Destin is famous for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, making it an ideal spot for short, memorable excursions. With just a couple of hours to spare, you can still experience something special—whether that’s catching fish with the family or spotting playful dolphins in their natural habitat. These 2-hour tours are designed to maximize your time, offering fun, relaxation, and a taste of the Gulf Coast’s best.
What makes Destin stand out for these quick trips is the variety of options available. From kid-friendly fishing charters to scenic dolphin tours, you can choose based on your interests and the kind of experience you seek. Below, we’ll explore the top two options, each with its own unique appeal.
Quick Overview
Our list features two distinct 2-hour experiences in Destin: a family-friendly fishing charter perfect for introducing kids to the joys of fishing, and a guided dolphin tour that promises sightings of playful dolphins and other local wildlife. Both tours are highly rated, reasonably priced, and offer a relaxed way to enjoy the water without committing to a full-day outing.
Now, let’s dive into the details of each.
1. 2 Hour Kids Fishing Charter
At number one, the 2 Hour Kids Fishing Charter is tailored for families wanting a simple, fun introduction to fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. For around $500 per group (up to four people), this private trip includes all fishing gear and bait, so there’s no need to worry about bringing your own equipment. The focus is on family-friendly activities, making it ideal for young children or first-time fishers.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on short, engaging fishing experiences without long waits. The captain’s goal is to keep kids entertained, with activities focused on catching species like redfish, ladyfish, trout, and sheepshead. The trip is flexible enough to accommodate younger children, and the captain will clean your catch for free, so you can enjoy a fresh meal later. Many reviews highlight the patience and skill of the guides, especially with young kids. One parent remarked, “Captain Josh was great with the kids and made it a memorable experience.”
This tour offers a hands-on introduction to fishing, perfect for families with small children or those new to the sport. The relaxed pace and family-oriented approach make it a standout. Expect a fun, low-pressure environment that prioritizes your kids’ enjoyment.
Bottom Line: This private fishing trip is a great way to introduce kids to fishing, with all gear included and a captain who makes it easy and fun.
2. 2 Hours Guided Dolphin Tour in Florida
Second on our list, the 2 Hours Guided Dolphin Tour is rated as the top dolphin tour in the Gulf coast area. Priced at just $30.40 per person, this trip takes place on a brand-new 45-foot catamaran, offering a comfortable and stable ride. The experienced captain will take you out into the emerald waters, where bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen frolicking just off the coast.
One of the main draws of this tour is the chance to see dolphins in their natural environment, often along with other wildlife like turtles, manatees, and sharks. The deckhand provides bottled water and answers questions, adding an informative touch to the experience. The tour is praised for its friendly guides, with one reviewer calling it the “best day ever” of their vacation.
While reviews note that the tour has a 4-star rating, the value for the price is clear—it’s an affordable way to see marine life without a long or complicated trip. The focus on wildlife sightings and relaxed cruising make this a good choice for families, couples, or anyone interested in learning about local aquatic animals.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, wildlife-oriented cruise that offers a fun chance to see dolphins and other sea creatures in a short, relaxed outing.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re traveling with young children or want a hands-on fishing experience, the Kids Fishing Charter is the way to go, especially since it includes all gear and a dedicated captain. For those more interested in wildlife watching and a scenic cruise, the Dolphin Tour offers an affordable, relaxing way to encounter marine animals in their natural habitat.
Your choice might also depend on your budget and time. The fishing charter is more expensive but offers a private experience and a chance to catch fish, while the dolphin tour is budget-friendly and perfect if you just want to see dolphins and other wildlife. Both tours operate for approximately two hours and are best booked early in your trip to secure availability.
Final Thoughts
Destin’s short tours provide a perfect snapshot of the area’s natural beauty and fun. For families wanting an interactive experience, the Kids Fishing Charter offers personalized attention and the thrill of catching fish. If your preference is to relax and see wildlife, the Dolphin Tour provides a scenic, affordable adventure.
Both options are highly rated and worth considering, especially if you want a memorable, activity-filled break without dedicating a full day. Be sure to book early, particularly during peak travel seasons, so you can secure your spot and enjoy your Destin adventure to the fullest.