Whether you’ve got a corporate outing, birthday bash, or plans with friends and family, handling a big group can be difficult to coordinate. However, the gorgeous backdrop of Destin’s emerald-green waters, blue sky, and powdery sands is waiting to accommodate all your big-trip needs. If you’re looking to strengthen your relationships through a shared adventure, here are some strategic recommendations to make your gathering special.
Vital Tips in Coordinating Activities for Groups of 6+
Before you can take home your memories of a lifetime, planning what to do for a group of 6+ entails a close attention to logistical details. Special care for scheduling, needs, and activities that cater towards the common interests of the group are imperative for planning large group celebrations.
When deciding your venture, make sure to pick an “anchor” activity that is central to the group. If the needs of everyone cannot be met, make sure those who cannot participate are still involved in a parallel activity. A great example is parasailing. This scenic, low-impact activity is thrilling yet serene! If you choose to go parasailing in Destin, each ride can accommodate multiple flyers, while those who might be scared of heights can enjoy a relaxing ride on the boat down below, by purchasing a spectator ticket. Such activities should offer all the shared experience involved in team-building while still accommodating everyone in the group!
Bigger groups, by nature, lose much of the ability to “walk-in”. Especially at such a popular destination like Destin, availability can be tight. So, planning early is vital in ensuring that your group’s activities make it out of the planning book. Make sure to check the reliability of vendors you are purchasing tickets from and avoid split bookings. We recommend you book directly with us.
Corporate Team Building with Aerial Adventures and More!
Destin is a surprisingly ideal host to company retreats. There’s relaxation, fun, and plenty of bonding moments waiting for your group, no set-up required! Here are some recommendations to strengthen your team using Destin’s attractions:
A corporate event that fosters quality-time while still being adventurous is sure to create a tightly-knit team right above the breathtaking Destin waters. Our pontoon boat rentals can accommodate up to twelve people and are the closest rental service to Crab Island! Just a two minute boat ride away, this pontoon boat is fitted with ample storage space, a sun covering, lifejackets, and fuel included. It’s the perfect expedition for your corporate outing!
After any event, a reflection session can drive home the benefits of teamwork and camaraderie. For a relaxed time, head over to Norriego Point and settle-down for a company picnic, breakout event, or discussion circle. It is free, gorgeous, and spacious enough for a fulfilling break.
Light activities are easy and, most-often, cost-effective, too. A balance between high-energy fun, low-energy reflection, and something in-between is important when thinking about the stamina of larger groups. So, try hosting events that yield a medium amount of adrenaline. This can include serving a volleyball on the beach back and forth or hosting a scavenger hunt through the Destin Board Walk. Let your team admire the many murals surrounding the area or take a quick survey of the various food trucks!
Birthday Parties and Special Celebrations
Planning a birthday bash or special celebration doesn’t have to be complicated. Destin hosts a variety of options for your fun event! No matter your group size, Destin has an assortment of opportunities waiting to make your event spectacular!
Hit Destin’s iconic beaches for your birthday treat! You can enjoy Destin’s breezy waters in style with Henderson Beach State Park’s grill access and large pavilions. At only $6 a vehicle, you can take a refreshing dip in the water and then cook your own food right by the coast.
If you’re looking for some expert-led, up-close-and-personal, wildlife encounters, Our dolphin tours are just the thing for you! Trained personnel will guide you by jet ski to the best sealife viewing locations. Get acquainted with dolphins, manatees, and other sea-friends in this hour and a half tour. You must be at least 18 to drive the jetski. If you are born after Jan. 1st, 1988, you must have a temporary boating licence, which you can quickly attain online or onsite.
End it with a bang! If you’re visiting during the summer or around a holiday, take a peek at HarborWalk Village’s free fireworks shows. Usually hosted on Thursdays, this gorgeous view is the perfect way to end your night, just make sure to check their schedule.
Multi-Activity Packages for Large Groups (Without Overbooking)
Bigger groups, especially those pushing double digits, often require variety. For these parties, accommodation can mean building a flexible, but coordinated, day of adventure. An even mix of action and downtime is the key to keeping everyone happy. Here are recommendations of how to spend your day in Destin without overbooking!:
Your large party needs an unforgettable and unique experience riding the Destin waters. Board The Tipsy Tiki for a private water excursion on a tiki-bar style pontoon boat. With space for up to 28 passengers, this ride is decked out with an expert captain, crew, shaded lounging seats, life vest, restroom, lily pad, bottled waters, and floats! Setting sail with The Tipsy Tiki is also the best way to make it to Crab Island. This iconic hangout spot, often called a “floating party” is the perfect place for relaxation, fun, or a little bit of both. Soak up the sun, enjoy the coastal views, and build special memories aboard The Tipsy Tiki!
Once your group touches down on land, check out the James Lee Park. This free quiet beachfront hosts winding walking trails and cool pavilions. Looking for a bit of local history? Try the Destin History and Fishing Museum. This educational adventure is a low-cost hidden gem of Destin! Both of these attractions are calming experiences amid your day of expeditions. Balance is key!
Finally, take your group to grab some ice cream, takeout, or attend one of the many highly-rated restaurants near by Destin’s Okaloosa Island Pier. For a sunset wrap-up to the day, take your group to Destin’s Okaloosa Island Pier. Grab some ice cream, takeout, or attend one of the many highly-rated restaurants before your group unwinds in peaceful reflection along the shore.
Group Booking Strategies and Logistics
Take a look at the helpful hints in managing larger groups. Strategy is key to coordinating large groups efficiently.
- Make sure you book early. Destin is a tourist attraction which means spots are limited, especially when accommodating large groups. Especially during the spring and summer, try to book at least 2-4 weeks in advance.
- Use a synced calendar to align with your group’s many schedules. Remember: morning or late after slots are when weather tends to be calmer!
- Prepare for where you’re going. Sunscreen, water, and light breathable clothing is a must. Most operators will provide safety gear and instructions, but check their listings just in case.
Get out there and have fun in Destin! Your next big celebration is waiting for you!
