Fort Walton Beach-Okaloosa Island, Florida
Featured Activities Near The Boardwalk and Fishing Pier
The Boardwalk and Fishing Pier Visitors Guide
The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is a local landmark, with a history dating back to the 1930’s. Then called, “Tower Beach,” this area was built into a resort destination, offering restaurants, casinos, and an amusement park, until it burned down in 1942. Since then, this area has exponentially expanded, and is now known far and wide as a family-friendly destination with beautiful beaches, shopping, dining, entertainment, and ample opportunities for fun in the sun!
Nestled in between downtown Fort Walton Beach and the iconic Destin Harbor, The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is centrally located, and a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Some of the top things to do here include soaking up the sun, swimming, snorkeling, playing beach volleyball, wildlife watching, picnicking, and more! This is also a great place to test your luck and skill behind a rod and reel, as The Boardwalk sits adjacent to The Island Pier, formerly known as the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier.
The Island Pier jets out 1,262 feet into the glistening waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and has been attracting anglers of all ages and skill levels since its construction in 1972. Popular types of fish to reel in at the pier, depending on what’s in season, include pompano, king mackerel, cobia, black drum, sheepshead, sailfish, and more! This is also a great place to catch a sunrise or sunset, as the pier boasts picturesque panoramic views as far as the eye can see.
Visitors don’t have to be fishing to enjoy The Island Pier, either. This is a great spot for taking a stroll, people watching, photography, and wildlife viewing. Be sure to stop and gaze out into the Gulf for glimpses of wonderful wildlife like the following:
- Herons
- Pelicans
- Sea Turtles
- Dolphins
- Sharks
- Stingrays
- Schools of Fish
- And MORE!
Things to do Near The Boardwalk and Fishing Pier
Fort Walton Beach-Okaloosa Island Articles & Travel Tips
Keeping You Informed
October 6th, 2023
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October 6th, 2023Frequently Asked Questions
If you plan on shore fishing from the beach behind The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, then you will need to obtain your own Florida fishing license. Fishing licenses from other states are not valid, and a valid Florida permit is required to cast a line. For more information about purchasing a Florida fishing license, click here: https://myfwc.com/license/.
For those exclusively interested in fishing from The Island Pier on Okaloosa Island, a daily fishing pass can be purchased at the tackle shop located at the base of the pier. These daily passes include your fishing license, and are $8.00 for adults, $5.00 for children ages 6-12, and children ages 5 and under are free. In addition, annual fishing passes can be bought here, as well as bait, tackle, rental rods, drinks, snacks, and more!
Seasonal lifeguards can be found at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island daily from March until the end of October. The lifeguard stand is located directly behind The Crab Trap, a delicious seafood restaurant on the second floor of The Boardwalk. During the peak season, lifeguards can be found throughout Okaloosa Island, from Beasley Park, all the way to the end of Okaloosa Island near El Matador condominiums.
The beaches at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island are breathtakingly beautiful, and are a shining example of what the Emerald Coast has to offer. This area is known for its crystal-clear, blue-green waters, soft, white sand, spectacular scenic views and sunsets, wonderful wildlife, and water activities. For unforgettable family fun at the beach, visit The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island!
Yes, The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island and The Island Pier are handicap accessible. The pier itself is wheelchair accessible, with access ramps and handicap parking available onsite. The Boardwalk is accessible, as well, with ramps and an elevator to the second floor. There are also 6 complimentary beach wheelchairs available to rent on a first come first served basis. These can be found at the lifeguard stand behind The Crab Trap, and are available from 10:00am until 4:00pm all summer long!