New Rescue Tube Installed at Tarpon Beach Access
The Rotary Club of Destin has expanded beach safety by installing another life-saving rescue tube at the newly opened Tarpon Beach access site and by thoroughly cleaning all Crystal Beach accesses, June-Decker Park, and Calhoun access this week. This latest installation continues the club’s collaboration with the City of Destin and the Rescue Tube Foundation, part of the initial project in February 2025 that placed eight rescue tubes at public beach accesses across the city. The initiative, first approved by the City Council in September 2024, aims to supplement lifeguard services with accessible safety gear at popular swimming spots.
Tarpon Beach Park Groundbreaking
Public beach access in Destin expanded July 7 with the groundbreaking of Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park, a partnership between Okaloosa County, the City of Destin and Trust for Public Land. Located at 3310 Scenic Hwy. 98, the park will add 340 feet of Gulf access plus free parking, restrooms and pavilions. “This is a great example of how partnerships can benefit the public,” said Commissioner Drew Palmer. Mayor Bobby Wagner added the project will help safeguard the coast “for future generations to experience and cherish.” Phase II follows the Crystal Beach expansion, totaling $26.5 million in tourism-funded improvements.
Sinfonia Youth Programs Open for 2025–26
Sinfonia Gulf Coast is now registering students for its 2025–26 youth music programs, including beginner through advanced ensembles and an expanded After School Beginning Strings program. Open to strings, winds, brass, percussion and piano, the programs provide mentorship, performances, Bright Futures hours and scholarships. “We believe our youth orchestra programs foster a strong sense of community,” said director Margaret Gordon. Since 2007, Sinfonia’s education efforts have reached more than 220,000 local children. Details and registration: SinfoniaGulfCoast.org.
Joyner Named Business Person of the Quarter
During the Destin Chamber’s July 15 Great American Cookout, Lori Joyner, Executive Director of Harvest House, was honored as Business Person of the Quarter. The Chamber’s Board presents this award to leaders demonstrating vision and community impact. “I have always admired Lori and the work she does. She’s a special person. People forget about the work that the non-profits in the community do… It truly is one of those organizations that is vital to our community,” said Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP.
Under Joyner’s 15-year leadership, Harvest House has distributed more than 400,000 bags of groceries to 115,000 local families. Recently, Joyner oversaw a major relocation of the food pantry to 114 Palmetto St. after its former facility closed. Learn more at HarvestHouseDestin.org.
Total Wine & More Opens in Destin
Total Wine & More has officially opened its doors at 34940 Emerald Coast Parkway, bringing its massive selection of wine, beer and spirits to local shoppers. The grand opening celebration included a ribbon-cutting and preview party in late July, and opening-week specials drew big crowds. The store offers weekly tastings, events and special promotions — including $10 off any $50 purchase with code 2601 through Oct. 26 — a welcome addition for locals and visitors looking to explore new favorites right here in Destin.
The Gulf Club Restaurant & Sports Pub Opens
Destin’s newest sports pub, The Gulf Club, opened in late July at 960 U.S. Hwy. 98 in the Sunsations Plaza. The restaurant offers an elevated experience with 27 beers on tap, specialty cocktails and a menu that goes beyond typical bar fare. Wall-to-wall HD TVs keep every game in view, making it a prime spot for game days, happy hours and casual dining. Details: TheGulfClubDestin.com or (850) 500-4853.
American Airlines Expands at VPS
American Airlines will launch daily nonstop service to Miami International Airport beginning Dec. 19, 2025, from Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS). The new route connects travelers to more than 70 destinations across Mexico, the Caribbean and Latin America. American will also expand its Chicago O’Hare service to run year-round, offering daily flights through both winter and summer seasons.
