U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary - Destin, Florida

04/16/2026

⚠️ Road Closures

📢Upcoming Road Closure

The 96th Test Wing will conduct testing on the Eglin Test and Training Complex April 21, requiring the closure of Highway 285 between noon and 3 p.m.

The road should not be closed for more than a 90-minute period. Note, the road may be closed for several periods within the time frame.

See more here: https://www.eglin.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4460695/hwy-285-to-close-for-mission-next-week/
53rd Wing | Eglin FSS | 33rd Fighter Wing | The 7th Special Forces Group | 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing | AFMS - Eglin - 96 Medical Group

07/04/2025

Happy 4th of July! Today, we celebrate the birth of our nation and the freedoms we cherish. The men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard remain on watch across our borders, where defense of America begins. As the nation's finest maritime fighting force, we are applying our full range of capabilities to control, secure, and defend our borders and maritime approaches. We continue operations to facilitate commerce vital to economic security and strategic mobility, safeguarding a Marine Transportation System that is instrumental in restoring U.S. maritime dominance.

As an Armed Service, we are proud to stand alongside our fellow servicemembers, and extend our gratitude to all who have dedicated their lives to defending our nation. Your service and sacrifice make our freedom possible.

This holiday, please remember to celebrate responsibly and stay safe on the water.

From the U.S. Coast Guard, have a safe and happy Independence Day!

03/19/2025

🌸⚓ Spring into Safe Boating! ⚓🌸

The first day of spring is here, and it’s time to get your boat ready for the season! Before you hit the water, take the time to clean, inspect, and prepare your vessel to ensure a safe and smooth boating experience.

🛥 Spring Boat Prep Checklist:
✅ Deep Clean Your Boat – Wash away winter grime, check for mold or mildew, and inspect for any damage.
✅ Check the Hull & Propellers – Look for cracks, dents, or wear that could impact performance.
✅ Test Your Engine & Battery – Charge or replace batteries, inspect fuel lines, and ensure your engine is running smoothly.
✅ Inspect Safety Equipment – Life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and first aid kits should be in good condition and up to date.
✅ Review Navigation & Communication Gear – Ensure your GPS, VHF radio, and charts are updated and fully functional.
✅ Schedule a Vessel Safety Check! – Coast Guard Auxiliary Destin will be providing FREE Vessel Safety Checks to help you kick off the season safely!

🚤 Stay tuned for updates on dates and locations right here on our page! A well-prepared boat means a safer, more enjoyable time on the water. 🌊



USCG Photo by U.S. Coast Guard Mid-Atlantic

03/16/2025

03/09/2025

🚤 That’s a Wrap on – But We’re Just Getting Started!

Wow, what an incredible week! 🌊⚓ From Crab Island safety tips to wildlife awareness, life jackets, and sober boating, we’ve covered everything to keep Okaloosa County’s boaters safe and smart on the water.

💙 A huge THANK YOU to everyone who joined in, shared their stories, posted their best boating pics, and helped spread the word! This campaign was all about our community—locals, visitors, captains, and weekend boaters alike—coming together to make Destin’s waters safer for everyone.

🚤 What’s Next?
We’re not done yet! Mark your calendars for National Safe Boating Week – May 17-23, 2025! The Safe Boating Campaign is a national effort to promote life jackets, boating safety, and responsible recreation.

🔜 Stay tuned for more tips, community events, and ways to keep the Gulf Coast safe, fun, and family-friendly all season long!

🛟 Until then—stay safe, boat smart, and we’ll see you on the water! 🌊

⚓ | | |

Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners City of Destin Government

03/08/2025

🗺️ Smart Routes for Safer Boating in Destin!

Whether you’re cruising Choctawhatchee Bay, heading to Crab Island, or exploring the Gulf, knowing your route can save time and keep you safe.

📍 Popular Boating Destinations & Tips:
⚓ Crab Island – Strong currents & heavy boat traffic—anchor securely & stay alert!
⚓ Choctawhatchee Bay – Shallow areas and sandbars—watch for markers and depth changes.
⚓ East Pass to the Gulf – Fast-moving waters—use caution & check conditions before heading out.
⚓ Destin Harbor – No-wake zone with high traffic—go slow and watch for kayakers & paddleboarders.

🛟 Know your route, check the tides, and always have a backup plan—safe boaters are prepared boaters!

⚓ | Know Your Route, Enjoy the Ride!

03/08/2025

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary - Recreational Boating Safety Directorates

03/08/2025

Honoring Women in Service | International Women’s Day

Today, on International Women’s Day, we proudly recognize and celebrate the incredible contributions of women in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and beyond. From leading missions and training crews to ensuring the safety of our waterways, women have played an essential role in strengthening our service and upholding our values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty.

We honor the trailblazers who paved the way, the leaders who inspire, and the dedicated members who continue to serve with excellence. Your commitment, resilience, and leadership shape the future of maritime safety and service.

To all the women in uniform—past, present, and future—thank you for your service! 🇺🇸⚓


U.S. Coast Guard Sector Mobile

03/08/2025

🚤 Before You Set Sail, Check These First!

A great day on the water starts with good preparation. Before heading out, make sure your boat—and your crew—are ready for a safe and smooth trip.

✅ Weather Check – Florida’s weather changes fast! Check for storms, winds, and marine conditions before leaving.
✅ Fuel & Battery – Follow the "1/3 Rule": ⅓ fuel to go out, ⅓ fuel to return, ⅓ for emergencies.
✅ Safety Gear – Life jackets? ✅ Flares? ✅ First aid kit? ✅ Always be ready.
✅ Float Plan – Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back.
✅ Navigation Tools – GPS, paper charts, and a VHF radio in case of emergencies.

🌊 A few extra minutes of prep can prevent big problems later—Boat Safe Destin!

⚓ | Plan Smart, Boat Smart!

03/07/2025

🛟 No More Excuses—Wear a Life Jacket!

Too many boaters risk their lives by making excuses for not wearing a life jacket. Here’s why those excuses don’t hold water!

❌ "I’m a great swimmer!"
➡️ Even the best swimmers can be knocked unconscious in an accident. A life jacket keeps you afloat.

❌ "It’s uncomfortable!"
➡️ Modern PFDs are lightweight and designed for comfort—find the right fit!

❌ "I’ll grab it if I need it!"
➡️ Accidents happen FAST. If you’re thrown overboard, you won’t have time to grab one.

❌ "It doesn’t look cool."
➡️ Surviving is cool! More and more boaters wear PFDs because smart boaters lead by example.

🌊 No matter your experience, always wear a life jacket when conditions call for it—because the water doesn’t care how good of a swimmer you are.

⚓ | No Excuses, Wear a PFD!