Let’s be honest: fall in Destin doesn’t exactly come wrapped in flannel. While the rest of the country is sipping hot cider in boots and scarves, we’re still rocking sandals and chasing sunsets on sugar-white sand. But just because colorful leaves aren’t falling doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the cozy, festive vibes of the season. Here’s how to embrace fall in Destin even if that means sweating as you sip your pumpkin spice latte.

Paint Pumpkins at Craft Club

Florida heat is still saying “summer,” but you can channel autumn energy at Craft Club hosted by local artist Marilu Moran on October 2. Held at East Pass Coffee Co, this pumpkin painting class offers hands-on DIY fun, creative expression, and warm community vibes. Want to join in? Click here to purchase tickets. No experience necessary and all supplies will be provided.

Light a Fall Candle From Salty Scents

Known for their clean, non-toxic ingredients, Salty Scents just dropped a fall candle collection that smells like pure autumn bliss. Scents include Pumpkin Spice, Toasty Marshmallow, Autumn Leaves, Cinnamon Stick, and more. Bonus: the candles are adorable and make perfect gifts (even if it’s a gift for yourself).

Sip Seasonally

Sure, the temps don’t exactly scream hot cider weather, but you can still enjoy your favorite fall drinks—just order them iced. Local coffee shops like Maas or East Pass Coffee Co. are great spots to grab an iced pumpkin spice latte or a cold brew topped with pumpkin cold foam. Fall flavors, Florida style.

Celebrate at Local Fall Festivals

Destin and its neighboring communities host plenty of fall-themed events to get you in the seasonal spirit. From fine wines and freshly caught seafood to local art and live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here is a complete guide to the best fall festivals in Destin, including favorites such as:

• Destin Seafood Festival
• Harvest Food & Wine Festival
• Destin Songwriter Festival
• Festival of the Arts
• and more!

Visit the Pumpkin Patches

Looking for a classic fall adventure? Check out nearby farms for a traditional taste of autumn with pumpkin patches, hayrides, corn mazes and more. While you won’t be needing a scarf or sweater, I do suggest bringing sunscreen, a portable fan, and plenty of water.

• Holland Farms (Milton)
• Sweet Season Farms (Milton)
• Nixon Farms and Corn Maze (Baker)
• The Garden at Peach Creek (Santa Rosa Beach) – Harvest Celebration September 27 and October 4, 2025
• Pumpkin Patch at Camp Helen State Park (Panama City Beach)

Shop For Fall Fashions

You may not need heavy knits, but you can still rock a fall-inspired wardrobe. Think lightweight flannels, earthy colors, wide-brim hats, and cozy textures in breathable fabrics. Stores at Destin Commons and boutiques like Kiki Risa offer the perfect mix of coastal and seasonal style. We also love the short sleeve sweater trend!

Enjoy Fall Flavors at Local Restaurants

Fall menus will start popping up soon at local restaurants in Destin! Keep an eye out for specials that use your favorite autumn ingredients, from figs and pumpkin to sweet potatoes and sprinkles of cinnamon. Bitterroot often rolls out seasonal dishes and cocktails packed with fall flavors. Or the Harvest Bowl at East Pass Coffee Co is a staple year-round, but also gives off fall vibes.

Decorate Like It’s 50 Degrees

While it may be hot and humid outside, your home can still feel like a cozy autumn retreat indoors. Think autumn wreaths, fall tablescapes, indoor pumpkins (because we all know they’ll be mush by halloween if you carve pumpkins anytime soon). Embrace fall colors—burnt orange, mustard yellow, deep red—and cozy textures (knit blankets, boucle pillows).

Have a Sunset Bonfire

The Gulf Coast version of cozy? A beach bonfire. The cooler evenings in late fall make it the perfect time to gather with friends, snack on a charcuterie tray, and roast s’mores with the sound of waves in the background. There are several local companies that can set up the whole thing for you (including permits) and even provide food and drinks.

Create Your Own Coastal Traditions

Fall in Destin may not look traditional, but that’s what makes it special. Whether it’s carving beach-themed pumpkins, doing a fall photo shoot in front of the waves, or hosting a Friendsgiving with a view of the Gulf, you can create fall memories unique to our coastal town. So go ahead—light that cinnamon candle, ice that chai latte, and toast a s’more under the stars. Fall is what you make of it, and in Destin, it’s still pretty incredible.