Also ask what the policy is if a storm affects your ability to travel to Destin by car or plane. I love December in Destin because there are all these fun holiday events to enjoy and more. I love hearing from you and prefer to answer questions on here so my answers can help others as well. Depending on the combination of water temperatures and sunshine, the stunning variety of shades goes from emerald green to almost aquamarine. WebSan Francisco, CA warning51 F Mostly Cloudy/Wind. May holds the popular annual Taco and Tequila festival at Baytowne Wharf which is a really fun event if you love tacos, and who doesnt. It may change when the cold weather comes though. Best Beaches In Destin James Lee Beach Just east of Henderson Beach State Park is James Lee Beach. Fortunately, this is temporary and the clear, emerald green water returns. WebThe water color was brown from all the run off. Spring is also missing the beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the water that we get in fall and winter. However, from early October through Memorial Day Weekend, you can expect to see the very best conditions. June seagrass can briefly affect water clarity, but it is natural and safe, and short-lived. bigmacfan. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration has done numerous tests over the last decade, all showing conclusive evidence that the ocean currents carry the runoff from the Mississippi south and away from Florida's Gulf Coast. Average High = 64degreesAverage Low = 40degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 64 degreesAverage Rainfall = 5.7inches. If you visit any earlier, you risk cooler weather and chilly water. The best time to visit Destin is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s). This seems to be the trend of last summer and fall. The exception to the September Crowds will be Labor Day weekend when they will spike. Fortunately, this is temporary and the clear, emerald green water returns. Plus, the suns light on the minuscule plankton reflected off the white sandy floor. the water was not cear and it was very rough. These rankings should help you decide when is the best time to visit Destin based on your preferences and your vacation priorities. The first few weeks of April will typically see the last of the spring break crowds so the second half of April will quiet down a bit. It limits the amount of sediment that actually deposits into the Gulf. Destin The beaches in Destin and the Gulf Coast are absolutely beautiful during the fall months. Being in Destin during a storm is a personal decision so I cant advise on whether you should keep your vacation plans in place or not in the event of a storm in our path, but I usually ride out all storms unless its a mandatory evacuation. The west coast of Florida has sunset over the water all year but the sunrise is always over land. Also summer beach storms are one of the most beautiful sights, especially if you are staying somewhere with a beach view. Siesta Key, Florida. Water clarity Most of the 10-day Destin weather forecasts in summer will show a 40-50% chance of rain almost every day and this causes a lot of people to postpone their trip when often it doesnt rain at all or its brief. The sun's rays reflect upward through the crystal clear water. The sand in Siesta Key isnt as soft and fluffy as that on the Emerald Coast. I appreciate every sale so much and it helps me continue to put out quality free content. WebKeep in mind, Mother Nature will play a big part in what the water looks like during your visit. WebSan Francisco, CA warning51 F Mostly Cloudy/Wind. Im glad you enjoy it! Boston, MA warning59 F Cloudy. Here is my most recent March information and events article if you want more details about March in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: May in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds, Average High = 87 degreesAverage Low = 67 degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 82degreesAverage Rainfall = 6.2 inches. Fall in Destin: Mid-August through Mid-November Weather = Hot and Humid in early fall but less humidity and cooler evenings in later months Crowds = Moderate Furthermore, you can picture and the endless ocean in front of you. Destins beach town is the gem in this regions crown. My mixed feelings about spring in Destin is mostly because it will have crowds that rival summer at times but without the warm water, consistently warm weather, to accompany it. Many of our winter tourists are retired people from northern states (aka snowbirds) who take advantage of the lower cost of accommodations to stay for several months and escape the harsh winters back home. The three weekly fireworks shows here range from 6-10 minutes long and there are also holiday shows on 4th of July that are even bigger and better, so dont miss the fireworks if you visit Destin in the summer. Be sure to comment below if you have any questions or feedback. That year there were also hundreds and hundreds of Manta Rays cruising along the shore going East to West seemed like for about a month and there were tons of blue crabs that year. a superb article but what can I say I procrastinate a However, from early October through Memorial Day Weekend, you can expect to see the very best conditions. We could not have made your choice any more clear! 