A motorcyclist's guide to Destin — and beyond

Hundreds of two-wheeled travelers have landed their kickstands in Destin this week for the annual Florida State H.O.G. Rally.  And they all have the same question on their mind, “Where to next?”

Last year was the Harley Owners Group first time on the Emerald Coast, and they’re back again for another four-day event that includes a jam-packed schedule of music, food, games and guided tours.

But for those looking to journey off the beaten path, local Harley enthusiast and Merrill Lynch financial adviser Tim Krueger says the area has much to offer.

“This place is so beautiful and has so much diversity,” he said. Just across the Mid-Bay Bridge, “you can ride over rolling hills through that piney area, or you can ride along the beach.”

One of his favorite ride routes along the Panhandle takes him back more than 100 years to the historical Civil War site, Fort Pickens. Take U.S. Hwy. 98 to Navarre then take the Navarre Beach Causeway to Hwy. 339, and head toward Pensacola Beach through the Gulf Islands National Seashore. 

“It’s absolutely breathtaking,” he said. “There aren’t any buildings for probably 13 miles.”

The narrow strip of land is covered with dunes and surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and the Santa Rosa Sound. If the ride leaves you thirsty, Krueger says The Sandshaker Lounge in Gulf Breeze is a great place to wet your whistle.

He also recommends bikers head out east to 30A in Walton County and stop for a bite to eat at Bud and Alley’s in Seaside, which is located right on the beach.

But if it’s a true southern biker experience you’re looking for, The Outpost in Freeport is a must. The little backwoods bar is biker owned and operated. The Outpost is located at 4576 Hwy. 3280 just off Hwy. 20 along the Choctawhatchee River.

Although it’s “in the middle of the nowhere,” Krueger said the people there are the nicest in the world. “But don’t come by car or you’ll have to park down the road,” he said with a laugh. Learn more about the bar, click here.

As for Destin-based eateries, he recommended Harry T’s, AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar and Hog’s Breath Saloon. 

Hog’s Breath manager Mike Cover says he is looking forward to hosting the rally’s Wednesday night event with live music and food. As for the restaurant’s pork-inspired name, he says that’s just a coincidence.

With more than 600 Harley riders already registered, Cover is keeping a full staff this weekend.

“It will be phenomenal if only half that many show up… It gives us one last push before the off season,” he said.   

Even Destin’s own King of Rock n’ Roll, Ron Adams, is planning to join in the H.O.G. Rally festivities. Along with the music, he is looking forward the showing off his ride at the 2011 Harley Bike Show 11 a.m. Saturday at Uptown Station in Fort Walton.

“Destin is the best place to have the H.O.G. Rally because of its beaches and places to ride. It beats other places I’ve been,” Adams said. “You get more of a taste of the South and true southern hospitality.”

And for those new to town, Adams says stopping at the local “country bar” is a must. Calhoun’s Pub and Grub is located behind Goodwill next to Old Time Pottery.

“It’s exactly what these people are looking for… It has good music and inexpensive drinks,” he said.

As the rumble of his comrades on the horizon grows nearer, Krueger says he absolutely loves being a Harley man. For him, there’s a sense of freedom that comes from knowing the only thing between him and the passing pavement is two tires and an engine.

“Like the sticker on my helmet says, ‘If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much space.’ “