Destin: Shark Tooth and Sea Shell Scavenger Hunt Cruise

If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back way to experience Destin’s shimmering coast, the Shark Tooth and Sea Shell Scavenger Hunt Cruise offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. This 1.5-hour boat trip captures the essence of Destin’s shoreline—sunshine, sea, and that irresistible thrill of discovering nature’s little hidden gems. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or flying solo, this excursion promises a memorable sea-based activity.

What makes this tour worth considering? First, we love that it combines scenic cruising with a hands-on hunt — a perfect combo for curious explorers. Second, the expert guidance from a USCG-licensed captain ensures you’ll be navigating the best spots for treasures, making the experience both safe and informative. One possible consideration? With only 1.5 hours, it’s a short window to hunt, swim, and soak up the sun, so pace yourself accordingly. This trip suits those who enjoy light, interactive outdoor activities and are comfortable in shallow waters, especially families and kids eager to find their first shark teeth.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: It’s a 1.5-hour cruise, perfect for fitting into a busy day.
• Treasure hunt: Search for shark teeth and unique shells in Destin Harbor.
• Relaxing atmosphere: Enjoy good music, sunshine, and easygoing island vibes.
• Family-friendly: Designed for explorers of all ages, especially kids.
• All the essentials: Onboard cooler, ice, bottled water, and amenities keep everyone refreshed.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 6) ensure personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This cruise begins at a well-located meeting point between the Boathouse Oyster Bar and Edge Sky Bar, a familiar spot along Destin’s waterfront. You check in at a kiosk, then hop aboard a comfortable vessel operated by Cruisin Tikis Destin. The captain, a friendly and knowledgeable guide, will take charge of the navigation, moving the boat through Destin Harbor and out into the Gulf’s best treasure-hunting waters.

The cruise lasts around 90 minutes, which is just enough time to relax, listen to lively music, and soak in the sunshine. The boat’s setup includes a cooler with ice and bottled water, so staying hydrated during your adventure is easy. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with island tunes, helps you feel like you’re on a mini vacation from the moment you step aboard.

Treasure Hunting for Shark Teeth and Shells

The main highlight is the search for shark teeth and rare shells along the shoreline. Your captain will guide you to prime locations—these are spots where the ocean’s currents deposit the kind of fossils and shells that make perfect souvenirs. The experience is interactive, making it ideal for kids and adults alike.

One aspect that travelers often note is the variety of shells they find. Some reviews mention “unique shells,” which hints at the chance to discover shells you wouldn’t see just walking along the beach. The shark teeth hunt is especially popular, as Destin’s waters are known for these prehistoric remnants.

You’ll disembark at specific points along the shore where you can wade into shallow waters or dig into the sand—activities that feel natural and fun, especially for children. The captain may also offer tips on how to identify interesting shells or find shark teeth, adding an educational element to the adventure.

Swimming, Exploring, and the Sunset Vibes

Once you’ve had your fill of hunting, the boat provides ample time to swim and explore the shallow waters. The warm, clear Gulf waters invite you to cool off, and the gentle waves make for a relaxing swim. If you prefer staying dry, just lounge on the deck and enjoy the scenic views.

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy the easygoing island atmosphere—the kind that makes you forget about hurried schedules. The music and the breeze keep the mood light and cheerful, which our travelers appreciated. Several reviews highlight the “laid-back vibe,” perfect for a stress-free day on the water.

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The Value of a Small Group

With a maximum of 6 participants, the experience maintains an intimate feel. This small-group setting allows your captain to provide personalized guidance, making sure everyone gets a good chance to hunt and explore. It’s also a plus for those who prefer avoiding crowded tours.

Practical Details and What to Pack

Since the tour lasts only 1.5 hours, packing light is best. Bring swimwear and sunscreen—the sun in Destin can be intense, and you’ll want to protect your skin. The tour is suitable for most people who are non-swimmers and comfortable in shallow water, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or prone to seasickness.

The boat’s amenities, including the cooler with bottled water, help you stay refreshed. Just remember that only service animals are permitted, and kids are included in the participant count, so plan accordingly.

What Others Say

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One traveler mentioned, “We loved the way the captain navigated to the best shells and shared interesting facts about the area.” Guests also appreciate how family-friendly and accessible the experience is for children—making it a great activity for families seeking a fun outing.

The Pricing and Value

The tour’s price reflects its intimate size, personalized guidance, and the unique experience of treasure hunting. Since you’re getting a scenic cruise combined with hands-on activity, many find it offers good value—especially for small groups and families wanting a memorable, interactive side of Destin.

The flexibility to reserve now and pay later adds convenience, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate commitment. Cancellation is free if you decide to change your plans more than 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who enjoy short, relaxed boat trips with a twist of adventure. If you’re traveling with children eager to hunt for shells or shark teeth, this activity is a winner. It also suits travelers who appreciate informal, friendly guides and want to avoid large, commercialized tours.

For anyone seeking a casual yet engaging water activity that combines natural beauty with a little treasure hunting, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or couples who want a lighthearted day on the water.

But if you’re looking for a longer cruise, dolphin spotting, or a more active water sport, this might be a brief taste rather than your main adventure. Still, for a quick, fun outing that offers authentic access to Destin’s shoreline treasures, it’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day that balances activity with relaxation.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You check in at the kiosk located between the Boathouse Oyster Bar and Edge Sky Bar, at the coordinates 30.392822265625, -86.50569915771484.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear and sunscreen so you can enjoy time in the water without worries.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are included in the participant count, and many reviews highlight its family-friendly nature.

Can non-swimmers participate?
While the tour involves some water activity, the shallow water areas and the nature of the hunt make it suitable for non-swimmers, provided they are comfortable in shallow water.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness. Be sure to consider your comfort with small boat rides and shallow water activities.

What amenities are available onboard?
A cooler with ice and bottled water keeps everyone hydrated. The boat also plays lively music to enhance the casual, island vibe.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 6 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now and paying later offers flexibility as well.

In the end, this Destin Shark Tooth & Sea Shell Scavenger Hunt Cruise offers a blend of scenery, activity, and relaxation that’s hard to beat for a quick Gulf Coast escape. Whether you’re hunting for fossils or simply soaking up the sunshine, it’s a charming way to spend part of your day along the Florida coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby