Travel Guide
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- Title
- IHG’s Complete Guide to Happenings & Hotels in Fort Walton Beach
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Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast of Florida between Panama City and Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach beckons visitors with its gorgeous white sand beaches, bright blue waters, and abundance of outdoor activities. From water sports adventures to savory seafood, there's something for everyone in this charming beachside destination. Let's delve into the best things to do, where to eat and drink, travel tips, nearby cities, and where to stay, for a trip that’s memorable, relaxing, and most importantly, fun!
Fort Walton Beach Hotels
Situated directly on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, the Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach touts unexpected beachfront luxury with spacious accommodations, upscale amenities, and unparalleled views of the Emerald Coast. Relax by the pool, dine at Riptides Bar & Grill overlooking the beach, or sign up for some exciting water sports adventures off-property. With a prime location near attractions like the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, the family-friendly Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach has a lazy river pool, an indoor heated pool, a hot tub, a game room, and a kids club so you never have to leave the resort if you don’t want to.
The state-of-the-art Holiday Inn Express Fort Walton Beach Central is your gateway to relaxation and adventure on the stunning Gulf Coast. Enjoy complimentary full breakfast, hassle-free self-parking, and unwind in the outdoor pool during your stay. Or get a workout in on your own time at the hotel’s fitness center. Just minutes from Fort Walton Beach, this hotel provides easy access to top attractions like Okaloosa Island's white sand beaches, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, and Silver Sands Premium Outlets in Miramar Beach. With spacious guest rooms, a business center, and meeting centers for the busy traveler, your stay is sure to be both comfortable and convenient.
Things to Do on "The Emerald Coast"
Relax on the sugar-white sands of Fort Walton Beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or sign up for fun water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.
Encounter dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life up close at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, a beloved marine park, which offers educational shows and interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.
Cast a line and try your luck at fishing off the iconic Okaloosa Island Pier, where you can reel in a variety of local fish species while enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf Coast.
Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature at Henderson Beach State Park, a tranquil state park which boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, and fairytale dune-lined beaches perfect for a peaceful seaside retreat.
Explore the history of aviation and military weaponry at the Air Force Armament Museum, a fascinating museum featuring exhibits that showcase aircraft, missiles, and artifacts from World War I to the present day. Other fun museums in the area include the Destin History & Fishing Museum, the Emerald Coast Science Center, the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida, and the Mattie Kelly Arts Center and Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation.
Where to Eat and Drink
Fort Walton Beach has some fun dining options to suit every palate. Here are some popular spots in the city:
Inspired by an old family restaurant named Sam’s Oyster House, Stewby's Seafood Shanty is a casual seafood spot serving gumbo, coleslaw, sandwiches, and more. The restaurant focuses on quality and affordability, and all seafood is fresh and locally bought, from cities like Destin and other nearby towns.
A unique open-air dining concept housed in repurposed shipping containers, The Gulf Okaloosa Island offers fresh seafood dishes and gorgeous bayside views. The menu focus is local and seasonal ingredients, which means it changes a few times a year.
A lively beachside spot in Destin, Fudpucker's Beachside Bar & Grill has seafood baskets, burgers, and refreshing cocktails on the menu. The biggest draw to visiting this restaurant, though, probably isn’t the food. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll be thrilled to discover the on-site and free Gator Beach, which Fudpucker's says is the “world’s greatest alligator park.”
Travel Tips and Transportation Options
Fort Walton Beach is easily accessible by car via Interstate 10 or Highway 98. Consider renting a car for convenient transportation and exploring nearby attractions at your own pace. If public transportation is more your speed, the Emerald Coast Rider (ECR) offers a public bus throughout Okaloosa County, providing access to various destinations in Fort Walton Beach and the surrounding area. Fort Walton Beach also features scenic bike paths and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore the city on foot or via two wheels.
Nearby Cities for a Day Trip
Just a short 15-minute drive from Fort Walton Beach, Destin offers upscale shopping, world-class golf courses, and a picturesque harbor known for its delicious dining and super fun nightlife scene.
An hour from Fort Walton Beach by car, you can discover the historic charm of Pensacola, home to attractions like the National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola Lighthouse, and historic downtown district. Other fun towns to explore nearby include Rosemary Beach, Seaside, and Alys Beach, all about an hour away.
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