Top Reasons to Love Destin in the Fall

It’s never too early to start getting excited about fall. For many, fall means cooler temperatures, football and falling leaves. But for residents and visitors of the Emerald Coast fall means the best time of the year. Why you ask? Here are some of the top reasons why we love fall along the beaches of South Walton and Destin, Florida. 

Best Sunsets. 

There is something about fall sunsets that are extra special. We're not sure if it's the way the sun sets over the shimmering Gulf waters or if it's the spectacular array of colors that seem to sweep the sky like the strokes on an artist's canvas, but one thing is for certain, there is no other time of year that produces the same results as when the sun sets in the fall.   

Warm water, cool coastal breezes.

Visting the beach during the fall months (September - November) is especially enjoyable since the water is still warm enough for swimming and the air temperatures are cool and comfortable. As the heat and humidity disapate, it is exremely enjoyable to be outside and enjoy the vivid blue skies and white sand beaches.  

Fall fishing in Destin.

Often coined the world's luckiest fishing village, Destin enjoys great fishing year round. However, during the fall months there are fewer charters yet the fish are still biting. Charter boat captains report that the fall months are good for catching Mahi, Drum, Mackerel, and Redfish, to name a few. In shore fishing on the Bay produces bass, trout and many other fresh water varieties. View our fishing blog to learn more about fishing in Destin. 

Fresh Caught Gulf Seafood.

Even those who don't enjoy the thrill of the catch may enjoy the delicious results. The area's most popular restaurants enjoy fewer crowds and shorter wait times in the fall and winter. Chefs enjoy the leisurely pace of the fall, which affords them more time to experiment and develop creatively, delicious fall menus.  

Migration of the Monarch Butterfly.

The Gulf Coast celebrates the migration of the Monarch Butterfly during the fall months. With the golden flitter of butterflies along the coast, it is beautiful to witness this annual tradition. The monarch migration usually starts in early October and continues through mid-November. Monarch butterflies are the only insect that migrates to a warmer climate that is 2,500 miles away each year and the Gulf Coast happily provides a rest spot to eat and store up energy for their trip to Mexico.

Fall in Love.

Fall along the coast is our season of romance. The weather is perfect for long romantic walks along the white sandy shores. And with kids back in school, it’s easier for couples to find a quiet table at their favorite restaurant to enjoy quality time together. There is also a wide variety of activities perfect for couples in the fall, from hiking to biking to horseback riding, the cooler temperatures and quieter trails create the perfect backdrop for rekindling love. 

Fabulous Fall Festivals.

Autumn tides bring a season filled with fabulous fall festivals and special events, catering to every interest. The season kicks off with Eggs on the Beach EggFest, exciting foodies with a variety of delicious samples all cooked on the Big Green Egg. In October, the Destin Seafood Festival, Bloody Mary Festival, Beer Fest, and the Harvest Wine & Food Festival, cater to wine enthusiasts and foodies alike. 

Fall Football Traditions.

College football rivarlies and pro football games are traditions that bring together family and friends to cheer on their favorite teams. Fall football for many means gathering around the large screen television in a spacious vacation rental home at the beach. Check out Destin rental homes some with a private pool and backyard. 

Peace and Quiet.

One of our favorite elements of fall at the beach and the chance to enjoy relaxation and solitude. There is a time and place for everything and sometimes you just want to find a quiet stretch of beach to relax and enjoy the sound of the surf lapping the shore and the sound of the seagulls singing overhead.  One of our most secluded properties is Sanctuary at Redfish in Blue Mountain Beach. Overlooking a preserve and coastal dune lake, the resort's quiet stretch of beach is accessed by pontoon boat or private dune walkover.

Reduced Rental Rates.

The best part about fall is the cost savings. Vacation rental rates are reduced during the fall and winter months. Discover the joys of a fall beach vacation. View our premier Destin vacation rentals online, including rentals on Okaloosa Island, in downtown Destin, Crystal Beach. Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach and along Highway 30-A.  Or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652.

See you @ the beach!