City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Fort Walton Beach, located in the northwestern region of the Florida Panhandle between Destin and Pensacola, is famous for its emerald green waters, sugary white sand beaches and abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, Fort Walton Beach has something for everyone. Let’s check out a few things to do from a private boat dock for rent in Fort Walton Beach.
The Island Pier
Photo: Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier (Facebook)
Formerly known as the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, the Island Pier is one of the most iconic landmarks in Fort Walton Beach. This pier is a popular spot for anglers to catch king mackerel and blackfin tuna. It also provides a great vantage point to admire the stunning Gulf of Mexico and its colorful sunsets. Visitors can also enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant, watch dolphins play or go for a leisurely walk along the 1,262-foot pier.
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Photo: Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park (Facebook)
Looking for a fun spot to take the kids? Caring for marine life since 1955, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a must-visit while in Fort Walton Beach. This family-friendly attraction allows you to get up close and personal to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, sharks, turtles, reptiles and stingrays. Enjoy daily shows and interactive exhibits before heading back to the beach or a private boat slip rental. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the C.A.R.E. Center, which provides rehab for sick and injured sea turtles as well as provides education and awareness.
Indian Temple Mound Museum
Photo: City of Fort Walton Heritage Park and Cultural Center (Facebook)
History buffs and budding archaeologists will appreciate the Indian Temple Mound Museum, which is located in downtown Fort Walton Beach. It's part of the City of Fort Walton Heritage Park and Cultural Center. The museum showcases the history of the Native American tribes that once inhabited the region. Check out artifacts from the early settlers of the area. The centerpiece of the museum is a 900-year-old temple mound, which is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies.
Emerald Coast Science Center
Photo: Emerald Coast Science Center (Facebook)
The Emerald Coast Science Center is a hands-on science museum that’s perfect for families with children to visit from a private boat lift for rent. The museum features interactive exhibits that cover a range of scientific topics from electricity to space exploration. Visitors can also enjoy shows in the planetarium and participate in educational programs and workshops.
Henderson Beach State Park
Photo: Wikimedia/Ebayabe/CC
Fort Walton Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, and one of the best is Henderson Beach State Park. This park features a mile-long stretch of pristine white sand beach as well as nature trails, picnic areas, a playground and 30-foot sand dunes. Go fishing from the shore, set up a campsite or rent beach chairs and umbrellas and relax on the snow-white sand.
Wild Willy's Adventure Zone
Photo: Wild Willy's Adventure Zone (Facebook)
If you're looking for some family fun from a private boat dock for rent, Wild Willy's Adventure Zone is a great option. This amusement park-like complex features a variety of attractions that include mini-golf, a ropes course, bumper boats, laser tag, a roller coaster and a 4D movie theater. Visitors can also enjoy arcade games, go-karts and a zip line.
Hopefully you’ve discovered some new places to visit from private boat slips for rent in Fort Walton Beach. Let us know if we missed anything!
