Destin with a toddler: calm water, beach flags and condo naps

Beach flags and safety

Beach flags are posted at public accesses and lifeguard stands. Green means low hazard, yellow means medium hazard, red means high hazard, and double red means the water is closed to the public. A purple flag means dangerous marine life such as jellyfish.

Rip currents can form on days that look calm, especially near the pass. With a toddler, stay in very shallow water within arm's reach and sit near a staffed lifeguard stand when you can. No flag does not mean safe water.

Henderson Beach State Park

Henderson Beach State Park has wide, uncrowded beach, dunes, boardwalks to the sand, picnic pavilions and restrooms with showers. It is a calmer alternative to the busiest public beaches and a good half day with a toddler.

Arrive early on summer weekends, since parking fills. The boardwalks help with a stroller, but expect to carry gear the last stretch across the sand.

Calmer water on the harbor and sound side

• Norriego Point, at the west end of the harbor, has shallow, protected water that suits toddlers on calm days. Check signs for current swimming rules.
• Sound-side parks along Choctawhatchee Bay usually have gentler water than the Gulf, though the sand and water clarity can differ.
• Crab Island is popular, but it is reached only by boat and gets crowded. With a toddler, a short visit on a calm morning is plenty.
• Pools with shallow areas are a good backup on red flag days.

The Gulfarium and other outings

The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach, a short drive west, has dolphins, sea lions, penguins, sea turtles and touch pools. It is compact enough for a toddler morning.

The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is fun for watching boats and pelicans, especially early in the day. A slow walk there after dinner is often enough evening entertainment for a 2 year old.

Boats and life jackets

Florida law requires children under 6 to wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket while underway on boats under 26 feet. Bring a well-fitting infant or child life jacket from home if you can, since rental sizes vary.

For a first boat trip, pick a short, calm ride such as a harbor or dolphin cruise. Morning water is usually calmer, and the shade on larger boats helps.

Where to stay and getting around

A condo or house on or near the beach makes naps easy and keeps the day flexible. A kitchen helps with meals. Ask about cribs, blackout curtains and elevators before you book.

US 98 is the main road through Destin, and summer traffic can be slow, especially on weekends and around the harbor. Staying within walking distance of your beach saves a lot of time in the car with a toddler.