Getting around Destin, Florida boils down to a handful of truly outstanding boat tours. The private dolphin excursion stands out for its expert-led insights and intimate setting, while the waverunner tour delivers an exciting, up-close encounter with these playful creatures. Nature lovers will appreciate the clear kayak eco-tour – it’s like having a window to the underwater world right beneath you. For a more laid-back experience, the Crab Island tours by catamaran or tiki boat offer the perfect mix of relaxation and wildlife viewing. The evening glow tour provides a unique perspective of the waters after dark. Let’s explore these top-rated Destin adventures.
Key Points
- Destin offers a range of highly-rated tours, including private dolphin tours, waverunner dolphin tours, and a dolphin tour with inshore fishing adventure.
- Kayaking tours in Destin provide unique experiences, such as clear kayaking eco adventures and glow tours, with high recommendation rates.
- Crab Island tours, including catamaran and tiki vessel options, allow visitors to enjoy dolphin watching and activities on the Crab Island sandbar.
- Customizable private tours in Destin offer flexibility, with options for half-day or full-day Emerald Coast excursions and private hydrojet tours.
- Most Destin tours prioritize safety, provide amenities, and have positive ratings, ensuring memorable experiences for visitors.
Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna
What better way to take in the natural wonders of the Marianna region than the Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour? This highly-rated tour offers travelers the chance to explore a breathtaking underwater landscape while navigating clear kayaks.
With 298 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence and is a must-do for visitors to Destin.
Guests will paddle past limestone bluffs and underwater caves, spotting turtles, colorful fish, and diverse bird life along the way. The tour even includes a refreshing swim in the caves, allowing participants to cool off.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience enhances understanding of the local ecosystem and history. Accommodating small groups of up to 10 people, the tour ensures an intimate and safe adventure.
Priced from $68 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this eco-friendly excursion provides excellent value and flexibility for travelers.
Read our full review: Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna Review
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Destin: Crab Island Catamaran Tour With Dolphin Watching
Visitors to Destin can embark on an exhilarating Crab Island Catamaran Tour that combines dolphin watching with a fun-filled adventure at the renowned Crab Island sandbar.
The 3.5-hour tour departs from Destin, with prices starting from $65 per person. The experience includes a scenic catamaran ride, a brief dolphin-watching cruise, and a wealth of activities at Crab Island, such as snorkeling, using water toys, and relaxing on floats.
The tour is led by a licensed captain and crew, ensuring safety and guidance throughout the adventure. Participants can bring their own food and drinks, with snorkel masks, water floats, and life jackets provided.
While alcoholic beverages aren’t sold on-site, small coolers are permitted. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to pay later, this tour offers a convenient and flexible way to explore the beauty of Crab Island and spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
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3 Hour Dolphin Private Guided Tour By A Marine Biologist
Travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of Destin’s marine life can embark on a 3-hour private guided dolphin tour led by a knowledgeable marine biologist. This exclusive experience departs from Panama City and provides a unique opportunity to learn about the local dolphin population and their natural habitat.
With a 100% recommendation rating and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers excellent value at $398.00 for groups of up to 6 people. The marine biologist guide shares fascinating dolphin facts and anecdotes, while guests have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including rays, sharks, and manatees.
The tour includes snorkeling equipment, bottled water, and snacks, as well as private transportation to and from the marina. Wheelchair-accessible and with a flexible itinerary, this tour caters to travelers seeking a personalized and educational encounter with Destin’s vibrant marine ecosystem.
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Destin: Crab Island & Dolphin Tour on Tiki Vessel
Destin’s Crab Island and its surrounding waters offer a delightful opportunity for visitors to embark on a 1.5-hour tour aboard a Tiki vessel. Guided by a certified USCG Captain, this tour promises to be both safe and informative, with the chance to spot dolphins along the way.
Onboard amenities include a bathroom and music, ensuring a comfortable experience. Priced at $54.97 per person, the tour allows for a reserve-now-pay-later option, making it a convenient choice.
