Sugar-white sand and emerald water may be what put Destin-Fort Walton Beach on the map, but there is so much more to discover once you step away from the shoreline.

Whether you are visiting on a rainy day, need a break from the sun or are traveling with kids, you will find plenty of attractions, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and incredible restaurants nearby. 

This isn’t a list of arcades, bowling alleys, or things you could do in any town. These are the spots that make Destin-Fort Walton Beach unique, the places I actually take my family when we’re not on the sand. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

Get Outside and Soak Up the Scenery

Walk Turkey Creek Nature Trail

Turkey Creek Nature Trail in Niceville is just a short drive away, but feels like a completely different environment. The boardwalk is mostly shaded by trees and winds alongside spring-fed water so clear you can see straight to the bottom. Turtles sun themselves on the logs, fish are swimming down the creek, birds are everywhere, and every so often you might spot an alligator keeping its distance.

It is an easy, stroller-friendly walk that is perfect for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone looking to slow down and take in some of Florida’s natural beauty. 

Why you’ll love it:

• Free!
• Scenic boardwalk
• Crystal-clear spring water
• Wildlife viewing
• Stroller-friendly path
• Covered picnic pavilion

Stroll Through Downtown Fort Walton Beach

Downtown Fort Walton Beach has a relaxed, local feel with unique shops, restaurants, waterfront views, and community events.

Spend an afternoon wandering through boutiques, grabbing coffee, admiring colorful murals, or relaxing at the waterfront park. Throughout the year, the area hosts farmers markets, festivals, and events. 

Don’t miss:

• Maas Coffee Roasters for your caffeine fix or a bag of freshly roasted beans 
• Beach Weekend Coffee for a latte, pastries, and lively atmosphere
• Wood Foot Beer Co. for a craft beer, pizza and scratch-made dishes
• Thick Cookie Co. for a sweet treat
• Florida Place Food Trucks for a quick and casual bite

Walk Around Fort Walton Beach Landing

The Landing sits right on Santa Rosa Sound with a boardwalk, open lawn, and an amphitheater for concerts and festivals throughout the year. However, it’s just as enjoyable on a quiet afternoon. Bring the kids to the playground, watch the boats go by, or simply take in the sound views while you sip on an iced latte.

Watch the Sunset from the Okaloosa Island Pier

Whether you are fishing or just taking in the scenery, the Okaloosa Island Pier offers incredible panoramic views of the Gulf.

Visit early in the morning for sunrise, bring your fishing gear, or stop by in the evening to catch the sky light up over the water. It’s a simple and affordable way to get a different perspective of the shoreline.

Play a Round of Golf

Swap the emerald water for the greens. The courses around Destin-Fort Walton Beach are surrounded by Florida pines and lush landscape, a peaceful way to spend a day away from the crowds.

Looking for the best courses? Check out our guide to the best golf courses near Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

Get Out on the Water

Sitting on the shoreline looking out at the water doesn’t give you the full experience. You get such a different perspective once you’re actually out on it, whether that’s Choctawhatchee Bay or the open Gulf.

Popular activities include:

• Pontoon boat rentals
• Dolphin cruises
• Sunset cruises
• Sailing charters
• Jet skiing
• Paddleboarding
• Kayaking
• Parasailing
• Deep sea fishing

Museums and Family Attractions

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

One of the most popular family attractions in Destin-Fort Walton Beach is the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Visitors can get up close with dolphins, manatees, sea lions, penguins, turtles, and other sea creatures while learning about conservation and marine life.

After exploring the exhibits, be sure to catch one of the daily presentations, like the dolphin show or the manatee chat.

There are both indoor and outdoor exhibits, and most outdoor walkways are covered, with the exception of the Dolphin Oasis, so a little rain won’t ruin your plans.

Destin History & Fishing Museum

Ever wonder how Destin became known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village?”

The Destin History & Fishing Museum tells the story through antique artificats and equipment, historic photographs, and exhibits that highlight the area’s fishing heritage. It’s a fun way to learn about the town’s roots, fishing culture, and founding families.

Kids will love the interactive area featuring soft toys, a coloring station, a scavenger hunt, seashells, and other hands-on activities.

Air Force Armament Museum

Located just outside Eglin Air Force Base, the Air Force Armament Museum is one of the area’s most underrated stops. You’ll find historic military aircraft, fighter jets, bombers, and interactive displays that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Admission is free, making it one of the best budget-friendly outings near Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

Emerald Coast Science Center

If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the Emerald Coast Science Center. The hands-on exhibits encourage children to dig into engineering, technology, physics, and nature.

