If you’ve got a layover in Destin, don’t let it go to waste sitting at DSI. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by Taxi/Rideshare. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at DSI:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Rideshare takes about 30 minutes into Destin, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting from DSI to Destin
You have two main options for getting from Destin Executive Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Destin, we’d suggest Henderson Beach State Park and HarborWalk Village. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside DSI, you can spend time at Destin Jet FBO Lounge or try Aircraft Spotting at DSI. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Destin Layover
- In the city: Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer and Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Destin.
- At the airport: Destin Jet FBO Grab & Go and Destin Jet Coffee & Refreshments will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Destin Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Destin, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near DSI
Specific locker facilities at DSI aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Destin itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at DSI, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Destin itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, DSI has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Destin count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave DSI. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.