Myrtle Beach vs Destin Florida: Where to Vacation?
Is there anything better than a beach vacation filled with fun and adventure? Are you trying to decide between Myrtle Beach vs Destin Florida? Let me help you decide.
When I was a kid, living in land locked Illinois, my family and I used to travel down south for a week every summer. We traveled to many different beaches including the two discussed in this post.
Fast forward to today, we are snowbirds that travel from New Hampshire to Florida every winter, and we always stop in Destin to visit. I even lived near Destin for a year in my younger years.
Both places, Myrtle Beach vs Destin Florida are great places for family beach vacations. Let’s dive in to help you make your decision on where to visit next.
Myrtle Beach: Endless Fun for Kids
Myrtle Beach is a paradise for kids! There are so many exciting activities that will make your trip unforgettable. The beach itself is beautiful, with soft sand and gentle waves perfect for building sandcastles and splashing around.
You can also take a stroll along the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where you’ll find thrilling amusement parks, cool arcades, and yummy ice cream shops.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! How about visiting Ripley’s Aquarium, where you can marvel at colorful fish and even touch a stingray?
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, a gigantic Ferris wheel that provides breathtaking views of the coastline. And don’t forget about miniature golf courses, exciting water parks, and entertaining live shows. Myrtle Beach is a dream come true for kids of all ages!
Destin, Florida: Outdoor Adventures Galore
Having lived near Destin, I can tell you that it’s an amazing place to experience. The beaches in Destin are stunning, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand.
You and your family can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing under the warm sun.
One of the highlights of Destin is its abundant fishing opportunities. You can join a fishing charter and try your luck at catching fish like red snapper or grouper. It’s an incredible experience to feel the tug on your fishing line and reel in your very own big fish!
If you’re up for more excitement, you can go dolphin watching on a boat tour or explore the underwater world while scuba diving. You can also rent a boat to spend a day on the famous Crab Island!
Additionally, nature lovers can visit Henderson Beach State Park, where you can hike along scenic trails and have a picnic in the shade of tall trees.
Destin offers a world of outdoor fun for the whole family!
Crowd Comparison
When it comes to crowds, both Myrtle Beach vs Destin Florida have their busy seasons. Myrtle Beach tends to be crowded during the summer months when families flock to the beach for their vacations. Spring break is also a popular time, with many visitors seeking sunny shores and exciting attractions.
As for Destin, it experiences peak crowds during the summer, just like Myrtle Beach. Additionally, Destin attracts numerous visitors during the spring and fall, as the weather remains warm and pleasant. These seasons offer a quieter atmosphere compared to the bustling summer months.
While it’s difficult to pinpoint exact visitor numbers, both Myrtle Beach and Destin attract a considerable number of tourists each year. Myrtle Beach is known for its popularity, drawing millions of visitors annually. Its reputation as a family-friendly destination, coupled with its wide range of attractions and beautiful beaches, makes it a top choice for many families.
Destin, on the other hand, also receives a significant number of visitors, particularly during the summer season. The stunning beaches, water activities, and natural beauty of the area contribute to its popularity. However, compared to Myrtle Beach, Destin tends to have a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a more peaceful getaway.
Best Beaches
When it comes to determining the best beach, it’s subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina has been consistently recognized as one of the top beaches in the United States. It has won multiple awards, including the “Best Beach in the United States” by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.
Destin has also won awards for its pristine white sand beaches and green tinted clear waters. Destin Beaches have been voted one of the top five “Favorite Family Vacation Destinations” by the readers of Southern Living year after year.
Amusement and Water Parks
Both Destin vs Myrtle Beach offer a fantastic array of amusement and water parks to keep the whole family entertained and cooled off during those hot summer days.
In Myrtle Beach, you’ll find a variety of thrilling amusement parks. One of the most popular is Family Kingdom, a classic seaside amusement park featuring exciting rides, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and a Ferris wheel. For water park enthusiasts, Myrtle Waves Water Park is a must-visit, with its thrilling slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and interactive play areas for younger kids.
Additionally, Wild Water & Wheels provides a combination of water park fun and dry rides, offering everything from water slides and a lazy river to go-karts and mini-golf. And if you’re looking for an action-packed day, head to Broadway Grand Prix, where you can enjoy go-kart racing, mini-golf, bumper boats, and even a rock climbing wall.
In Destin, Florida, you’ll discover equally exciting amusement and water park options. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park is a favorite among visitors, featuring an extensive range of water attractions, such as slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. They also offer mini-golf, go-karts, and thrill rides for added excitement.
Another notable destination is The Track, where you can race around go-kart tracks, challenge yourself on mini-golf courses, and experience thrill rides like the SkyFlyer and the Bungee Jump.
While both cities provide thrilling amusement and water parks, Myrtle Beach’s offerings are slightly more extensive, with a wider variety of parks to choose from. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping water slides, exciting rides, or family-friendly attractions, both Myrtle Beach and Destin have something to suit every taste and ensure a fun-filled day for all.
Myrtle Beach vs Destin Florida: Final Thoughts
So, which destination should you choose? Both Myrtle Beach vs Destin Florida, offer incredible experiences for families. Myrtle Beach is perfect for amusement parks, arcades, and lively boardwalk, while Destin offers outdoor adventures like fishing, dolphin watching, and beautiful nature parks.
Consider the time of year you plan to visit and your preferences for crowds. Both destinations can get busy during peak seasons, but Destin may offer a slightly quieter experience outside of the summer months. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either choice.
No matter where you decide to go, get ready for an unforgettable vacation filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories!
More Resources:
Things to do in Destin when it’s raining
Seaside to Destin – Things to do
Henderson Beach State Park Campground Review
