Hoping to catch a stunning sunset in Destin, Florida? Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll on the beach or enjoy dinner with a picturesque view, there are plenty of places to watch the sun dip beyond the horizon and the sky turn beautiful shades and pink, purple and orange. Keep in mind, the location of the sunset changes slightly with the seasons since Destin beaches face south. During the fall and winter you can see the sun dip behind the Gulf, but during the summer it sets further north over the Choctawhatchee Bay. No matter what time of year you visit, these are the best spots to watch the sunset in Destin:
Henderson Beach State Park
Henderson Beach State Park offers a serene setting with beautiful, unobstructed views of the Gulf. The park features pristine coastline, making it a perfect place for an evening stroll as the sun begins to set. With fewer crowds and plenty of space, it’s a great location to relax, reflect, and watch the sky change colors. It’s a popular location for family photos during sunset, too!
Captain Leonard Destin Park
Captain Leonard Destin Park faces west and overlooks the Choctawhatchee Bay, which is ideal for watching the sun sink beyond the horizon. The park has a sandy beach area along with a pier, kayak launch, boardwalk, splash pad, playground and more amenities. It’s the perfect place to have a sunset picnic and let the kids run around and burn off some energy before bed time!
Dewey Destin’s Bayside or Pink Coyote Dessert Co.
Just down the street from Captain Leonard Destin Park, these bayside eateries offer gorgeous views and tasty treats! Dewey Destin’s is a family-owned restaurant serving fresh, sustainable seafood. This casual spot offers Old Florida vibes and views of Crab Island. The dock boasts picnic tables with colorful umbrellas where you can enjoy the catch of the day and your favorite sides. Save room for dessert! Right next door, Pink Coyote serves homemade ice cream and Dewey’s Snoballs serves New Orleans-style ice confections with handcrafted syrups. Both are open seasonally.
The Rooftop Bar at Henderson Beach Resort
Take your sunset experience to new heights when you visit The Rooftop at Henderson Beach Resort. It faces west and overlooks Henderson Beach State Park, so you’ll have a great vantage point any time of year. This rooftop bar and lounge offers craft cocktails, tasty apps (like smoked fish dip, oysters, local shrimp and more), and delicious desserts. You can also enjoy live music every Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday evening. Perfect for a more sophisticated, elegant viewing location.
Norriego Point
This scenic spot is located at the end of Holiday Isle and is a hidden gem for sunset lovers. The view from Norriego Point offers sweeping panoramic views of the harbor and East Pass. The sun sets over the water, creating a breathtaking reflection and giving the sky a rich, colorful hue. It’s a quieter location compared to the more popular beaches, making it perfect for a peaceful end to your day.
The Jetties at East Pass
For a more unique, less crowded experience, head to The Jetties at East Pass. This spot is a little off the beaten path, offering a breathtaking view of the sun setting over the water. Whether you’re lounging on the rocks or taking in the view from a distance, this place has a serene and isolated feel that makes watching the sunset feel extra special.
Restaurants on the Harbor
Looking to enjoy a cocktail or bite to eat as you want for the sun to set? These restaurants along the harbor offer great food and drinks plus a fun atmosphere.
HarborWalk Village
Whether you want to dine at a waterfront restaurant, watch the fishing boats come in, or stroll through the shops, HarborWalk Village is a lively entertainment center that’s fun for the whole family. It faces southwest with views of East Pass, Norriego Point and the harbor, so it’s a great spot for sunset seekers.
Take a Sunset Cruise
If you prefer to watch the sunset from the water (and maybe see some dolphins, too!), there are multiple companies that offer sunset cruises:
Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach, a lively harbor, or a boat trip to catch the sunset from the water, Destin offers something for everyone. The vibrant colors of the sky, the gentle sounds of the waves, and the crisp evening air will leave you in awe, and it’s an experience you won’t forget. So, grab your camera, find your perfect spot, and get ready to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets in Florida!
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