Enjoy the best things to do on Okaloosa Island, from sun‑soaked beaches and family attractions to dolphin encounters and scenic fishing piers. Plan a fun, stress‑free Emerald Coast getaway with our local guide.
Going on vacation with a bucket list of top things to do makes a big difference. From the Colorado Rockies to the Outer Banks and Florida's Emerald Coast, having your must‑do activities ready ensures a fun, hassle‑free trip.
Planning a trip to Okaloosa Island? Lucky you! This slice of Florida paradise is packed with amazing things to do for a vacation you'll remember for a long time.
Here's a little something to spark your curiosity:
- The Boardwalk: Beachfront hub for shopping, dining, kids' splash pad, and weekly summer fireworks.
- Spend Time on the Beach: Soft sand, clear Gulf waters, swimming, sandcastles, parasailing, and water sports.
- Okaloosa Island Pier: A scenic spot for fishing, dolphin spotting, and enjoying the sea breeze.
- Wild Willy's Adventure Zone: Arcade, 4D movies, laser tag, mini golf, go‑karts, and outdoor attractions for families.
- Stay in Vacation Rentals: Spacious stays with balconies, pools, hot tubs, kitchens, and free attraction passes.
- Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park: Watch dolphins and sea lions, touch stingrays, and explore marine life exhibits.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
Below, I'll share six of the best things to do in Okaloosa Island on your next vacation that will add plenty of fun and local vibes to your visit.
Let's jump into the details!
1. Visit THE BOARDWALK
Favorite spot for families and friends looking for all‑day fun by the beach.
The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is a favorite spot for families and friends looking for all‑day fun by the beach. You can shop for souvenirs, grab a tasty meal with a Gulf view, and let the kids cool off at the splash pad behind Al's Beach Club & Burger Bar. Summer nights get even better with weekly fireworks lighting up the sky.
What Visitors Love About It
- Beachfront shopping with plenty of souvenirs.
- Fresh seafood and casual dining with Gulf views.
- Splash pad for kids while parents relax with a drink.
- Weekly summer fireworks every Wednesday at 9 p.m.
- A full day of beach, food, and family fun in one spot.
2. Spend Time on the Beach
Okaloosa Island is all about sun, soft sand, and sparkling Gulf waters. Spend the day stretched out under the warm sky, cool off with a swim, or head out for an adventure on the waves. Build sandcastles, collect seashells, try a paddleboard, or see the island from above on a parasailing ride.
What Visitors Love About It
- Soft, white sand perfect for relaxing or building sandcastles.
- Clear Gulf waters ideal for swimming and shell collecting.
- Paddleboard, kayak, and pontoon boat rentals at Fudpucker's Watersports.
- Exciting parasailing with unbeatable aerial views of the island.
- A mix of beach time and water adventures all in one spot.
3. Go Fishing at the OKALOOSA ISLAND PIER
If fishing is your thing, the Okaloosa Island Pier is the spot to be. Stretching nearly a quarter mile into the Gulf, it's a favorite for anglers and sightseers alike. Reel in big catches, grab a cold drink, or just enjoy the salty breeze and watch the dolphins play.
What Visitors Love About It
4. Explore Wild WILLY'S ADVENTURE ZONE
Wild Willy's is the ultimate family fun spot on the Emerald Coast. Inside, you'll find a buzzing arcade, a 4D movie theater, laser tag, and plenty of tasty treats. Step outside, and the excitement continues with mini golf, go‑karts, bumper boats, and towering slides that keep the energy going all day.
What Visitors Love About It
- Massive arcade packed with games and prizes.
- 4D movie theater and action‑filled laser tag.
- Mini golf with animatronic dinosaurs and creative themes.
- Outdoor thrills like go‑karts, bumper boats, and a 60‑foot ropes course.
- Sweet treats from Salvati's Pizza and YogoMogo's ice cream.
5. Stay in Vacation Rentals
Staying in vacation rentals comes with the kind of perks that turn an ordinary trip into something unforgettable. Think dolphin sightings from your balcony, afternoons by the pool, and free access to some of the area's most popular attractions.
What Visitors Love About It
- Spotting dolphins right from the balcony.
- Swimming in a sparkling private Gulf‑front pool.
- Relaxing in a soothing hot tub.
- Enjoying meals in lighted picnic areas.
- Cooking at home in well‑equipped kitchens.
- Extra space for families and pet‑friendly amenities.
- Easy, hassle‑free communication with hosts.
6. GULFARIUM MARINE ADVENTURE PARK
On Okaloosa Island, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a favorite for anyone who loves ocean life. Families can enjoy dolphin flips, sea lion tricks, and hands‑on encounters that bring you closer to the underwater world. Between the shows and the exhibits, it's a mix of fun and learning that keeps everyone entertained.
What Visitors Love About It
- Watching playful dolphins and sea lions shows.
- Touching stingrays and other sea creatures in interactive exhibits.
- Learning about local marine life and conservation efforts.
- Exploring exhibits with sea turtles, sharks, and tropical fish.
- A prime location right on the waterfront with beautiful Gulf views.
Bonus: Extra tips to make the most of your time on Okaloosa Island
- Start Your Days on the Beach: Get out early to enjoy the soft sand and gentle Gulf waves before the midday crowds. Morning walks are also the best time to spot dolphins close to shore.
- Pack Snorkel Gear or Rent It Locally: The waters around Okaloosa Island are clear and calm, making them perfect for snorkeling. Check out the rock jetties or shallow spots near the pier.
- Mix in Water Adventures: Book a dolphin cruise, try paddleboarding, or hop on a jet ski. Being on the water is one of the best ways to experience the island.
- Time Your Day for Sunset: Evenings are magical here. Grab a blanket or find a beachfront restaurant to watch the sky light up in pinks and golds.
- Take Advantage of Local Eats: Try fresh Gulf seafood at a waterfront spot, or pick up a picnic to enjoy by the sand. Local flavors add to the island vibe.
- Explore Beyond the Beach: Bike or walk the scenic paths, check out nearby parks, and enjoy the quieter side of the island away from the main strip.
Stay with us!
Stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!