Destin is a city in northwest Florida that is known for its beautiful beaches and clear gulf waters. The city is home to many different types of businesses, including several airports. There are three main airports in Destin:
- Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
- Eglin Air Force Base
Each airport serves a different purpose and has its own unique features. Whether you’re looking for a place to take a vacation or just need to get away for a weekend, one of these airports is sure to be perfect for you. So come on out and explore all that Destin has to offer today! Are you planning to have a trip to Destin, Florida?
But want to get detailed information about their airport in detail? Great! I am here to guide you. So let’s start.
What airport do you take off into for Destin, FL?
VPS airport is the ideal aeronautics gateway to the Gulf Coast and is a great option when you are planning a trip to Northwest Florida. Expedient and centrally positioned in the top ten places to stay and do business across the US (United States), Destin – Fort Walton Beach Airport (Fly VPS) is an incomparable resource for visitors with exceptional modern conveniences without congestion.
How many Airports in Destin?
I have listed the four major airports of Destin below; please have a look at them.
Executive airports in Destin:
Destin Executive Airport is also referred to as Coleman Kelly field. It is a public airport situated in Oklahoma County, Florida. The airport is a single nautical mile east of Dustin – Florida’s main business district.
Destin – Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS):
VPS airport is also called Northwest Florida Regional Airport. It is positioned at 1701 State, Road # 85 North, Eglin AFB, FL 32542. It is technically positioned on Eglin AFB however is located just about Valparaiso. You can easily locate it by searching as VPS Airport.
Pensacola Gulf Coast Regional Airport:
There are 20 non-stop flights at Pensacola Gulf Coast Regional Airport, a much bigger airport than the previous two. If we talk about the Destin drive from here, it is about 51.3 miles (1 hour 25 minutes); this is an enormous airport to travel to. Its airport code is PNS.
Northwest Florida Coast International Airport (ECP):
Panama City Beach Airport (ECP) is located at 6300 W Bay Pkwy, Panama City, FL. A small airport is another airport that only operates domestic flights and provides a limited number of airlines to select from. The driving distance is 52.2 miles (1 hour 20 minutes) from Destin, so a little further from Pensacola and VPS.
Does Southwest fly to Destin, Florida?
Yes, Southwest Airlines now provide direct flights to Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport. Southwest Airlines passengers will also be able to take off to VPS in just 30 minutes from downtown Destin. For spring and summer beach trips, flights start at Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) late May 2021.
Is the Destin airport big?
Yes, it is because the Destin executive airport covers an area of 160 hectares (395 acres) at an altitude of 7 m (22 feet) above sea level. It has a runway elected 14/32 with an asphalt level of 5,001 / 100 feet.
Also Read: Airports in Florida
Which beach is better: Destin or Panama City?
Destin and Panama City shoreline are the bookends of the Emerald Coast. Destin is located at the west, while Panama City is at the east. Both locations present a white beach that overlooks the luminescent waters of the glistening gulf, but their history is not the same, and as a result, their development.
Panama City Beach is more geographically limited, while Destin consists of the city itself, adjacent areas such as coastal villages, and Miramar Beach.
Ethnicity:
Even though both sites are not generally known for their ethnicity or culture, Destin has a lead over recreational fishing with its long history. Its Harbor BoardWalk is very reachable and is quarters to a fleet of about 200 contract boats and water sports.
On the other hand, Panama City Beach has hardly a few landmarks that reflect the past of beach culture, including the clubs that line up Thomas Drive. However, nothing like Destin.
Affordability:
In terms of affordability, hands down, the winner is Panama City Beach. Practically, every aspect of the holiday experience wins in restaurants, hotels, tours, and retail prices. Comparing condo /hotel rates on and off the coast, Destin is nearly 15% higher in accommodation by employing a model that contrasts similar star hotels/condos. Moreover, Destin has an average of 15% more tours and attractions than Panama City Beach.
Things to do:
Both places offer lots of attractions and activities. No destination is less than great family fun and offering water. The main distinction between the two cities is their nightlife.
Even though Destin has some of the largest bars and clubs bordering the Harbor, Panama City Beach has a wide entertainment range that accommodates people of all ages. But, the advantage goes to Destin city with the most access because Harbor permits people to move from one club to another in a few minutes.
Traffic:
When it comes to traffic, it isn’t good during the off-season. Therefore which destination gets the worst traffic award? Obviously, it’s Destin. It has a main thoroughfare that runs across the city and some side roads that allow locals to get around.
And Panama City Beach has 3 different routes which permit tourists to travel from east to west.
Offense and security:
Security is the foremost factor that you must consider before planning a trip. These places are secure for travelers, and there is very little risk for offense or crime. However, Panama City Beach is famous for its infamous spring break in March and April.
Moreover, affordable and low-quality accommodation in Panama City Beach attracts tourists who are probable to cause problems with law enforcement.
Is Pensacola Beach or Destin better?
Both beaches are just an hour away and are the two most popular tourist destinations within the Florida Panhandle. They offer the same view, and both Gulf cities boast clear emerald water and white sugar sand. However, their key differences include attractions available, crowd level, and price of visiting.
Almost every tourist agrees that both places offer the same ‘Emerald Coast Charming’ … it all depends on whether you like the congestion or not!
Destin is a more crowded ‘tourist’ destination, but it also provides more activities and choices for eating and shopping.
On the other hand, Pensacola beach provides minimal things to do, but it’s an amazing location.
Wrapping Up…
The Airports in Destin, specifically the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is the primary airport serving Northwest Florida. The airport offers non-stop flights to many major cities, as well as a variety of smaller regional airports. VPS is a great option for travelers looking for an affordable and convenient way to get to Destin.
With its close proximity to the beach and its wide range of flight options, VPS is the perfect airport for your next trip to Destin, Florida.
