But it is temporary. A summer trip will put you among the crowds and the peak prices. Another thing that makes fall so popular is its the season with the most events and festivals that are more aimed at adults, unlike the summer events tend to be. Less crowded, shorter waits for restaurants, such a difference compared to vacationing in the summer months. Harborwalk has spring break events as well including a sunset celebration, a pirate and mermaids event, and a silent disco. Spring will have a decent amount of activities for families to enjoy and there will even be some fireworks at Baytowne Wharf for the busiest weeks. Subscribe by email to receive occasional updates from me about things happening in Destin and new articles I write. That year there were also hundreds and hundreds of Manta Rays cruising along the shore going East to West seemed like for about a month and there were tons of blue crabs that year. WebTo view a chart of average water temperatures at beaches near where you are going, visit the National Oceanographic Data Center website for Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean temperatures. There are pirate shows, movies on the lawn, pirate ship excursions, fireworks, and all sorts of other events to entertain and delight families who visit Destin. did not get that. To make it even better, unlike the cloudy waters along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, nothing will ever be able to sneak up on you in those clear waters! It depends mostly on your overall vacation priorities. Destin You can try everything from parasailing, bungee jumping, zip-lining, free fall jumping, fishing, boating, fly-boarding, jet-skiing, stand up paddle boarding, banana boat rides and so many others. Hi Joseph, I am honestly not really sure because its a business I dont know much about. This sparkling sand creates the Gulf's remarkable emerald-toned color, unique to our shores and that sweet squeak under your feet. Its starting to get a little chilly around that time but if its a warm sunny day they should still find it enjoyable! I doubt there would be much argument that October is probably the best time to visit Destin rivaled only by May. They arent usually a huge issue but there can be a few weeks in fall, especially in August and September, where there is a particularly bad outbreak and they are all over the beach, Destin Harbor and Crab Island. I have never seen anyone wear anything on their feet when going into the water in Destin. You can look forward to seeing the very best weather from early October through Memorial Day Weekend. Visit between November to April when the winds are less stronger and thus the water clearer. Destin falls between Pensacolas historic streets and Panama City Beachs spring break capital. It tends to drift, affecting some beaches more than others depending upon the tides. The most popular event in April is the annual Sandestin Wine Festivala weekend of wine and food that takes place annually in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Best Times to Visit Destin, Florida Ask them what options you will have as far as refunds or rescheduling in the event of a tropical storm or hurricane. Sometimes the temps will get below freezing at night but for the most part, winter is pretty mild here. Manhattan, NY warning49 F Partly Cloudy. Many people, myself included, enjoy riding out a tropical storm or a category 1 or 2 hurricane and would consider this more of a vacation adventure. If you do, you will miss out on the great feeling of the perfect white sand. How does the water along this stretch of the Gulf Coast remain so clear and untouched? The powder was resembling something between sugar and snow! It is unfortunate that summer holds some of our best cloudy and colorful sunsets but the sun rises and sets from the northeast or northwest that time of year so it falls over land and behind the buildings if you watch from the beach. WebSan Francisco, CA warning51 F Mostly Cloudy/Wind. Destin will see the highest crowds during the summer and traffic is heavy, especially in the evenings and all day on the weekends. Save. Crab Island The Florida Guidebook WebRe: We want to see clear water! Wind blowing away from the shore can help reduce waves and create conditions for clear water. Is it safe?June Grass is perfectly safe. Such a beautiful time to visit. Harborwalk Village and Baytowne Wharf will also have events celebrating Santas arrival. Crab Island will have the most clear water days and comfortable swimming/wading temperatures than any other season. Ocean Reef Resorts guests receive special discounts here. I wrote more details about that event and others in this post: 11 Amazing Destin Food and Drink Festivals not to Miss. However, storms in the Gulf of Mexico, or if June grass is present, then you will not experience the To get the clearest of water and that Caribbean look, though, you need an easterly wind to send that Emerald Coast water towards Alabama. We dont seem to have a major covid issue here like other places do as of now. We come so much the locals call us locals. July will also have the best fireworks shows of the year for the 4th of July Holiday with special holiday shows at both Harborwalk Village and The Village of Baytowne Wharf. In summary, summer is the best time to visit Destin if you love great beach weather for swimming, family activities, excursions, events, fireworks and watersports activities. I hope you still enjoyed your trip! The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration has done numerous tests over the last decade, all showing conclusive evidence that the ocean currents carry the runoff from the Mississippi south and away from Florida's Gulf Coast. Report inappropriate content. There are also people walking and riding bikes and scooters everywhere, especially on Scenic Highway 98 and Holiday Isle, so just leave yourself a lot of extra time to get anywhere in the summer months if you are