12 Fun Things To Do In Miramar Beach, Florida
Miramar Beach isn’t flashy—and that’s exactly the point. Tucked along Florida’s Emerald Coast, just east of Destin, this beach town offers a softer kind of sunshine escape. Picture gentle waves, sugar-white sand, and sunsets that stop you mid-step. But beyond its postcard-perfect shoreline, Miramar Beach quietly delivers a full menu of things to do—whether you're in flip-flops, on a bike, or dressed for dinner under the stars.
Here, days begin with coffee walks along Scenic Gulf Drive and end with live music in breezy coastal villages. In between? Beachcombing, farmers markets, local boutiques, nature preserves, and more than a few ways to enjoy fresh Gulf seafood. Families love the low-key vibe. Couples come for the quiet, romantic pace. And solo travelers find room to breathe and explore without the crowds.
So if you're wondering what to do in Miramar Beach, Florida, consider this your go-to guide—packed with local experiences, scenic detours, and the kind of coastal moments that linger long after the tan fades.
1. Relax on Miramar Beach
Location: 2375 Scenic Gulf Dr, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (main public access)
Fun Fact:
The sand on Miramar Beach comes from the Appalachian Mountains—carried over thousands of years by rivers and made of nearly pure quartz, which gives it that signature white, cool-to-the-touch texture.
Stretching along the Emerald Coast, Miramar Beach is known for its sugar-white sands and calm, emerald-green waters that draw beachgoers year-round. This isn’t just a pretty beach—it’s a peaceful, uncrowded escape that’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to soak up that classic Gulf Coast sunshine. Whether you're reading under an umbrella or wading waist-deep into the surf, the beach here feels refreshingly low-key.
You’ll find plenty of public access points, some with restrooms, parking, and beach gear rentals. Arrive early to snag a front-row spot near the shoreline, or stroll down the water’s edge to find a quiet stretch of sand all to yourself. The waves are usually gentle, making this a great spot for paddleboarding or floating the day away.
Important Information:
- Best for: Beach days, families, relaxing, paddleboarding
- Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
- Parking: Free and paid lots available at public beach accesses
- Accessibility: Some beach accesses offer ADA mats and beach wheelchairs
- Amenities: Restrooms, outdoor showers, chair/umbrella rentals, food nearby
- Pet Policy: No dogs allowed on beach without local permit
2. Explore the Scenic Gulf Drive
Location: Scenic Gulf Drive, between Miramar Beach and Crystal Beach
One of the most scenic drives on Florida’s Panhandle, Scenic Gulf Drive hugs the coastline and offers stunning views, beach access, and some of the best local eats around. It’s ideal for a slow cruise, a bike ride, or even a walk during golden hour. If you want to experience the laid-back side of Miramar Beach, this drive is the perfect way to do it—no rush, no stress, just salty air and ocean views.
Along the way, you’ll find colorful beach cottages, local seafood joints, open-air bars, and even beachfront parks with access points to the sand. It’s not unusual to spot dolphins offshore or catch surfers riding small Gulf waves. The route is bike-friendly with wide shoulders, and many visitors rent bikes or e-bikes to explore it end to end.
Fun Fact:
Scenic Gulf Drive was once part of the original Highway 98, before the modern bypass was built—making it a nostalgic throwback to Old Florida beach road culture.
Important Information:
- Best for: Scenic drives, biking, photography, casual exploring
- Hours: Accessible 24/7; best enjoyed during daylight
- Parking: Free public lots and street parking near beach access points
- Accessibility: Most stops are walkable; sidewalks and beach ramps available
- Amenities: Restaurants, beach bars, public restrooms at beach access points
- Safety Tip: Watch for cyclists and pedestrians—this is a shared-use roadway
3. Visit the Silver Sands Premium Outlets
Location: 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Fun Fact:
Silver Sands spans over 465,000 square feet of retail space and draws shoppers from all over the Gulf Coast—especially on rainy beach days.
If your idea of the perfect beach vacation includes a little retail therapy, the Silver Sands Premium Outlets are your go-to spot. With over 100 designer and name-brand stores, this open-air shopping center is one of the largest outlet malls in the country. You’ll find big brands like Nike, Coach, Kate Spade, Columbia, and Michael Kors—often at steep discounts that make it easy to justify “just one more” shopping bag.
The layout is walkable and family-friendly, with shaded areas, a play zone for kids, and food options when you need to recharge between stores. Whether you’re after new vacation clothes, a pair of running shoes, or early holiday gifts, this spot has you covered.
