The obvious question becomes what part of Florida has the prettiest beaches with the clearest water. For the water to be clear, it needs to be still for a while. The water was crystal clear with water temp in the mid 80s for quite a while after we arrived here. Occasionally, strong storms can stir up the murky depths and create temporary seas that are akin more in color to the Atlantic Ocean. There are no chain restaurants or towering beach condos to separate you from the Gulf of Mexico, making this a great location for romance and solitude. Manhattan, NY warning49 F Partly Cloudy. Destin and the surrounding area boast the most pristine beaches and crystalline water in Florida. Armed with this understanding, lets answer the question of which beaches in Florida have the clearest water. Here is my most recent May information and events article if you want more details about May in Destin. The spring break crowds have left town by May and the summer crowds have yet to fully arrive. Ross French grew up outside Toronto, blah blah he went to the University of Western Ontario for fine arts and like any degree, has since done nothing in that field. Siesta Key, Florida. Here is my most recent June information and events article if you want more details about June in Destin. It is only in the panhandle of Florida where sunset and sunrise happen this way. Average High = 89 degreesAverage Low = 71 degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature =84 degreesAverage Rainfall = 7.6 inches. Great article Sarah My husband and I always visit the first two weeks of September. There are also floating trampolines, portable slides, volleyball, and fun engaging water contact contests. Weather Rain run-off can darken the water, while days of light winds and sun can keep the waters more clear. As a general rule, the water anywhere in Florida will be warm enough to swim between April and October. In summary, summer is the best time to visit Destin if you love great beach weather for swimming, family activities, excursions, events, fireworks and watersports activities. It is recommended in these hot fall months to do the Stingray Shuffle when walking into the water where you drag your feet in the sand to alert them of your presence. For the water to be clear, it needs to be still for a while. Travel Blog, Travel Tips WebTo view a chart of average water temperatures at beaches near where you are going, visit the National Oceanographic Data Center website for Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean temperatures. I love hearing from you and prefer to answer questions on here so my answers can help others as well. Fortunately, this is temporary and the clear, emerald green water returns. Save. July used to be further down on my list because its such a crowded time to be here but I moved it up this year after going to the beach for sunrise almost every day last summer and observing that the water clarity was more consistent than I saw for any other month in Destin. The weekly summer events at Harborwalk Village, Baytowne Wharf, and the Boardwalk will also be taking place during all of June. Destins sugar-white sand and vivid blue-green-hued waters are a spot to behold. Be prepared for this spike in rates from Memorial Day through mid-August. Destin falls between Pensacolas historic streets and Panama City Beachs spring break capital. Filtration of impurities gives each of these special places their own unique presentation. And due to its remoteness, you will always be able to find a spot all to yourself. Report inappropriate content. On the upside, July is actually pretty good weather, thanks to the afternoon showers often taking the edge off the humidity. Web3. For the most part, the water in Destin is crystal clear. You wont get to enjoy the typical beach vacation activities during this time but its still an amazing force of Mother Nature to witness. You will see more police presence in Destin during spring break than any other time of the year, mostly looking for incidents of underage drinking. This gives them greater flexibility for travel and vacation times. Is the water to cold for 6-8 year olds to swim in ? However, from early October through Memorial Day Weekend, you can expect to see the very best conditions. Street Legal golf carts are allowed on all roads where the speed limit is 35mph or less but most of them only go 15-25mph so that can definitely slow traffic down too in the summer. Dont forget to check out our list of the Best Florida Keys Beaches for some more ideas of places to visit! May is the best time to visit Destin to enjoy both moderate temperatures and moderate crowds. Each has that special recipe for clarity, including the most important ingredient, the large, tranquil bay nearby. On a side note, the water at Crab Island is clearest during high tide. Is it safe?June Grass is perfectly safe. Its also the time between spring break and summer when there arent as many events or fun things happening. This sparkling sand creates the Gulf's remarkable emerald-toned color, unique to our shores and that sweet squeak under your feet. Summer will be in full swing all of June as schools are out