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Pair a sun-soaked day with an equally luminous after-dark adventure! Check out the best Destin, Florida nightlife hangouts plus the best places to stay nearby.
Sunshine State, Moonlit Magic
The nickname “Sunshine State” immediately evokes images of sun-soaked beaches and daytime adventures. But beyond its sunny attractions, this corner of the US awakens when the sun dips below the horizon, and a dazzling Destin, Florida nightlife takes center stage.
As much as this Emerald Coast gem is a daytime paradise, it’s equally alluring when stars replace sunrays and the night owls step out to play. Interestingly, it’s not just the night revelers that come alive. Did you know that Destin is one of the few places in Florida where you can witness bioluminescent waves on moonlit nights? If you visit between July and August, you’re in for a cosmic beach experience!
As the darkness descends, you’ll find yourself drawn to the late-night, moonlit magic that spills from Destin, Florida’s nightlife. If you seek worthy after-dark experiences and the best places to call home after a night of revelry, you’re in the right place.
Must-Visit Destin, Florida Nightlife Spots
As the last light of day leaves the shore, the streets become a playground for nocturnal adventurers. Here are the best spots to enjoy the Destin, Florida nightlife:
THE HARBOR BOARDWALK
Harbor Blvd | +1 850-683-3009
The Harbor Boardwalk transforms into a lively hotbed of activity once the sun dips below the horizon. With stunning views of white sandy beaches and the soothing scent of the Gulf’s salt air, it offers the perfect ambiance for moonlit walks. Enjoy a taste of classic Southern comfort food in nearby oyster shacks and gumbo kitchens, and then venture into the dynamic Destin, Florida nightlife offered by the famous cocktail havens like Margaritaville and charming local wine bars.
MCGUIRE’S IRISH PUB
33 US-98 E | +1 850-650-0000
An emblem of Destin’s festive spirit, McGuire’s Irish Pub provides a cozy setting for lively folk music sessions, Gaelic fun, and hearty whiskey toasts. Situated at the western end of the HarborWalk, it offers a wide selection of Irish stouts, red root beers, American and European wines, and mixed cocktails. The menu features hearty grub and sweet desserts, and evenings are often enlivened by local musicians plucking country tunes.
MARGARITAVILLE
76 Harbor Blvd | +1 850-460-7700
Margaritaville stands as a testament to Destin’s fun-loving ethos. This vibrant venue on Harbor Boulevard combines Caribbean-inspired decor with a diverse drinks menu featuring everything from tangy margaritas to spiced-rum moonshines and dry Californian white wines. Enjoy these concoctions as you bask in stunning views of the marina from the drinking deck.
HARBORWALK THEATER
10 Harbor Blvd Unit 234 | +1 850-273-7888
The city’s premier playhouse, the HarborWalk Theater, is integral to the city’s thriving Destin, Florida nightlife scene. The theater hosts an array of performances, including hypnotism, stand-up comedy, and magic shows. You can also participate in daytime magic workshops for a bit of extra fun. Check the box office in advance to see what’s on during your visit.
GRAFFITI & THE FUNKY BLUES SHACK
34902 Emerald Coast Pkwy | +1 850-424-6650
This neon-lit, timber-clad building comes alive each evening with the rhythmic pulse of blues, Southern country, big band, and bebop music. The Graffiti & The Funky Blues Shack offers affordable drinks deals, Floridian comfort food, and gulf seafood bites, creating an atmosphere to set your feet tapping.
DESTIN COMMONS
4100 Legendary Dr | +1 850-337-8700
Destin Commons is more than just a shopping destination. By day, it’s a bustling shopping precinct with a diverse range of outlets. As night falls, it transforms into a lively venue hosting live music and showcasing art galleries while the bars thrum with energy and laughter.
