Why are Destin beaches so clean?

Our waters stay clear and clean thanks to the protection from the Choctawhatchee Bay. Nearby rivers drain directly into the Bay and it acts as a filter for sediment, brackish waters, and carries any potential river runoff away from our crystalline coast.



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The unique white sand on the beaches of Destin, Miramar Beach, and 30A come from small quartz particles from the Appalachian Mountains over 20,000 years ago. The Apalachicola River carried water and these quartz particles to the Gulf of Mexico and still continues to do so today.

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Destin Beach, Emerald Coast On the hunt for the absolute clearest waters of Florida? Then, Destin Beach is the place to go. This beach is located in a coastal area called the Emerald Coast, which stretches about 100 miles through five counties in the idyllic Gulf of Mexico.

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The presence of these nutrients then leads to profuse algal growth as it mixes with the ocean water. Light, reflecting off of this algae (phytoplankton) is then further enhanced by the white sand backdrop giving the water the appearance of being “green” in color.

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The lifeguards actively patrol the 7 miles of Destin beaches from March to October of each year. We encourage everyone to swim near a lifeguard and heed their advice on water safety conditions. Rip Current Information provided by the National Weather Service. View the National Weather Service Rip Current Risk Map.

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To start off our list, we are starting with the absolute best, Siesta Key. This beach is located on the Gulf Coast of Florida and is world-renowned for its powdery white sand. The sand is so fine and soft that it feels like you're walking on talcum powder.

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The 20 best clear-water beaches in Florida are:
  • St. Andrews State Park, Panama City Beach.
  • Bean Point Beach, Anna Maria Island.
  • Inlet Beach, South Walton.
  • Clearwater Beach, Clearwater.
  • Destin Beach, Emerald Coast.
  • Smathers Beach, Key West.
  • Navarre Beach, Florida Gulf Coast.
  • Blue Mountain Beach, Santa Rosa Beach.


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Waves and the Clear Blue Water Due to the lack of strong waves that stir and sweep up shells, sediment, and debris from the ocean, the Gulf of Mexico proudly offers its breathtaking, signature turquoise hue but often forfeits the lulling “roar” of the ocean.

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Crystals are conductors that serve to disperse heat, which is why they are used to prevent overheating in cellphones and computers. This helps to explain why the sand in Southwest Florida isn't hot.

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BONFIRES / BEACH FIRES — According to Okaloosa County Ordinance 79-41, fires are illegal on the beach between the water's edge and mean high water mark or vegetation line (whichever is further). FIREWORKS — Fireworks are prohibited on Destin beaches. SAND REMOVAL — It is unlawful to remove sand from the beach.

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The best time to visit Destin is in April and May when the water is warm, the sun is shining and the temperatures are comfortable (expect highs in the mid-70s and 80s).

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Numerous studies consistently rate Destin's Emerald Coast as having the best water clarity in Florida. This title of clarity includes Destin, Miramar Beach and the perfect coastal villages along Scenic 30A in South Walton.

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For the latest quarter assessed by the U.S. EPA (January 2021 - March 2021), tap water provided by this water utility was in compliance with federal health-based drinking water standards.

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Unlike other coastal areas on the Gulf of Mexico, the Destin beaches' particular location provides a natural barrier that helps keep seaweed on the bay side. The city of Destin works hard to keep their beaches in excellent condition year-round.

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The area from Destin, Florida to Panama City, Florida is known to have the clearest water in Florida. This area has been awarded the Blue Wave Beach Award for clarity, water quality, and beauty.

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Both Destin and Siesta Key are known for their beautiful white sand beaches, but which one is “better” depends on your personal preferences and what you're looking for in a beach destination. However, the Gulf Coast at Siesta Key is always a few degrees warmer than Destin owing to its location further down south.

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Destin is known as the World's Luckiest Fishing Village. The city houses the largest and most elaborately equipped fishing fleet in the State of Florida. In addition to fishing, recreational opportunities include golf, tennis and water sports, including diving and snorkeling.

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Alys Beach is a study in geometry. Of still life and life abounding. Stark white structures, canvased by cerulean sky.

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Miami Beach, Florida Thanks to being the gateway to the Caribbean and a cheap flight away from the cool northeast, Miami welcomes over 13 million visitors each year. The hot, humid and steamy summers are jam-packed on the sand. Hands down, South Beach is the busiest with tourists.

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