Home Care In Destin, FL

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Destin History & Fishing Museum in Destin, FL gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Destin, FL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

Home Care Services

Home Care in Destin, FL
The Always Best Care Difference
Types of In-home Care in Destin, FL
Benefits of Home Care in Destin, FL
Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors
Affordable Care Plans
Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers
Assisted Living Referral Services
Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

Service Areas

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

Hear from Our Clients

Elderly Care for Jett B.

“I live in a different state from my mother. Always best care are there for”

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In-home Care for Eric B.

“Jeremy and his care team provided trustworthy and compassionate home care for my parents. I”

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Home Care Services for connie P.

“I would like to thank you all for taking such good care of my friend”

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In-home Care for melissa S.

“I truly appreciated the extra mile the caregiver went to give my parents the care”

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In-home Care for Marsha M.

“Jeremy and Tracy are so very helpful, polite and very accommodating and willing to go”

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Home Care Services for Jeneen H.

“We needed help fast with our father and Always Best Care Senior Services stepped in”

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In-home Care for Beth O.

“I think the administration are very professional and sent out an employee that's a perfect”

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In-home Care for Sheila K.

“We give Always Best Care five stars. We had two different caregivers and each one”

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Jett B.

Eric B.

connie P.

melissa S.

Marsha M.

Jeneen H.

Beth O.

Sheila K.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Destin, FL?

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

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Types of Elderly Care in Destin, FL

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

Eating
Mobility Issues
Incontinence

Bathing
Dressing
Grooming

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Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

Medication Reminders
Meal Preparation
Pet Care
Prescription Refills

Morning Wake-Up
Walking
Reading

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Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Henderson Beach State Park in Destin, FL with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

Grocery Shopping
Transportation to Appointments
Nutritional Assistance
Conversation

Planning Outings
Completing Errands
Transportation to Community
Events and Social Outings

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Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Ruth's Chris Steak House or visit HarborWalk Village, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

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Benefits of Home Care in Destin, FL

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Age in Place

According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.

Peace of Mind

If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.

Socialization

Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.

Personalized Care Plan

No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Destin, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your FL's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.

Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.

Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.

Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.

Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Destin, FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

Housekeeping
Laundry
Recreational Activities
Social Outings
Emergency Medical Response
Medication Monitoring
Family Visitation
Personal Care

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

Sun Fun & Retirement
Brookdale Destin
Visiting Angels
The Blake at Miramar Beach

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Destin, FL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

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Ready to shop? A guide to holiday shopping in Okaloosa County on Black Friday and beyond

It's never too early to start making those wish lists and plans for the day when it comes to Black Friday shopping.Stores in Okaloosa County will be opening early for the early risers looking for those great deals.Destin Commons, at U.S. 98 and Danny Wuerffel Way, will be open from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. The Commons has a mix of 80 national regional retail stores such as Sephora, Lululemon, Bath & Body Works, H&M, Build-A-Bear, JD Sports and Pandora to name a few.Anchoring down the Commons are Bass Pro Shops and Bel...

It's never too early to start making those wish lists and plans for the day when it comes to Black Friday shopping.

Stores in Okaloosa County will be opening early for the early risers looking for those great deals.

Destin Commons, at U.S. 98 and Danny Wuerffel Way, will be open from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. The Commons has a mix of 80 national regional retail stores such as Sephora, Lululemon, Bath & Body Works, H&M, Build-A-Bear, JD Sports and Pandora to name a few.

Anchoring down the Commons are Bass Pro Shops and Belk.

Bass Pro will be open from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. starting Monday, Nov. 24. They will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, but on Black Friday get ready to reel in those deals when the doors open at 5 a.m. Bass Pro will close at 9 p.m. on Nov. 28.

As for Belk, they will be open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m.

For the electronics lover, Best Buy in Destin will be open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Black Friday.

In Fort Walton Beach, Kohl’s on Beal Parkway will be open from 5 a.m. until midnight, and TJMaxx on Mary Esther Boulevard will be open from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Sam’s Club on Beal Parkway will be closed on Thanksgiving Day but will open at 7 a.m. on Black Friday.

