Summer is in full swing! The Panhandle is teeming with vacation
guests enjoying the Florida sun, sugar white sands, and emerald waters. Destin
and surrounding areas provide everything visitors need for a perfect vacation while
following COVID-19 rules and regulations.
There are no travel advisories or curfews in place for
Destin-Fort Walton Beach. Visitors are expected to follow standard social distancing
guidelines and wear masks when inside stores and businesses. Businesses are
required to post signage clearly stating policies to avoid confusion.
Okaloosa County beaches are open without restrictions while
Destin beaches are open from dawn until dusk only. This includes public and
private beaches, beach accessways, trails, parking areas solely for accessing
public and private beaches, city beachfront parks and the Okaloosa Island
Fishing Pier. Social distancing is still required by the Governor of Florida. Visitors
are to gather in groups of 10 or less and at least 6 feet of distance between
groups.
The Okaloosa area of the Gulf Islands National Seashore is
open along with Henderson Beach State Park’s beach access and parking. Henderson
Beach State Park's day-use areas are at 50% capacity, and camping sites are
open to advance registrations. They are currently not accepting walk-up
reservations.
The Florida department of Transportation is not accepting
cash for tolls including the Mid-Bay Toll Bridge. Tolls will be collected
either via SunPass or toll-by-plate. Administrative fees are waived at this
time.
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is fully
operational. It would be best to check with your airline for additional
information.
Restaurants are operating at 50% capacity of inside
dining rooms and some have outdoor seating with social distancing. Many local
restaurants offer curbside pickup and delivery service.
Bars cannot sell alcohol for on-premise consumption but can
sell carry out. Bars are defined as businesses who derive more than 50% of
their gross revenue from alcoholic sales.
Local activities and attractions, such as fishing
charters, dolphin tours, retail stores, and water sports rental locations are
open and welcome your business. Try to support local businesses while visiting the
area.
Don’t let a few new rules keep you from enjoying all that
Destin and surrounding areas have to offer. With a little knowledge and some
common sense, your family will have an incredible vacation experience while
creating memories that last a lifetime.