There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy your time here, whether you’re starting the day with coffee and dolphin sightings or exploring everything Fort Walton Beach and nearby Destin have to offer. From mornings on the golf course to afternoons by the water and evenings filled with great food and unforgettable sunsets, each day is yours to design. Here’s a look at just some of the fun you can have during your stay.
Start your day off by making plans over cups of coffee on the balcony. Bask in the beauty of the views as the beach comes to life at the start of the morning. As the sun rises, dolphins come out to play. They’ll frolic and dance as the crispness of the morning gives way to warmer temperatures.
This peaceful stretch of Fort Walton Beach is known for its soft white sand and calm, emerald-green waters—perfect for an early stroll along the shore or simply watching the world wake up. The mornings here are quiet, filled with the soothing sound of waves and the sight of seabirds gliding above the surf. It’s the ideal time to reflect, reconnect, and set the tone for a day of adventure. Whether you’re planning to hit the links, try paddleboarding, or book an evening cruise, your day starts with nature’s own private show right outside your door.
Once you’re ready to get moving, maybe grab those golf bags and spend the morning hitting a bucket of balls and practicing your swing around one of our beautiful golf courses. Could there be anything better than sharing a morning in the sun with your family? Our beautiful habitat allows for some of the most scenic golf courses around! You’re guaranteed to have a good time and work up a huge appetite for lunch!
Once you’ve put in a few hours on the back nine, head out for a tasty lunch. One of our favorite little local spots is The Gulf. You’ll enjoy a relaxed, outdoor atmosphere with amazing views and fantastic cuisine. We recommend trying the Blackened Tuna Reuben. For lunch, you just can’t go wrong in our area. There is an abundance of waterfront restaurants from which to choose for your amorous lunch date. We recommend trying someplace new for lunch, each and every day during your stay. We have several restaurants listed in another recent blog: The Gulf to Table Experience. Step out of the box and try something new for each meal. You’re on vacation!
Now that your appetite is satisfied, start your afternoon off with a couple of hours in the sun. Grab those beach chairs, some towels, and your sunscreen! Don’t forget your sunglasses! Head on down to the sand and shore and pick a spot to set up your beach chairs. Sit back, relax, grab something cool to drink from the cooler, and just soak it all in. Enjoy that view! Take a deep breath and smile. This is what the coveted salt life lifestyle is all about and it’s one of the most memorable things to do in Fort Walton Beach, FL.
Once you’ve put in a few hours soaking up those rays, head back to your room to take showers and change clothes. It’s time for your sunset cruise adventure aboard the Daniel Webster Clements Schooner! As you head off into the sunset, you will enjoy the beautiful sights of Destin Harbor aboard one of the last schooners in our area. They’ll serve you complimentary beer and wine, as well as soft drinks.
Head on over to Waterfront Bay Cafe. Dubbed the most romantic restaurant in our area, you’ll find yourself delighted with the views, the cuisine, and an amazing outdoor dining experience. We suggest having their Duck Montmorency. Throw in some wine and a slice of their French Silk Pie for a fabulous ending to a wonderful meal.
Once you’re back in your room, kick off your shoes, grab a bottle of wine, and head out to your patio. Enjoy the view of the moonlight dancing on the Gulf. You get to do this all over again! In fact, while you’re at it, go ahead and schedule another stay with us in your near future. It just doesn’t get any better than days like you just shared!
Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park is a fantastic time for everyone who loves splashing and getting splashed. Water park enthusiasts will love coming to Big Kahuna’s—it’s easy to see why when you look at the dozens of on-site waterslides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.
From heart-pounding rides to gentle kid-friendly play areas, there’s something here for every age and energy level. If your idea of fun is more about relaxing, you can kick back in a private cabana and soak up the sun in comfort.
Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park is perfect for those seeking big thrills, lasting memories, and all-day fun under the Florida sun.
Destin Commons is an outdoor shopping center that’s a fun, inspiring locale for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Fashionistas can find their favorite beauty and clothing stores. Locally owned shops sell jewelry and apparel you can’t find back home.
Destin Commons even has a Southern Living store, a housewares and decor store named for the popular magazine with only a few brick and mortar locations across the country. Take photos in front of the colorful murals created by local and world-renowned artists which are scattered throughout the commons.
Stay out of the sun by seeing a new movie at the AMC theater or go bowling at the marine-themed bowling alley, Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill.
Go shopping in Downtown Fort Walton Beach, for a relaxing day beyond the beach. Find antiques, specialty boutiques, and outdoor sports outfitters. It’s a historic district, so you can discover one-of-a-kind vintage items in an equally vintage atmosphere. Grab a coffee at Maas and take a walk along The Landing, a waterfront park.
If it’s a second or fourth Saturday of the month early enough in the day, browse the farmers market which is held year-round on The Landing. Near museums and great restaurants and bars, Downtown Fort Walton Beach is not to be missed.
Gather your family or some friends, and do some shopping while on vacation!
For shopping on the harbor, the shops in HarborWalk Village in Destin are the place to be. Between the water adventure options, from fishing boat charters to the Buccaneer Pirate Ship, you’ll find loads of entertainment options like old-fashioned boardwalk games, as well as zip lines and rope courses for more high-flying vacationers.
Take some time out from the sand and waves by checking out the treat shops for cotton candy, funnel cakes, and fudge. Beach shops have you covered for new trunks and swimsuits, flip flops, and more.
Over on The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, shopping on the beach is its own adventure. Find outdoor clothing and shoes from top brands that will take you through your vacation.
Along with mementos and gifts like trendy pearl and leather jewelry, explore items that will enhance your time at the beach, like creative kites to fly on the Gulf breeze or necessities like sunscreen, sunglasses, and beach-safe thermoses and tumblers.
With plenty of restaurants on Okaloosa Island and places to stop for snacks, The Boardwalk will be a fun strip of shopping and dining between your time in the sun and sand.