In Crestview, Marshalls will be open from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. on Black Friday.

Burlington on Ferdon Boulevard in Crestview will be open from 7 a.m. until midnight, which will be their holiday season hours.

Over in South Walton on U.S. 98, Silver Sands Premium Outlets, which boasts about 90 retail stores, will be open from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Nov. 28.

Walmart dropped all the details about their Black Friday 2025 sale, which includes three waves of savings packed with thousands of deals starting at under $20 with up to 60% off top brands like Dyson, Lego, Barbie, Levi's and Keurig. Target started early with some major sales in the first week of November and will be running sales online throughout the month.

Here’s everything you need to know to shop smarter, save bigger and make the most of Walmart and Target's 2025 holiday shopping events (including a sneak peek at upcoming Walmart deals).

What to know, how to watch, stream Macy's parade

Walmart Black Friday, Cyber Monday 2025 sales, see when deals start

Walmart’s Black Friday 2025 Deals event features three waves of shopping opportunities:

Walmart's early Black Friday Deals event

Walmart's Black Friday Deals event

Walmart's Cyber Monday Deals event:

What's on sale at Walmart for Black Friday?

Can't wait to start shopping? Plan out your wishlist with a sneak peek at Walmart's upcoming Black Friday discounts on everything from toys and tech to home decor:

What is Walmart+? How much does Walmart+ cost?

Walmart+ is a paid membership offering early access to deals, free shipping and more. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial to try Walmart+ out.

An annual Walmart+ plan is $98 ($8.17 per month) after your free 30-day trial.

Do Walmart Black Friday sales apply to online shopping?

Yes! Most deals are available online first, then in stores. Cyber Monday is online-only.

Will Walmart be open on Thanksgiving Day?

No, Walmart stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 27.

USA TODAY Shopping will be covering all the best holiday deals, Cyber Week sales and more, so be sure to sign up for text alerts, follow us on TikTok, check us out on Flipboard, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Instagram to stay updated!

Black Friday 2025 sales started early at Target

Target's best Black Friday deals started early this year. Target's early Black Friday sale kicked off on Thursday, Nov. 6 and ran through Saturday, Nov. 8. Target's online store is also running discounts of up to 50% off throughout the month of November.

These holiday deals were offered in anticipation of Target's Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale, which officially starts online Thursday, Nov. 27, and ends on Tuesday, Dec. 2, with major discounts that will last throughout the entirety of Cyber Week 2025.

What's on sale for Black Friday at Target?

While specifics around the exact discounts are still under wraps, Target's Black Friday sales typically includes sitewide discounts on everything from electronics and home goods to toys and TikTok-loved fashion staples. Popular brands included in the event can range from Apple and Lego to Levi's and Dyson.

Looking for more shopping guidance ahead of Black Friday 2025? Here are some editor-approved shopping tips to help you maximize on the savings:

Get Black Friday deals early with Target Circle

You'll need to sign up for Target Circle — Target's membership program — in order to unlock early access to the retailer's Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. There are a ton of perks to being a Target Circle member, including early access to major sales, personalized deals and a 5% birthday discount every year.

Target Circle is free to join and you can sign up online at Target.com or via the Target app.

Our team of savvy editors independently handpicks all recommendations. If you purchase through our links, the USA Today Network may earn a commission. Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.

Visiting Crab Island in Destin, Florida

If you’re looking for a wonderful tropical Florida day of sun, sand, and sparkling water, look no further than Crab Island in Destin!This “island”, actually a sandbar, is one of the most popular and talked-about attractions in the Destin area.At one point, the area was an island, created in the 1960s by the Army Corps of Engineers when Destin Pass was dredged to stabilize the Gulf of Mexico entrance.The sand leftover from the project was then deposited into Choctawhatchee Bay, creating a small island....

If you’re looking for a wonderful tropical Florida day of sun, sand, and sparkling water, look no further than Crab Island in Destin!

This “island”, actually a sandbar, is one of the most popular and talked-about attractions in the Destin area.

At one point, the area was an island, created in the 1960s by the Army Corps of Engineers when Destin Pass was dredged to stabilize the Gulf of Mexico entrance.

