Destin, Florida has been recognized as the number 2 harbor in the United States for 2024, marking its debut on the prestigious “Best Harbor” list.

• The harbor also claimed the title of Gulf Coast regional winner in the annual contest organized by US Harbors.

“We’re honored to make the list! For a City under 14,000 residents to show so well, it speaks volumes about its natural beauty and love of all who visit,” said Tamara Young, Public Information Manager for the City of Destin.

Destin Harbor’s high ranking places it among notable harbors nationwide, second only to Block Island, Rhode Island, which took the grand prize as the “Best Harbor in the U.S.” for 2024.

Young expressed enthusiasm about Destin’s participation in the contest. “When we first heard about the contest, I couldn’t enter us fast enough and share it with folks who love it. If you have ever visited the Destin Harbor area, you know it’s amongst the best in America,” she said.

• The annual competition sees communities across the country competing for the “Best Harbor” title. Winners receive plaques commemorating their achievement.

Destin’s recognition comes as part of a diverse list of top 10 harbors, which includes both first-time winners and previous champions. Other notable winners include Padanaram, Massachusetts, the 2019 grand winner, and Charlevoix, Michigan, which was crowned the grand winner in 2021 and secured the Great Lakes regional win for 2024.