Coffee Coffee, Coffee!

Dining EAT | DRINK | INDULGE

Community Cupin a

Destin’s coffee culture has quickly become a draw for locals and tourists alike

BY KATIE GARRISON

DESTIN, FLORIDA — HOME TO EMERALD-GREEN WATERS, WORLD-CLASS beaches and a bustling fishing community. But, we all need our caffeine, and Destin’s coffee culture is becoming nearly as bustling as our harbor, as the city and its surrounding areas have emerged in recent years as a place for trendy cafes.

Some of Destin’s best coffee shops lean into a boho influence, with snake plants and beach-chic seating. Other local spots still provide that typical beach aesthetic, with umbrella seating, tiki-hut roofs and classic chalkboard menus. And some like to support other local vendors, offering local honey or handcrafted products.

Whatever vibe or ambiance you’re looking for, you’ll need to know where to go. Lucky for you, we have three piping-hot spots that will caffeinate you and fuel your soul. Whether you’re looking to drive, bike or walk from the beach, we’ve got you covered on where you can find some of the best coffee shops in and around Destin.

▲ East Pass Coffee Co. Relatively new to the area, East Pass Coffee Co. opened in 2020, making it one of Destin’s latest hidden gems. Locals tip — you have to turn into Burrito Del Sol’s parking lot to get there. As you approach the shop, you are welcomed by the simplicity of the white building complemented with plants that sit along its ledges. When you enter the coffee shop, you will find that the minimalist, boho-chic atmosphere continues inside. To the left, you’ll discover a large menu with food, beverages and, of course, their hand-roasted JumpinGoat coffee. Let’s not forget their stunning display of East Pass Coffee swag and local honey for purchase. East Pass Coffee Co., popular amongst locals, is a must-go when visiting Destin. And for the acai-bowl lovers, check out any of their housemade bowls of mouth-watering goodness. I highly recommend “The Joz Bowl,” jam packed with acai, granola, banana, pineapple, coconut, peanut butter and local honey — I’ve been dreaming about it ever since. Run, don’t walk to this magical place! 529 Harbor Blvd., Unit 104, Destin | (850) 353-2906 | EastPassCoffeeCo.com

EAST PASS COFFEE CO. ACAI BOWLS Camille’s Cafe at Crystal Beach Sitting on Scenic Highway 98, just across the street from the Crystal Beach access, lives Camille’s. Talk about a coffee shop party! Camille’s brings the heat when it comes to coffee shops in the Destin area. They provide live music on Thursdays and Fridays and both indoor and outdoor seating for customers. The shop functions as a cafe from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and then transforms into a restaurant from 5 to 10 p.m. As you approach Camille’s, you will find that it’s a beautiful little spot filled with flowers and smiling faces. As you enter the cafe, you’ll discover the large menu that includes all its food, beverage and locally roasted coffee options. I treated myself to their incredible twist on avocado toast, topped with olive oil and their house red-pepper spice blend. I’ve also enjoyed their breakfast tacos and an iced coffee. You might call me a regular, and I am happy to share that I have never been disappointed. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a simple coffee run, go and enjoy this coffee-shop treasure along our beautiful beach on your next vacation. 2931 Scenic Highway 98, Destin | (850) 337-8860 CamillesAtCrystalBeach.com

WHY SHOP LOCAL?

When you visit our area and choose to shop local, you’re supporting more than just the success of an individual or business, you’re supporting a community. Whether you call the Emerald Coast home or you’re visiting from near or far, supporting the local community keeps it thriving for locals and tourists alike. People come to the area for more than just our beaches, though they are the key draw, people come for an experience. Whether that’s a great cup of morning joe, a fresh catch of the day, a boutique shopping spree or an ocean excursion. Supporting local businesses promotes more jobs for locals, and more options for our visitors. Plus, it’s better for the environment! Local businesses tend to source products and ingredients locally, reducing your environmental impact as a consumer. So, come on down, order a latte and wander about the community to see what gems you can find!

Dining

EAT | DRINK | INDULGE

▶ Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii Aloha! Locally brewed and imported from Hawaii, Bad Ass Coffee is a must-try in Miramar Beach. This is your traditional beach-vibe coffee shop along Scenic Highway 98, and they offer indoor and outdoor seating for customers. You’ll find no shortage of options here, as they have a great variety of signature lattes. I chose the “Oo-Da-Lolly,” which has white chocolate, praline, honey and oat milk. When I tell you this drink was delicious … it was delicious — the Hawaiian coffee is no joke. Bad Ass Coffee also serves typical coffee shop food, such as pastries, energy bars and bagels. If you’re not in the mood for a coffee, they also have an adorable selection of small gifts and Bad Ass Coffee swag — you can also leave with your own bag of Bad Ass Coffee. Do not skip this place on your next trip! They have some of the baddest coffee around and make for a perfect hangout spot after a long day at the beach. 1708 Scenic Gulf Drive, Miramar Beach (850) 424-7804 | BadAssCoffee.com

The Destin area is home to plenty of great coffee shops; these are just a few of our personal favorite spots. Whether you’re looking to recharge with a coffee or a bite to eat, we promise all of these local spots will treat you right. Stay caffeinated, friends!

› More Locally Loved

Coffee Spots

Cafe Destin

Palms Station Plaza

985 U.S. Highway 98 E., Destin (850) 424-6777 CafeDestin.com

Roast’d Yoga Bar

Shoreline Village Plaza

806 U.S. Highway 98 E., Destin (850) 687-2413 RoastdYoga.com

The Palms Coffee House

The Palms of Destin Resort

4201 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin (850) 389-5014 PalmsOfDestinFlorida.com/ palms-coffeehouse

Oasis on the Boardwalk Cafe and Boutique

Okaloosa Island

1450 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Suite 104, Fort Walton Beach (850) 586-7171 IslandersOutfitter.com

Maas Coffee Roasters

Downtown

150 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach (850) 226-6642 MaasCoffeeRoasters.com

The Sound Cafe + Enlightened Studios

Downtown

142 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach (850) 830-2664 EnlightenedFWB.com

Holiday Isle Properties

Here at Holiday Isle Properties, our goal is to make your vacation a relaxing experience by finding you the perfect place to stay for your next vacation. We’ve been in business 37 years and enjoy helping guests make wonderful Destin and Fort Walton Beach memories. We manage over 250 properties, many offering unique amenities such as pet friendly, winter monthly stays, or beach service.

We offer condos sitting on the white sandy beaches or the calm Destin harbor. Come view all our properties at www.holidayisle.net. Not sure exactly what condo would be perfect? Give us a call and let our reservation agents find a condo or home for you at your price point or the requirements you need.

holidayisle.net | 1-800-837-5102 or local 850-837-0010 | 842 Highway 98 East in Destin, FL 32541