Miramar Beach offers something for just about everyone. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or playing golf, this coastal city is one you don’t want to miss.
Choosing how to spend your time can be challenging, with many things to do. Luckily, we’ve got a few tips to help you make your decisions.
Today, we’re sharing seven fun activities near Miramar Beach to make you smile. Grab your sunscreen and get to know this beautiful area.
Let’s jump in!
About Miramar Beach, Florida
Miramar Beach sits in Walton County, which is in the panhandle of Florida. It’s near popular vacation hotspots like Destin and Santa Rosa Beach. Visitors love this area for its soft, white sand, emerald-green waters, and incredible beauty.
The area offers some of the best coasts in the entire Sunshine State. Unfortunately, sunbathing, swimming, and other water activities are very popular, especially during spring break and summer. Finding a spot to set up camp in the sand can be challenging.
Many find Miramar Beach has a unique vibe and feels like a classic coastal city. Whether in a seaside resort or an oceanfront home, you’re typically only a few blocks from the sand.
In addition, it’s easy to find delicious restaurants to enjoy fresh seafood and fabulous views. The beach is perfect for relaxing and fulfilling a sense of adventure.
#1 Soak Up the Sun at Miramar Beach Regional Access
Miramar Beach Regional Access is ADA-accessible and sits off the famous Scenic Gulf Drive. This popular spot offers just about any aquatic activity you could imagine. Forget something at home? You can find it at one of the nearby rental companies.
The location offers a large number of free public parking spaces. However, this is a popular spot and can still get very crowded. If you want to avoid the hassle, ride a bike.
And remember to bring food with you. Leaving to grab lunch likely means you won’t get your spot back. Plan to spend the entire day here and bring a picnic or sack lunch so you have one less thing to worry about.
#2 Visit Grand Boulevard
The Grand Boulevard is the epicenter for shopping, dining, and entertainment. With a generous amount of upscale shops and outstanding dining options, it’s no wonder this is a popular spot. Whether you want to buy jewelry, home decor, or clothes, you’ll find it here.
It’s also home to some of the best restaurants in the area. You can enjoy casual dining and luxury meals prepared by renowned chefs. Many of these establishments also serve the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere.
This area is more than just famous for shopping, dining, and the arts. It’s a common site for festivals, live music, and celebrations.
Pro Tip: Check Grand Boulevard’s event calendar to see what’s happening.
#3 Cruise Along Scenic Gulf Drive
The Scenic Gulf Drive is the easiest way to experience the Miramar Beach coastline. This route is a stretch of Highway 98 that is exactly five miles long. You’ll travel from Destin’s to Silver Sands Outlet Mall and enjoy lovely ocean-side views.
Popular restaurants, rental companies, and luxurious vacation rentals line the sides of this scenic drive. In addition, you’ll enjoy some of the most incredible views and discover why so many love this area.
Cruising along Scenic Gulf Drive is an incredible experience that’ll give you a taste of the town’s laid-back vibe. Put on some tunes, enjoy the views, and let the waves wash away your stress and worries.
#4 Snorkel at Dolphin Reef
Snorkeling is another popular activity here, and there’s no better place to do it than Dolphin Reef. More than 75 artificial structures are under the water’s surface in the shape of a dolphin. You’ll find plenty of aquatic life within depths ranging from 12′ to 20′.
If you enjoy snorkeling, this is one of the best places in the area to do it. There’s a good chance you’ll spot crabs, tropical fish, and even seahorses while you explore the waters. Some visitors have even spotted dolphins and sea turtles swimming alongside them.
You can paddle to the reef or sign up for a snorkel excursion through a private charter company. With calm and relatively shallow waters, it’s the perfect spot for beginners or those with years of experience.
#5 Play a Round of Golf
Golf courses in Florida are just about everywhere you look, and Miramar Beach is no exception. The area has several quality golf courses perfect for beginners and professionals. However, whether you’re new or have been playing for years, the stunning views make it easy to enjoy.
One of the most popular courses is The Links Golf Club Miramar Beach. This challenging golf course has bunkers, water features, and the distraction of the views of the Gulf of Mexico.
If you want to put your skills to the test, a round of 18 holes here will do the trick. In fact, Florida Golf News named it one of their “Top 5 Golf Courses in Northwest Florida.”
#6 Explore Topsail Hill Preserve
Topsail Hill Preserve includes three miles of white sand. This is a great place to bring a picnic or hike. You can even enjoy the more than 25-foot-tall dunes that rise above the surrounding area. If you want to spend time outdoors, this is a must-see attraction in Miramar Beach.
One of the most popular features of Topsail Hill Preserve is its extensive trail system. You’ll find more than 15 miles of trails that wind throughout the incredible landscape. The park doesn’t just offer hiking trails; there are also biking and horseback riding trails.
Reserve one of the more than 200 campsites to maximize your time in the preserve. They have sites for campers whether they prefer RV or tent camping. Additionally, 32 cabins are available for rent. Take advantage of a chance to explore the natural environment of this area.
Looking for an alternate place to stay? Geronimo RV Park in Miramar Beach, Florida.
#7 Check Out Baytowne Wharf
Located on Choctawhatchee Bay, Baytowne Wharf is a fun place to visit. It has an electric environment with an exciting evening scene and a calendar full of events. Even if there’s no festival or activity, there’s plenty to see and do. You can quickly lose track of time here between the shopping, dining, and Baytowne Adventure Zone.
We bet this’ll be one of your favorite places to spend the day at Miramar Beach. The nightlife is on point. They often have live music on Wednesday nights. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and appreciate the sounds and views of Baytowne Wharf.
Extend your trip and explore more: Miramar Beach, Florida: Insider Recommendations for Must-See Sights and Attractions.
Make Your Miramar Beach Trip Worthwhile
If you’re taking a trip through the panhandle of Florida, plan to stop at Miramar Beach. No matter what kind of budget you’re working with, it has plenty of opportunities for fun. Adventurers of all ages can make priceless memories!
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