Plus, travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. With consistently positive customer reviews highlighting the great drivers, fun atmosphere, and enjoyable music, this tour is recommended for families, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and special occasions.
Whether you’re seeking an adventure or simply a relaxing outing, the Destin: Crab Island & Dolphin Tour on Tiki Vessel is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Read our full review: Destin: Crab Island & Dolphin Tour on Tiki Vessel Review
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2 Hour Private Dolphin Tour Guided By A Marine Biologist
Setting out on a 2-hour private dolphin tour guided by a marine biologist, visitors to Destin can enjoy a captivating exploration of the region’s marine life.
The tour departs from the Massalina Marina & Yacht Club, with a convenient large grass parking lot available. During the excursion, guests will be equipped with snorkeling gear, bottled water, and a cooler with ice, allowing them to fully experience the aquatic wonders.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and service animals are welcome. Guests should note that the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart issues, or serious medical conditions, and it’s not suitable for infants and toddlers.
With a 5.0 rating based on 41 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, this private dolphin tour offers an exceptional opportunity to encounter dolphins, turtles, and sharks in their natural habitat, guided by the expertise of a marine biologist.
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Destin: Half Day or Full Day Private Emerald Coast Tour
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Destin’s picturesque Emerald Coast, the private half-day or full-day tour provides guests with a customizable and immersive experience.
Priced from £1,911.35 per group of up to 8 participants, the tour’s flexible itinerary allows guests to choose from activities like dolphin watching, visiting Crab Island, swimming, and taking in scenic views.
Cruising along Choctawhatchee Bay and dining at LuLu’s are also possible. Comfort is ensured aboard the climate-controlled, enclosed vessel, equipped with amenities like 4K smart TVs, a Bluetooth sound system, and restrooms.
While captains can be hired separately, the tour comes with soft drinks, snacks, and safety equipment. Alcohol is allowed, but no red wine. Catering options are available for an additional charge.
With a cancellation policy that allows full refunds up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a flexible and customizable way to explore Destin’s Emerald Coast.
Read our full review: Destin: Half Day or Full Day Private Emerald Coast Tour Review
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Sunset Clear Kayak Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach
One of the unique tour options in the Destin and Fort Walton Beach area is the Sunset Clear Kayak Tour. Priced at £60.19 per person, this 2-hour experience takes adventurers out on the water in clear tandem kayaks to witness the stunning sunset views.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour provides all necessary equipment, including paddles, life jackets, and whistles. The meeting point is at Get up and Go Kayaking Destin, where participants can park and follow the path to the right. The tour ends back at the same location.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. Reviewers have provided a mixed response, with some concerns about communication and safety assessments from the tour guides.
However, those who enjoyed the experience particularly noted it as suitable for older teens. Guests should be aware that kayaking can be physically demanding, and wildlife sightings are rare due to the clear kayaks.
Read our full review: Sunset Clear Kayak Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach Review
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3-Hour Crab Island Excursion
The 3-Hour Crab Island Excursion in Destin, USA, is a highly recommended activity, boasting a 98% traveler recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, this excursion provides an intimate experience on the water. Guests can enjoy a cooler, ice, cups, and shot glasses, along with a floating dock and a knowledgeable captain. BYOB is welcome, and infant seats are available for families.
The tour departs from Beignets & Brew and returns to the same location, with parking available nearby.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with limited mobility, it offers a unique opportunity to explore Crab Island.
Reviewers praise the captains for their informative and accommodating nature, and highlight the enjoyable conversations, dolphin sightings, and boat tours.
Some caution about jellyfish and lack of a floating dock, but overall, the 4.9-star rating and positive experiences suggest this excursion is a must-try for those visiting Destin.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Crab Island Excursion Review
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Private Hydrojet Tour in Destin
Although the Private Hydrojet Tour in Destin may not be wheelchair accessible, it provides an exhilarating aquatic adventure for those seeking a unique experience. Recommended by 90% of travelers, this private tour on a hydrojet boat offers the opportunity to cruise along the Gulf of Mexico, shoreline, and Crab Island.