DESTIN LASER TAG
20011 Emerald Coast Pkwy | +1 850-650-6748
For an unconventional twist on your Destin, Florida nightlife adventure, head to Destin Laser Tag. Compete with up to 40 others in a 4,000-sq-ft maze illuminated by neon lights, or try your hand at the backlit mini-golf course. Easily accessible from the marina, it’s the perfect choice for families or groups seeking an adrenaline rush before or after a leisurely seafood dinner.
THE CRAFT BAR
4424 Commons Dr. E | +1 850-460-7907
Dedicated to showcasing the finest brews in Florida, The Craft Bar at the Paradise Key Shopping Center is the ultimate spot for beer lovers. It offers a rotating selection of craft beers on tap and a variety of cocktails for those looking for something different. Its late-night opening hours make it the perfect spot for an after-dinner drink, offering everything from zesty IPAs to hearty coffee stouts.
VILLAGE OF BAYTOWNE WHARF
9300 Baytowne Wh, Miramar Beach | +1 850-267-8000
Just a short drive east of Destin, The Village of Baytowne Wharf is a quaint quayside filled with a delightful array of shops, eateries, and bars. Transformed from old fisherman cottages, these venues offer a unique experience. The Village becomes particularly vibrant during the summer, with nights filled with rock and roll, jazz, and wine tastings.
AMC DESTIN COMMONS 14
4000 Legendary Dr | +1 850-650-4539
Catch the latest Hollywood blockbusters at AMC Destin Commons 14, conveniently located amid the Destin Commons Mall retail outlets. The multiple screens showcase the best of current cinema, with a fully immersive experience available at their IMAX theater. It’s the perfect way to round off an exciting day spent exploring on foot.
Best Places To Stay Near Destin, Florida’s Nightlife Spots
Shifting our gaze from the glowing city lights, let’s look at where you can rest your head after indulging in Destin, Florida’s nightlife. Staying close to the action can elevate your experience, so here are five fantastic locations that offer proximity to the city’s vibrant night scene.
1. SANTA ROSA BEACH
Nestled east of Destin, Santa Rosa Beach offers a quiet getaway. Here, you can explore Point Washington State Forest, dine at trendy farm-to-table restaurants, and browse local boutiques. Its location also makes it ideal for visitors wanting to experience the lively Destin, Florida nightlife while having a tranquil place to retreat.
2. CRYSTAL BEACH
Known for its beautiful white sand beaches, Crystal Beach also houses several vacation rentals. It’s an ideal spot for those who want beach access while remaining close to Destin Commons. You’ll find a variety of eateries, including the famous Camille’s at Crystal Beach, for seafood.
3. MIRAMAR BEACH
Near the Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach offers a mix of resorts, vacation rentals, and condos. The Silver Sands Premium Outlets, a large outdoor mall with high-end shops and eateries, is a highlight. The area also offers golf courses and a lengthy stretch of beach.
4. OKALOOSA ISLAND
A barrier island between Fort Walton Beach and Destin, Okaloosa Island is home to beautiful beaches and resorts. Destin Harbor is easily accessible via a short drive over the bridge. The area is also known for its Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
5. SANDESTIN
Sandestin is an upscale resort community that is perfect for those seeking a luxurious stay near the Destin, Florida nightlife scene. The area houses Baytowne Wharf, filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and lively bars. For golf enthusiasts, the community offers multiple courses.
Find Your After-Party Respite With Hotala
Destin, Florida’s nightlife provides many opportunities for solo exploration, group fun, and family entertainment. Of course, the highlight of your evening doesn’t just have to be where you went; it can also be where you rest your head!
With listings that feature over 10 million accommodations worldwide, Hotala is your one-stop shop for securing the ideal respite after the after-party. Our expansive selection, coupled with insightful and inspiring content on over 180,000 locations, serves as a helpful guide as you dream up your Destin nightlife escapade. So, why wait? Start planning your trip today, and let Hotala lead you to your ideal home away from home in Destin.
And if you’ve been there, done that, you can subscribe to The Hot List to get weekly updates on the Hottest destinations! Travel farther, experience more, and discover hot deals in hot destinations with Hotala.
