Looking for a quiet Florida Panhandle escape near white-sand beaches? Head to Niceville! Nestled along the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, Niceville is a charming and family-friendly destination offering easy access to nature, boating, and nearby Gulf Coast beaches. Whether you're kayaking on Boggy Bayou, relaxing in the parks, or exploring the Emerald Coast, Niceville makes a peaceful, scenic retreat.
Niceville, FL Highlights:
- For Nature Lovers: Hike and paddle at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park – Explore pine forests, kayak the bayou, or camp under the stars.
- For Families: Visit Turkey Creek Nature Trail – A serene boardwalk over clear spring waters with swimming areas and shaded paths.
- For Boaters: Launch at Lions Park on Boggy Bayou – Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, or catching sunsets over the bay.
- For Culture: Explore the Mattie Kelly Arts Center – Attend live theater, music, and art exhibits at Northwest Florida State College.
- For Beach Days: Drive to Destin – Just 20–25 minutes away, enjoy powdery sand beaches and emerald Gulf waters.
Best Time to Visit Niceville, FL
The best time to visit Niceville is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is warm and pleasant but the crowds are fewer than peak summer months. Summer is popular for water recreation, while winter is mild and peaceful.
How to Get to Niceville, FL
- By Plane: The nearest airport is Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), just 10–15 minutes from Niceville.
- By Car: Located off FL-20, Niceville is accessible via US-85 and is about 1 hour from Pensacola or Panama City Beach.
Where to Stay in Niceville, FL
- Recommended for Families: Hampton Inn Niceville–Eglin AFB – Free breakfast, comfy rooms, and easy access to parks and the bayou.
- For Couples: Comfort Suites Niceville Near Eglin AFB Area – Spacious suites with modern comforts, just a short drive from the beach.
- For Budget Travelers: Quality Inn at Eglin AFB – Affordable and well-located with breakfast and basic amenities.
Best Things to Do in Niceville, FL
1. Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park
Rating: ★★★★★
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What is the history of Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park?
- It is hard to believe that this beautiful stretch of Gulf Coast shoreline was once used as a bombing range during WWII. Today, the Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park is a popular outdoor recreation area offering a wide variety of activities.
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What activities can visitors enjoy at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park?
- To really get back to nature, you can park your RV or pitch your tent at one of the 42 serviced camp sites in the campground, which is located close to two scenic nature trails.
- Besides hiking, visitors can enjoy biking, fishing, boating, paddling, and wildlife viewing.
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What amenities are available at the park?
- The park features an interpretive center, a picnic pavilion, a children’s playground, and good restrooms and showers.
Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park, 4281 FL-20, Niceville, FL 32578, Phone: 850-833-9144
2. L4K Charters
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Why should I try fishing on the Gulf Coast?
- No visit to the Gulf Coast would be complete without trying your hand at fishing in these rich waters. L4K Charters are at your disposal to take care of all the details.
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Who is Captain Rob and what makes his charters unique?
- Captain Rob is a retired US Marine who is passionate about introducing newbies to the joys of fishing. His comfortable boat, the “At Ease”, can accommodate five guests and offers comfortable seats and toilet facilities.
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What types of fishing charters are available?
- A charter with Captain Rob is ideal for families as well as for experienced anglers.
- Short 2-hour charters are perfect for families, while more experienced anglers can choose to stay out on the water for up to five hours, enjoying exciting in-shore and near-shore fishing experiences.
L4K Charters, Niceville, FL 32578, Phone: 850-895-1224
3. Rocky Bayou Country Club
© Rocky Bayou Country Club
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What is the Rocky Bayou Country Club?
- The Rocky Bayou Country Club is a wonderful outdoor recreation facility for members and their guests.
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What amenities does the Rocky Bayou Country Club offer?
- At the heart of the club, you will find a beautifully maintained 18-hole golf course, known for providing an enjoyable but challenging round of golf for players of all abilities.
- In addition to the golf course, the country club also has a swimming pool and tennis courts.
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Is there a restaurant or social space at the club?
- The club has a popular “19th Hole” called The Crooked Tree, which is open to non-members.
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Can seasonal visitors access the club?
- If you are planning to stay in the area for a few months to escape the northern winter, you can purchase a Snowbird Pass, which will allow you to enjoy member privileges.
Rocky Bayou Country Club, 600 Golf Course Drive, Niceville, FL 32578, Phone: 850-678-3270
Where to Eat:
4. The Local’s Eatery
© The Local’s Eatery
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What is Local’s Eatery?
- Located at the Niceville Marina, directly overlooking the water, Local’s Eatery is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends and family.
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Who runs Local’s Eatery?
- The kitchen is led by Chef Cory Hassett, who has been cooking great food in other Emerald Coast restaurants for years before opening his own place.
- He is assisted in front of shop by his business partner, Joey Luna, who ensures that the service is slick and polished.
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What kind of food is on the menu?
- The menu features a mix of popular favorites with a distinct Chef Cory twist.
- Guests can enjoy a Bacon-wrapped Meatloaf with all the trimmings, sink their teeth into a perfect burger, or choose from one of Local’s tacos, signature sandwiches, and entrees.
Local’s Eatery, 113 W. John Sims Parkway, Niceville, FL 32578, Phone: 850-279-4538
5. Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant
© Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant
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What is Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant?
- On a hot Florida evening, what could be more inviting than a delicious ice-cold Margarita and a plate of authentic, flavorsome Mexican food? Luckily, residents and visitors to Niceville can find both at Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant .
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How long has Pepito’s been serving customers?
- This award-winning eatery has been consistently pleasing palates since opening 20 years ago.
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What makes the food at Pepito’s special?
- The food is unpretentious but utterly delicious, using authentic Mexican spices and the freshest local produce to prepare dishes that keep customers coming back.
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What are the must-try dishes on the menu?
- Menu highlights include their legendary fajitas, chimichangas, enchiladas, and the famous Big S. Burrito – once tasted, never forgotten.
Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant, 4585 FL-20, Niceville, FL 32578, Phone: 850-279-4949
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