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!

Hop aboard the Original Sea Blaster for a two-hour dolphin cruise along the Emerald Coast! Depart from Fort Walton Beach, keep an eye out for dolphins, enjoy upbeat music, and take in views of the Destin Harbor and coastline. Choose a daytime cruise for a lively ride with water gun fights, or a sunset cruise to watch the sky change colors over the water. Pick the departure that fits your day and come enjoy the ride!

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.

Check out an excellent way to explore the beautiful water of the Emerald Coast. Get out on a fast and fun Yamaha GTI jet ski, equipped with neutral and reverse with this Fort Walton Beach Jet Ski Rental departing from Okaloosa Island. Learn some of the best way to spot lots of the amazing local wildlife in their natural habitats. Visit the world-famous Crab Island and have an all-around amazing adventure. So, get out on the water and book your jet ski 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.

Enjoy a personal day on the water with a 24-foot pontoon boat rental. Each spacious pontoon accommodates up to 12 passengers, including infants and children, making it perfect for families, friends, or a relaxing solo escape. Cruise to Crab Island, hang out at the swings, fish the Choctawhatchee Bay, or simply soak up the Florida sun at your own pace. Whether you are dolphin watching, snorkeling, or just enjoying the open water, this rental gives you the freedom to create your perfect day on the water. Book today!

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!

Cruise the stunning Emerald Coast aboard “Gidget,” a restored 1966 Boston Whaler, for a personalized island escape near Okaloosa Island. This private getaway includes a welcome gift, reusable cold-water bottles, complimentary towels, and the option to upgrade with picnic setups, charcuterie boards, or a stocked cooler. Anchor at a sugar-white sandbar with chairs, umbrellas, and inflatables for the perfect beach day. Whether you're sunbathing, sipping drinks, or exploring, every moment is tailored to your group’s vibe. Seas the day and book your private island adventure now!

Set out on an unforgettable eco-adventure from Fort Walton Beach to Destin Harbor and the famous Crab Island sandbar aboard the 36-foot deck boat, Guardian. Cruise the scenic Emerald Coast as your captain guides you in search of dolphins and local wildlife along the Choctawhatchee Bay. Enjoy breathtaking views, narrated insights, and a relaxed ride through calm waterways before anchoring at Crab Island for swimming, floating, and fun in crystal-clear waters. With shaded seating, onboard amenities, and family-friendly activities, this experience is perfect for guests of all ages looking to explore Florida’s coast. Book today!

Enjoy the ultimate Crab Island experience aboard a private captained pontoon charter in Destin, Florida. Cruise through beautiful emerald waters with opportunities to spot dolphins before anchoring at the famous shallow sandbar. Swim, float, paddleboard, relax on the lily pad, or soak up the sun in crystal-clear water while your licensed captain handles the navigation. Perfect for families, couples, birthday parties, bachelorette groups, and friends. Your charter includes fuel, Bluetooth sound system, cooler with ice, bottled water, shaded seating, paddleboards, and all required safety equipment for a fun, stress-free day on the water. Book 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.

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!