So you’re headed to Destin and the surrounding beaches for vacation? How exciting!! To help with your trip planning, we have crafted a blog post to tell you how to get to Destin, FL. Whether you are traveling by car or flying into a nearby airport, we have the details covered. Keep reading for great information to make your vacation planning easy and breezy.
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Driving Directions to Destin and Santa Rosa Beach
From the north (Montgomery, AL):
- Start by heading south on I-65 S from Montgomery.
- Continue on I-65 S for approximately 80 miles until you reach exit 131 for US-84 toward Georgiana/Andalusia.
- Take exit 131 and merge onto US-84 W toward Andalusia.
- Continue on US-84 W for approximately 40 miles until you reach FL-189 S.
- Turn left onto FL-189 S and continue for about 12 miles until you reach US-90 W.
- Turn right onto US-90 W and continue for approximately 15 miles until you reach FL-85 S.
- Merge onto FL-85 S and continue for about 27 miles until you reach FL-293 S.
- Merge onto FL-293 S toward Niceville/Destin/Mid-Bay Bridge and continue for approximately 12 miles.
- Take the exit toward FL-20 E/Niceville and merge onto FL-20 E.
- Continue on FL-20 E for about 12 miles until you reach US-98 E.
- Merge onto US-98 E and continue for approximately 15 miles until you reach Destin.
- If you wish Santa Rosa Beach to be your final destination, continue on US-98E for another 18 miles.
Depending on traffic and road conditions, this route takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. You will enjoy the scenic drive that offers glimpses of rural Alabama and the beautiful Gulf Coast.
From the east:
If you’re coming from the east, take Interstate 10 (I-10) westbound until exit 56 for FL-85 toward Niceville/Crestview. Follow FL-85 southbound until you reach FL-20, then head west on FL-20 until you reach US Highway 98. From there, continue west on US Highway 98 until you reach Destin.
From the west:
If you’re coming from the west, take Interstate 10 (I-10) eastbound until you reach FL-331. Follow FL-331 southbound until you reach FL-98, then head west until you reach Santa Rosa Beach. To continue towards Destin, stay on FL-98 west for another 18 miles.
As with all driving directions, check your GPS or a reliable map app for the best driving directions from your exact location. This will also give you the best driving time based on traffic, detours, and construction.
Airports Near Destin, FL
For those outside driving distance and who would like to visit our beautiful beach, here is how to get to Destin, FL, via air travel.
- Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS): Located just north of Destin, VPS is the area’s nearest commercial airport. It offers flights from various airlines, including Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Sun Country Airlines, and Southwest Airlines (Avelo Airline coming May 2024). With access to various rental car agencies at VPS, your car rental needs are covered.
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP): Situated approximately 37 miles east of Santa Rosa Beach in Panama City Beach, ECP is another option for travelers. It serves several major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. Renting a car at ECP is easy and convenient because of its on-site services, including those of all major rental car companies.
Both airports provide easy access to Destin and Santa Rosa Beach for travelers arriving by air. Additionally, some visitors may choose to fly into larger airports, such as Pensacola International Airport (PNS).
Coming to the sunny Gulf Coast of Florida is a treat for visitors across the United States and abroad. How to get to Destin, FL, and surrounding beach towns shouldn’t be a challenge. We look forward to helping you have the best vacation ever. The beautiful community of Adagio is waiting to host your next getaway. Our family-friendly resort features spacious condos and wonderful amenities.