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.

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!

Embark on an unforgettable offshore fishing party with the friendly folks at Olin Marler Charters. Party boat fishing provides anglers with the unique opportunity to cast, converse, and learn from fellow fishermen from all across the country. The expert Captain and Crew with Olin Marler Charters are also there to help you every step of the way--from baiting to casting and even removing the fish from the hook--in order to ensure that your deep-sea adventure makes for a dandy "Fish Tale". <br><br> <b><u>Activity Highlights</b></u><br> → Catch Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish and more<br> → Expert Captain and Crew help with baiting lines, removing fish, and fishing strategy<br> → 65 ft. walk around boat with bathrooms and A/C cabin<br> → Bait, tackle and fishing license included<br><br>

Ride the waves on the Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise, Destin’s most thrilling speed boat tour! Known as the world’s largest jet ski, the Hydrojet zips through the emerald waters of the Gulf in search of playful dolphins and other coastal wildlife. Hold on tight as you bounce over waves, take in epic views of the Destin Harbor, and feel the sea spray in your face. This high-energy experience is perfect for adventure seekers of all ages—book now for an unforgettable Destin speed boat cruise!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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.

Enjoy time on the water with a 24-foot Pontoon Boat Rental! Conveniently located across the bridge in Fort Walton Beach, you can easily park and spend the day cruising around the Choctawhatchee Bay or Destin's gorgeous Crab Island. Be your own captain and get ready for your next adventure on the sparkling waters of the bay and harbor. Book your 24-foot Pontoon Boat Rental Departing from Okaloosa Island today!