Destin approves Alvinβs Island redevelopment after 2021 fire

The Destin City Council unanimously approved a new Alvinβs Island store on U.S. 98, marking the chainβs comeback more than three years after its original location burned down.
Destin approves new warning signs, buoys near East Pass after Trinity Eslinger disappearance

After the heartbreaking disappearance of 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger, Destin leaders are taking action to warn visitors about hidden dangers near East Pass.
Destin bonfire ordinance dies on floor without a second

Destin bonfire ordinance dies on floor without a second Collin Bestor July 9, 2025 12:30 am Destin In Brief: π₯ Destin residents overwhelmingly opposed allowing beach bonfires during a heated public hearing. π« Council members rejected a proposal to draft an ordinance for fires on private property after strong public backlash. π Residents cited code […]
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract

Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 6:21 pm Mary Esther In Brief: πΎ PAWS abruptly ends contract with Mary Esther, leaving the city without animal control services. π New contract proposed higher rates, prompting council concerns over fairness and financial burden. ποΈ Officials weigh […]
Eight Rehabilitated Sea Turtles Released Back into the Gulf

Eight Rehabilitated Sea Turtles Released Back into the Gulf Staff Reports June 18, 2025 2:37 pm Charities and Nonprofits, Destin, Okaloosa County, Wildlife In Brief: π’ Eight rehabilitated sea turtles returned to the Gulf of Mexico in a public release at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on June 17. The Gulfarium CARE Center, which treated […]
Destin Considers Legalizing Beach Bonfires

Destin Considers Legalizing Beach Bonfires Collin Bestor June 4, 2025 12:55 pm Destin, News, Uncategorized In Brief: Destin City Council is exploring an ordinance that could legalize beach bonfires on city-owned property. The proposed permit program is modeled after Walton Countyβs and aims to raise revenue without taxing residents. Key hurdles include determining which beachfront […]
UPDATE – Tragedy in Destin: Parents Drown, Son Saved by Heroic Beachgoer

Two people died in an apparent drowning on May 27 near SunDestin Resort in Destin, marking the first confirmed drowning fatalities of the 2025 summer season in Okaloosa County.
Three Named To Serve On Mid Bay Bridge Authority

Governor DeSantis announces key appointments to the Mid-Bay Bridge Authority, including three military veterans with extensive leadership experience. Read more about their backgrounds and what they bring to this crucial role in Okaloosa Countyβs infrastructure.
Eglin to Detonate Unexploded Bombs Found in Choctawhatchee Bay

Navy EOD teams will safely detonate six 80-year-old World War II ordnance found in Choctawhatchee Bay, with operations taking place on Oct. 24 and 25.
Okaloosa County Wins Appeal Against Timberview Helicopters

Okaloosa County won an appeal in a lawsuit filed by Timberview Helicopters regarding the termination of their agreement.