Florida: Wrapping It Up In Destin

Our final adventure in Florida brings us to Destin, famously known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” With its sugary white sands, crystal-clear emerald waters, and bustling boardwalk, Destin has so much to offer. 

Join us as we explore this charming destination in our fifth wheel.

Camping at Eglin AFB

We chose to stay at Eglin AFB in the water and electric only section, which is right on the water. For those needing full hookups, there's a separate campground further inland on the base. This might be a better option, given the flooding we experienced.

Armament Museum

Located just outside the base, the Air Force Armament Museum was our next stop. We explored it with friends we met in Rhode Island. The museum features an impressive collection of aircraft, which thrilled my son, along with a diverse array of weapons and armament. It is open to the public.

Henderson Beach State Park

My favorite beaches in Destin are located in Henderson Beach State Park. We walked the scenic trail that winds through the dunes and then enjoyed a picnic on the beach. Of course, we were quickly targeted by seagulls—we have the worst luck with birds!

Destin Harbor Boardwalk

When my parents visited, we took them to the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. It was a beautiful walk. Even though it was off-season, we still managed to buy coffee and beignets while admiring all the boats. 

An added bonus of visiting during the off-season is free parking!

Britton Hill

Having visited the southernmost point in Florida, we thought it only natural to visit the highest natural point, Britton Hill.

It stands at a whopping 345 feet above sea level, making it the lowest high point of any US state.

Shopping

If shopping is your thing, don't miss Silver Sands Premium Outlets!

Fishing

Scott met an awesome guy in Destin who is really good at cast netting. He invited Scott and my son over to show them how it's done and was so gracious that he even bought my son his own cast net. I've since learned how to cast net, and although complicated at first, it is a lot of fun!

Overall Experience

We love Destin! Although we've never been during the touristy season. It was here that our friends (whom we met in Rhode Island) planted the idea, mapped out routes, and offered their property for a trip to Alaska. 

I don’t think we would have gone to Alaska if it weren’t for them, and I am so grateful for their friendship and adventurous spirit.

I am also grateful for people who go out of their way to teach new experiences. We saw this with our new friend from Destin and our friends from Alaska.

If this journey has taught us anything, it is to stay flexible, available, and open to interruptions.

“The best way to make a difference is to be available. We’re all looking for a ‘high calling’ but we all have a calling right where we are. Make yourself available and watch what happens.”-Bob Goff

Ephesians 5:15-17 (NLT):

"So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do."

Reflection

I've realized that I've spent too much time on trivial pursuits like TV, vanity, housework, media, and worry.

Over the past three years, I've learned what effective time management FOR ME truly looks like:

• It means choosing the Bible over the news in the morning

• Taking fifteen minutes to get ready instead of an hour

• forgo unnecessary house chores to focus more on my family

• Opting for prayer, trust, and vulnerability over worry. 

• Allowing myself to rest when overwhelmed 

• Walk instead of lounging

• Schoolwork instead of scrolling

• Last but perhaps most important- Investing time in relationships AND meeting new people.

I hope we've been able to offer love, peace, and inspiration in the same way others have given to us during our full-time adventure. 

New friendships have broadened our perspectives, guided us to new paths, and helped us understand what contentment truly means. 

I am deeply grateful for the hospitality and kindness of friends across this beautiful country, and I aspire for our family to mirror their spirit of being available to others.

“The most powerful way to impact someone’s life is to be fully present when you’re with them.”-Bob Goff

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Please guide me in managing my time wisely, discerning relationships, and being available to others as Jesus was. I desire to be positive, helpful, and a light in this often dark and conflicted world. Help me share Your peace and live according to Your truth. Grant me the opportunity to bless someone today, as I have been blessed.

In Jesus’ name, Amen

• I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below. 

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