8 Activities to Experience Your First Year in Okaloosa County, FL
The region is full of fun, unique adventures.
Welcome to Okaloosa County, FL, a place full of natural beauty and adventure to be had at every turn. With so many amazing spots to explore, you might not be sure where to start – that’s why we’ve assembled this easy guide. Here are eight activities to experience your first year living here.
In This Article
1. Head to the Beach in Okaloosa County, FL
Get the full beach and boardwalk experience at the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. There, you’ll find soft, sandy and well-maintained beaches, plus tons of shops and eateries. You can rent an umbrella or bring your own for the perfect beachside relaxation experience. Really, you can’t go wrong with a day at the beach.
2. Get Your Golf On in Okaloosa County, FL
Spend a day on the links at elite golf courses like Shalimar Pointe Golf Club in Shalimar, Emerald Bay Golf Club in Destin, and Fort Walton Beach Municipal Golf Course. If you prefer mini golf over the big leagues, check out Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone or Rainforest Black Light Golf and Arcade.
3. Get Out on the Water in Okaloosa County, FL
Don’t just watch the water from ashore – get out and explore! Rent a boat or Jet Ski and hit the open sea. Drop anchor at Crab Island, which isn’t an actual island, but a popular sandbar where boats gather and park to soak in the sun. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous – and you aren’t afraid of heights – you can even try parasailing.
4. Hop Around in Okaloosa County, FL
Get your sips at one of the many local breweries in the area. Popular local favorites to try out include 3rd Planet Brewing in Niceville, Destin Brewery, Props Brewery Hammock Bay in Freeport and Props Brewery & Taproom in Fort Walton Beach.
5. Go Fishing in Okaloosa County, FL
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an amateur wanting to dip your toe into the waters of Florida fishing, Okaloosa County has you covered. There are plenty of top-notch casting spots off piers, bridges and beaches – but you can also work with one of the many fishing charters for a more specialized experience.
6. Embrace the Arts in Okaloosa County, FL
Immerse yourself in a thriving arts scene by catching a show at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Niceville, which features national touring acts. In the spring and summer, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation hosts Destin’s Concerts in the Village series, where musicians perform on the stunning outdoor pavilion stage.
7. Mingle with Marine Life in Okaloosa County, FL
Get up close and personal with Florida’s vast array of marine animals at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. There, you’ll find entertaining shows and exhibits, as well as physical encounters with sea life, including penguins, dolphins and turtles. You can even go snorkeling with the stingrays at an enclosed pool dubbed “Stingray Bay.”
8. Meander Through Museums in Okaloosa County, FL
Take the whole family to the Emerald Coast Science Center, which is full of fun things for kids of all ages to interact with and explore. For a deeper educational experience, check out the Heritage Park and Cultural Center, which features several regionally historic exhibits, including many Native American artifacts.
Get to Know Okaloosa County, FL
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