3-Day Scenic Road Trip Itinerary: Small Towns and Coastal Wonders between Apalachicola and Destin

Day 1: Charming Coastal Beginnings

Apalachicola, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Tap Room Cafe

Start your journey with a delightful breakfast at The Tap Room Cafe, famed for their local ingredients and mouthwatering seafood omelets.
Walk from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Fort Coombs Armory

Explore the historic Fort Coombs Armory, an important landmark that offers insights into the region's military history.
A 5-minute walk from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Scenic Drive to Mexico Beach

Enjoy a scenic drive to Mexico Beach, a quaint coastal town with a beautiful coastline.
Drive 30 minutes via US-98.
Free, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Explore Mexico Beach

Take in the charming ambiance of Mexico Beach, stroll along the shore, and admire the local beach houses.
Walk around town.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fish House

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at The Fish House, known for their caught-daily fish tacos and a relaxed atmosphere.
A short drive or walk from the beach.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive to Port St. Joe

Continue your journey to Port St. Joe, known for its picturesque waterfront and small-town charm.
Drive 30 minutes via US-98.
Free, 30 minutes

1:30PM

Visit Cape San Blas

Explore Cape San Blas, a serene area perfect for beachcombing and wildlife viewing with beautiful coastal views.
Drive 15 minutes from Port St. Joe.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Check-In at Hotel in Port St. Joe

Relax and refresh at your hotel, enjoying the quaint small-town vibe.
Drive back into Port St. Joe.
Varies, 1 hour

4:30PM

Evening Stroll in Port St. Joe

Take an evening stroll along the waterfront in Port St. Joe, enjoying the sunset and local scenery.
Walk to the waterfront.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Coastal Grill

Dine at Sunset Coastal Grill, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying stunning views of St. Joseph Bay.
Drive to the restaurant, about 5 minutes away.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Coastal Towns and Local Flavors

Mexico Beach and Port St. Joe, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Parrot

Enjoy breakfast at The Blue Parrot, known for its homemade pastries and excellent coffee.
Walk from your hotel.
USD12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Port St. Joe Marina

Visit the marina to watch fishing boats come in and explore local shops and art galleries nearby.
A short drive or walk from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Scenic Drive to Niceville

Set out on a scenic drive towards Niceville, stopping along the way for picturesque views.
Drive about 1 hour via US-98, enjoying the coastal scenery.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Niceville

Explore the charming town of Niceville, known for its parks and local shops.
Drive into the center of town.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Ruby Tuesday

Stop for a casual lunch at Ruby Tuesday, where you can enjoy a salad bar and classic American dishes.
Drive to Ruby Tuesday in Niceville.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Turkey Creek Nature Trail

Take a relaxing hike on Turkey Creek Nature Trail, enjoying the beauty of nature and spotting local wildlife.
Drive 10 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Destin

Complete your journey to Destin, ready to indulge in its famed beach life.
Drive 20 minutes via US-98.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Check in to your hotel in Destin

Settle in to your accommodation, soaking in the coastal vibes.
Drive to your booked hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Destin Beach

Spend some time unwinding on the iconic beaches of Destin, taking a swim or relaxing in the sun.
Walk to the beach from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Crab Trap

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Crab Trap, where the seafood is fresh and the views are stunning.
Drive to the restaurant, nearby.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Last Day Leisure

Destin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Another Broken Egg Cafe

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with a variety of options, including delicious benedicts and crepes.
Drive 10 minutes to the cafe.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Destin History and Fishing Museum

Learn about the rich fishing history of Destin at this charming local museum.
Drive to the museum, a quick 5 minutes.
USD10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore The Village of Baytowne Wharf

Wander through the Village of Baytowne Wharf with its boutiques, galleries, and waterfront area ideal for leisure.
Drive 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Relax at the Beach

Spend some time relaxing on the beach, swimming, and soaking up the sun.
Walk back to the nearest beach from Baytowne.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Back Porch

Enjoy beachside dining at The Back Porch, famous for its seafood and gulf views.
Walk along the beachfront.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Henderson Beach State Park

Explore the natural beauty of Henderson Beach State Park with its hiking trails and lovely beaches.
Drive 10 minutes to the park.
USD6, 2 hours

5:00PM

Scenic Gulf Drive

Enjoy an easy drive along the picturesque Gulf Drive for the perfect sunset view as you conclude your getaway.
Drive along the coastal road.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Harbor Docks

Finish off your trip with dinner at Harbor Docks, a beloved local spot for fresh catch and lively atmosphere.
Drive to the restaurant, about 10 minutes away.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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