17 years ago. Looking at our award-winning neighbors to the south, we first have Anna Maria Island. So you may ask, why is the water in Florida so clear? Here is my most recent April information and events article if you want more details about April in Destin. The other times For the most part, the water in Destin is crystal clear. Even though September is hot and there is less to do in terms of festivities, Im still giving it the number 3 spot if we are assuming you are here mainly for the beach. Fall is when the sun begins to rise and set over the water at the beach again. Occasionally when an offshore storm or heavy rain occurs, the water clarity is affected, but it is temporary. August is a hot and humid month in Destin but prices start to fall mid-August so you can often get some good deals on accommodations while still enjoying the beautiful beach weather. Many people are surprised to find that October especially has become a pretty popular time here if they arrive with expectations of a quiet and uncrowded vacation. Key West, Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key, and Destin are consistently on the top of the list. Surveys for the clearest water in Florida consistently rate Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast as Number One. Traffic in Destin gets worse every year due to the increase of visitors so be sure to leave plenty of time to get everywhere. My wife and I would love to relocate our business (craft distillery) to Destin. June grass, an algal bloom. We were in Destin a few weeks ago. Street Legal golf carts are allowed on all roads where the speed limit is 35mph or less but most of them only go 15-25mph so that can definitely slow traffic down too in the summer. However, storms in the Gulf of Mexico, or if June grass is present, then you will not experience the An anchored fleet of yachts, pontoons, ski boats, sailboats, and wave runners congregate in the bays translucence. You will find that you enjoy the striking hues and gorgeous views. Theres not much else to say about February except its mostly pretty chilly and uneventful. Just north of Tampa, we find this little gem. Winter is the slowest time of year in Destin as far as beach crowds are concerned. Required fields are marked *. For the water to be clear, it needs to be still for a while. Summer is the best time to visit Destin if you love hot sunny beach weather, comfortable swimming temperatures, and a packed schedule of events and things to do, especially aimed at families. Report inappropriate content. Web3. It can be surprisingly cold in March and most people would consider the water too chilly for swimming. bigmacfan. Its annoying, slimy, and a bit gross, but its perfectly harmless. Keep in mind, Mother Nature will play a big part in what the water looks like during your visit. Dont forget to subscribe to my email list so you dont miss any posts! WebTo view a chart of average water temperatures at beaches near where you are going, visit the National Oceanographic Data Center website for Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean temperatures. Many visitors rent pontoon boats to join in the fun from LDV Water Sports at Harborwalk Village. The white sands and the clearest water we have ever seen!!! A summer trip will put you among the crowds and the peak prices. Most Frequently Asked Questions about Florida Beaches Bring bug spray in September just in case and they wont bother you. WebThe best time to visit Destin is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s). Filtration of impurities gives each of these special places their own unique presentation. The key quality for each of these places is a large bay adjacent to the shore. Though it does have a rough edge to the shore, not particularly suited for gathering on the beach, it does feature consistently clear waters and plenty of history to enjoy. Baytowne Wharf will also have some spring break events toward the end of the month including Hydroflight Mondays, Boomin Tuesdays and Magical Thursdays. WebIn summary, summer is the best time to visit Destin if you love great beach weather for swimming, family activities, excursions, events, fireworks and watersports activities. The water is frequently clear, like a swimming pool with a dazzling emerald hue. Web3. I spend a lot of time on these post and glad you enjoyed it. Ross French grew up outside Toronto, blah blah he went to the University of Western Ontario for fine arts and like any degree, has since done nothing in that field. In Destin Late April is a nice time to visit for moderate temperatures and lower crowds. And due to its remoteness, you will always be able to find a spot all to yourself. Some days are chilly but they are mixed with nicesunny days Crowds = Lower Tourist Demographic = Mostly Snowbirds Prices = Lower. Many fishing charters will still be running on the weekends or available for private charters too. Popular events in Augustinclude Shark Movie Night at Crab Island, Paddle at the Parkand the Emerald Coast Poker Run. It tends to drift, affecting some beaches more than others depending upon the tides. Re: clear ocean water in destin? You can look forward to seeing the very best weather from early October through Memorial Day Weekend. We LOVE it. The sand in Siesta Key isnt as soft and fluffy as that on the Emerald Coast. The pure white beach balances with the clear, emerald water. Which Beaches in Florida Have the Clearest Water The only year it really impacted our visit was two years ago after the horific oil spill. The empty beaches and low prices on accommodations are certainly the