Just a short drive from Downtown Fort Walton Beach is the Oak Tree Nature Park, nestled in the adjacent town of Mary Esther and home to a short but sweet network of nature trails for you and your guests to enjoy. Find out more information about Oak Tree Nature Park and what makes it worth visiting during your Fort Walton Beach vacation by reading on below!
Immerse Yourself in the Natural Beauty of Fort Walton Beach
Oak Tree Nature Park in Mary Esther is a serene haven tucked away in the middle of the city, home to an idyllic nature path pleasantly shaded by tall trees. Beautiful seasonal foliage and a diverse range of plants and trees make for gorgeous scenery. Mushrooms, lichens, moss, palm trees, and of course, oak trees abound. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the photo opportunities are plentiful.
Hiking through Oak Tree Nature Park is quick and easy. The trails are well groomed and loop back in an easy to follow path. Most visitors spend anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour hiking along the trails here.
Additionally, the park is a well known wildlife watching spot. If you’re very quiet, birds and small creatures may be easier to spot.
What to Know Before You Go to Oak Tree Nature Park
As with any hiking locale, keep an eye out for ticks and other critters. Bring and apply plenty of bug spray, no matter what season you decide to visit during (though ticks in particular seem to come out in full force during the winter).
If you’re attempting to find Oak Tree Nature Park with your GPS, it may direct you into a residential area instead. Instead, travel further west on Hollywood Blvd. You’ll encounter the park on the left hand side, near the Mary Esther Post Office. Once you get to the park, you’ll find that there is a myriad of parking available.
You’ll find Oak Tree Nature Park at Hollywood Blvd., Mary Esther, FL 32569. You can also call (850) 243-3566 or ask our reservation specialists at Breakers for more information.
Things to Do Nearby
While a stop at Oak Tree Nature Park is sure to provide a pleasing afternoon of fun, Fort Walton Beach and the surrounding area is packed with places to see and explore. When you’re looking to make the most of a trip this direction, be sure to add some of these exciting stops to the itinerary for an experience that brings the best of sand, surf, and sky.
Book an Inshore Fishing Charter
While there’s much to experience by way of land, a trip to Fort Walton Beach just wouldn’t be the same without time dedicated to enjoying the water. Booking an inshore fishing charter is the ticket to a great time, particularly when you’re traveling to this area with little ones in tow. Destin Inshore Fishing Charters is a great place to begin your adventure by booking a two-, three- or four-hour excursion led by an experienced guide. As you get out on the water, you and your kids will have a catch and release afternoon where you’ll also learn about the many fish species that call these waters home. Prices for bookings begin around $350 and reservations can be made by calling 805-807-0587. Destin Inshore Fishing Charters is located at 314 Harbor Boulevard.
Enjoy Parasailing
Moving from sea to sky, make the most of the many vantage points over Fort Walton Beach and the surrounding areas by booking a thrilling parasailing adventure while you’re in town. Wet-N-Wild Watersports offers amazing journeys that take you high above the land and water for a once in a lifetime view of the area. Up to three passengers can fly together with this booking and air time fluctuates between 10 and 12 minutes. Prices begin at $35 making this a family-friendly and budget-friendly experience too. Wet-N-Wild Watersports is located at 105 Calhoun Avenue in Destin and ticketing information can be found by contacting the team at 850-807-0587.
Attractions Nearby
While it’s always fun to explore the sky and sea, there’s something wonderful about a trip to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park that’s sure to please the entire family. Enjoy encounters with dolphins, sea lions, stingrays and more when you choose to spend your afternoon at this facility which is equal parts entertaining and educational. Options to swim with the dolphins make this a one of a kind stop while learning about penguins, sharks and alligators is sure to inspire. Free parking makes it simple to plan for transportation to the park which is open daily between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is located at 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway SE and information on planning a visit can be found by contacting 850-807-0587.
Contact Us and Plan Your Fort Walton Beach Escape
Experience Oak Tree Nature Park in Mary Esther and the other wonders of Fort Walton Beach! Book your accommodations in one of our amazing vacation rentals. Contact us today for more information on the many attractions and activities in town, and our beautiful rentals!
