This beach town packs a punch with sugar-white sand, turquoise waters, and fun for all ages.
Whether you’re a family on vacation, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a solo traveler craving sunshine and seafood, Fort Walton Beach delivers.
Here are the best things visitors love about Fort Walton Beach — and you will too!
Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
1. Gorgeous, Calm Beaches You’ll Never Want to Leave
Fort Walton Beach is famous for its sugar-white sand and stunning emerald-green waters, and nowhere is that more evident than on Okaloosa Island.
The beaches here are family-friendly, making it a perfect spot for swimming, floating, or simply relaxing with a good book under an umbrella.
Visitors love how peaceful the beach feels compared to more crowded spots like Destin or Panama City.
Whether you’re watching the sunset, building sandcastles, or just dipping your toes in the Gulf, this stretch of beach delivers those vacation vibes we all crave.
2. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Right on the waterfront, the Gulfarium is one of the oldest marine parks in the country, but it’s still a fan favorite.
Here you can see dolphin shows, meet sea lions, and even feed penguins.
Families especially love the up-close animal encounters, and it’s an easy way to mix in education with fun.
It’s compact enough to enjoy in just a couple of hours, so you still have plenty of beach time afterward.
3. Fishing on the Okaloosa Island Pier
The Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier is a local landmark and a great way to experience the Gulf without ever getting wet.
You can rent gear on-site and catch everything from Spanish mackerel to redfish.
Not into fishing? No problem — many visitors just walk the pier for the awesome views and dolphin sightings.
Sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful from the end of the pier, with sweeping views of the Gulf.
Photo Credit: DestinFWB
4. Downtown Fort Walton Beach (And The Landing)
Downtown Fort Walton Beach is packed with local charm — think quirky boutiques, art galleries, cozy cafés, and weekend markets.
The Landing, a nearby waterfront park, hosts concerts and festivals throughout the year and is a favorite spot for locals to unwind.
It’s the kind of place where you can stroll without a schedule and find something new around every corner.
Live music, food trucks, and friendly vibes make this area a perfect spot.
Photo Credit: Air Force Armament Museum
5. Museums That Are Actually Fun
Fort Walton Beach’s museums are perfect for when you want a break from the sun without sacrificing entertainment.
The Indian Temple Mound Museum (temporarily closed) dives into the area’s deep Native American history, while the Air Force Armament Museum showcases massive aircraft and military exhibits.
These attractions are engaging, educational, and never feel like a chore. Kids can explore hands-on displays, and history buffs will appreciate the rare artifacts.
6. Delicious, Casual Coastal Dining
Visitors consistently rave about the food scene in Fort Walton Beach, especially the casual seafood spots that line the coast.
Stewby’s Seafood Shanty is a go-to for fried shrimp and fresh fish, while The Shack offers unbeatable views of the bay alongside southern favorites.
You’ll find everything from bistros to the waterfront restaurants at the Boardwalk of Okaloosa Island.
There’s no need to dress up here — flip-flops are always welcome.
7. Boating and Dolphin Cruises
One of the best ways to explore the Emerald Coast is by boat, and Fort Walton Beach makes it easy with local rentals and dolphin cruises departing daily.
Spotting dolphins up close in their natural habitat is a highlight for many visitors, and the calm waters make for a smooth ride.
You can also rent a pontoon boat and cruise at your own pace. Add a snorkeling stop or pack a picnic for the perfect half-day adventure.
8. Easy Access to Destin Without the Crowds
Fort Walton Beach gives you all the perks of being near Destin — without the congestion or higher prices.
Just hop over the bridge and you’re minutes from HarborWalk Village, Crab Island, and more.
After a busy day exploring Destin, you’ll appreciate returning to the quieter, more relaxed atmosphere of Fort Walton.
It’s like having two vacations in one.
9. Affordability and Less Stress
Compared to other popular Florida destinations, Fort Walton Beach is refreshingly affordable.
Hotels, rentals, and dining options offer great value without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Visitors love how easy it is to stick to a budget here while still having an unforgettable experience.
Free parking at public beach access points and plenty of low-cost activities make this a true win for travelers.
Final Thoughts
Fort Walton Beach might not be the flashiest destination on the Florida map, but that’s exactly why people fall in love with it.
It’s peaceful yet fun, scenic without being overrun, and full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Visitors come for the beaches, stay for the local charm, and leave already planning their return trip.
So if you’re looking for your next Florida getaway, Fort Walton Beach might just be your new favorite place.
Follow Our Discover Florida Facebook Page!
We’re Also On Pinterest!
Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