upside of January and often there are some really beautiful warm days mixed with the chilly ones. Fortunately, this is temporary and the clear, emerald green water returns. You can always reply and ask me questions and I personally answer every message. Many vacation rental owners are even reporting that they are selling out for summer in the spring so be sure to book ahead if you are planning a Destin visit during this time. When does it go away?That can be hard to predict. The most popular event in April is the annual Sandestin Wine Festivala weekend of wine and food that takes place annually in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. There will be some nice beach days if the sun is shining but if its overcast, most will find it too cold to enjoy. Take a look at some of our Destin vacation rentals today and reserve your own vacation rental beside the swimming-pool clear waters of the Gulf. Mid-February will start to see some spring break crowds towards the end of the month which will liven things up around town after the quiet of slow season. Be prepared for this spike in rates from Memorial Day through mid-August. Snowbirds from the northern states will also begin to arrive in November. Weather Rain run-off can darken the water, while days of light winds and sun can keep the waters more clear. Destin and the Emerald Coast rate as the number one beach in Florida. The millennia of waves and tidal action ground the quartz to a pure white powder of tiny crystalline glass. This keeps our water clean, clear, and free of impurities. Absolutely amazing article. It is our nation's highest rating for pristine shoreline cleanliness. The beach landscape is particularly stunning in early fall with the sea oats in full bloom adding so much beauty to the landscape. The waters remain swimming-pool clear while the tide is coming in, yet another fun place to snorkel. Shared by Themes24x7. we were there for 9 days when we went to the beach there was red and bouble red flags very day. The weather is warm, the water temps are warm and there will be no shortage of summer festivities and events. We dont get many hurricanes here that would completely ruin a whole vacation but they definitely do happen. The water was crystal clear with water temp in the mid 80s for quite a while after we arrived here. December is the best time to visit Destin if you want a warmer climate for the holidays. May is when the Gulf has usually finally warmed up enough to be a comfortable swimming temperature (although some people do swim all year). Shark Movie Night at Crab Island is a really unique event that I wrote about in more detail here: Shark Movie Night at Crab Island, Average High = 71degreesAverage Low = 46degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 72 degreesAverage Rainfall = 4.8 inches. These places even rank amongst the worlds most beautiful beaches. Clearest Water If you decide to visit in July, make sure to leave plenty of time to get anywhere and always be prepared for an afternoon rain shower. Today it is a friendly floating playground where folk frolic from April through October. Schiller Park, IL (60176) warning40 F Light Rain. For the most part, the water in Destin is crystal clear. April in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds, Find your Perfect Beach: A Guide to all 13 Public Beach Accesses in Destin, Florida, July 4th in Destin, Miramar Beach, Sandestin, Navarre and 30a, Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival, 11 Amazing Destin Food and Drink Festivals not to Miss, March in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds, Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Destin, https://thegoodlifedestin.com/september-in-destin/. This exclusively gated community of privileged residents and their guests is l. This way they can swim off before you accidentally step on them since they like to hide out camouflaged in the sand and shallow water. The water remains warm enough to swim until October or November. Destin Destin, FL is situated on the Florida Panhandle between Pensacola and Panama City. Many people, myself included, enjoy riding out a tropical storm or a category 1 or 2 hurricane and would consider this more of a vacation adventure. But it is temporary. WebRe: We want to see clear water! In summary, Spring is the best time to visit Destin if you are trying to escape the cold in other places or to enjoy a family spring break with activities for the kids. Its impossible to rank the months in the best way for everyone, since we all have different vacation priorities. Here are some guides I wrote to these activities if you need more details: Summer is also the best time to visit Crab Island in Destin. However, from early October through Memorial Day Weekend, you can expect to see the very best conditions. Which beach has the clearest water in Florida Chlorophyll from normal microscopic plankton is the key component that produces the emerald green hue. The closest major rivers to our shores are the Apalachicola River, 100 miles east, which flows into another large bay, and the Mississippi 250 miles to our west. There are also floating trampolines, portable slides, volleyball, and fun engaging water contact contests. we were there for 9 days when we went to the beach there was red and bouble red flags very day. Thank you SO much . Hi my husband and I have rented a house from Dec-Feb curious as to how COVID-19 has affected the area, are the mask