Destin Megadive?

[SuPrBuGmAn]

Its not just the dive, its the socializing afterwards.

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

Is there a reason the cookout would be at Henderson (other than creature comforts)? Just wondering....

Just looking for somewhere we can easily get boilers out, pavillions and bathrooms are a plus. Is there a better place you know as a local? Usually creature comforts aren't on my mind unless there's a divesite off the beach

 

[Capt Grumby]

Just looking for somewhere we can easily get boilers out, pavillions and bathrooms are a plus. Is there a better place you know as a local? Usually creature comforts aren't on my mind unless there's a divesite off the beach

I have a thought, but let me look into it a bit deeper before I offer it up.

 

[denisegg]

Since I am not a creature, I enjoy comforts.

 

[ShagMan]

Will there be any surface support folks for the dive? If so, I'll bring the inflatable, and haul tanks... I can take 6 tanks if I make the crossing solo, and save you guys from lugging tanks.

I'm a little leery about bringing the inflatable, if there's not somebody on the surface keeping an eye on it.

 

[jviehe]

How do we want to handle the cookout? What do we need, and who is bringing what? Im thinking about 20 people worth right now.

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

I'll bring drinks of asorted flavors and lots of dixie cups.

 

[Capt Grumby]

Just looking for somewhere we can easily get boilers out, pavillions and bathrooms are a plus. Is there a better place you know as a local? Usually creature comforts aren't on my mind unless there's a divesite off the beach

Mat, I called and spoke to alot of people. Here is what I've got -

Henderson - They have 2 pavilions, 1st come 1st serve. The "day use" entrance fee is $4 per car (up to 8 people) or $3 per car (single person). They do not allow any heat source on the pavilions, and the structures are raised off the ground and have rails. They are 3.7 miles from the Jetties parking area. Located east of the jetties, entrance across the street from Hooters (roughly).

Eglin Beach Park - They have 4 pavilions, 3 are 1st come, 1st serve. One can be reserved for a fee ($150). The "day use" fee here is $2 per car. To get in the gate, a military ID card holder must sign you in. (it's a hassle, but do-able). You can set the crab boil up in the sand alongside the pavilion and not have an issue. They are 4.5 miles from the Jetties parking area. Located just off the west side of the Destin bridge, entrance is across the street from the Coast Guard station.

Marler Park - not a good option due to location (distance).

Beasley Park - not called, but they are a state park, like Henderson. Will likely have the same restrictions for the cooking. They are 8 miles from the Jetties parking area.

Calhoun Park - Highly recommended for social gatherings by the City of Destin. I have not gone by there yet. From what I was told, it has restrooms and running water, as well as electricity. It is on the bay side of Hwy 98, 3.8 miles from the Jetties parking area. I will go see it this Saturday and post my findings. Located on the east side of the Destin bridge, bay-side, on Calhoun Ave.

If there are going to be non-divers coming, then a park that is 1st come, 1st serve could work, as they could "camp out" and hold the spot. If not, then it's a crap shoot for getting a spot after the "Crustacean Hunt".

Again, I will post an update after I check out Calhoun this Saturday.

 

[jviehe]

I think Henderson would be fine. We can cook off the pavilion and bring it in. Hooters is convinient too. Ill get a bunch of wings for the cookout.

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

I'm open to whatever