driving. Destin is really pretty magical in December with the Christmas events and lower overall crowds. I have never seen anyone wear anything on their feet when going into the water in Destin. Your worries wash away with the receding tide. Harborwalk Village and The Village of Baytowne Wharf will both host Memorial Day weekend kick-off parties complete with live music, kids activities, and fireworks on the Sunday night of the holiday weekend. When is the best time to visit Destin, Florida? Looking at our award-winning neighbors to the south, we first have Anna Maria Island. Children will also be out enjoying the water unbothered by the cold if its a hot day. For the water to be clear, it needs to be still for a while. June Grass can show up as early as June and last till the water starts to cool down. Clearest Water Beaches in Florida Most hotels and condos in the Destin area will impose a minimum age of 21 or 25 in order to attract more families and cut back on some of the issues that come with a younger college crowd. Summer is the best time to visit Destin if you love hot sunny beach weather, comfortable swimming temperatures, and a packed schedule of events and things to do, especially aimed at families. Take a look at some of our Destin vacation rentals today and reserve your own vacation rental beside the swimming-pool clear waters of the Gulf. This year it was perfect all of July and most of August but weve had more storms in September that have churned things up. Required fields are marked *. Weather Rain run-off can darken the water, while days of light winds and sun can keep the waters more clear. Traditionally fall has always seen more adult visitors then families since the kids would have just recently gone back to school after being out all summer. Besides swimming in the clear waters, many people enjoy snorkeling along the jetties at Destin's East Pass, where the fishing boats come and go. Occasionally, strong storms can stir up the murky depths and create temporary seas that are akin more in color to the Atlantic Ocean. Snowbirds from the northern states will also begin to arrive in November. When you picture a vacation in paradise you may envision soft, warm sand stretching for miles. The water was crystal clear almost all of July, even on overcast stormy days. The bursts are synched to a soundtrack of popular songs from that year and the addition of extra launch spots really take it to the next level. Destin It can be surprisingly cold in March and most people would consider the water too chilly for swimming. We are coming back in two weeks. I explained this in more detail and gave some ideas for the best summer sunset spots in this post: Best spots for a summer sunset in Destin. There are special extended fireworks shows for New Years Eve so they will be some of the best displays of the year that night outside of July 4th. Even though June in Destin is a busy time, I still ranked it high if we are assuming that most people come to Destin to enjoy the beach and activities that the busy season has to offer. Depending on the combination of water temperatures and sunshine, the stunning variety of shades goes from emerald green to almost aquamarine. That year there were also hundreds and hundreds of Manta Rays cruising along the shore going East to West seemed like for about a month and there were tons of blue crabs that year. There will be plenty of restaurant choices in Destin for Thanksgiving Day meals. Its annoying, slimy, and a bit gross, but its perfectly harmless. But dont worry, since we will make it easy for you. Wind blowing away from the shore can help reduce waves and create conditions for clear water. to see clear water! - Destin Forum I tend to think any business can do well here if you are passionate about offering a great product and creating a loyal following. Destin is one of the most popular beach destinations in the whole world. I love December in Destin because there are all these fun holiday events to enjoy and more. It may change when the cold weather comes though. Several surveys frequently rate the Emerald Coast in Destin, Florida, as having the clearest water in Florida. Its ecology at work. Sunrise and Sunset can be seen over the Gulf of Mexico on the beach from approximately late September through mid-March in Destin. Many of our vacation homes have a swimming pool of their own, so you can have the best of both worlds! 17 years ago. This significant achievement makes this place one of a precious few to have received this acclaim for excellence. If you do, you will miss out on the great feeling of the perfect white sand. Destin Memorial Day weekend at the end of May is considered the official start of summer season and Destin will be non-stop busy from that point until the kids go back to school in August. Visit between November to April when the winds are less stronger and thus the water clearer. One of the most frequently asked questions in our Facebook Group Destin Beach is how cold/warm will the water be during my Destin vacation? While the average daily temperature varies from year to year, here is the average water and air temperature in Destin, Florida by month: Like the weather, water clarity in Destin depends on a lot of different factors. did not get that. This esteemed title of clarity includes Destin, Miramar Beach, all the picturesque coastal villages along South Walton's Scenic 30A, and Panama City Beach. Unlike waters in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans that have a somber grayish-green color, here in Destin, the sea resembles the tone of glittering jewels. There will also be several events during December themed around Christmas, Santa visits, and New Years Eve. June seagrass can briefly affect water clarity, but it is natural and safe, and short-lived. My mixed feelings about spring in Destin is mostly because it will have crowds that rival summer at times but without the warm water, consistently warm weather, to