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Go and Explore: A Mural + Clear Kayak Adventure in Destin & Fort Walton Beach

Large mural of two whales swimming underwater on a blue corrugated wall with clouds above.

Discover the best murals in Destin and Fort Walton Beach and combine your adventure with a clear kayak tour from Get Up and Go Kayaking Destin/Fort Walton Beach. Perfect for photos, wildlife spotting, and local culture.

If you’re visiting Destin and Fort Walton Beach, you’re probably looking for ways to make your trip unforgettable. Sure, the emerald waters, sandy beaches, and playful wildlife are must-sees, but there’s another local treasure that’s capturing the hearts of travelers: murals!

From the playful Whale Wall to the vibrant Lionfish mural at the Convention Center, these public artworks offer social media-ready moments, and a taste of local culture. And here’s the fun twist: you can go and explore these murals before or after paddling through the stunning waters on a clear kayak tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking Destin.

🎨 Must-See Murals in Destin & Fort Walton Beach

1. Whale Wall

Large mural of whales and clouds on a blue warehouse wall at sunset.

This whimsical mural has quickly become a local favorite. Its playful design makes it ideal for photos with friends or family — and yes, your kayak adventure makes the perfect companion shot!

Go and Explore Tip: Snap a creative photo of your group with the mural, then paddle to the nearest bay for a clear kayak adventure — it’s all about capturing the contrast between vibrant art and emerald waters.

Mural of ocean scene with whale, dolphins, and birds on a blue metal building wall.

2. Lionfish Mural at the Convention Center

Convention center with blue mural and plant landscaping on a cloudy day.

Bold, colorful, and full of energy, the Lionfish mural is impossible to miss. It’s a reminder of the beauty and uniqueness of local marine life — a perfect prelude to spotting rays, dolphins, and schools of fish during your clear kayak tour.

Go and Explore Tip: Visit the mural in the morning, then hop on a Get Up and Go Kayaking tour from Mary Esther to see the real-life creatures that inspired the artwork!

Mural of a blue striped lionfish on a wall signed 'Gnarly 2021'.

3. Beach Weekend Mural

Colorful beach-themed mural with a house, palm trees, and a boat. 'BEACHWEEKEND.COM' and 'FWB' are prominently displayed.

Capture the essence of the Emerald Coast with this vibrant mural celebrating sun, sand, and surf. It’s playful, Instagram-ready, and a great reminder of why you came to the coast in the first place.

Go and Explore Tip: Pair it with a relaxing paddle along Santa Rosa Sound — the perfect way to transition from urban art to natural beauty.

4. Native’s Cove Mural

Colorful graffiti on a wall next to an outdoor seating area with palm trees under a cloudy sky.

Celebrate local heritage and coastal charm with the Native’s Cove mural. Its intricate details reward a closer look, and it’s another mural perfect for your social media collection.

Go and Explore Tip: After snapping a few photos, take your clear kayak along nearby channels for a quiet moment to reflect on the day and enjoy the water from a unique perspective.

[Image Placeholder: Kayaker paddling with Lionfish mural in background]

🌊 Why a Clear Kayak Tour is the Perfect Companion

Person in chair holding donut and drink, facing boats and life vests near a dock.

After exploring murals on land, there’s no better way to experience Destin like a local than by hopping into a clear kayak with Get Up and Go Kayaking Destin/Fort Walton Beach. Paddling gives you:

  • Unobstructed views of underwater life — dolphins, rays, and colorful schools of fish.
  • Unique photography opportunities — clear kayak paddling combined with golden hour light.
  • A fresh perspective on local culture and environment — glide through channels, bays, and sandbars not accessible by car.

Go and Explore Tip: Time your kayak tour for the late afternoon or early evening. You’ll get the best lighting for underwater visibility and can cap off your mural tour with a serene paddle at sunset.

💡 Insider Tips for the Ultimate Adventure

Man in chair holds donut and drink, facing boats and life jackets in outdoor setting.

  • Plan your route – Start on land with murals, coffee and breakfast then launch from Mary Esther for your kayak tour.
  • Dress for both land and water – Comfortable walking shoes for murals and layers for paddling.
  • Bring a waterproof bag – Keep your phone and camera safe while paddling.
  • Follow your guide – Get Up and Go Kayaking Destin guides know the safest, most scenic routes.
  • Leave no trace – Respect murals, sandbars, and wildlife habitats.

🌟 Make It a Full-Day Go and Explore Itinerary

Colorful fish mural on wall at convention center with blue sky and flags in background.

 

  1. Morning: Launch from Mary Esther with Get Up and Go Kayaking Destin/Fort Walton Beach for a clear kayak tour through the channels, sandbars, and bays.
  2. Mid Morning: Explore the Beach Weekend and Native’s Cove murals.
  3. Afternoon: Start at the Whale Wall and Lionfish mural (bonus mural found at the convention center pictured above) for photos.
  4. Sunset Paddle: Cap the day with a calm paddle during golden hour — watch dolphins play and the water glow under the fading sun.

Book your clear kayak adventure: Get Up and Go Kayaking Destin

 

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