FREE Things to Do in Destin this Summer

Beach Bonfire (Miramar Beach)

The Royal Palm Grille continues to host its popular public beach bonfires with free admission, seating, and parking every Monday and Friday from 6–9 p.m. It’s a relaxed, family‑friendly way to end the day, make s’mores, enjoy the Gulf breeze, or simply unwind by the fire.

S’mores kits and drink specials are available for purchase (no outside food or beverages allowed).

📍Location: 1096 Scenic Gulf Dr., Miramar Beach, FL  (Beach access across from Seascape Resort)

Learn More Here

Weekly Fireworks Shows (Destin & Miramar Beach)

Summer nights sparkle along the Emerald Coast thanks to weekly fireworks displays:

HarborWalk Village – Destin

Mondays: Silent Disco + Fireworks at 9 p.m.
(Memorial Day through early August)

Find Details Here

Village of Baytowne Wharf – Miramar Beach

Tuesdays: Boomin’ Tuesday Fireworks at 9:15 p.m., followed by a DJ dance party
(Memorial Day through August 6)

Holiday fireworks are also scheduled for Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day.
Weather permitting — check each venue’s Facebook page for updates.

Find Your Spark Here

Addresses:
📍 HarborWalk Village – 34 Harbor Blvd., Destin, FL 32541
📍 Baytowne Wharf – 9300 Baytowne Wharf Blvd., Miramar Beach, FL 32550

Little Adventures (Destin & Okaloosa Island)

Hosted by Destin–Fort Walton Beach Tourism, Little Adventures offers free, hands‑on outdoor classes for kids and families. Activities vary by season and may include:

• Surf fishing

• Snorkeling

• Wildlife identification

• Stand‑up paddleboarding

• Beginner surfing

• Beach ecology lessons

Many classes take place at Crystal Beach, just steps from the Beachside Inn.
Check the Little Adventures event calendar to reserve your spot.

Find Your Little Adventure Here

Live Music & Performances (Destin & Miramar Beach)

Both HarborWalk Village and Baytowne Wharf offer free nightly entertainment throughout the summer.

HarborWalk Village – Destin

Live music on the main stage most nights, plus themed events and family activities.

Learn More Here

Baytowne Wharf – Miramar Beach

A rotating lineup of free entertainment, including:

• Magic shows (Sundays)

• Concerts (Wednesdays)

• Flyboard shows (Thursdays, 7–9 p.m.)

Find More Here

Addresses:
📍 HarborWalk Village – 34 Harbor Blvd., Destin
📍 Baytowne Wharf – 9300 Baytowne Wharf Blvd., Miramar Beach

State Parks (Miramar Beach & 30A)

Thanks to Walton County Tourism, FREE admission is offered at select state parks from Memorial Day through Labor Day. These parks feature pristine beaches, rare coastal dune lakes, and scenic hiking trails.

• Topsail Hill Preserve State Park – 7525 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach

• Grayton Beach State Park – 357 Main Park Rd., Santa Rosa Beach

• Deer Lake State Park – 6250 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach

Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying untouched natural beauty.

Destin Commons Splash Pad (Destin)

A favorite for families, the Destin Commons splash pad is a free, refreshing way for kids to cool off. Adults can relax under shaded seating or browse nearby shops. Destin Commons also hosts live music, seasonal events, and holiday parades.

📍Location: 4100 Legendary Dr., Destin, FL

Learn More Here

Gator Beach at Fudpucker’s (Destin)

Known as “The World’s Greatest Alligator Park,” Gator Beach offers free admission and free daily gator shows at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. See over 100 alligators, learn fun facts, and enjoy interactive “fact or fiction” games. Newman‑Dailey guests also receive free gator bait to feed the gators (see Rewards/Dining). Optional paid upgrades include VIP encounters and photo ops.

📍Location: 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL

Find Out More Here

Book Your Summer Destin Vacation

Start planning your summer getaway by browsing our Destin vacation rentals online. Need help choosing the right size or location? Our friendly, local vacation specialists are happy to help, call us at 850‑837‑1071. Want more ways to save? Visit our Guest Rewards page for partner perks.
And remember: Book direct with Newman‑Dailey for the best rate and no third‑party fees.

See you @ the beach!

Updated: 5/2/26