Fort Walton Florida Beach Vacations

by Jen
(USA)

Located in Okaloosa County, Fort Walton Beach is a modest-sized city of 20,000 that enjoys a solid stream of tourism.

Along with Destin and Okaloosa Island, Fort Walton Beach attracts a fair share of tourists each year to the Emerald Coast – particularly during Spring Break (visit the student travel package section for deals & info)! and the summer months.

Where to Flop:

The area’s healthy tourism industry makes it a snap to find accommodations.

Fort Walton Beach itself is relatively small, so your best bet is to stay in either a condominium rental or a chain hotel/motel. Though there are indeed bed-and-breakfasts and townhouses available, there is an abundance of condos to rent and thus, rates are competitive.

For the very best prices however, look into hotel chains, such as Best Western or Comfort Inn & Suites.

Check out our Florida beachfront rentals guide for more tips on finding great hotel stays!

Click here to start finding Fort Walton Beach Florida vacations & deals!

If you are determined to stay in a bed-and-breakfast, then Aunt Martha’s Bed and Breakfast is one to check out. Rather new (it was completed in 2001), the B&B offers guests the experience of staying in an old-fashioned Florida summerhouse. Rates range from $105-$115.

Check out these Florida bed and breakfast reviews!

Passing the Time:

As for what to do while visiting Fort Walton Beach, consider branching out to the nearby cities for a day trip.

Destin for example is home to Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park – always a fun time for the kids. There’s also Destin’s HarborWalk. If staying “local” however, definitely try and visit the Heritage Park & Cultural Center, home to America’s largest collection of Southeastern Indian ceramic artifacts.

The educational center is a different kind of treat for kids, as it focuses on history and its fascinating turns.

Discover what a Destin Florida vacation has to offer.

Being that this is Florida, you can also expect beaches! The Emerald Coast is 24 miles of powder-soft sand and is regarded by many to be the safest in the country.

With a military base smack dab in its midst, this is even more of a point. There’s a true sense of family/community that defines Fort Walton Beach and when visiting, you’re instantly invited into it as well.

For beach lovers, choose from a number of renovated beachfront parks, including Beasley Park, James Lee Park, Marler Memorial Park, and Wayside Park. There are also six beach mini-parks to explore.

Good Eats?
Looking for “good eats”? Try the local scene. There are a few establishments, like Big City Bistro on Brooks Street, which have made it their goal to provide “down-home” cooking for a budget price.

Considered the “Best Sunday Brunch” by the locals, the bistro offers a full menu of selections under $10 and tops it off with memorable ambiance and friendly customer service.

Speaking of “bistros,” there’s also Mulhollow’s Bistro, which models itself after the kind of bistro you would encounter on the Mediterranean.

The food is Italian-inspired and the ambiance once again, a big part of why Mulhollow’s comes so recommended.

Finally, for something sweet and on-the-go, try Sugar Mill Sweets. Located at 913 Beal Parkway, the bakery offers a nice selection of cakes and also serves breakfast and brunch to help start your day right in Fort Walton Beach.

Tour Ft. Walton to see if Fort Walton Florida beach vacations are right for you!