Pensacola and Destin are known for their sandy white beaches and clear blue-green waters, making it a great spot for a relaxing vacation. From dolphin cruises to surf lessons to paddleboard yoga, check out these top things to do in Pensacola and Destin for an unforgettable vacation!
#1 – Take a Dolphin Cruise
Location: Pensacola Beach
A Dolphin Cruise is the perfect way to get out on the water with your family and experience one of the best rated activities in Pensacola . You’ll cruise through Pensacola Bay and surrounding water in search of dolphins and other marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins as they play and swim alongside your boat. Best of all, dolphins are guaranteed or your next cruise is free!
Great Value | Family-friendly
#2 – Cruise to Crab Island on a Tiki Boat
Location: Destin
Set sail for Crab Island Sandbar on your very own Tiki Hut Boat. You’ll cruise through the Destin Harbor, while you sip on a drink and enjoy the views. Once you arrive at Crab Island Sandbar, your captain will drop anchor so you can enjoy a swim in the beautiful blue waters and check out the scene. Grab your friends and come have a good time!
If a Tiki Boat adventure sounds fun, but you’re looking for something later in the day, check out this Sunset Tiki Cruise.
Private & Public Charter Options | BYOB
#3 – Explore by Jet Ski
Location: Pensacola
Hop on to your Jet Ski Rental for an exhilarating ride through the lagoon. There’s no better way to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather than by racing through the waters on a jet ski. Your hair will blow in the wind and the splashes of water will cool you down as you experience the ride of a lifetime.
Boating License Required | Ages 14+
#4 – Learn to Surf on Pensacola Beach
Location: Pensacola Beach
If learning to surf is on your bucket list, then check out these Private Surfing Lessons. You won’t be put in with a group of strangers – it’s just your group with an expert surf instructor to get you catching waves like a pro in no time. Choose from a 1:1 private lesson or bring up to 6 people for a private group booking. No previous experience is required.
Ages 6+ | All Equipment Included
#5 – Hoist the Sails on a Classic Sailboat
Location: Pensacola Beach
Embark on a super fun sailing adventure on Laura Louise, a 1988 Beneteau sailboat. You’ll visit remote beach stops, go for a swim, and soak up the sun on your Sightseeing Sailing Tour. As you cruise through the waters, keep an eye out for dolphins, jellyfish, pufferfish, birds, and more. Keep your camera ready as you never know what you will see!
Public & Private Charters | Drinks Included
#6 – Try Paddleboard Yoga
Location: Destin
A relaxing SUP Yoga Class is the perfect way to kick off the day. You’ll paddle out onto the water where your sturdy and stable paddleboard will act as the perfect floating yoga mat. You’ll test your balance as you downward dog your way to pure serenity and bliss on the calm waters of Destin.
Private Class | Paddleboard Included
#7 – Cruise the Island on a Scoot Coupe
Location: Pensacola Beach
Cruise around Santa Rosa Island on your very own Scoot Coupe. This is a super popular choice for exploring the beautiful beaches and taking in the incredible views of the island. You’ll be sure to turn heads as you tour the beach in style in your new ride.
2 Person Vehicle | Driver’s License Required
#8 – Take a Sunset Paddleboard Tour
Location: Destin
Everyone knows that the best place to watch the sunset is from the water. On this Sunset Paddleboard Tour you’ll paddle through Destin Harbor to watch the brilliant display of color as the sun goes down. Once the sun has set, you’ll have an incredible view of the lights in Destin and discover that this is the best way to end your day on the water.
Small Group Tours | Paddleboard Included
#9 – Go on a Half Day Fishing Trip
Location: Pensacola
If you love fishing, climb aboard this 33 foot Freeman Boatworks for a Half Day Private Fishing Charter. You’ll head up to 30 miles offshore where you can expect to catch vermillion snapper, trigger fish, king mackerel, and more. You and up to five other passengers will catch as many fish as you can during your half day adventure.
All Equipment Included | Private Charter
#10 – Enjoy a Private Sunset Sailing Charter
Location: Pensacola Beach
End your day in Pensacola with a relaxing sunset cruise on a 1988 Beneteau sailboat. You’ll sip on a glass of fine wine and enjoy carefully selected hors d’oeuvres while you watch the incredible colors in the sky. Your Private Sunset Charter is the perfect way to spend a relaxing evening enjoying the beauty of the area from the water.
Private Charter | Drinks Included
Looking for other great experiences in Florida?
About Hijinks
Hijinks makes it easy to discover and book life experiences & local activities to enjoy with the people who matter most. Whether it’s climbing aboard a fishing charter, exploring the water by jet ski, or swimming with a manatee, we provide comprehensive listings, easy browse & search functionality, and expert advice to help you book with confidence. For more information, check us out here!