accompany it. In summery, fall is the best time to visit Destin if you love beer festivals, art festivals, fishing events, warm humid beach weather, and possibly some storms. Filtration of impurities gives each of these special places their own unique presentation. Report inappropriate content. It tends to drift, affecting some beaches more than others depending upon the tides. Good luck to you guys and I wish you much success! Clearest Water Even when compared to other contenders with clear waters like Anna Marie Island. Book with people who have a policy you feel comfortable with. Crystal clear water pours from the deep Gulf into the bay on a daily basis. We are from Hattiesburg Ms and we love Destin. Plan a family vacation, a couples retreat, or a girls getaway to enjoy the beaches your way. Sometimes its so hot in summer that the rain is a welcome way to cool off in the afternoon after a long day at the beach. New Years Eve in Destin is celebrated with several festivities around town. The rest of the year they both will fall over land. The pure white beach balances with the clear, emerald water. Book your vacation rental with Ocean Reef Resorts to enjoy the clearest water and prettiest beach in Florida. I love hearing from you and prefer to answer questions on here so my answers can help others as well. We came in July and were unable to get in the water for 3 days due to red flags high waves days. Destin beaches are famous for having the clearest water in Florida. March does have a really good vibe around town though as the locals and tourists get excited about the nice weather and the excursions starting back up. Several factors should be considered when choosing a time to visit Crab Island: The tide; The things you want to do The sea oats start blooming in June and they are hitting their peak of fullness between July-September before they start to fade in late fall and winter. The greatness of fall in Destin used to be a bit of a locals secret but the word has gotten out in the last few years. Jellyfish are another common concern in the fall in Destin. Siesta Key, Florida. bigmacfan. Also in May will be one of my favorite events and one of the oldest traditions in Destin, the annual Blessing of the Fleet event on Destin Harbor. The best time to visit Destin also depends on when you can travel, whether you are traveling with kids, and what activities you want to experience. Siesta Key, Florida. All Rights Reserved. Visitors to Siesta Key will find clear waters that stay warm through the fall months of the year. Here are some guides I wrote to these activities if you need more details: Summer is also the best time to visit Crab Island in Destin. I hope you enjoy your trip . One of the best events in November is the Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival at Baytowne Wharf where they light up the trees in the village for the first time of the season. WebThe water is very clear and the sand is perfect. Surveys for the clearest water in Florida consistently rate Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast as Number One. Most of the 10-day Destin weather forecasts in summer will show a 40-50% chance of rain almost every day and this causes a lot of people to postpone their trip when often it doesnt rain at all or its brief. Several surveys frequently rate the Emerald Coast in Destin, Florida, as having the clearest water in Florida. November in Destin can be full of some surprisingly warm days. Visitors to Siesta Key will find clear waters that stay warm through the fall months of the year. water clear in South Walton, Destin, 30A We have had a day and a half of red flags though. - February 13, 2018. The spring break crowds have left town by May and the summer crowds have yet to fully arrive. bigmacfan. Average High = 76degreesAverage Low = 52degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 66 degreesAverage Rainfall = 5.0inches. (See what we did there?) Destin My guide to all 13 public beach accesses in Destin is here if you need more information: Find your Perfect Beach: A Guide to all 13 Public Beach Accesses in Destin, Florida. Clearest Water Beaches in Florida Shark Movie Night at Crab Island is a really unique event that I wrote about in more detail here: Shark Movie Night at Crab Island, Average High = 71degreesAverage Low = 46degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 72 degreesAverage Rainfall = 4.8 inches. Siesta Key Beach is a beautiful spot that sits on the Gulf of Mexico just south of Sarasota. Which Beaches in Florida Have the Clearest Water How clear is the water? - Destin Forum They are usually harmless and even exciting to swim with but they can sting you when startled. Many vacation rental owners are even reporting that they are selling out for summer in the spring so be sure to book ahead if you are planning a Destin visit during this time. You will mostly see people in the water starting in early May although some people will swim all year in Destin. Its completely unrelated to red tide, and does not create toxins so youll be safe to go for a dip, should you not mind risking a bit getting caught in your hair or swim trunks. Every possible factor was been considered including the weather, crowds, events and beach conditions to decide when I think is the best time to visit Destin. The key quality for each of these places is a large bay adjacent to the shore. Fortunately, this is temporary and the clear, emerald green water returns. Floridas Panhandle beaches are some of the most spectacular globally. Most Frequently Asked Questions about Florida Beaches There is constant road construction on highway 98 in the last few years to widen the roads and bridges to accommodate more people and this only added to the traffic congestion problems. The water was crystal clear with water temp in the mid 80s for quite a while after we arrived here. Its a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Were not sure why this