By Cali Hlavac, To Do In Destin The history of our lucky little fishing village was built on the blood, sweat, and tears of many local Charter Boat captains. These men fished the beautiful waters of Destin from sunrise to sunset to build a life for their family and are well...
Hello! My name is Brooke O’Keefe, and I am honored to represent my hometown as Miss Destin 2019. Fulfilling this title has been a dream of mine since I was old enough to walk along these docks. My parents are Amy O’Keefe and the (late) Stephen O’Keefe. I have...
By Cali Hlavac, To Do In Destin Last month we talked about the hype of Red Snapper season in Destin, the fight they put up and what a tasty dinner they make. While they are a highlight for most anglers each summer, a lot of other great species are biting...
By Mary Ann Windes Although I’m in real estate, many people know my family’s affiliation with the Destin Fishing Fleet. So, I get asked often many, many, many fishing questions. The most confusing part about coming to fish in the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village is knowing who to call, and...
Out of all the exciting things to do in our area, fishing tops the list for many locals (and visitors.) Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach provides a prime location for all different types of fishing. Beaches, piers, bridges and our charter fishing industry nearby offer more than just one...
By Cali Hlavac The year was 1835, where undiscovered land was plentiful and settlers from overseas were moving in and building communities. The Destin family, whalers from Connecticut, sailed south to Key West, Fla., in search of off season work and big money. Tragedy struck before they arrived when Leonard...
Many Miss Destins have gone on to accomplish big things, not just for the “world’s luckiest fishing village,” but for our region, state and beyond. In fact, you never know where former Miss Destins will appear next! Miss Destin 1984, Mona Ponder, was officially Destin's First Lady, as her...
By Richard Olivarez, Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals & Real Estate Waves gently crashing, a pair of twin diesel engines roaring and a salty mist in the air – this is where I fell in love with deep sea fishing. Only a handful of miles from the sandy white shores of...
By Cali Hlavac With the 70th anniversary of the Destin Fishing Rodeo rapidly approaching, captains and anglers alike are preparing for what appears to be a monumental year in rodeo history. In the first of our two-part series, you’ll learn more Rodeo details, how to participate, what you can win...
By Cali Hlavac This year marks the 62nd year for one unique Destin tradition - one that many locals look forward to before the busyness of summer sets in. The Blessing of the Fleet is one of Destin’s longest standing traditions, and it brings out locals and tourists for a...