The sand leftover from the project was then deposited into Choctawhatchee Bay, creating a small island.

As the years went by, the sand eventually eroded and became the popular sandbar it is today and only 1-4 feet deep.

Things to Do at Crab Island

Check out our top tips for a fun-filled and relaxing trip to this popular underwater sandbar known as Crab Island.

1. How to Get to Crab Island

Crab Island is at the Southern entrance of the Choctawhatchee Bay, inside Destin’s East Pass, and along the North side of the Destin/Marler Bridge, and is only accessible by boat.

One option is to drive your own boat or other watercraft, kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski to the island.

Pontoon boats are the most popular mode of transportation, so much so that the island is also known as the “Pontoon Capital of the World).

If you don’t have your own pontoon boat, you can rent a boat from Destin Vacation Boat Rentals or Crab Island Boat Rentals to get you over to the island.

Most of the boats can fit up to 12 passengers, and your driver will need to pass a short Boater’s Safety Test (if they were born after January 1st, 1988).

Once you have your boat, it’s only a 5-7 minute ride from Destin Harbor, 10-15 minutes from Okaloosa Island, and 20-30 minutes from Fort Walton Beach.

Another option is to take a shuttle from Destin Habor, which is the most affordable way to make the trip.

The shuttle boat offers various excursions to choose from and is equipped with a captain, crew, and onboard restroom.

This is a great option for groups who do not want to drive their own boats, and just want to sit back and relax!

Other great shuttle boat options include Tailfins Island Adventure, Ariel Water Taxi, Crab Island Cruises, Crusin Tikis Destin, and the Destin Water Taxi.

2. What Do I Do All Day at Crab Island?

Other than relaxing and wading in the water on the Island, you may be wondering what else you could do!

One popular option is the Adventure Tour, which includes a boat tour, snorkeling, shelling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and even a floating inflatable water park!

Check it out and book tickets from Crab Island Company.

If relaxing excursions are more up your alley, and you want to simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area there is plenty for you to do as well.

3. Are There Any Restaurants or Vendors?

Yes! There are quite a few vendors on the island from March through October.

Keep in mind that while alcohol is allowed on the island, none of these local businesses and food vendors are allowed to sell it. If you’re wanting to enjoy an alcoholic beverage, make sure to #BYOB.

The local businesses most recently at the sandbar include:

4. Where to Stay Near Crab Island

While it is not possible to stay on the Island, you may choose to stay in a hotel nearby in Destin on the mainland.

Below are just a few of the recommended local and boutique options:

You can search for more accommodations on Booking.com.

Common questions about Crab Island

Check out some of Authentic Florida’s other favorite island getaways:

Destin High School Launches First “Holly Jolly Market” at Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Amphitheatre

DESTIN, FL — Destin High School is preparing to bring holiday cheer to the community with its first annual Holly Jolly Market on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Amphitheatre. The event will feature a full day of ...

DESTIN, FL — Destin High School is preparing to bring holiday cheer to the community with its first annual Holly Jolly Market on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Amphitheatre. The event will feature a full day of family-friendly entertainment, shopping, and festive activities, all designed to celebrate the holiday season while supporting programs at Destin High School.

The Holly Jolly Market will highlight the talents and creativity of Destin High students through a variety of live performances throughout the day, including music, theater, and other artistic showcases. In addition to student entertainment, local food trucks will offer favorites from the area, and unique shopping experiences will be available from local artisans and vendors.

A dedicated children’s holiday zone will feature activities for young attendees, including games, face painting, and photos with Santa. A $5 wristband provides access to all children’s activities for the entire day. Organizers hope the zone will create a safe and engaging space for kids to enjoy the holiday festivities.

All proceeds from the event will directly support Destin High School programs, including academic enrichment, arts education, athletics, and other student opportunities. By attending, families and community members can help ensure that students have access to resources and programs that enhance their learning and extracurricular experiences.

Local businesses and community partners have the opportunity to participate as vendors or sponsors, helping to strengthen community ties and showcase their services or products. Interested vendors can register online at http://dhshollyjolly.givesmart.com or by texting DHSHOLLYJOLLY to 76278.

