Destin is known for its stunning beaches and lively waterfront, but it also offers some excellent city tours that give you a different perspective of this Gulf Coast town. Whether you’re looking to relax on a private boat, explore the waterways on a sunset cruise, or challenge yourself with a scavenger hunt, Destin’s variety of tours can suit different interests and travel styles. Many of these experiences focus on marine life, scenic views, and local flavor, making them ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers craving a mix of adventure and relaxation.
What makes Destin stand out is its access to incredible waters and vibrant coastal scenery. The tours range from quick, budget-friendly options to more luxurious, lengthy adventures. Some tours include opportunities for dolphin spotting, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, while others offer a laid-back cruise with scenic photo opportunities. Planning ahead and choosing the right tour can elevate your trip from ordinary to memorable.
Quick Overview
This list features four of the best city tours in Destin, including a private boat with a slide, a sunset cruise, a scavenger hunt, and an inshore fishing charter. Each offers a different way to experience the area’s waterways with unique features and pricing to suit various budgets and interests. For more details on each, click the links below:
- Private Charter Boat with Slide from Panama City
- Private Luxury Sunset Cruise in Panama City Beach
- Panama City Prowl Scavenger Hunt
- Panama City Inshore Fishing Charters
1. Private Charter Boat with Slide from Panama City
At number one on our list is the Private Charter Boat with Slide from Panama City. This 4-hour private boat experience offers a full day of water fun, and it’s available in Destin through a direct link. The boat is double-decked, with a captain guiding you through a customizable itinerary. You can snorkel, look for dolphins, paddleboard, or just soak up the sun. The highlight for many is the top deck slide, which adds a splash of excitement for kids and adults alike.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and the personalized service. The reviews are glowing—“Captain Matthew was nothing short of amazing,” one reviewer notes, praising the safe, relaxing environment and the variety of activities offered, from dolphin sightings to paddleboarding and ice cream delivery. The boat comfortably fits up to six people, making it ideal for families or groups of friends. The price of $589 for 4 hours provides excellent value considering the exclusivity and custom experience.
If you’re after a scenic, fun-filled day on the water with the option to do as little or as much as you like, this private charter is a top choice. Just be prepared for a full day of sunshine and sea air.
Bottom Line: Best for families or groups seeking a flexible, private experience with options for adventure or lounging.
2. Private Luxury Sunset Cruise in Panama City Beach
Next up, the Private Luxury Sunset Cruise in Panama City Beach offers a more intimate, romantic way to enjoy the waterways. For about $229, up to six people can relax on a spacious 26-foot boat for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This cruise is perfect for those wanting a peaceful, scenic experience with the chance to see dolphins and the picturesque waterfront homes.
The cruise begins at 111 W Beach Dr, Panama City, and includes a cooler with ice for your food and drinks. It’s a flexible way to enjoy a spectacular sunset while cruising past some of the area’s most beautiful waterfront properties. The reviews highlight the professionalism of Captain Matt and how he made the trip special—even if the weather was less than perfect, he kept the atmosphere relaxed and friendly.
This tour is well-suited for couples or small groups wanting a romantic, low-key outing with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s also a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with the added bonus of seeing dolphins and enjoying the sunset.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, scenic, and intimate experience with good value.
3. Panama City Prowl Scavenger Hunt
For something different, the Panama City Prowl Scavenger Hunt offers a fun, interactive way to explore the city’s highlights. Priced at just $35, this 2-hour self-guided challenge combines sightseeing with puzzles, riddles, and challenges that reveal hidden corners and local secrets.
What makes this tour unusual is its remote interactive guide and competitive element—teams earn points for solving clues and completing challenges, which can be fun for families, friends, or coworkers. It turns an ordinary walk into a game, encouraging you to discover offbeat spots and learn about the area in a lively, engaging way.
Although reviews are mixed—some note the difficulty in the puzzles—they agree that it’s a unique and engaging way to spend a couple of hours. It’s best suited for those who enjoy problem-solving, have a competitive streak, and want to see the city from a different angle.
Bottom Line: Great for active explorers and puzzle lovers wanting a playful twist on city sightseeing.
4. Panama City Inshore Fishing Charters
Finally, the Panama City Inshore Fishing Charters is a full-day fishing adventure suitable for up to four people. This 4-6 hour private fishing trip takes you to underused waterways, where you can try your luck catching redfish, trout, flounder, and small sharks. The tour includes all necessary fishing gear, safety equipment, and licenses, making it accessible whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on local fishing spots and the opportunity to learn new techniques or hone your skills. While there are no reviews yet, the price of $675.99 for a four-person group offers a private, hassle-free fishing experience with your own captain. It’s perfect for those who want a full day on the water with a chance to bring home dinner.
Keep in mind, this tour requires a longer time commitment and is best suited for anglers seeking a hands-on, active day. It’s also an excellent option for families with older kids or groups interested in fishing as a sport.
Bottom Line: Suited for anglers of all experience levels wanting a private, guided fishing expedition.
How to Choose the Right City Tour in Destin
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re after a full day of water fun, the Private Charter Boat with Slide offers a versatile experience. For a romantic evening, the Luxury Sunset Cruise fits perfectly. Want a quick, active challenge? The Scavenger Hunt is ideal, especially if you enjoy puzzles. And those interested in fishing can opt for the private inshore trip, perfect for a laid-back, skill-building day.
Consider your budget: the sunset cruise is the most affordable, while the private boat and fishing trips are more costly but offer more exclusivity. Think about your fitness level; the fishing trip and private boat require some physical activity, whereas the sunset cruise is more relaxed. Booking early is wise, particularly during peak season, to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Destin’s diverse range of city tours allows you to tailor your experience—from lively water slides and dolphin spotting to relaxing sunset cruises and engaging scavenger hunts. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, these options provide authentic ways to enjoy the area’s waterways and scenery. For a memorable trip, consider the Private Charter Boat with Slide for adventure, or the Sunset Cruise for romance, and don’t forget to book ahead to secure your spot.