Important Information:
- Best for: Shoppers, families, bargain hunters, rainy-day plans
- Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–8pm, Sun 10am–6pm (holiday hours vary)
- Parking: Free, with ample spaces and EV charging stations
- Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant with wide walkways and wheelchair rentals
- Amenities: Public restrooms, ATMs, food court, kids' play area
- Pet Policy: Pets allowed in common areas; store policies vary
4. Check Out the Local Farmers Market
Location: Grand Boulevard Farmers Market – 495 Grand Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (Every Saturday, 9am–1pm)
Fun Fact:
Many of the vendors at the Grand Boulevard Farmers Market also supply ingredients to local restaurants—so you’re truly getting a taste of the area.
For a taste of local flavor, spend a relaxed morning at the Grand Boulevard Farmers Market, held every Saturday just minutes from Miramar Beach. This curated outdoor market brings together regional farmers, artisans, and small-batch food producers under a shady row of tents in a beautifully landscaped shopping center. It’s more than just fruits and veggies—it’s where locals and visitors mingle, sample, and shop in a friendly, walkable setting.
Expect fresh produce, artisan cheeses, handmade soaps, microgreens, baked goods, and specialty items like raw honey and infused olive oils. Live music often adds to the atmosphere, and it’s a great place to grab a fresh pastry and coffee before browsing the boutiques and galleries nearby.
Important Information:
- Best for: Foodies, families, slow mornings, local culture lovers
- Hours: Saturdays from 9am–1pm (year-round, rain or shine)
- Parking: Free onsite parking at Grand Boulevard
- Accessibility: Fully accessible pathways; stroller and wheelchair-friendly
- Amenities: Public restrooms, shaded seating, dining options nearby
5. Walk Through the Village of Baytowne Wharf
Location: 9100 Baytowne Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (within Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort)
Fun Fact:
Baytowne Wharf was designed to feel like an old fishing village and sits on the original footprint of a 1930s-era fishing outpost.
If you’re looking for a spot that blends shopping, dining, live entertainment, and waterfront views, the Village of Baytowne Wharf delivers. Set along the Choctawhatchee Bay, this colorful, New Orleans-style pedestrian village is full of personality and activity. Think cobblestone walkways, boutique shops, lively restaurants, and even a zipline that flies over the lagoon. It’s just as fun to explore in the morning with coffee in hand as it is after dark when the lights twinkle and music spills from the patios.
The Village hosts events all year long—outdoor movies, art walks, wine festivals, and holiday celebrations. Kids will love the adventure zone with a ropes course, carousel, and arcade, while adults can enjoy sunset cocktails, live music, or a leisurely bayfront dinner. It’s not a quick stop—it’s an evening well spent.
Important Information:
- Best for: Families, couples, nightlife seekers, foodies
- Hours: Open daily; shops and restaurants have varying hours
- Parking: Free garage and lot parking; tram service available within Sandestin
- Accessibility: Fully walkable, ADA-compliant paths throughout
- Amenities: Dining, shopping, zipline, restrooms, entertainment stage
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs welcome in outdoor areas
6. Picnic at Henderson Beach State Park
Location: 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541 (10–15 min drive from Miramar Beach)
Fun Fact:
The white sand at Henderson Beach is made of pure Appalachian quartz—so fine and reflective, it literally keeps your feet cool on hot days.
Looking for a quieter, more natural slice of the Emerald Coast? Henderson Beach State Park is a beautiful, well-kept escape from the busier public beaches nearby. With over 6,000 feet of pristine shoreline, nature trails, and designated picnic areas, this park is ideal for a relaxing afternoon under the Florida sun. It’s also one of the few spots in the area where you can enjoy beach access with fewer crowds, especially during the week.
The park features pavilions with picnic tables and grills, as well as boardwalks leading over the dunes to the beach. If you’re up for a light hike, there’s a short nature trail that weaves through coastal vegetation and offers glimpses of local wildlife. Whether you’re with the family, on a couple’s trip, or flying solo, Henderson Beach brings the peace and natural beauty that make the Gulf so special.
Important Information:
- Best for: Nature lovers, picnickers, families, photographers
- Hours: 8am–sunset daily
- Admission: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
- Parking: Ample lot parking near pavilions and trail access
- Accessibility: ADA-accessible boardwalks and beach wheelchairs available
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, grills, picnic shelters, hiking trail
- Pet Policy: Pets allowed in designated areas (not on the beach)
7. Visit the Destin Commons
Location: 4100 Legendary Dr, Destin, FL 32541
(About 15 minutes west of Miramar Beach)
Fun Fact:
Destin Commons was named “Best Place to Shop” by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine for over a decade running.