requirements in force in the area? The water appears to be clarified by consecutive days of light winds and calm sea weather. Re: clear ocean water in destin? However, storms in the Gulf of Mexico, or if June grass is present, then you will not experience the water as clear as it is at other times. Destin Best Times to Visit Destin, Florida Many of our vacation homes have a swimming pool of their own, so you can have the best of both worlds! The secret is out now about what a great time fall is in Destin (other than the hurricane risk) so we see an increase in crowds every year in those months. Destin The only place I know of in Florida with more fireworks than Destin is Disney World. Harborwalk Village and Baytowne Wharf will also have events celebrating Santas arrival. The magnificent white sand beaches and the soothing emerald-hued gulf waters make tourists eager. Destin The water here is usually "swimming-pool clear"! Most Frequently Asked Questions about Florida Beaches This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: October in Destin: Best Things to Do, Average High = 83 degreesAverage Low = 61 degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 77 degreesAverage Rainfall = 4.3 inches (lowest of the year). You will mostly see people in the water starting in early May although some people will swim all year in Destin. This event allows you to sample oysters and creative cocktails prepared by local and regional restaurants. Enjoying this content? Crab Island The Florida Guidebook This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: February in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds, Average High = 60degreesAverage Low = 37 degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 64 degreesAverage Rainfall = 5.4inches. Home>Blog>Experience>Which beach has the clearest water in Florida? Things have changed a lot in the last 3-5 years regarding the best time to visit Destin. Sometimes its so hot in summer that the rain is a welcome way to cool off in the afternoon after a long day at the beach. The water is frequently clear, like a swimming pool with a dazzling emerald hue. I havent been to every beach in the world, but Im betting it would be difficult to find a more beautiful beach than the one in Destin. Has the water cleared up? I wrote more details about those here: New Years Eve Fireworks in Destin. Today, most of the region is a cultural hub. One of the most rollicking rendezvous points to enjoy the crystal clear waters is at Crab Island, which used to be a large raised sand bar where locals liked to go to catch crustaceans. Wind blowing away from the shore can help reduce waves and create conditions for clear water. Destin Several surveys frequently rate the Emerald Coast in Destin, Florida, as having the clearest water in Florida. to see clear water! - Destin Forum I usually wait until Memorial Day to get in the water unless its a really hot day but everyone has different levels of cold tolerance. Destin, Miramar Beach, and the picturesque coastal towns along Scenic 30A are all included in this title of clarity. WebThe water color was brown from all the run off. Next on the list of clean beach buddies is Siesta Key. Still, there will be more trash left on the beach than usual during the height of college spring break time and many locals will organize clean-up groups to help with it. There are pirate shows, movies on the lawn, pirate ship excursions, fireworks, and all sorts of other events to entertain and delight families who visit Destin. Winter in Destin is a great time for quiet walks on the beach and the most amazing sunrises and sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. - Ross French
Destin and the surrounding area boast the most pristine beaches and crystalline water in Florida. Destin becomes more popular every year though, so there will probably be plenty of couples, snowbirds and solo travelers to fill in the void. How does the water along this stretch of the Gulf Coast remain so clear and untouched? Rain may be a factor when the inlets and passes along our shores drain out several bays and waterways. That year there were also hundreds and hundreds of Manta Rays cruising along the shore going East to West seemed like for about a month and there were tons of blue crabs that year. This is when locals come out of hiding after the crazy summer to enjoy all the festivals and fishing events the season has to offer. An overview of the seasons of Destin is provided in this post first followed by every month of the year ranked in order taking into consideration all the variables that are typically important to the Destin visitors. Boston, MA warning59 F Cloudy. Clearest Water Clearest Water A ball drop at Harborwalk Village, kids activities at Baytowne Wharf, and also plenty to do at the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk. I wrote more about that here: Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Destin. I wish I could be more helpful but I am not totally sure on that one because Im simply unfamiliar with that particular market. One of the best events in November is the Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival at Baytowne Wharf where they light up the trees in the village for the first time of the season. If you enjoy my posts, please consider supporting my blog by shopping my products or keeping me in mind when you need a gift for someone who loves Destin. Average High = 76degreesAverage Low = 52degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 66 degreesAverage Rainfall = 5.0inches. The best time to visit Destin is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s). Hello , I just planned a family trip to Destin for October 24th. 17 years ago. If people complain about anything in September, its that the humidity is particularly high and sometimes the biting flies are out at the beach. Has the water cleared up? Panama City Beach has been cracking down on alcohol laws on the beach in the past few years so that has undoubtedly contributed to the upswing in spring breakers that Destin has now. Destin 11 Beachfront Condos for Your Next 30A Vacation! Aw, this was an extremely nice post. Most hotels and condos in the Destin area will impose a minimum age of 21 or 25 in order to attract more families and cut back on some of the issues that come with a younger college crowd. The weather is warming up, although it can sometimes still be a little chilly in the evening during the first part of the month. The jeweled colors are precious, and new visitors are sometimes startled with delight when they first see the dazzling sight. If you can figure all that out and feel safer spending the money then go for it. September is usually amazing beach weather minus all the crowds of summer. On a side note, the water at Crab Island is clearest during high tide. The weekly summer events at Harborwalk Village, Baytowne Wharf, and the Boardwalk will also be taking place during all of June. Consider subscribing by email. did not get that. Good luck to you guys and I wish you much success! Is there a month where there are less red flag days and the water is more calm? To make it even better, unlike the cloudy waters along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, nothing will ever be able to sneak up on you in those clear waters! Thanks! - February 13, 2018. Fall is an amazing time of year to visit Destin and the Emerald Coast. Parasailing in Destin: 6 Tips for a Great Flight, My Jump off the Harborwalk Village Free Fall Tower, My Fishing Trip on the Vera Marie Party Boat, Stand up Paddle Boarding on Destin Harbor Complete Guide, When and Where to Watch Fireworks at Baytowne Wharf, When and Where to Watch Fireworks at the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk, When and Where to Watch Fireworks at Harborwalk Village, Christmas in Destin: Ultimate Guide to the Holiday Season, How to Have a Beach Bonfire in Destin, Miramar Beach and 30a. Combine this with the waters jewel colors of emerald and blue, and it is no wonder these picture-perfect beaches are the Emerald Coast! bigmacfan. Armed with this understanding, lets answer the question of which beaches in Florida have the clearest water. When the wind is not blowing at all, it is easier to have clear water. The beaches will be very crowded in Destin in July so if you arent staying beachfront, be sure to arrive early to find parking and claim your patch of public beach. I have always had a love/hate relationship with spring in Destin. This wonderful watery world inspires everyone to play. To get the clearest of water and that Caribbean look, though, you need an easterly wind to send that Emerald Coast water towards Alabama. Destin. WebThe water is very clear and the sand is perfect. Weather =Nice but still chilly at times Crowds = Mixture of busy and slow Tourist demographic = Mostly Families and College Spring Breakers Prices = Moderate to Peak. Were not sure why this is, but we hypothesize that it has fewer nutrients or microbes while the water is Clearest Water It is only in the panhandle of Florida where sunset and sunrise happen this way. I have never seen anyone wear anything on their feet when going into the water in Destin. Keep reading: 10 Affordable Vacation Homes with Pools. Do you feel it would be a good place to relocate a business? Our area is currently open and operating as usual with restaurants and retail at 100% and no restrictions on events. Scenic 98 is the popular beach road that stretches from Henderson Park Inn all the way to the east end of the road past Surf Hut restaurant. If you do get insurance, make sure you are clear on what it covers. Its not the time to wait for last minute deals. I hope you enjoy your trip . The Fabulous Things to See in the City of Malta, Tips for Making the Most of Your Next Trip, Explore the Most Unique Treehouses in Atlanta, GA, Make Money with Admitad A Handy Guide for Bloggers, The Best Comfortable Spring & Summer Shoes, The Most Powerful Flight Ticket Reservation Applications, The Ultimate California Bucket List: Attractions You Cant Miss. Lets face it, the clearer the water and more pristine the beaches, the better the beach vacation! Below I will start with an overview of those and follow with my rankings and a month-to-month guide in order of what I would consider the best and worst months to visit Destin. Why? And finally, and one of the most popular clearwater locals, by far, is Key West. New Years Eve in Destin is celebrated with several festivities around town. Some stores ask that you wear masks and most people comply. The beach is sparklingly bright and carries a similar green hue to our own waters. we were there for 9 days when we went to the beach there was red and bouble red flags very day. We were in Destin a few weeks ago. Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Why Destin has the clearest water beaches in Florida, May Events at the Village of Baytowne Wharf.