and families will be vacationing in Destin. Save. Spending some time and actual effort to generate The magnificent white sand beaches and the soothing emerald-hued gulf waters make tourists eager. Fortunately, this is temporary and the clear, emerald green water returns. Harborwalk Village, Baytowne Wharf, and the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk will also have have fireworks shows on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend even though the regular weekly summer fireworks shows will have ended a few weeks prior. Always be on the lookout for stingrays at the beach, especially in August and September. Im glad you enjoy it! This seems to be the trend of last summer and fall. November in Destin can be full of some surprisingly warm days. One of the most frequently asked questions in our Facebook Group Destin Beach is how cold/warm will the water be during my Destin vacation? While the average daily temperature varies from year to year, here is the average water and air temperature in Destin, Florida by month: Like the weather, water clarity in Destin depends on a lot of different factors. June seagrass can briefly affect water clarity, but it is natural and safe, and short-lived. Even though September is hot and there is less to do in terms of festivities, Im still giving it the number 3 spot if we are assuming you are here mainly for the beach. The jewel colors are amazing. For the most part, the water in Destin is crystal clear. They arent usually a huge issue but there can be a few weeks in fall, especially in August and September, where there is a particularly bad outbreak and they are all over the beach, Destin Harbor and Crab Island. Along the Gulf Coast, east of the Mississippi, there are no major rivers to dump sediment, dirt, or waste into the sea. - February 13, 2018. However, most gather here to swim, eat, drink, dance, party and engage in all forms of water-time fun. Floridas Panhandle beaches are some of the most spectacular globally. It can be unexpectedly cold in March and April depending on whether the sun is out or not. We are coming back in two weeks. The most popular event in April is the annual Sandestin Wine Festivala weekend of wine and food that takes place annually in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Been to Hawaii and by far Destin has it all! Harborwalk has spring break events as well including a sunset celebration, a pirate and mermaids event, and a silent disco. More seriously, Ross French is a travel junkie & a tech nerd with a slightly concerning love for beer & wine. Siesta Key Beach is a beautiful spot that sits on the Gulf of Mexico just south of Sarasota. August is a hot and humid month in Destin but prices start to fall mid-August so you can often get some good deals on accommodations while still enjoying the beautiful beach weather. Consider subscribing by email. The jeweled colors are precious, and new visitors are sometimes startled with delight when they first see the dazzling sight. Manhattan, NY warning49 F Partly Cloudy. Many vacation rental owners are even reporting that they are selling out for summer in the spring so be sure to book ahead if you are planning a Destin visit during this time. A ball drop at Harborwalk Village, kids activities at Baytowne Wharf, and also plenty to do at the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk. When the wind is not blowing at all, it is easier to have clear water. The first 2 weeks of May (the final days of spring season here) have a winning combination of lower crowds, beautiful beach weather, and water that starts to feel comfortable for swimming on a sunny day. I procrastinate awhile before they get going thoughits hard not to ! However, storms in the Gulf of Mexico, or if June grass is present, then you will not experience the The closest major rivers to our shores are the Apalachicola River, 100 miles east, which flows into another large bay, and the Mississippi 250 miles to our west. Holiday festivities are combined with much nicer weather than most of the country is experiencing making it a great time to be in Florida. Destin Destin, FL is situated on the Florida Panhandle between Pensacola and Panama City. I wrote more details about those here: New Years Eve Fireworks in Destin. I appreciate every sale so much and it helps me continue to put out quality free content. Thanks! Harborwalk Village and The Village of Baytowne Wharf will both host Memorial Day weekend kick-off parties complete with live music, kids activities, and fireworks on the Sunday night of the holiday weekend. This significant achievement makes this place one of a precious few to have received this acclaim for excellence. The water is still warm enough to swim and the heaviest summer crowds have left. Winter is the best time for sunrises and sunsets over the water when the sun is all the way out over the Gulf of Mexico. Crystal clear water pours from the deep Gulf into the bay on a daily basis. WebThe best time to visit Destin is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s). We were in Destin a few weeks ago. These places even rank amongst the worlds most beautiful beaches. The