If you're in the mood to combine shopping, dining, and a little entertainment, Destin Commons is a one-stop spot for a casual, all-ages outing. This open-air lifestyle center features a mix of name-brand stores like Sephora, Bass Pro Shops, and H&M, plus locally owned boutiques and plenty of places to grab a bite. The layout is walkable and family-friendly, with wide sidewalks, colorful murals, and an inviting, relaxed vibe.
It’s not just a mall—it’s a hangout. The Commons regularly hosts seasonal events like holiday lights, sidewalk sales, and car shows. Kids will love the splash pad and soft-play playground in the central courtyard, while adults can kick back with coffee, ice cream, or even a local brew from the World of Beer. On rainy days or hot afternoons, catch a movie at the onsite AMC theater.
Important Information:
- Best for: Families, shoppers, rainy day plans
- Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–8pm, Sun 11am–7pm (individual store hours may vary)
- Parking: Free, including garage and surface lots
- Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant, wide walkways, stroller-friendly
- Amenities: Restrooms, dining, splash pad, theater, free Wi-Fi
- Pet Policy: Leashed pets allowed in common areas; some stores are pet-friendly
8. Catch the Sunset at the Beach
Location: Any public beach access in Miramar Beach—Scenic Gulf Dr is ideal
Fun Fact:
Due to Miramar Beach’s position along the Gulf, you can often see the sun dip straight into the horizon—something that’s not possible on many east-facing Atlantic beaches.
There are beach sunsets, and then there are Miramar Beach sunsets—the kind that stop you mid-conversation and leave you reaching for your camera. As the day winds down, the Gulf transforms into a mirror of oranges, pinks, and deep purples. Locals and visitors alike gather on the sand each evening, some with beach chairs, others with picnic blankets or evening cocktails in hand. It’s a ritual here—and one of the simplest, most beautiful things you can do.
There’s no need to go far or spend money. Just walk to the nearest beach access, settle in, and let the sky do its thing. For an extra-special experience, consider timing your dinner around sunset—many beachfront restaurants like The Crab Trap or Surf Hut offer perfect viewing right from your table.
Important Information:
- Best for: Couples, photographers, solo travelers, anyone needing a reset
- Best Time: Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to claim your spot
- Parking: Available at public access points along Scenic Gulf Drive
- Accessibility: Several beach accesses offer ADA mats and ramps
- Amenities: Restrooms and outdoor showers available at most beach accesses
- Tip: Bring a light jacket or blanket—breezes can pick up after dark
9. Explore Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Location: 7525 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
(Approx. 20 minutes east of Miramar Beach)
Fun Fact:
The park’s towering white sand dunes, some over 25 feet high, inspired the name "Topsail" because they resemble the sails of ships when viewed from the water.
For a deeper dive into Florida’s natural side, head to Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, a 1,600-acre coastal wonderland with white sand dunes, rare freshwater lakes, quiet hiking trails, and untouched beaches. This is where you go when you want to trade beach crowds for the peaceful sound of wind through pines and the crunch of trail underfoot. It’s a hidden gem with something for every type of outdoor explorer.
The park features more than 15 miles of hiking and biking trails, including shaded paths through longleaf pine forests and boardwalks that lead to scenic dune lakes. The beach is accessible via a tram or a scenic ¾-mile walk—well worth the effort for the serenity you’ll find at the shoreline. Wildlife sightings are common, including deer, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle.
Important Information:
- Best for: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, beachgoers seeking quiet
- Hours: Daily from 8am–sunset
- Admission: $6 per vehicle
- Parking: Ample lot parking near the visitor center
- Accessibility: Beach tram is ADA-accessible; some trails are wheelchair-friendly
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, tram to beach, rental cabins nearby
- Pet Policy: Pets allowed on trails and in campgrounds, but not on the beach
10. Play a Game of Mini Golf
Location: The Track – 1125 US-98, Destin, FL 32541
(10–15 minutes west of Miramar Beach)
Looking for some laid-back, all-ages fun? Head to The Track in nearby Destin for a round (or two) of mini golf. With its tropical landscaping, quirky obstacles, and fun-for-everyone vibe, this 18-hole course is a great way to break up beach time—especially with kids in tow. The holes are beginner-friendly but still offer enough variety to keep adults entertained.
But the fun doesn’t stop at putt-putt. The Track is a full-fledged family fun park with go-karts, bumper boats, an arcade, and a sky flyer ride. You could easily spend a few hours here, especially in the evening when the course lights up and the air cools down. It's a fun and affordable outing for families, friend groups, or even a low-key date night.
Important Information:
- Best for: Families, casual gamers, kid-friendly evenings
- Hours: Vary seasonally (typically 10am–10pm in summer)
- Admission: Pay-as-you-play system; mini golf ~$10–12/person
- Parking: Free onsite parking
- Accessibility: Mini golf course is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly
- Amenities: Restrooms, snack bar, arcade, shaded seating areas
- Pet Policy: Service animals only
11. Try Your Hand at Beachcombing
Location: Any public beach access along Scenic Gulf Drive or nearby parks like Henderson Beach State Park
There’s something meditative about walking the shoreline with your eyes down, scanning for treasures left behind by the tide. Beachcombing in Miramar Beach is a simple but rewarding activity that’s perfect for early mornings or quiet sunset strolls. From seashells and sand dollars to driftwood and colorful sea glass, the Gulf has a way of offering little surprises to those who slow down and look.
The best time to beachcomb is right after high tide or following a storm, when the ocean tends to deposit more along the shore. You don’t need special tools—just a bag or bucket and a sense of curiosity. Kids especially love the thrill of the hunt, and it's a great way to teach them about marine life and environmental respect.
Important Information:
- Best for: Families, shell collectors, morning walkers
- Best Time: Early morning or just after high tide
- Parking: Available at all public beach accesses
- Accessibility: Most access points offer ADA mats or ramps
- What to Bring: Small bag or bucket, water shoes, sunscreen
- Pet Policy: Leashed pets not allowed on most beaches without a permit
- Leave No Trace: Take only uninhabited shells, and never disturb nesting areas
12. Enjoy Free Outdoor Concerts and Movies
Location: Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and the Village of Baytowne Wharf
Fun Fact:
Grand Boulevard’s “Coastal Culture” series features not only movies and concerts, but also outdoor theater and dance performances—all free to the public.
One of the best things about a Miramar Beach vacation? You don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy great entertainment. Throughout the year—especially spring through fall—free outdoor concerts and movie nights light up the local event calendars at spots like Baytowne Wharf and Grand Boulevard. From live jazz and cover bands to family movie nights under the stars, there’s always something playing, and the vibe is relaxed and welcoming.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab dinner from a nearby restaurant or food truck, and settle in with the whole family—or a bottle of wine and your favorite travel buddy. These community-style events feel cozy and local, even in the middle of a popular tourist area.
Important Information:
- Best for: Families, couples, budget travelers, night owls
- Schedule: Varies by season—check local calendars for current lineups
- Hours: Typically evenings around 7–8pm
- Parking: Free and easy at both venues
- Accessibility: Lawn areas are wheelchair accessible
- What to Bring: Blanket or folding chair, snacks or drinks, bug spray
- Pet Policy: Leashed dogs usually welcome in outdoor common areas
Conclusion
Miramar Beach, Florida, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking affordable yet unforgettable experiences. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Miramar Beach, from exploring the stunning white sand beaches and emerald waters to shopping at Silver Sands Premium Outlets or strolling through the Village of Baytowne Wharf. The variety of activities ensures there’s something for everyone, making it an ideal spot for budget-conscious travelers looking for fun and relaxation.
One of the great things about Miramar Beach is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have an incredible time. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy free activities like hiking through Topsail Hill Preserve State Park or catching a beautiful sunset over the Gulf. Families will find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Miramar Beach, from playing mini-golf to attending free outdoor concerts and movies.
Planning to visit? Karta has some amazing deals on Miramar Beach vacation rentals for you.
FAQ
1. What is the weather like in Miramar Beach throughout the year?
Miramar Beach enjoys a warm, coastal climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures range from the 80s to 90s, ideal for beach activities. Winters are mild, averaging in the 50s and 60s. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures.
2. What are the best routes to get to Miramar Beach?
The best routes to Miramar Beach include driving via US Highway 98, which runs along the coast and provides scenic views. Interstate 10 is a major east-west route that connects to US 331, leading directly to Miramar Beach. The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is the nearest airport, offering convenient air travel options.
3. How far is Miramar Beach from Destin Boardwalk?
Miramar Beach is approximately 10 miles east of the Destin Boardwalk. The drive along US Highway 98 takes about 15-20 minutes, offering stunning coastal views along the way. It's a short and scenic trip, making it easy to enjoy the attractions at both locations.
4. How can I get from Miramar Beach to Crab Island?
Crab Island is about 15 miles from Miramar Beach. Drive west on US Highway 98 to Destin Harbor, where you can rent a boat or take a shuttle to Crab Island. This popular spot is perfect for a day of water fun, with clear shallow waters ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and floating.
5. What is the distance from Miramar Beach to Destin?
Miramar Beach is about 8 miles east of Destin, a short drive along US Highway 98. The route offers beautiful coastal scenery and easy access to Destin’s attractions, including its famous white-sand beaches, vibrant harbor, and numerous dining and shopping options.
