A Guide for Vacationing with a Baby in Destin, FL

Are you a new parent preparing for your first vacation with your baby? Planning a trip with a baby can come with some concerns; however, if you prepare correctly, it will be an incredibly smooth vacation! Destin is an excellent place to vacation with your little one! To help your stress, we collected everything you need to know for your trip to Destin with a baby. 

The first thought that may come to mind is equipment! Let's be honest, traveling with a little one is a challenging task, and it comes with a lot of packing. We have some excellent news, Destin and our surrounding areas have some baby equipment rental services! Here are some of the businesses we recommend. 

• BabyQuip: We highly recommend BabyQuip for all of your baby & children's rental equipment services. You connect directly with a representative, and they take their cleanliness very seriously! https://destinflorida.com/miramar-beach/services/baby-gear/babyquip-baby-beach-gear-rentals

• Baby's Away: A national chain that provides baby gear rental services in Destin and many other locations across the United States. They offer a wide range of equipment, including cribs, strollers, car seats, and more.

• Destin Baby Rentals: A local company that provides baby equipment rental services in Destin and the surrounding area. They offer a variety of equipment, including cribs, strollers, high chairs, and more.

• Little Beach Rentals: A local company specializing in beach equipment rental, they also offer a variety of baby equipment such as beach strollers, beach chairs, and beach umbrellas.

• Many local hotels and vacation rental properties also provide baby equipment rental services or partner with rental companies. It's always a good idea to check with your specific accommodation to see what they offer or can recommend.

As you prepare the next steps and settle on a company to work with, here is our list of must-haves for your baby's first trip. 

1. A stroller for getting around town and the beach. 

2. A baby carrier for hands-free exploring. 

3. A beach tent or umbrella for sun protection. 

4. Booster seat or high chair for meals. 

5. A wagon for traveling around the town and to the beach. 

Here is a list of some of our top recommendations. We also suggest packing baby-friendly sunscreen, insect repellent, and a baby-safe water float or life jacket for swimming. Remember, extra clothing and blankets for emergencies!

Now that the equipment necessities are taken care of, you can plan fun adventures with your baby! Just because you have a baby doesn't mean you have to stick to the pool. We collected a list of baby-friendly, Destin activities for you and your baby.

• Visit the beach: Destin is known for its beautiful beaches, and the warm Gulf waters are perfect for swimming and playing. Be sure to bring a beach tent or umbrella for shade and a baby-safe floatation device or life jacket for swimming.

• Take a dolphin-watching cruise: Many local companies offer cruises suitable for families with babies. This is a great way to see the local wildlife and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

• Visit the Henderson Beach State Park: This park offers a playground, picnic areas, nature trails, and a boardwalk that goes over a dune lake. Henderson is a great spot to relax and enjoy the area's natural beauty.

• Play at the park: Destin has several playgrounds and parks where you can take your baby to play and enjoy the fresh air.

• Shopping: Destin has several shopping centers, such as Destin Commons and Silver Sands Premium Outlets, with various stores and restaurants, perfect for a family day out.

• Go fishing: Many local companies offer fishing trips suitable for families with babies. You'll discover this is a great way to spend a relaxing day on the water.

• Take a stroll on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk: This area offers beautiful views of the water, boats, and several restaurants where you can grab a bite.

• Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park: This park offers a chance to see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals. They also offer shows and encounters suitable for families with babies

These are just a few ideas, but there are many other things to do with your baby in Destin, Florida. Check with local tourist information centers for more suggestions and ideas. We hope you feel more at ease with your first adventure with your baby. Enjoy your trip!