Miramar Beach
A coastline of white-sand beaches and turquoise water awaits visitors to Miramar Beach, 15 minutes east of Destin on Florida’s Northwest Coast. As one of the South Walton area’s most diverse beach neighborhoods, Miramar Beach is a family-friendly destination with something for everyone.
Parasail, snorkel Dolphin Reef, play beach volleyball, tee off on award-winning golf courses, work on your tennis game, or spend the day exploring all of the places to shop in Miramar Beach, from antique shops and boutiques to the more than 100 stores and restaurants of Silver Sands Premium Outlets, which also has a play area for kids.
Get some sun, relax on the beach, and rent a bike to cruise along the paved, three-mile Scenic Highway 98 Trail. For indoor fun, visit the movie theater, stores, and restaurants of Grand Boulevard, and catch a live show at Emerald Coast Theatre Company. Enjoy the varied cuisine of local restaurants at Pompano Joe’s Seafood House, The Craft Bar gastropub, Emeril’s Coastal, and Vin’tij Food & Wine.
If tennis is your passion, check out Hidden Dunes Beach & Tennis Resort, which boasts five clay tennis courts and five pickleball courts. If golf is your game, book a stay at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, which has four championship courses.
Learn more with the First Timer’s Guide to Miramar Beach and plan your trip at Visit South Walton.
BEACHES
Sunbathe, play beach volleyball, and swim in the turquoise water.
FAMILY FUN
Splash and play on the beach and visit family-friendly attractions.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Take a watercolor class, see a movie or live theater performance, and check out local events.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Relax on the beach, swim, snorkel, parasail, and go for a scenic bike ride.
ACCESSIBILITY
Beach access points have ADA-accessible facilities and Miramar Beach Regional Beach Access has beach wheelchairs available.
DINING
Enjoy refreshing drinks on the water, casual coastal fare, fine dining, and more in Miramar Beach.
SHOPPING
From boutiques to outlet stores, Miramar Beach offers a wide variety of places to shop.
SPAS AND FITNESS
Relax with a spa day at one of Miramar Beach’s luxurious spas.
GOLF
Stay at a golf resort or just play a few rounds on the area’s award-winning greens.
PLACES TO STAY
Choose from beach cottages, resorts, villas, and hotels.
The beaches of South Walton in 60 seconds
Quick Facts
Eclectic beach town, fun shops
Nearest Airport
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MIRAMAR BEACH
Q. Where is Miramar Beach?
A. Miramar Beach is located in the Florida Panhandle, nestled between Destin and Santa Rosa Beach. It is part of Walton County and is known for its stunning white sand beaches and emerald green waters. This charming beach community is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 98, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Q. How far is Miramar Beach from Destin?
A. Miramar Beach is approximately 8 miles east of Destin, Florida. The drive between the two locations typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. This proximity allows visitors to enjoy the attractions and amenities of both areas easily. Whether you're looking to explore Destin's bustling harbor or relax on Miramar Beach's serene shores, you'll find it convenient to travel between the two.
Q. What county is Miramar Beach in?
A. Miramar Beach is located in Walton County, Florida. This area is part of the Emerald Coast, renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant communities. Walton County offers a mix of coastal charm and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. For more information about the county, you can check out the Walton County website.
Q. Is Miramar Beach in Destin?
A. While Miramar Beach is often associated with Destin due to its proximity, it is actually a separate community located just east of Destin. Both areas are part of the Emerald Coast and share similar attractions, such as beautiful beaches and a variety of dining and shopping options. Visitors can easily explore both Destin and Miramar Beach during their stay, enjoying the unique offerings of each location.
Q. What can I do in Miramar Beach?
A. Miramar Beach offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. You can relax on the stunning white sand beaches or take part in water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing. The area is also home to the Silver Sands Premium Outlets, perfect for a day of shopping. For dining, there are numerous restaurants offering fresh seafood and local cuisine. Additionally, you can explore nearby attractions such as the Village of Baytowne Wharf for entertainment and events.
Q. Where do locals eat in Miramar Beach?
A. Locals in Miramar Beach enjoy dining at a variety of restaurants that offer fresh seafood and regional specialties. Some popular spots include The Surf Hut, known for its beachfront views and delicious seafood dishes, and Pompano Joe's, a vibrant beachside eatery. For a more upscale experience, Bijoux offers a fine dining atmosphere with a focus on Gulf Coast cuisine. These local favorites provide a taste of the area's culinary delights.
Q. How far is Miramar Beach from Panama City Beach?
A. Miramar Beach is approximately 40 miles west of Panama City Beach. The drive between the two locations typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic. This makes it easy for visitors to explore both destinations during their stay on the Emerald Coast. Each area offers its own unique attractions and activities, providing a diverse range of experiences for travelers.
Q. Is Miramar Beach nice?
A. Yes, Miramar Beach is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and clear emerald waters, making it a lovely destination for beachgoers. The area offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Visitors can also enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring nearby attractions. The combination of natural beauty and amenities makes Miramar Beach a popular choice for vacationers.
Q. What time zone is Miramar Beach located in?
A. Miramar Beach is located in the Central Time Zone. This is the same time zone observed by much of the Florida Panhandle, including nearby Destin and Panama City Beach. Visitors should be aware of this when planning their travel itineraries, especially if they are coming from areas in the Eastern Time Zone.
Q. Is Miramar Beach dog-friendly?
A. Miramar Beach has specific rules regarding dogs on the beach. Walton County requires a permit for dogs to be on the beach, and they are only allowed during certain hours. It's important for pet owners to check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits before bringing their dogs to the beach. Additionally, there are several pet-friendly accommodations and parks in the area where dogs are welcome.
Q. What are some family-friendly activities in Miramar Beach?
A. Miramar Beach offers a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Families can enjoy a day at the beach, building sandcastles and swimming in the Gulf waters. The Village of Baytowne Wharf is a great spot for entertainment, with activities like zip-lining, arcades, and seasonal events. Additionally, the nearby Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park provides an educational and fun experience with marine life exhibits and shows.
Q. Are there any hiking trails near Miramar Beach?
A. While Miramar Beach itself is more known for its beaches, there are several hiking trails in the surrounding areas. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers a variety of trails through beautiful coastal dune ecosystems. Visitors can explore the park's diverse habitats, including wetlands and pine forests. The trails provide a great opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Florida Panhandle.
Q. What is the best time to visit Miramar Beach?
A. The best time to visit Miramar Beach is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. During these seasons, visitors can enjoy comfortable temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere. Summer is also popular, especially for families, but it can be busier and hotter. Winter offers mild weather and fewer tourists, making it a good option for those seeking a quieter getaway.
Q. Are there any events or festivals in Miramar Beach?
A. The Miramar Beach area hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. The Sandestin Wine Festival and the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival are popular events for wine enthusiasts. Additionally, the area hosts seasonal events at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, including holiday celebrations and live music. These events provide a great opportunity to experience the local culture and community spirit.
Q. Where can I find camping and RV parks near Miramar Beach?
A. There are several camping and RV parks near Miramar Beach for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers both RV and tent camping with access to beautiful beaches and hiking trails. Another close option is Camp Gulf, which provides beachfront RV sites and a variety of amenities. These parks offer a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area while enjoying a camping adventure.