6 Things to Do on Okaloosa Island You Don't Want to Miss

6 Things to Do on Okaloosa Island You Don't Want to Miss

Nothing says beach vacation better than heading down to Okaloosa Island. Part of Florida’s Emerald Coast, this beautiful piece of paradise has white sandy beaches, fishing opportunities, phenomenal restaurants, and entertaining boardwalks. You will be pulled in to its intoxicating atmosphere the minute you arrive! Here is our list of 6 things to do on Okaloosa Island you don’t want to miss:

1. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

One of the most popular things to do on Okaloosa Island is the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Splash with dolphins and pet stingrays at our incredible facility with lots of opportunities to interact with marine animals. Some of our other exhibits include turtles, seals, sea lions, gators, and more. For all of the animal lovers on the trip, this should definitely be an attraction on your list. 

2.  Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone 

Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone is your one stop for family fun! Throughout it’s 17,000 square feet of air-conditioned space, it houses a state-of-the-art redemption arcade, a 4D movie theater, laser tag, a pizza factory, and a frozen yogurt shop. Rain or shine, you can have a great time at Wild Willy’s. There’s more fun outside too! Visitors can enjoy two different mini golf courses, a 60-foot ropes course, a bungee trampoline, a bumper boat pool, mini go karts, and a slide! You can spend the entire day having fun at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone.

3. The Island Boardwalk

Of course, the beach is obviously the biggest attraction on Okaloosa Island, but coming in second is the beachfront boardwalk. With shops, restaurants, games, volleyball nets, and more, The Boardwalk is something you won’t want to miss. You can park at convenient locations, play on the beach, and walk right up to the boardwalk without worrying about sandy feet and clothes. 

4. Fishing Pier

This 1,200 foot long pier is the perfect place to see dolphins, sea turtles, and other wildlife, and of course, fishing! You won’t need a fishing license to fish on this pier, just pay a small fee each day you would like to fish. If you want to go further out into the water, take a charter trip with Blue Water Escape. You can fish and scuba dive safely with these experienced personnel and create some amazing memories on the water. 

5. Sandcastle Lessons

How do people make such beautiful and detailed sand castles? Some of them probably took sand castle lessons from Beach Sand Sculptures! It’s true, sand castle “coaches” will come meet you at the beach and teach you how to make the best sandcastle. This is a great family activity for all ages, and definitely a bonding experience for any relationship. 

6. Gulf-to-Table Dining

The seafood options on Okaloosa Island are absolutely fantastic, from shrimp and crab, to oysters and trout, and so much more! At Floyd's Shrimp House, you can enjoy all-you-can-eat shrimp every day of the week! Located right on the water at The Boardwalk, Floyd’s is the perfect spot for lunch or dinner. The Gulf is another amazing restaurant that boasts a waterfront view and a casual chic atmosphere with superior drinks and seafood. Made from recycled shipping containers and other reclaimed building materials, this restaurant is a unique dining experience that your whole family will love. Another option on The Boardwalk is Rockin Tacos. Don’t be fooled by the name, this place produces the best twist on seafood on the island! Their fish tacos are without a doubt the best thing on the menu. If you’re looking for something besides seafood, Al's Burger Bar is the place to go. Famous for their milkshakes, burgers, craft beer, and live music, this lively bar is perfect for a summer night of fun. 

Now that you know all of the fun things to do on Okaloosa Island, check out all of our Okaloosa Island rentals and book your vacation today!