Fort Walton Beach
sights & scenes
Maas Coffee
A Golden Bean–awarded, small-batch specialty coffee roaster in the Historic District of Downtown Fort Walton Beach that’s been around for over 20 years.
Florida Place Food Trucks
This family-owned spot serves up good vibes with every açaí bowl, fresh sandwich, and perfectly brewed coffee—fuel for your Gulf Coast adventures.
The Gulf
Farm-to-table meets dock-to-dish at this seaside gem where daily-changing menus, local oysters, and communal tables create the kind of waterfront experience that keeps guests coming back season after season.
Parlor Doughnuts
A craft doughnut and coffee shop offering an array of unique bakery items, including their Famous Layered Doughnuts™, along with vegan-, gluten-, and keto-friendly options, artisanal breakfasts, and specialty coffee.
Stewby's Seafood Shanty
This family-run favorite serves fresh Gulf seafood and genuine Southern warmth across four locations, where you’re encouraged to grab a bench and stay awhile.
AJ's Oyster Shanty
What started in 1984 as a humble oyster-shucking spot has grown into an Emerald Coast institution, now spanning four locations known for legendary Gulf seafood, cold beer, live music, and easygoing harbor vibes.
Rockin Tacos
Gulf views meet Mexican flavor at this elevated cantina, where a house DJ spins, margaritas flow, and the gator tacos are so good they’ve caught the attention of Travel Channel and Forbes.
FUBAR Pizza
Born on the bay of Okaloosa Island, this locally owned waterfront hangout serves up almost-famous pies, live sports, and family-friendly arcade fun, welcoming guests by land or by boat.
Big Kahuna’s
The Emerald Coast's largest water park is perfect for family fun, with thrill rides, kid-friendly splash areas, and plenty of ways to cool off in Fort Walton Beach.
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Since the 1950s, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park has led marine conservation and rehabilitation efforts while offering crowd-pleasing dolphin shows and hands-on encounters that bring families face-to-fin with ocean life.
SUP Express
As Destin's oldest local paddle board service, SUP Express has been trusted by families and adventurers alike to provide the highest-quality paddle boarding experience since 2013.
Harborwalk Village
HarborWalk Village offers activities and entertainment to please each taste in your family—dive in and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Shalimar Pointe Golf Club
Northwest Florida's best-kept secret sits right on Choctawhatchee Bay. This Dye-Finger designed course features 18 holes of mature trees and strategic bunkers, plus a newly renovated clubhouse where every golfer is treated like a champion.
Emerald Coast Science Center
An interactive, family-friendly museum for all things science technology, engineering, art, and math. Meet the collection of birds, reptiles, and small mammals, each named after a famous scientist.
Boogies Watersports
Spot dolphins, jet ski across the waves, cruise by pontoon, or parasail over the Gulf. Knowledgeable guides lead every tour, and souvenir photos capture the adventure for keeps.
Top Shelf Tikis
Climb aboard for a one-of-a-kind floating tiki bar experience. Coast Guard-certified and equipped with complimentary paddle boards, these tropical party boats are perfect for sunset cruises, skyline views after dark, or a laid-back day at Crab Island.
La Dolce Vita
With beach set-ups, golf carts, bonfires, and pontoon boats, everything is in place for an unforgettable trip.
Coastline Picnics
From beach picnics and proposal set-ups to at-home celebrations, Coastline Picnics creates beautifully styled experiences.
The Spa at Emerald Grande
Trade the salt air and sunshine for a little well-deserved pampering. Book the Signature Grande Massage or share a Spa Veranda Experience with your favorite people.
Destin Offshore Charters
Set sail with Destin Offshore Charters for an unforgettable fishing adventure in the Gulf. Whether you're chasing deep-sea giants or inshore action, Captain Chris's expertise will have you reeling in memories (and fish).
Emerald Coast IV Hydration & Wellness
Wellness should be as refreshing as a day at the beach. This mobile IV hydration service brings premium health solutions directly to you—at home, at work, or on vacation—administered by licensed medical professionals and tailored to your unique needs.
Coastal Crib Rental
Coastal Crib Rental is a game changer for parents traveling with young kids, offering delivery and pickup of quality, clean crib and child gear rentals right to your vacation home.
Darris Hartman Photography
With over a decade of experience capturing engagements, weddings, maternity, and other family milestones, Darris Hartman Photography brings your vision to life, capturing vacation moments you'll treasure forever.
The Board Chef
Artisan cheeses and meats served on beautifully prepared boards available for pickup or delivery. Made with exceptional imported and domestic products—always with something a little unexpected and delicious.
Local tips
A few pointers from our on-the-ground team.
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Don't overlook Fort Walton Beach in favor of its neighbors.
The emerald water and sugar-white sand are just as stunning, and the community here is warm and welcoming. -
Relax on Okaloosa Island.
The fishing pier offers sweeping views of both the Gulf and Santa Rosa Sound—a peaceful and memorable way to spend a morning or afternoon. -
Soak in some culture at the Indian Temple Mound Museum.
One of the most significant archaeological sites in the Southeast, it adds a deeper layer of history beyond the beach. -
Splash around in the Santa Rosa Sound.
Calm, shallow, and perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, with lovely views of the mainland that most visitors never get to see. -
Hit downtown for local dining.
The Miracle Strip Parkway area is full of locally owned restaurants serving southern hospitality and generous portions of fresh seafood. -
Dress up as a pirate for the Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival.
This Memorial Day weekend tradition features a harbor invasion, live music, and fireworks.