Need a picture-perfect beach vacation with emerald waters and sugar-white sand? Head to Florida’s Emerald Coast! Stretching across the panhandle, this coastal paradise includes Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and 30A. With crystal-clear water, family-friendly attractions, and a relaxed vibe, the Emerald Coast is ideal for swimming, seafood, and sunsets.
Emerald Coast, FL Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Snorkel or parasail in Destin – Explore underwater reefs or take flight over stunning emerald waters.
- For History Buffs: Discover Fort Walton Beach’s Indian Temple Mound Museum – Dive into prehistoric history and Gulf Coast heritage.
- For Shoppers: Browse Silver Sands Premium Outlets in Miramar Beach – Find top brands at one of the largest outlet centers in the U.S.
- For Couples: Walk scenic trails and sip wine in Seaside – Enjoy romantic beach strolls and cozy cafes in this charming 30A town.
- For Families: Spend the day at Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park – Cool off with slides, lazy rivers, and mini golf in Destin.
Best Time to Visit the Emerald Coast, FL
The best time to visit the Emerald Coast is from late spring to early fall (April through October). The warm Gulf waters and sunny skies are perfect for beach outings, water sports, and outdoor dining. Spring and early fall offer fewer crowds and lower rates.
How to Get to the Emerald Coast, FL
- If you are traveling by car: U.S. Highway 98 runs along the coast and connects major towns from Pensacola to Panama City Beach.
- By Air: Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is the main gateway, with regional service from major U.S. cities. Northwest Florida Beaches Airport (ECP) is also nearby.
- By Bus: Regional bus and shuttle services connect the Emerald Coast to cities across the Southeast.
Where to Stay on the Emerald Coast, FL
- The Henderson Beach Resort – Luxury resort in Destin with spa services and private beach access.
- WaterColor Inn – Upscale 30A beachfront boutique hotel with coastal charm and top-notch amenities.
- Four Points by Sheraton Fort Walton Beach – Family-friendly stay with beach access and pools in Fort Walton Beach.
Best Things to Do on the Emerald Coast, FL
⮕ Spark Young Minds with Hands-On Fun at the Emerald Coast Science Center
© Emerald Coast Science Center
Designed and built in order to help grow a scientifically focused and active community, the Emerald Coast Science Center is a museum that allows hands on experiences for visitors of all ages. Many of the exhibits are interactive, and guests can enjoy the STEM Makerspace, various animal encounters, and learn basic scientific principles. The center features over 45 exhibits within their 8,000 square foot indoor space, as well as two more acres of property that contain live animals, robotics, and more. There are many programs and events throughout the year so guests are encouraged to check with the Center before visiting.
31 SW Memorial Parkway, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, Phone: 850-664-1261
⮕ Step Into Classroom History at the Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum
© Courtesy of Fotolia.com
Originally created in order to give visitors an idea of what authentic country style school was like in Northwest Florida, the Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum is open year round and has many exciting features. The museum is filled with actual, as well as replica, artifacts that will stimulate and assist in learning. These artifacts tell the story of what it was like when students received an authentic Okaloosa education, and in addition to the artifacts there are programs, events, historically accurate activities, and field trip opportunities year round. This museum is ADA compliant, available for group tours, and even has an onsite gift shop.
127 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, Phone: 850-833-9595
⮕ Explore Military Aviation and Historic Weapons at the Air Force Armament Museum
© Air Force Armament Museum
Considered to be the only museum in the entire world that is specifically dedicated to the collection, presentation, and preservation of artifacts related to Air Force Armament and its diverse platforms of delivery. The Air Force Armament Museum contains over 29 different aircrafts, including: AC-130, B-17, B-25, B-52, P-51, A-10, F-15, F-16, F-100, F-101, and more. Admittance to the museum is free of charge, and there are many rotating and permanent exhibits. Fans of Air Force Armament will be happy to know that there are special exhibits showcasing planes from the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, World War 1, World War 2, and select special operations aircrafts.
100 Museum Drive, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida 32542, Phone: 850-882-4062
⮕ Dive Into Destin’s Fishing Legacy at the Destin History & Fishing Museum
© Destin History & Fishing Museum
The Destin History & Fishing Museum is a Florida non profit and popular tourist destination in the Destin area. Containing the history of Destin, tracing from its humble roots as a small fishing village through its growth and eventual major tourist attraction status. The museum contains boats recreated in the style originally used by village settlers, a 5,500 square foot exhibit space that tells the story of early Native Americans and their impact on the village, more than 75 mounted locally caught fish, and more. Group tours are available, and there are many ways for visitors to experience the museum; self-guided tours, audio guided tours, scavenger hunts, and even a personalized tour using QR codes.
P.O. Box 548, Destin, Florida 32541, Phone: 850-837-6611
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Uncover Local History and Native American Heritage at Heritage Park
© Heritage Park and Cultural Center
Being the home of many key regional museums, the Heritage Park and Cultural Center is a great stop for travellers who want to learn more about the local history in the Fort Walton Beach area. Between the collection of museums guests can learn about history stretching all the way back to 14,000 BC. Some of the highlighted history includes the Indian Temple Mound Museum, which features a wide range of artifacts, the archaeological site known as Fort Walton Temple Mound, the one room Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum, the historic Garnier Post Office Museum, and an assortment of Civil War Exhibits. Hours vary depending on the time of year so be sure to call ahead or check out the website for the most up-to-date information.
