They say everything is so much better at the beach and we hope you too find that feeling at Fort Walton Beach. There is no better vacation destination in Florida. Fort Walton Beach has so much to offer such as our beaches and aquatic activities. However, the area also features plenty of unexpected activities that will keep you entertained all trip long. Take a look at five unique things to do in Fort Walton Beach you probably didn’t know you could do when traveling here:
Kayak Around Santa Rosa Sound
Everyone knows about our beautiful beaches here in Fort Walton Beach. You will easily see them as you drive down the Emerald Coast where miles of beaches are stretched out before you. Make sure in between your time on the beach you also explore some of the unexpected activities found nearby. This can include kayaking around Santa Rosa Sound. This is a local intracoastal waterway that is fascinating to explore. It is known as a great fishing spot along with other aquatic activities. One of our favorite things to do that is unknown to most visitors is kayaking around the Santa Rosa Sound. You will find crystal white beaches along the shoreline along with dolphins jumping out of the water in the distance. The sound is a great birdwatching spot too where you can find all kinds of wonderful birds flying overhead. Sea turtles are known to swim by as well! Head to the nearest rental shop and pick up a local kayak to explore with!
Visit the Air Force Armament Museum
A little known fact is that Fort Walton Beach is home to the world’s only Air Force Armament dedicated museum, the Air Force Armament Museum. This local museum features hundreds of pieces of armament including missiles, bombs, bomblets, and much more. Over 29 different aircrafts have also called the museum home with many still on display for you to see up close in person. Fort Walton Base is home to the Elgin Air Force Base, and you can watch a 32-minute film detailing the history of the base in the area. There is so much to see and do right here at the Air Force Armament Museum that one would think the cost of admission should be high; however, you will be happy to hear that admission is always free and the museum is open year round so you can stop by whenever your schedule sees fit here in Fort Walton Beach.
Adrenaline and Extreme Tours
As mentioned, you will have plenty of opportunities here in Fort Walton Beach to kick back on the sand and relax on the beach; we encourage it! When you are ready to try something more thrilling you will be happy to hear that some unexpected thrilling adventures are just around the corner. The ocean water is just begging for you to try out some extreme water sports to have that adventurous feeling once again. Popular water sports you can check out here in Fort Walton Beach always includes parasailing and paragliding. Local sporting charters will take you out on the water where you can fly high above the boat or hitting the waves on a parasail. Charter captains will make sure you are hitting the best waves and remain safe throughout the entire experience. Other additional tours you can check out also include snorkeling and diving. The ocean water is an environment that is always best explored here in Fort Walton Beach!
Sk8 Play Family Fun
Finding an attraction whenever you go on vacation that has something for the whole family can be difficult. Most attractions are geared to a certain age making it hard for others to have fun. Luckily Fort Walton Beach is home to Sk8 Play Party, the original family fun center here in the area. Since 1976 Sk8 Play Family Fun has been the central roller rink where you can skate around to your favorite songs. The arcade is filled with tons of games where you can try to win tickets. The kids center is perfect for younger kids with its jungle gym playground. That’s a lot of fun for everyone!
Nightlife in Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach is a great family destination but the adults can have a little fun too. You can find an unexpected lively nightlife here in town. Check out local bars and venues including Salty Duck and Coaster’s for incredible live music and drink specials. Dance the night away and see a whole new side of Fort Walton Beach.
The Unexpected Fun Does Not End Here
There are plenty of more unexpected fun to find in Fort Walton Beach. Reserve one of our vacation rentals to experience the magic for yourself and enjoy lavish amenities.