Under The Surface
Destin is undoubtedly most known for its fishing. It’s part of our nickname, World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.
The underwater 100 Fathom Curve draws closer to Destin than to any other spot in Florida creating the fastest deep-water access on the Gulf. Because of this Destin is teeming with many species of marine life and has become a haven for anglers from around the world.
Destin is more than a one trick pony that focuses solely on fishing. ItĀ is also a marvelous locationĀ to go diving or snorkeling. Snorkeling in particular is a fun thing to doĀ since it doesn’t cost much and you don’t have to go so far out.
Snorkeling can be done right on the beach in front of Sea Oats Motel! There are, however, some sweet spots that are known for the best snorkeling.
The Destin Jetties is a popular snorkeling spot in Florida’s panhandle. There are no close-in coral reefs in this part of the state, just a broad expanse of ocean floor made up of clean, quartz sand. The man-made jetties, however, in addition to fulfilling their primary mission of protecting Destin Pass also provide an artificial reef, attracting a variety of sea life. The best time to snorkel the jetties is during the slackwater at high tide.
There are also several snorkel excursions in Destin that will take you straight to the best places for snorkeling or diving.
Destin Snorkel
66 Harbor Blvd Destin , FL 32541 850-269-2329
The Explorer offers a Seashell and Dolphin tour that will take you into Choctawhatchee Bay to search for seashells and crabs (plan on participating in their famous hermit crab race). After shelling, the boat heads out to the Bay and Gulf where dolphins play. Destin Snorkel is located in HarborWalk Village.
Discovery Dive World
92 S John Sims Pkwy Valparaiso 32580
AĀ full-service scuba and snorkeling dive center! Charter a trip and find out why we are this is the choice of people who know diving. They areĀ here to ensure that you have the dive trip you have always dreamed of.
Emerald Coast Scuba
503 B Harbor Blvd Destin 850-837-0955
Emerald Coast Scuba has been named the “Coolest Company To Go Down Under With” by On the Coast Magazine. They offer swimming lessons, PADI scuba training, snorkel and dive charters to an award-winning dive shop.
Flipper’s Adventures
500 Harbor Blvd Destin 32541 850-837-0113
Snorkeling can be learned by nearly everyone! Non-swimmers are welcome as well asĀ first timers and the experienced because everybody should get in the water and experience Destin’s Emerald Green waters.
Pelican Adventures
314 Harbor Blvd Destin 850-650-3825
Come snorkel the beautiful emerald-green waters with an experienced, friendly crew waiting to guide you. Snorkel, feed the fish or soak up the sun’s rays on the beach. Pelican Adventures offers a 2 ½ -3 hour excursion, servicing up to 30 passengers per trip. A snorkel instructor is available on and off the vessel for any questions or assistance that may be needed. The crew is first aid, CPR & AED certified.
ScubaTech Diving & Snorkeling
301 Harbor Blvd Destin 850-837-2822
ScubaTech’s dive boat, The Sea Cobra, is one of the fastest and most comfortable for its size in the area. She is a 45-foot crew boat custom-designed for maximum diver safety and convenience. There are tank racks and bench seats designed for the Scuba diver’s comfort, two drop-down ladders on a spacious platform, and two giant-stride entry points. The spacious passenger cabin can also be heated in the winter months.
So next time you are in Destin remember to bring your snorkeling gear and see that Destin is just as beautiful below the surface as it is above.
For more info on what to do around here or to bookĀ for your long awaited summer vacations call Sea Oats at 850-837-6655.