sun radiates down as you soak up the rays and enjoy the anticipated relaxation. The only year it really impacted our visit was two years ago after the horific oil spill. But theres quite a valid reason for that. Its a great way to get into the holiday spirit. I have traveled to other places and gone to the fireworks shows and been unimpressed compared to the size and intensity of the fireworks shows here in Destin. Visitors to Siesta Key will find clear waters that stay warm through the fall months of the year. Every possible factor was been considered including the weather, crowds, events and beach conditions to decide when I think is the best time to visit Destin. Thankyou for all your hard work in compiling this fantastic article! The bright beach is the pure white ribbon that wraps the show's real star, the clear, glorious Gulf water. It is our nation's highest rating for pristine shoreline cleanliness. WebThe water color was brown from all the run off. Events in February include the Mardi Gras parades and festivities all over town later in the month (although Mardi Gras sometimes falls in early March) and Baytowne Wharf will also have their popular Sandestin Gumbo and Bloody Mary Festival in mid-February. "Land Zen" is the whimsical name of this gorgeous, gracious vacation home that can sleep up to 14 fortunate beach-going guests. Schiller Park, IL (60176) warning40 F Light Rain. December is the best time to visit Destin if you want a warmer climate for the holidays. Destin, Miramar Beach, and the picturesque coastal towns along Scenic 30A are all included in this title of clarity. This wonderful watery world inspires everyone to play. Depending on the combination of water temperatures and sunshine, the stunning variety of shades goes from emerald green to almost aquamarine. Re: clear ocean water in destin? Winter is also a great time for beach bonfires which are allowed in the neighboring town of Miramar Beach and all along 30a in Santa Rosa Beach. You can unsubscribe at any time. WebKeep in mind, Mother Nature will play a big part in what the water looks like during your visit. The beach is sparklingly bright and carries a similar green hue to our own waters. Fall in Destin: Mid-August through Mid-November Weather = Hot and Humid in early fall but less humidity and cooler evenings in later months Crowds = Moderate Fall in Destin: Mid-August through Mid-November Weather = Hot and Humid in early fall but less humidity and cooler evenings in later months Crowds = Moderate Destin Destin, FL is situated on the Florida Panhandle between Pensacola and Panama City. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: March in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds, Average High = 62degreesAverage Low = 40 degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 68degreesAverage Rainfall = 5.4inches. Furthermore, when they first see the sparkling sight, new tourists often startle with joy. Key West, Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key, and Destin are consistently on the top of the list. There are moderate crowd levels in December with the highest levels at Christmas and New Years weeks when a lot of families visit for the school break. Occasionally, strong storms can stir up the murky depths and create temporary seas that are akin more in color to the Atlantic Ocean. That being said, there is no doubt Destin is a tourist destination so anything that would appeal to tourists is an easier road then something for locals. What is your favorite month in Destin? WebThe water color was brown from all the run off. Mid-February will start to see some spring break crowds towards the end of the month which will liven things up around town after the quiet of slow season. Dont forget to check out our list of the Best Florida Keys Beaches for some more ideas of places to visit! The sunsets and sunrises over the gulf are at their best this month with the sun reaching the furthest spot it will get to over the water. Sometimes its so hot in summer that the rain is a welcome way to cool off in the afternoon after a long day at the beach. We all want to plan our vacation so that we get to experience the prettiest and clearest water while were there. Its more likely to appear after a storm, heavy rain session, or closer to freshwater outlets. 11 Beachfront Condos for Your Next 30A Vacation! Our area is currently open and operating as usual with restaurants and retail at 100% and no restrictions on events. Were not sure why this is, but we hypothesize that it has fewer nutrients or microbes while the water is colder. Thank you SO much . The public beach situation in Destin gets worse every year but you can still find a good spot if you know where to go and arrive early. