(content by Darren W)
Destin in Florida should feature high on the list of must-visit places of all beach-loving travelers across the globe. Its crystal clear waters, soothing ambiance, and enjoyable water activities make it one of the most exciting holiday destinations ever.
To know how spectacular this region truly is, you can visit the best beaches Destin, such as Navarre Beach, Miramar Beach, and Norriego Point.
But it is surprising to know that among so many beach destinations in Florida, Destin seemingly has the most transparent waters.
The Science behind it
Destin’s location between Panama City and Pensacola on the Florida Panhandle gives it a great advantage. There are no rivers here that empty directly into the Gulf waters. Furthermore, north of Destin is the Choctawhatchee Bay that filters everything before letting it into the Gulf. This causes the waters in Destin to be clearer and sediment-free, giving them a quality purer than the other Florida beaches.
So, how is the sand so white?
This one has a more straightforward explanation. White quartz crystals were thrown into the Apalachicola River thousands of years ago from the mountain tops. From here, the crystals gradually made their way into the expansive Gulf of Mexico. Over time, the strong Gulf waves eroded the disintegrated crystals to form the sparkly white sand visible today.
It is Seasonal
A prominent point made by many avid travelers and beach experts is that Destin’s waters are clearest during the fall and spring seasons. One theory could be that there are fewer microbes and nutrients in the water as it is colder during this period. This results in amplified visibility, making the waters a lot clearer than usual.
With the well-known fact that spending time on beaches boost mental health, the number of visitors to Destin and other Florida beaches is bound to increase.
The Role of Waves, Wind, and Rain
The waters seem more transparent when there are consecutive days of calm weather and light winds. The reason could be that these conditions cause the sediments in water to accumulate. And when they dissipate, the result is crystal clear water. Another crucial factor determining the transparency of water in Destin is rain. When the passes and inlets along the shores drain bays and other waterways, it plays a vital role.
The Clear, Green Waters
The clear waters of the best beaches in Destin resemble an enigmatic emerald green color. The reason behind this striking color is the chlorophyll from the water’s natural microscopic plankton. When light falls, it creates a vivid contrast between the crystal clear waters and the sharp white sand underneath. Depending on factors such as water temperature, weather, and sunshine, the shades of Destin’s water change from the stark grayish-green to a soothing aquamarine blue.
Summary
Destin remains one of the most frequently visited beach destinations in Florida. From idyllic stays for couples to fun activities for families, there are spots here that all types of tourists can enjoy. The best time to visit Destin beaches is during the offseason if you truly wish to enjoy the calm, crystal waters of Destin.