is, but we hypothesize that it has fewer nutrients or microbes while the water is colder. You will find your carefree "Zen" state of being at this premier location on "Lands" End Drive, right beside the sugary shore in Destin Pointe. The only year it really impacted our visit was two years ago after the horific oil spill. There are chilly days in December but more often the temperatures are quite comfortable. Destin and the surrounding area boast the most pristine beaches and crystalline water in Florida. Destin Here is my most recent March information and events article if you want more details about March in Destin. The sun radiates down as you soak up the rays and enjoy the anticipated relaxation. It will be harder to find discounts or deals in summer because Destin will max out on occupancy even at peak rates during this time. Plus, the suns light on the minuscule plankton reflected off the white sandy floor. Baytowne Wharf will also have some spring break events toward the end of the month including Hydroflight Mondays, Boomin Tuesdays and Magical Thursdays. We were just here the end of August and it was unbelievably beautiful. Why? The pure clarity of the water, and the sun's light on the minuscule plankton reflecting from the white sandy bottom, creates an unmistakable, luminescent glowing green tone. Many visitors rent pontoon boats to join in the fun from LDV Water Sports at Harborwalk Village. July used to be further down on my list because its such a crowded time to be here but I moved it up this year after going to the beach for sunrise almost every day last summer and observing that the water clarity was more consistent than I saw for any other month in Destin. Destin Water Temperatures in Destin - MyDestinBeach To get the clearest of water and that Caribbean look, though, you need an easterly wind to send that Emerald Coast water towards Alabama. The other times The millennia of waves and tidal action ground the quartz to a pure white powder of tiny crystalline glass. We dont get many hurricanes here that would completely ruin a whole vacation but they definitely do happen. WebTo view a chart of average water temperatures at beaches near where you are going, visit the National Oceanographic Data Center website for Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean temperatures. Dont forget to check out our list of the Best Florida Keys Beaches for some more ideas of places to visit! In 2022, most schools are back to normal, so we should see a return to the more traditional family vacation travel times. It migrates from the center of the Gulf of Mexico and works its way inland as the water begins to warm up. This wonderful watery world inspires everyone to play. The first 2 weeks of May (the final days of spring season here) have a winning combination of lower crowds, beautiful beach weather, and water that starts to feel comfortable for swimming on a sunny day. Snowbirds usually stay in town until about March 1st when most accommodations go into their higher season pricing. Food vendors are available to deliver sandwiches, ice cream, beer, and your favorite drinks by boat, to those who haven't brought their own delicious fare. The water is frequently clear, like a swimming pool with a dazzling emerald hue. It does warm up significantly in April and early May and it starts to become more comfortable to swim in the Gulf of Mexico. There are lots of wonderful holiday events in December including weekly Christmas concerts and the 12 nights of Christmas at Baytowne Wharf where for several nights a week the holiday lights around the village are synchronized with Christmas music. Were not sure why this is, but we hypothesize that it has fewer nutrients or microbes while the water is Its also chillier this year then it normally would be in September. Most people would say the best time to visit Destin is October or May if you want the perfect combination of beautiful beach weather, fun events and amazing sunsets without the higher crowds of summer. water clear in South Walton, Destin, 30A Next on the list of clean beach buddies is Siesta Key. Destin Really Have the Clearest Water in Florida College age spring breakers will start to arrive in late February continuing through early April. The best time to visit Destin is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s). In Destin Re: clear ocean water in destin? This keeps our water clean, clear, and free of impurities. January is typically the coldest month of the year in Destin. 17 years ago. Our sugary shore is protected from rivers draining directly into the Gulf due to Choctawhatchee Bay's huge expanse, miles away from the mainland. Water clarity Destin Destin, FL is situated on the Florida Panhandle between Pensacola and Panama City. WebRe: We want to see clear water! Otherwise just make sure to at least discuss the cancellation policies directly with your condo or resort when making the reservation. I sell prints, canvas, books, journals, calendars, tote bags, and jigsaw puzzles all made from my Emerald Coast photography. Hi, I'm Sarah and this is my website and blog about Destin and the Emerald Coast. Most hotels will go into their winter pricing November 1st so its a great time to overlap beautiful weather with a great deal. Destins sugar-white sand and vivid blue-green-hued waters are a spot to behold. Average High = 64degreesAverage Low = 40degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 64 degreesAverage Rainfall = 5.7inches. I havent been to every beach in the world, but Im betting it would be difficult to find a more beautiful beach than the one in Destin. The public beach situation in Destin gets worse every year but you can still find a good spot if you know where to go and arrive early. The sand in Siesta Key isnt as soft and fluffy as that on the Emerald Coast. However, storms in the Gulf of Mexico, or if June grass is present, then you will not experience the water as clear as it is at other times.