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: October in Destin: Best Things to Do, Average High = 83 degreesAverage Low = 61 degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 77 degreesAverage Rainfall = 4.3 inches (lowest of the year). The clarity of the water in any ocean or sea is influenced by how much sediment flows into them. I will never spam you or use your email for any other reason. These are my guides to the different shows if you need more details: I want to be clear that these are not some tiny fireworks shows. It will be harder to find discounts or deals in summer because Destin will max out on occupancy even at peak rates during this time. The waters sheer clarity produces an unmistakable, luminescent, glowing green tone. Theres not much else to say about February except its mostly pretty chilly and uneventful. Unlike waters in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans that have a somber grayish-green color, here in Destin, the sea resembles the tone of glittering jewels. I look SOOO forward to vacation that I have a countdown beginning in May. the water was not cear and it was very rough. I wish I could be more helpful but I am not totally sure on that one because Im simply unfamiliar with that particular market. Visit between November to April when the winds are less stronger and thus the water clearer. Destin water clarity. You have not recently viewed any properties. The sea oats start blooming in June and they are hitting their peak of fullness between July-September before they start to fade in late fall and winter. Sometimes the temps will get below freezing at night but for the most part, winter is pretty mild here. Siesta Key Beach is a beautiful spot that sits on the Gulf of Mexico just south of Sarasota. The natural algae near the white sandy bottom provides an enchanting deep green luminescent glow. That year there were also hundreds and hundreds of Manta Rays cruising along the shore going East to West seemed like for about a month and there were tons of blue crabs that year. Keep in mind, Mother Nature will play a big part in what the water looks like during your visit. Shark Movie Night at Crab Island is a really unique event that I wrote about in more detail here: Shark Movie Night at Crab Island, Average High = 71degreesAverage Low = 46degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 72 degreesAverage Rainfall = 4.8 inches. There has been a huge uptick in the number of golf carts being used for travel, especially along the 5 miles of Scenic 98 so that can slow things down a bit too in those areas. As far as the summer tourists go, the crowd will consist of mostly families with children and there will be no shortage of activities and events aimed towards them. Destin will see the highest crowds during the summer and traffic is heavy, especially in the evenings and all day on the weekends. They are usually harmless and even exciting to swim with but they can sting you when startled. Siesta Key, Florida. The only opening between the bay and Gulf is at East Pass, which interconnects the two at Destin's Harbor. Crowd levels, events, weather, and beach conditions are also considerations. Several surveys frequently rate the Emerald Coast in Destin, Florida, as having the clearest water in Florida. The beach in Destin is amazing yes! Wind blowing away from the shore can help reduce waves and create conditions for clear water. Destin water clarity. When the wind is not blowing at all, it is easier to have clear water. https://thegoodlifedestin.com/september-in-destin/. You will definitely see plenty of spring breakers out swimming and unaffected by the cold temperatures. Destin. The dirt and sand will sink to the bottom if it is not being moved around. I wrote more about this event here: Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival. We come so much the locals call us locals. bigmacfan. Weekly summer fireworks and events will continue for the first 2 weeks of August but then everything will start to drop off as kids go back to school and occupancy rates decrease dramatically starting the 3rd week of August. The bays natural drainage leaves the Destin waters crystal clear and perfect. Book with people who have a policy you feel comfortable with. Snowbirds usually stay in town until about March 1st when most accommodations go into their higher season pricing. I hope this post helps you find the perfect time to visit Destin! This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: April in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds, Average High = 88 degreesAverage Low = 69 degreesAverage Gulf Water Temperature = 82degreesAverage Rainfall =6.7 inches. Fall pricing is higher than it used to be given the increase in demand for travel during these months but it is still going to be lower than summer in most cases. CLICK HERE TO SHOP MY PRODUCTS or check out the links below. The sand in Siesta Key isnt as soft and fluffy as that on the Emerald Coast. Whereas other areas situated along with the coast deal with large sediment deposits into the ocean or gulf. Here is my most recent October information and events article if you want more details about October in Destin. Ocean Reef Resorts guests receive special discounts here. We are from Hattiesburg Ms and we love Destin. The website offers information about June grass and tips to avoid it. WebTo view a chart of average water temperatures at beaches near where you are going, visit the National Oceanographic Data Center website for Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean temperatures.