Meet Kristen Anderson: mom, lifelong beach lover, and the creator behind @kristenbythecoast, where she shares gorgeous content that will have you daydreaming about Destin‘s emerald water and sugar-white sand.

Kristen and her family arrived on the Florida Panhandle in 2016 when the military brought them here, and the Emerald Coast quickly became so much more than another duty station. As lifelong beach lovers, living by the water has been a dream come true, and raising their kids along these sugar-white shores is something they never take for granted.

“Living at the beach is a literal dream come true for us,” Kristen says. “We have no plans to leave the area and are grateful that we get to call this incredible place home.”

In 2022, Kristen started freelance blog work and social media content creation, sharing her favorite local recommendations along with her family’s occasional weekend travel adventures on Kristen by the Coast. Her feed is a steady stream of turquoise water, golden hour light, and easy coastal living, so if you need a little dose of beach vibes in your day, she’s a great follow.

Keep reading for Kristen’s favorite family-friendly spots and things to do near Destin.

Goofy Golf

Goofy Golf in Fort Walton Beach is a true local classic that has been entertaining families for generations. The quirky, larger-than-life sculptures (including a giant green dinosaur you can spot from the road) give it a nostalgic, retro feel. With two courses to choose from, it’s easy to make an afternoon of it, and the simple fun of playing a round together as a family never gets old. Kristen perfectly captures the full experience in this Instagram Reel.

Burrito Del Sol

With locations in both Fort Walton Beach and Destin, Burrito Del Sol is a family-owned spot that serves fresh, Baja-inspired Mexican food in a laid-back setting. You can build your own burrito, tacos, quesadilla, or bowl in a variety of flavorful styles. Start with the chips and queso, and don’t skip the Baja Shrimp Tacos, which are always a hit. The relaxed outdoor seating makes it an easy lunch or dinner stop after a day at the beach.

Sunsets on the Beach

Some of the most magnificent sunsets you’ll ever see happen right here on the Emerald Coast, and Kristen and her family try to catch as many as they can. Grab a towel, kick off your shoes, and watch the sky shift from gold to pink over the Gulf. Here is a our full guide about where to watch the sunset in Destin. There’s no better way to end the day!

The Back Porch

When friends and family come to visit, The Back Porch is one of Kristen’s favorite places to take them. This Destin restaurant is best known for its char-grilled amberjack, but the menu has plenty of other options so there’s something to please everyone at the table. With a casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere and an unbeatable Gulf-front view, it’s a classic spot to take visiting friends and family.

Boat Days at Crab Island

Despite the name, Crab Island isn’t actually an island. It’s a submerged sandbar near the Destin Bridge where boaters drop anchor, wade into the clear water, and spend the day soaking up the sunshine. During the warmer months, floating vendors cruise by with snacks and treats, adding to the fun. There’s something special about arriving at just the right time, taking in that beautiful water, and maybe even spotting some dolphins. Plan your visit around high tide for the clearest, most vibrant water!

Pink Coyote Dessert Co.

Pink Coyote Dessert Co. is a dessert spot in Fort Walton Beach that Kristen’s family returns to time and time again. This locally owned shop is known for scratch-made ice cream and baked goods. The rotating menu features creative, unique flavors alongside classic favorites, so part of the fun is stopping in to see what’s new each visit.

Want more of Destin through a local’s eyes? Click here to explore more insider favorites and hidden gems around town. And be sure to follow Kristen for gorgeous beach photos, family adventures, and plenty of inspiration to daydream about your next trip to the Emerald Coast.