139 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548, Phone: 850-833-9595
⮕ Stroll, Shop, and Soak Up Harbor Views on the Destin Boardwalk
© Courtesy of digidreamgrafix - Fotolia.com
Visiting the beach is a must when spending time in Florida’s Emerald Coast, and guests who find themselves able to spend time on the Destin Harbor Boardwalk are in for a real treat. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk stretches almost a full quarter of a mile and provides uninhibited access to the waterfront while preserving the harbor at the same time. For guests who are looking to spend time both on the water and near it the boardwalk is the gateway for activities, and everything from fishing to boat rentals, dolphin watching tours, and more can be accessed from the Destin Harbor Boardwalk.
4200 Indian Bayou Trail, Destin, FL 32541, Phone: 850-837-4242
⮕ If You’re Fascinated by Ancient Cultures, Visit the Indian Temple Mound Museum
© Courtesy of fowler5338 - Fotolia.com
When it originally opened in 1962, the Indian Temple Mound Museum was the first municipally owned and operated museum in the entire State of Florida. The museum houses many exhibits, some depicting the history of Native Americans as far back as 12,000 years ago. There are over 1,000 authentic artifacts for visitors to peruse, made of stone, bone, clay, and shell, as well as a large ceramics collection from prehistoric times. The museum does have an entrance fee, but there are group rates, free days, and discounts available if guests contact the museum directly.
139 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, Phone: 850-833-9595
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Cast a Line or Catch a Sunset at the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier
© Courtesy of Kristina - Fotolia.com
Offering both summer and winter hours, the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier is a must visit for any fishing enthusiast spending time in the area. Loved by locals and tourists alike, the fishing pier is open every day and offers fishing reports that are updated frequently. Located at the fishing pier are beverage and snack options, bait and tackle for sale, pole rentals, and more. Fishers do not need a fishing license to fish from the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, and visitors that catch a fish are invited to share their catch with the community through the Okaloosa Island Pier website.
1030 Miracle Strip Parkway East, Fort Walton Beach, Fl 32548, Phone: 850-244-1023
⮕ Wander Peaceful Trails at the Oak Tree Nature Preserve
© Courtesy of Fotoluminate LLC - Fotolia.com
The Oak Tree Nature Preserve is best visited by hiking the trail that runs through the preserve. Although this is considered to be a short trail, measuring in at less than a mile and a half, the Oak Tree Nature Preserve trail will help guests experience the diverse ecosystem contained within the preserve. The Oak Tree Nature Preserve contains about 25 acres of land and is home to hundreds of animals, plants, and birds. In addition to the modern nature it contains, this preserve is also home to a key regional archeological site that once harbored the remains of pottery, bone, shell, and stone tools that are now protected.
210 Hollywood Blvd, Mary Esther, FL 32569
⮕ Pan for Gems and Family Fun at HarborWalk Village Mining Company
© HarborWalk Village Mining Company
The HarborWalk Village Mining Company
offers an experience unlike any other, and is the perfect destination for families looking to spend a fun time together while learning new things in the process. The experience is simple in theory, but offers a blast of fun for kids and adults alike. The first step is to buy a bucket of dirt, after this the guests receive special mining equipment that allows them to expertly sift through the dirt and find all sorts of items: gemstones, fossils, and other treasures. Of course visitors get to keep whatever they find, and can ask the staff about the history of any items they find.
10 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, Phone: 850-424-0600
Where to Eat on the Emerald Coast, FL
- Louisiana Lagniappe – Upscale Creole seafood in Destin with waterfront views and fresh Gulf catch.
- The Perfect Pig – Southern bistro favorites and creative brunch in several 30A locations.
- Stewby’s Seafood Shanty – Local favorite in Fort Walton Beach serving affordable, delicious fried and grilled seafood.
If you are interested in local events:
- Destin Fishing Rodeo (October) – Long-running angling tradition with weigh-ins, prizes, and festive fun.
- 30A Songwriters Festival (January) – Intimate performances by top songwriters and emerging artists across scenic venues.
- HarborWalk Village’s Saturday Night Fireworks (Summer) – Weekly fireworks and entertainment over the harbor in Destin.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of the Emerald Coast, Florida:
- Grayton Beach State Park (15–20 min from Seaside) – Kayak on dune lakes or hike serene coastal trails.
- Okaloosa Island (10–15 min from Destin) – Enjoy family-friendly beaches, piers, and relaxed Gulf vibes.
- Navarre Beach (30 min from Fort Walton Beach) – Quiet beaches and snorkeling at the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary.
- Blue Mountain Beach (20–25 min from Destin) – A scenic 30A beach town with charming shops and quiet shores.
- Eden Gardens State Park (25–30 min from Santa Rosa Beach) – Tour a historic mansion surrounded by live oaks and blooming gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Question: What is the Emerald Coast of Florida known for?
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Answer: The Emerald Coast of Florida offers uninhibited access to the Gulf of Mexico along its roughly 100 mile stretch of coastline.
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Question: What types of activities can visitors enjoy on the Emerald Coast?
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Answer: Visitors will find a wide assortment of entertainment, restaurants, and high energy activities awaiting them no matter what time of year they visit.
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Question: What historical and modern attractions can be found on the Emerald Coast?
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Answer: From rich history tracing back 14,000 years to modern day adventures like helicopter tours, the Emerald Coast has something in store for everyone.
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