Things to do in Fort Walton Beach-Okaloosa Island, FL

Experience one of the top family attractions on the Emerald Coast at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach. With your Gulfarium tickets, enjoy live dolphin and sea lion shows, hands-on exhibits with stingrays and sharks, and up-close encounters with penguins, pelicans, and more. Located steps from the beach and just minutes from Destin Harbor, Gulfarium blends education and entertainment in a scenic, open-air setting. It’s a great pick for families, animal lovers, and even one of the best things to do on a rainy day in Destin. Grab your tickets now!

The Hannah Marie runs Dolphin Cruises daily. Family owned and operated, this is an ideal way to enjoy a relaxing 1.5 hour narrated cruise watching dolphins play in their natural habitat. This boat features a glass bottom viewing area, snack bar, restrooms and an air conditioned and heated cabin.

Set sail on a relaxing early afternoon cruise from Fort Walton Beach to Destin Harbor aboard a 36-foot catamaran. Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway and Choctawhatchee Bay, spotting birds and marine life along the way. In Destin, watch playful bottlenose dolphins swim, jump, and ride the wake in their natural habitat. Enjoy scenic coastal views, comfortable seating, and expert narration from a local captain. This family-friendly adventure includes a restroom onboard, with snacks and drinks available for purchase—perfect for a peaceful yet exciting time on the water. Book today!

Experience a breathtaking Emerald Coast sunset cruise through Choctawhatchee Bay and Destin Harbor aboard a comfortable sightseeing vessel. You will cruise past Okaloosa Island and the famous Crab Island sandbar while spotting dolphins and local marine life along the way. Enjoy music onboard, relaxing shaded and sun-filled seating, and incredible photo opportunities as the sky fills with vibrant sunset colors over the Gulf waters. A local captain and crew share fun facts and area history throughout the trip. Water is provided, restrooms are onboard, and select evenings include front row views of Destin’s fireworks show. Book today!

Treat the little ones to this family-friendly fishing charter! This kid-focused fishing trip is designed to introduce your children to the excitement of saltwater fishing and the love of the Florida outdoors. Share your love of the open water with your kiddos on this customizable fishing trip. Your experienced captain, Alex, will take his time explaining the different types of fish and gear. Your kids will have the opportunity to catch some fish and enjoy quality time with their loved ones on the water.

Sun, sea, and adventure await on this 10 or 12 Passenger Pontoon Rental from Fort Walton Beach! Cruise in style aboard a custom-built pontoon, soaking in stunning views, spotting wildlife, and making a splash at Destin’s famous Crab Island. Whether you're relaxing, exploring, or partying on the water, you're the captain of your own Gulf Coast getaway. Grab your crew and book your pontoon today!

Set sail aboard “Gidget,” a restored 1966 Boston Whaler, for a golden-hour escape along Florida’s Emerald Coast. Departing from the vibrant beachside setting of The Gulf Restaurant, this relaxing cruise glides past sugar-white dunes and tranquil waters as the sun sets over Okaloosa Island. Snap photos of iconic Gulf views, share a drink with friends to your own playlist via Bluetooth speakers, and enjoy a complimentary welcome gift. Perfect for couples, groups, or anyone craving an unforgettable Fort Walton Beach sunset.

Escape to the crystal-clear water of Crab Island on a laid-back day drifter cruise from Fort Walton Beach aboard “Gidget,” a beautifully restored 1966 Boston Whaler. Drift over Destin’s iconic emerald coastline, relax on a personal Sunchill float, and soak up the sun on Florida’s most famous sandbar. Enjoy curated touches like eco-friendly reusable bottles, top-tier safety gear, and a complimentary visit to the Wild Destin Coconut Girls for fresh tropical fruit. With a Bluetooth speaker onboard and stunning scenery in every direction, this cruise is pure coastal bliss. Book this Crab Island cruise today!

Enjoy time on the water with a 20-foot Pontoon Boat Rental! Conveniently located across the bridge in Fort Walton Beach, guests can easily park and take off on a pleasure cruise around the Choctawhatchee Bay or Crab Island. These boats offer all the amenities for a great day on the water: comfy seating for 10 passengers, stereo, and large cabanas for shade. Book today and see what the Emerald Coast has to offer.

Live like a local on this customizable eco-adventure through the hidden gems of the Emerald Coast departing from Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Start your day with fresh tropical fruit from the beloved Coconut Girls before cruising to inland islands rich with wildlife, dolphins, sand dunes, and crystal-clear swimming spots. This laid-back, sun-soaked journey is perfect for friends looking to explore, relax, and reconnect with nature. Every guest receives a welcome gift to kick off the fun. Unleash your inner explorer and book your Wild Adventurer Eco Tour today!

Experience the ultimate Gulf deep sea fishing adventure with local, tournament-winning captains. From family-friendly trips to hardcore offshore excursions, guests can enjoy reef fishing, trolling, and deepwater big game action. After departing the marina, the crew catches or purchases live bait before heading to productive fishing grounds in search of trophy fish. Qualifying charters include tackle, bait, licenses, ice, water, and fish cleaning. With a focus on safety, conservation, and fun, the crew provides expert guidance and a laid-back atmosphere while helping guests chase the fish of a lifetime. Book today and experience the thrill of Gulf fishing firsthand!

Experience the stunning waters of Fort Walton Beach and Destin with a 24-foot Bennington Pontoon Boat Rental! Whether you're heading to Crab Island or exploring secluded spots, this is the perfect way to enjoy a day on the water. Keep an eye out for marine life such as dolphins, turtles, and more! Relax and soak in the breathtaking scenic views of the Gulf Island National Seashore and more as you cruise the Emerald Coast. With plenty of space for family and friends, this rental lets you elevate your aquatic experience with comfort and ease. Don't miss the boat, book this rental today!