Things to Do in Fort Walton Beach
🏖️ Top Things to Do in Fort Walton Beach
🏝️ 1. Relax on Okaloosa Island Beaches
Okaloosa Island is known for wide, uncrowded beaches and soft white sand.
- Clear emerald-green water
- Family-friendly swimming areas
- Easy public beach access
- Perfect for sunrise and sunset walks
👉 One of the quietest and most beautiful beach stretches on the Emerald Coast.
🐬 2. Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is one of the area’s top attractions and a favorite for families.
- Dolphin & sea lion shows
- Interactive animal encounters
- Educational marine exhibits
- Oceanfront location right on the Gulf
👉 Great for kids and perfect for a half-day activity near the beach.
🎣 3. Walk the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier
The Okaloosa Island Pier extends far into the Gulf and offers some of the best views in the area.
- Fishing (seasonal and permit-based)
- Dolphin sightings
- Incredible sunrise and sunset views
- Great photo spot over the water
🐬 4. Dolphin Cruises & Water Tours
Fort Walton Beach is one of the best places on the Gulf Coast to see dolphins in the wild.
- Dolphin sightseeing tours
- Sunset cruises
- Snorkeling excursions
- Eco and wildlife tours
👉 Most tours depart just minutes from Okaloosa Island.
🍤 5. Enjoy Fresh Gulf Seafood
Local restaurants serve some of the freshest seafood in Florida.
- Gulf shrimp, grouper, and oysters
- Waterfront dining with sunset views
- Casual beachside seafood spots
- Family-friendly restaurants nearby
🏝️ 6. Explore Destin (Just Minutes Away)
Just across the bridge, Destin offers even more things to do:
- HarborWalk Village entertainment district
- Deep-sea fishing charters
- Shopping, nightlife, and dining
- Boat rentals and water activities
🧺 7. Visit John Beasley Park
A quieter beach option on Okaloosa Island.
- Less crowded beach access
- Picnic areas and restrooms
- Lifeguarded swimming areas (seasonal)
- Great for relaxed beach days
🌅 8. Watch the Sunset Over the Gulf
Sunsets here are unforgettable.
- Best viewed from the beach or pier
- Stunning colors over the water
- Perfect way to end a beach day