The beach is Destin's playground. Still, there are other activities if you want a break from sandy toes and salty water. (Is that possible?)

Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park drenches in a different way. Slide, float, and tumble down 40 different attractions including a lazy river, a wave pool, and huge slides. You can also play miniature golf and race go-karts.

Want something a little less heart pounding? The Destin area offers some really terrific shopping and not just of the cheesy souvenir type. Start your spree at Destin Commons, a new outdoor complex anchored by a Rave Motion Pictures theater, Bass Pro Shop, Hard Rock Cafe, and Belk. Scattered around these biggies are both boutiques and well-known stores, as well as a playground area and a 49-head pop-up fountain for kids to run through.

above: Enjoy a ride down the lazy river at Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park, one of Destin's best attractions.