Fort Walton Beach Area Guide

Where Sun, Sand, and Coastal Charm Are Waiting

Welcome to Fort Walton Beach, Florida! Located just 5 miles from 30A's famed Destin, this charming escape on Okaloosa Island is the perfect spot for families looking for a glimmer of true beach nostalgia. Here, you won't find miles of high-rise towers or loud traffic from a busy strip. We're focused on the simpler side of life. A side that remembers when a family beach trip was about... family. 

 

As you consider your next getaway, ask yourself what your dream vacation looks like. If crashing waves on gorgeous shores, cotton candy skies, children's laughter, and simple island ease are what come to mind, you may just be picturing yourself here at Seaspray. Check out all the fun you can have on a Fort Walton Beach vacation below, and start planning your ideal itinerary today.

Timeless Family Fun

 

You don't need much for a truly incredible family beach vacation, especially when you stay at Seaspray. Whether you're splashing in the pool, playing yard games like horseshoes or shuffleboard, or challenging your group to a round of volleyball, our family-focused amenities make sure all the basics are covered. Plus, with proximity to the beach, you can enjoy building sandcastles, searching for shells, or hunting ghost crabs at night. 

 

Other water activities include kayaking at local nature reserves, skim- or boogie-boarding, paddleboarding, or just floating on the gentle waves. No matter what kind of fun you choose to have, you can fill your days with timeless activities in Fort Walton Beach. 

 

 Get to Know the Gulf Coast

 

One of the best parts of any vacation is getting out and experiencing all the unique things that make it special. Along Florida's Gulf Coast, you can do this in a lot of ways. If you're traveling with small children, they'll love the immersive experiences and hands-on displays at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Get up close with chatty otters, adorable penguins, and friendly sea lions, and get your hands wet at the Stingray display.

 

If you're up for a short drive, you can head to the Emerald Coast Zoo and pet kangaroos, feed giraffes, and even meet a sloth! As more visitors look to incorporate eco-tourism into their travels, exploring these nature parks or area reserves gives you a true appreciation for this pristine corner of the Gulf. 

little girls running through the waves on the beach
family on a boat

 

Explore Beyond the Shore

While spending endless days on the beach is key to any Fort Walton trip, there are so many exciting things to do beyond the shore that venturing out past the surf is well worth it. 

For those looking to cast a line, booking a fishing charter is sure to send you home with some incredible stories. Looking for more leisurely activities? Dolphin or sunset cruises are a great option, or you can rent a boat and head to Crab Island for the day! And, if high-flying thrills are what you're in the market for, parasailing excursions can give you a bird's-eye view of the area. 

 

Other can't-miss activities in Fort Walton Beach include taking in the breathtaking views at the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, checking out local festivals throughout the Emerald Coast, and visiting area museums for a taste of local history. 

Best of Ft. Walton Beach

The list of the best things in Fort Walton Beach and the surrounding area could go on for ages, so we've done our best to hit a few of the highlights:

Restaurants

Shops

Local Attractions

family out to dinner while at the beach
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Book Your Dream Family Vacation in Fort Walton Beach

Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to your favorite destination, one thing is certain: a Fort Walton Beach getaway will leave you rested, recharged, and full of memories. From the sights and sounds in nearby Destin to the charming family-friendly recreation right here at Seaspray, whatever you have on your itinerary is possible here.

 

When you book one of our Seaspray condos, you can experience all the magic of a classic beach vacation with the convenience of updated properties designed so you never need to leave. Enjoy fully-equipped kitchens, on-site grills, free linen and beach service, and more! Plus, when you book directly, you'll have peace of mind knowing you got the best rate available. While you may see the same units listed on Airbnb, VRBO, or other online travel agencies, we can guarantee a lower price. That's because, unlike those third-party companies, our rates will never have hidden fees or nonsense upcharges. Discover why families have been staying at Seaspray for generations when you book directly with us for your next Fort Walton Beach vacation. 

aerial view of waves crashing on shore