Executive Director Donald Williams said, “Destin High School is thrilled to bring our community together for the first Holly Jolly Market. This event celebrates the spirit of the season while supporting programs that directly benefit our students. We look forward to a wonderful day with our families, students, and the wider Destin community.”

The school encourages all Sharks, families, and community members to attend the Holly Jolly Market to enjoy a festive day of shopping, entertainment, and holiday fun while supporting local education initiatives.

Event Details:
???? Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
???? Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
???? Location: Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Amphitheatre, Destin, FL
????? Children’s Activities: $5 wristband for full-day access

About Destin High School:
Destin High School is a public charter school dedicated to empowering students, enriching the community, and elevating futures. Through innovative programming and strong community partnerships, DHS prepares students for success in college, career, and life.

The SS United States is Destined for Destin, Florida

In an ambitious move to expand Florida’s artificial reef program, the historic SS United States is set to find a new home beneath the waves off the coast of Destin, located in the Florida Panhandle.Originally launched in the 1950s as both a luxury ocean liner and a potential troop carrier, the SS United States still holds the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing. Now, her legacy will continue underwater as the centerpiece of what will b...

In an ambitious move to expand Florida’s artificial reef program, the historic SS United States is set to find a new home beneath the waves off the coast of Destin, located in the Florida Panhandle.

Originally launched in the 1950s as both a luxury ocean liner and a potential troop carrier, the SS United States still holds the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing. Now, her legacy will continue underwater as the centerpiece of what will become the world’s largest artificial reef.

Alex Fogg, natural resources chief in Okaloosa County and a keynote speaker at DEMA Show 2025, says the region’s sandy seafloor makes these projects vital for marine life and tourism alike:

“We don’t have natural reefs like South Florida or the Caribbean. We don’t have corals. We really rely on these artificial reefs to create the habitat for the fish that people like to go fishing for, but also for places for people to go diving.

“Everybody wants to be a wreck diver, and if you can bring a vessel such as the SS United States, that will be the largest artificial reef in the world, they are going to come for that and learn about all of the other things we’ve done.”

The 990-foot/302-meter-long vessel will be placed about 21 miles/34km offshore, with its top decks resting at a diver-friendly 55-60 feet/17-18 meters deep. The iconic smokestacks have been removed to ensure accessibility for recreational divers, while preserving the ship’s monumental scale for technical divers who can explore down to the sand at 180 feet/55 meters.

Scheduled for scuttling in 2026, the project coincides with the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations and includes plans for a museum dedicated to the ship’s artifacts and history.

As Jennifer Adams, director of tourism for Destin-Fort Walton Beach put it:

“There’s a lot of passion about the vessel because she’s historic. We want the fishery to be healthy, and we want the legacy of the SS United States to live on, right here in Destin.”

For more info on Destin Fort Walton Beach, go to , and for more info on the SS United States, go to .

Explore Florida’s Hidden Gem: JetBlue Adds Direct Flights to Destin and Fort Walton Beach

Published on November 11, 2025Beginning on March 5, 2026, new seasonal nonstop flights operated by JetBlue Airways will connect Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) with Destin – Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS). This route will be the fifth that the airline operates, reinforcing JetBlue’s commitment to strengthening its network within the fast-growing Florida leisure market. JetBlue’s commitment to the state is underscored by the new flights, which...

Published on November 11, 2025

Beginning on March 5, 2026, new seasonal nonstop flights operated by JetBlue Airways will connect Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) with Destin – Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS). This route will be the fifth that the airline operates, reinforcing JetBlue’s commitment to strengthening its network within the fast-growing Florida leisure market. JetBlue’s commitment to the state is underscored by the new flights, which JetBlue has determined will facilitate travel to the Destin Fort Walton Beach area’s stunning Gulf Coast beaches and relaxed lifestyle. Florida continues to see robust demand for both domestic and international travel, and with JetBlue’s affordable, reliable service, access to the state will only improve for travellers departing major Northeastern cities.

