Things To Do
in Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach sits along Florida's Emerald Coast, just west of Destin, famed for its sugar-white sands and turquoise Gulf waters. The area blends easy beach access with family-friendly attractions and a relaxed resort vibe. Shops, seafood shacks, and sunset-viewing spots line the highway as you move between neighborhoods.
While popular with vacationers, Miramar Beach maintains a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that invites slow mornings on the shore and memorable day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the soft white sands of Miramar Beach, soaking in the serene morning atmosphere. Enjoy a coffee from a nearby café while watching the sun rise over the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the perfect time to take a refreshing dip in the calm waters before the crowds arrive.
Indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of the beachside restaurants, savoring fresh seafood and local delicacies. Afterward, embark on a thrilling water sports adventure, trying jet skiing, paddleboarding, or parasailing. The warm sun and gentle beach breeze make for an unforgettable afternoon.
As the day winds down, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness the stunning sunset that paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. Treat yourself to dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can savor delicious cuisine while listening to the sound of waves crashing. Conclude your day with a moonlit walk along the shore or a sunset cruise out on the water.
After breakfast, set out to explore some of the local attractions, such as the picturesque Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Spend your morning browsing through unique shops and enjoying the vibrant local art scene. Don't forget to take a few photos of the beautiful harbor views.
Visit the nearby Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park to learn about the marine life of the Gulf and enjoy various animal encounters. The park's educational exhibits and shows make for an engaging and entertaining afternoon. Grab a casual lunch at one of the eateries in the area before heading back to the beach.
In the evening, attend a local event or live music performance at one of the beach bars or entertainment venues. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Wrap up your night with a refreshing cocktail under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $120-280 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🎟️State park/attraction entry | $6-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with sugar-white sands and clear water
- Family-friendly activities and laid-back coastal vibe
- Excellent seafood and casual dining options
- Close to nature preserves and water-based recreation
- Crowds and higher prices in peak season
- Limited public transit; car rental is convenient
- Hurricane season implications
- Some areas have limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities
Places to Visit in Miramar Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Towering white dunes and turquoise water provide dramatic sunrise and golden-hour silhouettes along a pristine shoreline.
Marina viewpoints, boats, and colorful sunsets create dynamic compositions with reflections on the water.
Wide white-sand beaches with lineups of shells and dune lines—perfect for expansive landscape shots.
Coastal forests, dune ecosystems, and pastel beach houses offer picturesque coastal photography near scenic Highway 30A.
Food in Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender Gulf shrimp simmered with corn, potatoes, and spicy seasonings—popular at casual beachside eateries.
Must-Try!
Flaky grouper fillet seasoned and seared, served on a bun with toppings and a side of fries or slaw.
Lightly battered white fish served with hush puppies and tartar sauce, a classic coastal staple.
Bright, tart dessert made with key lime juice and a graham crust, a Florida favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and handcrafted goods—great for a quick, tasty bite on the go.
Casual stalls and beachfront vendors serving seafood bites, tacos, and street-style snacks with marina views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect dune restoration and wildlife, follow lifeguard instructions on beaches, and avoid loud behavior late at night near residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Miramar Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, it is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants; 10-15% for bar service; tips are common for taxi or ride-share drivers and hotel staff.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with daily sun; expect crowds and afternoon storms; water activities are in full swing and beach parking can fill early.
Warm days with blooming landscapes and lighter crowds; ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and seaside dining with pleasant evenings.
Crisp nights and warm days; shoulder-season crowds ease up; perfect for coastal walks, fishing trips, and scenic drives.
Milder temperatures with occasional cool spells; some attractions operate on limited schedules; great for quieter beaches and off-season rates.
Miramar Beach at Night
Hiking in Miramar Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal dune trails with ocean views and boardwalks suitable for easy hikes.
Dune and forest trails near Scenic Highway 30A offering lush scenery and wildlife.
Elevated boardwalks through pine forests and dune ecosystems with sweeping coastlines.
Airports
How to reach Miramar Beach by plane.
Regional airport serving many domestic flights; approximately 25 miles from Miramar Beach, with car rental and shuttle options available.
Larger hub with frequent domestic connections; roughly 90 miles west, accessible by car or shuttle services.
Panama City Beach gateway with domestic service; about 60-90 miles east, depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large share of vacationing families, with kid-friendly attractions, beaches, and eateries.
Seasonal residents and retirees enjoying a slower pace and coastal communities.
Snowbirds and vacationers who visit for extended stretches in spring and fall.
Some locals and visitors in their 20s–40s working in service and tourism, attracted by waterfront leisure.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on public beaches and resort courts, often played in the mornings and evenings.
Pier, charter boats, and beach casting are common pastimes along the gulf shores.
Watercraft rentals and guided tours are widely available for exploring the bay and gulf.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Miramar Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose salads, veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, fruit bowls, and pasta dishes; ask for olive oil or lemon-based dressings, and verify that cross-contamination is avoided in kitchens.