How Much Is a Vacation to Destin?

By Robert Palmer

Are you dreaming of a beach vacation in Destin, Florida? The Emerald Coast is a popular destination for families, couples, and friends looking for a relaxing getaway.

But how much does a vacation to Destin really cost? Let’s break it down.

Transportation
Getting to Destin is the first step in planning your trip. If you’re driving, factor in the cost of gas and tolls if applicable.

If you’re flying, the closest airport is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Destin. Flights vary in price depending on where you’re flying from, but expect to pay around $300-$500 roundtrip per person.

Accommodations
Destin has a variety of lodging options from hotels and resorts to vacation rentals. The cost will depend on the time of year and the type of accommodations you choose.

A standard hotel room can range from $100-$300 per night while a beachfront resort could be upwards of $500 per night. Vacation rentals are popular in Destin and offer more space and amenities such as full kitchens and laundry facilities. Prices for vacation rentals vary depending on size, location, and time of year but expect to pay around $150-$400 per night.

Food
Food expenses can quickly add up on vacation so it’s important to budget accordingly. Destin has an array of dining options from seafood shacks to fine dining restaurants.

Expect to pay around $10-$20 per person for breakfast, $15-$30 for lunch, and $25-$50 for dinner at mid-range restaurants. If you’re looking to save money on food costs, consider staying at accommodations with kitchens so you can cook some meals yourself.

Activities
Destin offers plenty of activities such as beach days, fishing charters, dolphin cruises, and water parks. Prices for activities vary depending on the type and duration of the activity.

A beach day is free while a fishing charter could cost around $600 for a half-day trip. Dolphin cruises typically cost around $25-$30 per person while water park admission is around $40-$50 per person.

Overall Cost
So, how much does a vacation to Destin cost? It really depends on your travel style and preferences. Here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect to spend for a family of four:

– Transportation: $1,200
– Accommodations: $2,800
– Food: $1,000
– Activities: $500

Total: $5,500

Of course, this is just an estimate and your actual costs may vary. It’s important to budget accordingly and plan ahead to ensure you have the most enjoyable and stress-free vacation possible.

Tips for Saving Money

If you’re looking to save money on your Destin vacation, here are some tips:

– Travel during the off-season (September-November or February-April) when prices are lower. – Look for deals on accommodations such as package deals or last-minute bookings.

– Cook some meals yourself instead of eating out every meal. – Research free or low-cost activities such as hiking or visiting state parks. – Bring your own beach gear instead of renting it.

With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a fun-filled vacation in Destin without breaking the bank.