Destin – Fort Walton Beach: Enhancing recreational Tourism

Like much of the area along Florida’s panhandle, Destin – Fort Walton Beach is recognized for its gorgeous beaches, family-friendly activities, and its wonderfully fun emerald waters. When seeking a relaxing beach Panama City Beach is the preferred choice, but there is equally as much fishing, boating, and even hiking to soak up the sun. To add to the stark contrast of the surrounding land, the area is surrounded by endless opportunities for dining, shopping, and culture, making it the perfect balance getaway for those both seeking adventure and extreme relaxation.

Tommy Bahama shirts, Coronas and the Village of Destin have long been the preferred past time for Floridians as well as the countless untethered vacationing Americans, along with a soldier or two, which now made it a rapid favoring both leisure and business tourism. The quaint local charm along with a plethora of recreational activities ,has made it a favourable option for visitors, especially those from the Northeast.

JetBlue’s Expansion in Florida: Bridging the Northeastern US and Florida’s Gulf Coast

JetBlue is acompanying its robust scale in Florida with new service to Destin – Fort Walton Beach. JetBlue and most domestic airlines have made investments in Florida this year and new routes have also been JetBlued to Vero Beach and Daytona Beach. JetBlue’s investment and the newly introduced nonstop flights to the Panhandle region will augment the connections between the Northeastern US and Florida’s Gulf Coast, providing faster access to Florida’s most visited US region.

The demand for leisure travel from New York and Boston has soared and the new direct flights make travel to Florida accessible for residents of NYC. Destin – Fort Walton Beach is friendly for families. It is one of the region’s most sought after and peaceful destinations. It is a perfect winter getaway for New York and Boston residents who want to get away from the city.

Travel Options Available for Visitors from the Northeast

For the ease of travelers wishing to bypass the monotony of connecting flights, JetBlue is expected to launch nonstop flights from Boston and New York to Destin-Fort Walton Beach, as well as from each of those airports five times a week. This offers flexible options for scheduling and family planning. They aim to serve travelers of all kinds, from families to solo travelers and even couples, looking for a cheap getaway to the beaches of the Gulf Coast of Florida. They are set to launch flights for JetBlue on all major connecting days.

With the nonstop flights operating from the Boston-New York city area to the Destin-Fort Walton beach region, travelers are expected to have increased ease with trip planning, whether a short weekend trip or a week-long trip. They also assist with a vacation designed for maximum versatility. Visitors can now select from a variety of options that best suit their schedules. They can select from five flights for the week, which is sufficient for a trip planning on flexible options. All travelers whether coming from Boston or New York, have the same ease of staying for short or long stays.

Increasing the Local Economy and Supporting Tourism

The recent addition of air travel routes connecting Northeast urban areas to the Gulf Coast has reaped great economic rewards in the Destin-Fort Walton Beach vicinity. Tourism from expensive markets in areas like New York and Boston is a boon for local recreational facilities, hotels, restaurants, and shops, and promotes the region’s highly developed tourism services. The increased economic activity from these new tourists will also promote job growth in many local hospitality and tourism businesses.

JetBlue’s entry on these routes is likely to enhance Destin-Fort Walton Beach’s international visibility through the airline’s international network, thus extending the area’s appeal. The new routes will assist the region’s tourism growth especially with relaxed leisure travel demand. The local tourism industry and the area’s tourism can expect many new visitors as the new routes have the capacity to accommodate their travel demands.

Conclusion: Ensuring Inclusive Access to Florida’s Gulf Coast

With nonstop flights to Destin-Fort Walton Beach from New York and Boston, JetBlue has further expanded into Florida’s Gulf Coast. New routes have made it relatively easy to travel to Florida’s Gulf Coast from the Northeast. Destin takes pride in its picturesque beaches, family-oriented amenities, and relaxing atmosphere, making it a highly desired vacation spot. This new route already involves a positive impact to the area, and its tourism will continue to boost economic prospects while assisting the locals.

JetBlue has made its presence known in Florida, and its new routes to Destin-Fort Walton enhance Florida’s position as a principal vacation destination in the United States. JetBlue’s flights enhance the region’s offering and provide much-needed ease to travelers.

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