There are also several outdoor exhibits and play spaces where kids can climb aboard a boat, burn off energy on the playground, and stroll by the aviary, turtle ponds, and tortoise enclosure.

Family-Friendly Things to Do

Parks and Playgrounds

Need somewhere for the kids to burn off energy? A few of my go-to parks and playgrounds in Destin-Fort Walton Beach include:

• Playground at Morgan Sports Center
• Captain Leonard Destin Park, with a splash pad, playground, and beach area
• Marler Park on Okaloosa Island
• Fort Walton Beach Landing Playground
• Destin Dog Park, if you’re traveling with your pup

Try a Little Adventure

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity in Destin-Fort Walton Beach that’s a little different from the usual playgrounds and tourist attractions, check out the Little Adventures program. These free, hands-on experiences give kids the chance to try something new and learn about our water culture with classes led by local experts. 

Depending on the class, kids can learn about marine life, try fishing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or even surfing. Most sessions are just 60 to 75 minutes, making them an easy addition to your vacation itinerary.

Best of all, equipment is provided, and the classes are designed to be approachable even for kids who have never tried the activity before.

Read our full guide to Little Adventures in Destin-Fort Walton Beach for details on the different classes, ages, locations, and how to book.

Shop at Destin Commons

Destin Commons is an outdoor lifestyle center that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one place.

You’ll find:

• National retailers
• Local boutiques
• Restaurants
• A movie theater
• A splash pad
• A playground

Keep an eye out for seasonal events too, including their Fourth of July celebration, Halloween trick-or-treating, and photos with Santa.

Spend the Day at Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park

Big Kahuna’s features more than 40 attractions, including water slides, pools, and kid-friendly areas with shallow water, small slides, and lagoon-style entries perfect for the littlest visitors.

It’s a great way to spend a summer afternoon when you want a break from the sand and double red flags are flying. 

Explore HarborWalk Village

There’s always something fun happening at HarborWalk Village!

I love strolling along the docks with my kids, watching the fishing boats return with their catch, and taking in the waterfront atmosphere. It’s also one of the best spots to catch a sunset, listen to live music, and enjoy an evening out.

You’ll also find:

• Waterfront restaurants
• Shopping
• Seasonal events
• Summer fireworks
• Zip lining and kid-friendly activities

Where to Eat and Drink Like a Local

From fresh Gulf seafood and soundside dining to coffee shops, breweries, and hidden neighborhood favorites, the Destin-Fort Walton Beach food scene does not disappoint. 

A few must-tries include:

• Fresh Gulf seafood from Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant
• Sushi and waterfront views at Harbor Docks
• Waterfront dining at Beach Walk Cafe
• Breakfast or lunch at East Pass Coffee Co.
• Gulf-to-table Mexican cuisine at La Paz
• Elevated Southern cuisine and craft cocktails at Bitterroot

And of course, save room for dessert—ice cream from Pink Coyote somehow tastes even better after a day of exploring.

Looking for more restaurants? Check out our full Destin-Fort Walton Beach dining guide.

Discover Neighborhood Coffee Shops

Need a caffeine fix before heading out on your next adventure? Destin-Fort Walton Beach has several local coffee shops where you can slow down, relax, and ease into the morning.

Visit a Brewery

Spend an afternoon at one of the area’s breweries for craft beer, food, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere. The Deck at Destin Brewery and Wood Foot Beer Co. are two of our regular stops, and kids are welcome at both.

Festivals and Events Worth Planning Around

This area stays busy year-round with beer and wine festivals, seafood festivals, live music, holiday parades, farmers markets and more. There’s rarely a stretch of more than a few weeks without something going on.

If you want to build your trip around what’s happening while you’re here, check out the full Destin-Fort Walton Beach events calendar for what’s coming up.

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See a Different Side of Destin-Fort Walton Beach

The beaches may be what first bring people to Destin-Fort Walton Beach, but they’re only one part of what makes this area special. Beyond the shoreline, you’ll find scenic nature trails, fascinating museums, great restaurants, family-friendly attractions, and unforgettable experiences out on the water.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, I encourage you to leave a little room in your itinerary to venture past the beach. Some of my favorite memories have come from wandering Downtown Fort Walton Beach, spotting wildlife at Turkey Creek, watching the fishing boats return to HarborWalk Village, or discovering a new neighborhood restaurant.

Destin-Fort Walton Beach has so much more to offer than beautiful beaches, and I hope this guide inspires you to see a different side of the place I call home.

Looking for even more recommendations? Follow @DestinSnapshots on Instagram for hidden gems, restaurant picks, family-friendly activities, local events, and the best things to do in Destin-Fort Walton Beach. It’s where I share my favorite finds and help you experience our little slice of paradise like a local.