Transportation
Getting Around Destin
Traveling to Destin
The sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters of Destin await! Whether you’re flying in from across the country or driving in from a neighboring state, this guide will help you navigate your way to and around Destin with ease. From airport shuttles and taxis to rental cars and rideshare services, we’ve compiled everything you need to know to make your travel experience as smooth as the Gulf breeze.
By Air
Destin is served by three airports in the region:
- Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) – The closest airport to Destin, located just 16 miles away in Valparaiso. The airport has numerous rental car agencies conveniently located in the lower level baggage claim lobby, with on-site vehicle availability.
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS) – Located approximately 52.4 miles west of Destin (about a 1 hour and 8 minute drive). Major airlines like American, Delta, Southwest, and United offer non-stop flights from cities nationwide.
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) – Located 54 miles east of Destin near Panama City Beach. Offers service from multiple airlines including Southwest.
By Car
The best way to get around Destin is by car. Driving enables you to visit any of the 12 beach access points and, despite the traffic, is the preferred mode of transportation. Most vacationers drive to Destin or rent a car upon arrival.
Additional Local Transportation Options
Airport Shuttles & Taxis
Numerous transportation services are available from all area airports:
- Luxury Transportation: Luxe Limos of Destin offers dependable, stress-free Destin airport car service, airport limo service, and executive airport car service to residents, snowbirds, and vacationers.
- Private Shuttles: Destin Airport Shuttle provides transportation to/from Northwest Florida Regional (VPS) and Northwest Florida Beaches Int (ECP) Airports throughout Destin and surrounding areas.
- Taxi Services: Companies like Destin Sunrise Taxi provide 24/7 taxi service in Destin, Sandestin, Okaloosa Island, Miramar Beach, Baytown, Santa Rosa Beach, and 30A.
- Family-Friendly Options: Many services like 1st Class Taylors Airport Shuttle offer family-friendly transportation with child car seats and booster seats available.
The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport lists over 60 local shuttle service companies ready to serve transportation needs in the Northwest Panhandle area. Contact your preferred service directly to make travel arrangements.
Rideshare Services
Uber is available in Destin. Riders can use the Uber app to request a ride or schedule one in advance. Local shuttles, taxi drivers, and Uber drivers will pick you up from airports and bring you directly to your accommodations, making for hassle-free travel.
Note: During peak tourist season (especially summer months), rideshare availability can be limited due to high demand and traffic. Pre-booking transportation is recommended during these times.
Rental Cars
Multiple rental car companies operate in Destin, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and others. Rental cars can be reserved through company websites or through services like Uber Rent.
All three area airports offer on-site rental car facilities. Having a rental car provides the most flexibility for exploring Destin and surrounding areas.
Getting Around Destin
Once in Destin, transportation options include:
- Personal/Rental Car: Most convenient for visiting different beaches, restaurants, and attractions
- Taxi Services: Available 24/7 throughout the area
- Rideshare: Uber and similar services operate throughout Destin
- Hotel Shuttles: Contact your hotel or condo directly to inquire if they provide courtesy shuttle service.
Transportation Tips
- Reserve in Advance: Especially during peak season (March-August), pre-arrange your transportation
- Ask About Fees: Confirm all costs before booking, including any additional charges for luggage or multiple passengers
- Consider Distance: When choosing your airport, factor in transportation time and costs to your final destination
- Traffic Awareness: Traffic in Destin can be heavy, especially during peak tourist season. Allow extra time when planning trips
Transportation Resources
Airport Websites
- Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) – Official airport transportation page with shuttle listings and ground transportation options
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS) – Ground transportation options including rental cars and shuttles
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) – Transportation services from Panama City Beach airport
Local Transportation Services
- Destin-Fort Walton Beach Tourism – Official tourism site with transportation information
- Emerald Coast Rider – Public transportation serving Okaloosa County
- Uber Destin – Rideshare services information for Destin
Shuttle & Taxi Services
- Destin Airport Shuttle – Airport shuttle service to/from area airports
- St. George Airport Transportation – Shuttle service for the Florida Panhandle area
- Destin Sunrise Taxi – 24/7 taxi service in Destin and surrounding areas
Rental Car Resources
- VPS Airport Rental Car Information – On-site rental companies at Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car Destin – Local rental location in Destin
- Hertz Destin – Rental car options in Destin
