How to Get the Most Out of a Beach Trip to Okaloosa Island
Interest in Florida’s beaches has skyrocketed over the past decade, with Okaloosa Island, FL ranking among the state’s most popular destinations. In addition to its beautiful beaches and diverse array of lodging options, Okaloosa Island offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, fishing, and swimming with dolphins (if you so choose). If you are planning on visiting the island soon, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your trip.
Activities to Enjoy at Okaloosa Island, Florida
While there are lots of fun activities at your disposal, from visiting some local shops and restaurants to seeing what’s happening in nearby Destin, Florida, there are several water sports you can try out as well. From sailing and windsurfing lessons to parasailing and scuba diving classes, you’ll have plenty to do when you visit. If you like kayaking, snorkeling or surfing, then it’s time to explore that side of yourself! All of these opportunities are available for learning or for just hiring someone who knows how. You may even want to do all three if time allows; however you decide to spend your day on Okaloosa Island, make sure not to miss out on any key elements while exploring one of Northwest Florida’s most popular destinations...
Kayaking Choctawhatchee Bay
Situated between Destin and Fort Walton Beach, you’ll find one of Florida’s most diverse ecosystems: Choctawhatchee Bay. Just on its own, Choctawhatchee Bay is an adventure-seeker’s paradise for kayaking, fishing, diving and more; but when paired with Destin—which offers its own list of outdoor adventures—it’s easy to see why many people choose it as their vacation destination year after year. Be sure to check out these water sports while visiting Okaloosa Island! Okaloosa County sits about 20 miles east of Pensacola and 30 miles west of Panama City in northwest Florida, offering just under 80 miles of pristine coastline accessible via 3 state parks (Cedar Key State Park, Fort Pickens State Park and Grayton Beach State Park). With picturesque views like those below (and more), it's no wonder so many travelers visit annually.
Parasailing
Okaloosa Island is known for it's beautiful beaches and white sand, but there is so much more to do! Parasailing allows you to see everything from a birds-eye view. You will be able to watch your parasail as it floats gracefully through the air; enjoy breathtaking views of Fort Walton beach and Destin while you fly towards Eglin Air Force Base. Who doesn't love parasailing? This activity is suitable for all ages and great for family fun. Did I mention that they even have tandem parasailing so that both riders can experience what it's like? Now that you know why parasailing on Okaloosa Island is one of those must-do water sports, come check out how much fun it can be today!
Shopping at Silver Sands Outlet
Silver Sands Premium Outlet is a popular shopping center in Destin. Located at 4115 Silver Sands Blvd., Silver Sands is less than five miles from several popular beaches including Rosemary Beach, WaterColor and Seagrove. The outlet features more than 50 stores and restaurants, including Kate Spade, Juicy Couture, Coach and many more. Stores are open daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm year-round. Uber or taxi service is available at each store for your convenience if you need it. You will be able to find several outfits as well as dinner options all within walking distance which really helped us spend our day efficiently while on vacation! Don’t forget that during your visit you can sign up for their reward program where you will receive free food and drinks depending on how much money you spend!
Jet Skiing
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, try jet skiing on one of Okaloosa Island’s four beaches. For just about $100 an hour, jet skis are available for rent on Fort Walton and Eglin Air Force Bases (call ahead for reservations). Just remember that you won’t want to fall off—jet skis can travel up to 55 miles per hour. And if you do fall off? Don’t worry; Okaloosa Sheriff’s deputies patrol each beach regularly. The speed limit is 10 mph in all zones except when boats have right-of-way, so it may be best to hang back until you get some experience under your belt before heading out too far. Jet ski rules differ slightly from state to state, but basically they require operators to wear life jackets at all times while operating watercraft – particularly since a number of drownings occur each year after operators succumb to exhaustion or other incapacitation.
Charter Fishing Boats
If you’re looking to take a charter fishing boat to charter, where do you book? There are many charter fishing boats in Destin that can accommodate big and small groups and your family is no exception. Charter a fishing boat out of Destin and head to Blackwater Bay on Fort Walton Beach in Florida. But before booking a charter fishing boat, it’s important to first consider who will be joining you on your trip and what they will want to do while they’re there. Speaking with friends or family members who have already booked such a trip can be helpful as well; if they have advice or suggestions for planning your own trip, listen up. Other locations, like HarborWalk, may also offer chartering opportunities; call around to ask about them at different charter services to find out how much they cost and which destinations have the best reviews. This part should talk about -Things To Do: Once you have figured out your group’s must-dos while in town, think back to past experiences and any lessons learned. Then plan accordingly: ensure you have a place to stay, too little sun exposure makes tanning almost impossible so think SPF, food essentials—you get my drift—and clear directions so getting lost isn’t an option!
Mini Golf
Everybody loves mini golf, whether you’re on vacation with your family or just need a break from reality. Fort Walton and Destin are two prime destinations for families looking for mini golf fun. Adventure Zone in Fort Walton Beach has 22 holes that are challenging but not too difficult and themed in such ways as Go With The Flow (water course) and Spin Control (goofy haunted mansion), which is perfect for younger children. Fort Walton Beach’s minigolf spot also includes a putt-putt playground with bridges, tunnels and slides.