An end-of-summer trip to Fort Walton Beach is a chance to embrace the best of Florida fun! The following are just a few of the many summer activities in Fort Walton Beach available to be enjoyed this time of year that will have you longing to return to Fort Walton Beach time and again.
Summer Activities in Fort Walton Beach
The end of the summer season in Fort Walton Beach marks the arrival of the annual Paddle at the Park event! This is a fan favorite amongst locals and visitors alike for good reason. On the shorelines and waters of Destin’s Henderson Beach State Park, participants and spectators gather to race their way to end-of-summer fun that promises to be unforgettable. Paddle at the Park enters its 10th year this year and will be held on August 20, 2022. The event is sponsored by HCA Florida Destin Emergency and offers participants a choice to complete a 1-mile or 3-mile recreational race. Elite athletes can opt for the 6-mile race, and everyone is welcome to use paddleboards, kayaks, or inflatables according to preference. The 3- and 6-mile races kick off at 9:00 am while the 1-mile event starts at 10:0 am and the kids’ fun race begins at 11:00 am. Awards are presented following each race slot with fun activities for all to follow as well. It’s a great chance to get outdoors and celebrate the end of summer on the water in good company.
Enjoy the Emerald Coast Poker Run
When you’re looking to pair your end-of-summer fun with a good cause during your Fort Walton Beach getaway, make sure to make time for the Emerald Coast Poker Run while you’re in town. This is often referred to as the crown jewel of Boat Week along the Emerald Coast. The event has been a fan favorite in the Destin and Fort Walton Beach areas for over 25 years and invites fishing boats, pleasure boats, and powerboats alike to take to the waterways and enjoy a massive poker run for all to enjoy. The event will be held on August 12th and 13th in 2022 and is anticipated to bring in significant profits—all of which goes toward the Emerald Coast Foundation which benefits local charities with a focus on kids in need. In 2021 the Emerald Coast Foundation raised 2.5 million dollars and the bar has been raised in 2022. Every penny goes towards charitable causes as the event is entirely run by volunteers. It’s an experience that promises to be both fun and meaningful!
Savor Time at Fort Walton Beach Landing Park
Making the most of end-of-summer adventures in Fort Walton Beach is always an easy thing to do when you make time on the itinerary for a morning, afternoon, or evening at Fort Walton Beach Landing Park. This pristine and scenic location is found at 139 SE Brooks Street and is a community destination filled with options for outdoor fun and recreation—not to mention a great view! A visit to Fort Walton Beach Landing Park offers guests access to everything from shoreline picnic areas and a boardwalk to a fishing pier, boat ramp, and playground alike. There’s even a small climbing wall for those who are looking to put their skills to the test. The on-site amphitheater is a highlight of a visit here this time of year as live musical performances are held well into late summer and it’s worth keeping your eye on the event calendar to see who’s performing while you’re in town. If you happen to be visiting on August 13th, you’ll be in time to take part in the Josh Sprinkle Memorial 5K which is held at Fort Walton Beach Landing Park and kicks off at 7:30 am.
Book a Cruise
Getting out on the water is always a good idea when you’re headed to the Fort Walton Beach area in the later part of summer. Consider partnering up with the professionals at Destin Excursions when you’re looking to book a customized dolphin cruise, sunset tour, or snorkeling adventure while you’re in town. These private charters can be booked to last between 2 to 4 hours at a time and are led by a team of friendly and knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re exploring Choctawhatchee Bay or heading out to the open sea, you’ll find you can relax on a quality vessel and will likely learn something exciting along the way!
Enjoy Your Florida Adventure to the Fullest
Whether your travel plans have you heading to Fort Walton Beach at the end of summer or you’re looking forward to a trip to Fort Walton Beach another time of year, the team at The Breakers of Fort Walton Beach has the accommodations you need to top off the experience in excellent style.
Reach out today to learn more about our property options in the area and how we can help you turn those travel plans into a reality. We look forward to seeing you in Fort Walton Beach soon!