The 4 Closest Airports to Destin, FL
The closest airport to Destin, FL, is Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), located approximately 17 miles away. However, it is a small airport. The nearest major airport to Destin, Florida, is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), approximately 42 miles away.
The 4 closest airports to Destin, FL
You click the name of these airports to find flights to these airports.
- Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) ~ 17 miles away. It’s the nearest airport to Destin, FL, but it’s small airport.
- Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) ~ 17 miles away. It’s the closest international airport to Port Destin, Florida.
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS) ~ 52 miles away. It’s another international airport near Destin, Florida.
- Destin Executive Airport (DTS) ~ 0 miles away. It’s the closest airport to Destin, FL, but it’s private airport.

1. Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS)
Distance to Destin: Approximately 16–19 miles (25–30 minutes)
Pros:
- Closest commercial airport to Destin
- Served by major airlines: Allegiant, American, Delta, Southwest, and United
- Onsite car rentals and ride-share options available
Cons: Smaller airport with limited gates
Car Rental Options: Onsite agencies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, and National
Contact Details:
- Address: 1701 State Road 85 N, Eglin AFB, FL 32542
- Website: flyvps.com
- Phone: +1 850-651-7160
2. Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)
Distance to Destin: Approximately 42 miles east (about 1 hour)
Pros:
- Modern facilities with several major airlines
- Often less crowded than larger airports
Cons: Farther from Destin compared to VPS
Car Rental Options: Onsite agencies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty
Contact Details:
- Address: 6300 West Bay Parkway, Panama City, FL 32409
- Website: iflybeaches.com
- Phone: +1 850-763-0108
3. Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
Distance to Destin: Approximately 52 miles west (about 1 hour 15 minutes)
Pros:
- Larger airport with more flight options
- Serves both domestic and limited international flights
Cons: Longer drive to Destin
Car Rental Options: Onsite agencies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty
Contact Details:
- Address: 2430 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504
- Website: flypensacola.com
- Phone: +1 850-436-5000
4. Destin Executive Airport (DTS)
Distance to Destin: Located within Destin city limits
Pros:
- Closest airport to Destin
- Ideal for private and charter flights
Cons: No commercial airline service
Car Rental Options: Available through local agencies and FBO services
Contact Details:
- Address: 1001 Airport Rd, Destin, FL 32541
- Website: flydts.com
- Phone: +1 850-651-7160
Summary
- Best Overall Choice: Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) for its proximity and convenience.
- Alternative Options: Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) and Pensacola International Airport (PNS) offer more flight options but require longer drives.
- Private Flights: Destin Executive Airport (DTS) is suitable for private or chartered flights.