Are you tired of the same old beach routine? If you want an all-new Destin experience, set your sights on a visit to the jetties. It’s the perfect place for exploring, fishing, and soaking in the views of the Emerald Coast and beyond. And we’re here to help you make the most of your journey. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you should know for a truly memorable trip to the Destin jetties.
What are the Destin Jetties?
The Destin jetties are two parallel rock barriers going from the shoreline into the Gulf of Mexico. These man-made barriers mark the East Pass, a channel connecting the Choctawhatchee Bay to the Gulf.
The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers created the jetties in the 1960s to protect and maintain the East Pass channel. The large granite rocks keep the channel deep and safe for boats traveling between the two connected waterways.
The eastern jetty is open to the public and has become a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The west jetty is not open to visitors due to its location on the Eglin Air Force Base property on Okaloosa Island.
How to Reach the East Jetty
To reach the East Jetty, park at O’Steen Public Beach Access, also known as Jetty East Beach Access. Be sure to come early, especially in the peak travel season as this parking lot is small in size and fills up fast.
From the parking lot, take the boardwalk onto the beach and walk east along the shoreline until you reach the jetty rocks. The entire walk is about a quarter mile and takes most people around 5 to 10 minutes.
Watch your step if you’re walking the jetty path at high tide or during rough conditions as some spots will be wet and slippery. Wearing water-resistant shoes with good grip can help you maintain your footing as you make your way over the rocks.
Activities at the Destin Jetties
Scenic views are the first thing you’ll notice upon reaching the jetty. You can see for miles in every direction, from the calm waters of the harbor to the open Gulf beyond. But don’t settle for just soaking in the views. The Destin jetties offer a wide variety of activities for all ages. Here are some activities you might enjoy.
Photography
If you’re in love with the breathtaking views, why not capture them forever? Whether you have a professional camera setup or just your phone, the jetties offer endless picture-perfect moments. The rugged rocks against emerald waters, the vibrant marine life below, and the boats drifting by all make for unforgettable shots.
Pro Tip: Plan your visit for just before sunrise or sunset to capture the magic of the golden hour. The soft, warm light at these times of the day will add immense beauty to every picture you take.
Snorkeling
The jetties act as manmade reefs, making them a snorkeler’s paradise. All you have to do is put on your mask and fins to explore a whole new world beneath the surface. As you swim about, you’ll undoubtedly see schools of colorful fish, like redfish, pompano, and king mackerel. Also, watch for crabs scuttling along the seabed or a starfish clinging to the rocky walls. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a flounder camouflaged against the sand or a curious octopus peeking out from its den.
Pro Tip: Always snorkel with a buddy and be mindful of the strong currents. Also, avoid touching coral or any marine creatures, as this can harm them and disrupt the delicate ecosystem.
Scuba diving
If you’re an experienced scuba diver who loves a good challenge, the Destin jetties are the place to be. Scuba diving lets you see all the local marine life up close—from colorful schools of fish to the occasional sea turtle gliding by. The rocks create numerous hideouts for grouper and more, while rays and small sharks sometimes cruise through the deeper waters.
Pro Tip: Time your dive for high slack tide when the currents are the calmest. Local dive shops can give you a heads-up on timing and conditions for the day, so make a quick call ahead to get the inside scoop.
Fishing
Prefer to keep your feet on dry land? Try your hand at catch-and-release fishing (or even keep your catch if it meets local regulations) at the Destin jetties. The jetties are ideal for various fishing styles, whether you prefer using live bait, lures, or even trying your luck with fly fishing. With so many fish species drawn to the rocks, you won’t have to wait long for that first bite, either.
Pro Tip: Get your saltwater fishing license and carry it while fishing, as wildlife officers may request to see it. Additionally, learn about local fishing regulations, such as size and bag limits. Beyond that, bring sturdy gear and tackle to avoid snagging your line on the rocks.
Crabbing
Crabbing at the Destin jetties is a great way to spend an afternoon. It’s simple, exciting, and you might even end up with a tasty treat. All you need is a crab trap, some bait (chicken necks are a popular choice), and a bucket to hold your catch. You can rent traps or buy them at local bait shops. Just remember to bring a whole lot of patience, too. It might take some time for the crabs to find your trap.
Pro Tip: You must have a saltwater fishing license to harvest crabs. You must also complete a no-cost online trap registration through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This registration gives you a unique trap number to attach to each trap.
Your Adventure Awaits at the Destin Jetties
So, there you have it. The Destin jetties are so much more than just a pile of granite. They’re a place to explore, have a great time, and make some awesome memories. Better yet, the jetties are the perfect spot to escape the crowds and experience the best of Destin.