With an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 10 reviews, the tour is sure to set the stage for an unforgettable journey. Participants can bring their own music, food, and beverages (excluding glass bottles) to personalize their experience.
The tour is private, ensuring that only your group will be part of the adventure. The meeting point is the hydrojet Green Kiosk at 314 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, where you’ll check-in after parking at HERON HARBOR.
The tour starts at 10:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point. Booking the Private Hydrojet Tour costs $950 for a group of up to 15 people, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
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Waverunner Dolphin Tour
A thrilling Waverunner Dolphin Tour in Destin, Florida, allows adventurers to explore the area’s stunning coastline and spot playful bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
This 2-seater waverunner tour offers a flexible duration, with participants returning to the starting point at their leisure. The tour provides opportunities to see marine life, with a guide sharing fun facts and assisting in wildlife spotting.
Suitable for ages 8 and up, the tour departs from Power Up Watersports in nearby Fort Walton Beach. Boaters born after January 1, 1988, must complete a safety course per Florida law.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, it’s an exhilarating way to experience Destin’s coastal beauty.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 11 reviews and a price starting at €184.56 per group, this Waverunner Dolphin Tour is a fantastic value for an unforgettable adventure.
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Dolphin Tour & Inshore Fishing Adventure (Flowing Water Charters)
For those seeking a relaxing day on the Gulf of Mexico with the opportunity to fish and spot dolphins, the Dolphin Tour & Inshore Fishing Adventure offered by Flowing Water Charters in Destin, Florida, is an excellent choice.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 12 reviews, this private tour provides a personalized experience, with all necessary fishing equipment provided. Travelers can expect to see dolphins and other marine life while enjoying a day of relaxation and fishing.
The tour meets at the 314 Harbor Blvd location, with paid parking available nearby. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for all ages, including children.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and interactive Captain Robert, highlighting the fun, comfort, and memorable dolphin encounters. With a 100% recommendation rate, this dolphin and fishing adventure is an ideal way to experience the beauty of Destin’s Gulf waters.
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Day Tour to Harbor Lights
The Day Tour to Harbor Lights in Destin, Florida, offers visitors a private and intimate exploration of the area’s natural beauty. This group tour, limited to 12 participants, departs from 302 Harbor Blvd and returns to the same location.
Along the way, guests can enjoy complimentary soda, pop, and snacks while taking in the stunning scenery of the harbor.
The tour, priced at $1,300 per group, includes the services of a knowledgeable captain and crew, as well as all necessary gratuities.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s open to most travelers, including infants who must sit on laps.
With an impressive 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, the Day Tour to Harbor Lights is a popular choice for those seeking a unique and memorable experience in Destin.
Availability is limited, so interested parties are encouraged to select their desired time and check availability as soon as possible.
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Clear Kayak Glow Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach
Although the Clear Kayak Glow Tour in Destin and Ft. Walton Beach is a highly rated activity, with a Badge of Excellence and 15 positive reviews, it’s important to consider the tour’s details and requirements.
The 2-hour tour costs $72.95 per person and accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers. The meeting point is in Mary Esther, FL, and the tour returns to the same location.
The tour includes a tandem kayak, paddles, and personal flotation devices. While gratuity isn’t included, a reusable water bottle is recommended. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Guests should note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and unique wildlife sightings, but some guests desired more information about the local ecosystem.
Potential issues with equipment and photo retrieval have led to mixed feedback. Travelers should plan accordingly for traffic and weather conditions, as well as construction at the launch site.
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Sum Up
Destin offers a wide variety of exciting tours, from eco-adventures to dolphin watching and fishing excursions. Whether you prefer a relaxing kayak trip or an adrenaline-pumping waverunner ride, there’s something for all. With guided tours led by knowledgeable professionals, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area and create unforgettable memories. Destin’s diverse tour options cater to various interests and provide an excellent way to explore the region’s stunning landscape and wildlife.