Looking for the perfect gift for someone who loves Destin? From beach gear and gadgets to personalized keepsakes, this guide features 12 thoughtful ideas that capture the spirit of the Emerald Coast.
They say it's the thought that counts, but is it really? Giving a nice gift to someone can work wonders for relationships, whether it's a loved one or a good friend. But sometimes it can be hard picking just the right thing.
Know someone who loves a trip to Destin or the Emerald Coast of Florida? The gift guide below will bring you a curated list of the top 12 gifts that any traveler to Destin and the Emerald Coast would be thrilled to receive.
Ranging from beachwear and accessories to tech gadgets, there are options for every taste and budget in our guide for the top 12 Gift Ideas for the Ultimate Destin Explorer.
Let's dive right in!
1. Premium coolers for an elevated beach experience.
Nothing levels up a beach trip like a cooler that actually keeps things cold.
Yeti delivers on both quality and style, with wheeled and soft-sided options available in a variety of bold colors. Every model balances form and function with ease.
For something a bit more playful, Coolest is a great pick. Their retro-style coolers include LED-lit lids, built-in bottle openers, and can reportedly keep ice frozen for up to five days. Perfect for long days under the sun.
2. Travel tumblers to keep liquids cool or hot for hours on end.
Any gift options that can keep your drinks hot or cold are very useful, and it's even better if they are aesthetically pleasing. Besides coolers, travel tumblers are an awesome gift for any occasion.
Some favorite travel tumblers out there are from Stanley Quencher. They are high quality and available in a ton of fun colors and patterns. Other great brands offering stylish options are Yeti, Stojo, Hydro Flask, and Snow Peak, to name a few. Armed with those, they will have their favorite drink cool or hot for hours.
3. A waterproof phone pouch for fun at the beach and beyond.
A waterproof phone pouch is a great gift for those who worry about taking their phones to the beach. Beyond shielding phones from the ever-present threat of water damage, it opens up a realm of possibilities for capturing memorable moments.
More than just a beach essential, these pouches become true companions, perfect for any water activities, including pools and rainy days in the city. Pelican has a great option that is not just waterproof but also floats because it's built with air cushions. The clear window even allows for touchscreen use and pictures. Nothing replaces the sensation of safety provided by these wonderful things!
4. An inflatable SUP for some relaxing time on the water.
What about giving some endless water fun to your friend or loved one? An inflatable stand-up paddleboard is a great way to do so. They come in different shapes and sizes, making it easy to find one that's a perfect fit for whoever you're gifting.
There are a few things you should keep in mind, though. First, think about their level of experience. A beginner will need a different board than someone who's been SUP'ing for years. Next, don't forget to factor in their height and weight. These measurements will determine the size and weight capacity of the stand-up paddleboard. With these factors in mind, you're sure to find the perfect option. Do your research, but we love the options from SereneLife and Isle.
5. A Tommy Bahama Backpack Chair for some relaxing times on the sand.
An undisputed champion of seaside lounging, the Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair is not just a great gift for beach lovers; it's also a game-changer for road-trippers and camping enthusiasts.
This chair is super easy to transport and carry around, thanks to its ingenious folding backpack design. But that's not all. It's also a gift that takes comfort to the next level with its adjustable head pillow and elongated seat. Their designs also flaunt vibrant designs that will inject a burst of style into everyone's beach experience. The frame is not just sturdy; it's also rust-proof, which is great for when the weather turns bad. And we know this can happen in Florida.
6. Some stylish shades for the beach.
What's that one essential accessory for any beach escape? A pair of good sunglasses. And here's an option that doesn't blow your gift budget: Goodr Sunglasses.
This brand was created to solve a specific problem: the lack of affordable and stylish running sunglasses. And it's not all about running; since 2015, Goodr has been developing many products for several other outdoor activities, following the same goal: sunglasses and goggles that are affordable, stylish, and high-performance.
7. A waterproof speaker to soak up the sun and beats.
Is there anything better than the sound of waves crashing? Yes! Having the freedom to listen to your favorite beach playlist while basking in the sun. These great little gadgets are designed with Bluetooth capabilities nowadays, so you can wirelessly stream music from your phone or other devices.
Options? We have them: JBL speakers are probably the most popular, and their different colors and models are pretty stylish. But if you think the person you're buying the gift for deserves the ultimate sound experience, the SoundLink Micro Bluetooth speaker from Bose is the way to go.
8. A cool beach wagon to carry beach essentials.
Beach bags are fine, but beach wagons are much better, aren't they? Besides, there are many stylish options out there to carry all the beach essentials, especially when you have the entire family in tow.
They're spacious, easy to wheel across the sand, and usually pretty sturdy, so they can withstand sand going everywhere and saltwater. Two of our favorite options are from Beau Jardin and Sekey, both foldable.
9. A photoshoot with a professional photographer to capture all the beach bliss.
A gift to remember? Why not book a private photoshoot for your friend? This is a thing nowadays, and there are excellent options almost everywhere across the country.
You can try, for instance, Flytographer and Local Lens. The model works like this: these platforms connect people with local photographers who will capture some fun moments with nice backgrounds. And these are total pros!
All your friend has to do is pick a nice location. This is the ultimate gift for a meaningful reminder of their vacation. Besides, a beach photography session in itself is fun and a perfect way for families, friends, and couples to connect and create lasting memories together.
10. A sleek printer to make all these beach memories tangible.
Speaking of memorable snapshots, here's another gift that will make any vacation to Destin even more unforgettable. HP's Sprocket 3x4 Photo Printer offers the possibility of transforming digital phone snapshots into tangible printed memories.
This portable printer will give you high-quality photos in mere seconds. It works like magic - it uses zero ink technology and is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
11. Travel journal for documenting special moments.
This travel journal isn't just for notes and sketches; it's a keepsake that captures the beauty of Destin and the memories made there. Its design reflects the charm of the coast, inspiring entries filled with stories, impressions, and personal moments.
Make it even more meaningful by adding names and vacation dates. With just that small touch, it becomes a personalized memoir, a time capsule they'll return to again and again.
12. Beach Essentials Kit for Destin.
A beach essentials kit is a must for any vacation by the shore. It elevates comfort, fun, and practicality all in one go. Key items to include:
- High-quality sunscreen to protect from the sun
- Oversized beach towels for relaxing in the sand
- Sturdy beach umbrella for shade and comfort
- Sand toys for kids and playful adults alike
To make it feel extra special, choose items in the recipient's favorite colors—think bold red towels, calming blue umbrellas, or rainbow-colored toys.
Want to take it a step further? Add a beach bag and personalize it with their initials. It's useful, stylish, and turns a simple gift into a thoughtful keepsake they'll use all summer long.
Destin is waiting for you!
Thinking about traveling to Destin, FL yourself? Then stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!