Destin.

One side of Norriego Point is located on Destin harbor across from Emerald Grande and Harborwalk Village and the other side sits on the East Pass which leads out to the Gulf of Mexico

This post was originally written about the Norriego Point Restoration Project which began on October 11th, 2017 and was originally scheduled to be finished in 2019 but the final phase was delayed due to Covid and other issues.

Unfortunately the final phases of the plan to make this an amazing public beach space is again delayed but it’s for a new condo construction project. A new condo complex and private marina are now being built at the front of Norriego Point and it looks like construction will be going on for awhile.

It’s very sad to see that the plan was changed for a private condo, but the City of Destin says the original plans of restrooms, beach walkovers, and more will continue after this project is complete. It is promised that this beach will still remain a public area past the new condo and marina.

For now, there are construction gates up so it might look closed when you drive up, but you can still access it through a path to the left of the chain link fence. See pictures below.

It used to be that you could launch your kayak and paddle boards from the borth side of Norriego Point, but that side is not as easily accessible now, leaving no good place on Destin Harbor for the public to use as a launch area. Read this post for alternatives: Ultimate Guide to Kayaking and Paddle Boarding on Destin Harbor

You can still use the swimming areas at Norriego Point and come out here to watch the fireworks. The side that the walkway is on, takes you to the areas where you can swim and watch them. It’s still an amazing option for fireworks. Pictures below show people waiting for fireworks recently.

Old post is below. I’m leaving it here because the plans are expected to resume:

What they have done so far looks amazing and I look forward to seeing the rest.

Phase I: Restoration and Stabilization of Norriego Point

Completed: May 2018

Phase I involved adding five acres of sand to Norriego Point by dredging the East Pass Channel and adding large stones around the perimeter.

The extra sand adds so much land to Norriego Point. There was already a lot of room out there but now it’s even more spacious.

This phase of the project also added 2 additional protected swimming areas to the 2 that were already there. Lifeguards stands have also been added this year.

This extra five acres of sand has also made Norriego Point one of the best spots for watching the Destin Harbor Fireworks as the furthest area of sand puts you right in front of the fireworks barge where they set them off.

If you want more information on the viewing spots for the Destin Harbor fireworks show, check out this article I wrote showcasing all the different views: Where to Watch the Destin Harbor Fireworks

Phase II: Dune Restoration on Norriego Point

Completed: September 2018

Phase II involved restoring the dunes and planting new vegetation and sea oats. As a result of this, the higher parts of Norriego Point which were once large areas of open sand, are now fenced off and covered in new plants.

This is a big change to no longer have the top of these areas to run around and use. In phase III there will be Boardwalk crossovers to get up there to see the view and cross to the other side but I will still miss the open sand area that used to be up there.

This old picture below shows how the top used to be before the project started.

Phase III: Recreation on Norriego Point

Phase III of the Norriego Point Restoration plan will include access improvements such as public restrooms, picnic facilities, showers and drinking fountains, educational signage, an ADA shelter, additional paved parking, and a boardwalk around the point with three dune walkovers and a bird habitat.

The photo below is a rendering showing the walkovers and the boardwalk that will go around the point.

Below is what it will look like from the other side where the restrooms and a new entrance will be located.

I will miss the old Norriego Point in many ways because it felt like such a natural gem in the heart of Destin. These improvements will make it more accessible for people and give this beach access more convenient amenities.

Here is a time-lapse video I made of the boats on Destin Harbor going around Norriego Point so you can see where it is in the harbor:

What are your thoughts on the improvements?

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.…..🌴😃🐬 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. 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 🙂