Beach Hotels in Fort Walton Beach, FL

Part of Florida’s emerald coast, Fort Walton Beach checks all the boxes when it comes to island time. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly beach vacation or a relaxing getaway with your significant other, Fort Walton has something for everyone.

At only 15 minutes apart by car, Destin is within a day trip from most beach hotels in Fort Walton. Regarded as the most beautiful beach in Florida, Destin totes sugary-white sand and emerald waters. Named Florida‘s most beautiful beach, the community boasts one of the largest concentrations of art galleries and shops in Northwest Florida. Be sure to check out the Destin Harbor Boardwalk for some idyllic ocean views and endless waterside dining options.

If you head down to South Walton Beach, this will take you to the esteemed 30A neighborhood, which winds all the down to Panama City Beach and includes the beachside towns of Watersound, Alys Beach, Seaside and Rosemary Beach.

Along 30A you’ll find boutique beach communities that are tucked away but the city centers are host to some great coastal shopping and dining and well worth an excursion from beach hotels in Fort Walton.

Over 200 miles of trails invite nature lovers to observe rare birds while hiking through state parks and forests. For the avid athletic types, do check out the 19-mile Timpoochee Trail, which invites runners and cyclists alike among the coastal dune lakes. Challenge yourself to a game of tennis or golf on one of several acclaimed courts and courses.

Ft Walton Beach has a long history as a military base, dating back to 1885 when it was established as Fort McClellan during the Spanish-American War. It was later renamed Eglin Field then Eglin Air Force Base before being turned into a public park in 1975.

In addition to its historical significance as a military base, Ft Walton Beach has many other attractions for visitors including the Pier Park shopping center, which has over 300 shops and restaurants.

If you’re staying at a beach hotel in Fort Walton with kids, make a side trip to the Emerald Coast Bird Sanctuary. With more than 20 acres of land dedicated to preserving native birds and plants, little ones can learn about feathered friends and more. Perched on the gulf, Deer Point Park is perfect for a beachside picnic or paddle boarding. You can also rent kayaks or canoes and explore the water. With plenty of grassy knolls, there’s ample space to spread out, get some sun and take in the waves.

For adventure seekers, be sure to check out some sand dunes. With plenty of tours available, you can race through the beach dunes of the Emerald Coast on dune buggies in an aerial obstacle course and other tracks! And if you’re into fishing, anglers will love the Okaloosa Fishing Pier. Widely known for its large variety of large saltwater fish, you can catch Tuna, King Mackerel, Cobia and Redfish to name a few!

Don't forget to check out our beach hotels nearby in Destin, Pensacola Beach, and Panama City Beach.