Located on the beautiful Emerald Coast of the Sunshine State of Florida, the city of Fort Walton Beach boasts a number of attractions but still manages to retain an air of peace and tranquillity. The area is a haven for beach lovers, with the combination of clear blue skies, powder-white sands and emerald waters proving to be irresistible to many. Perhaps unsurprisingly, considering the city's coastal location, water sports are a regular activity here, with scuba diving, snorkelling and parasailing particularly popular. A water-based activity of a less strenuous nature which Fort Walton Beach is famous for is deep sea fishing. Indeed, back in the days before the city underwent major development, it was known as the 'world's luckiest fishing village'.
The state of Florida is renowned for its wealth of family entertainment. The attractions on offer at Fort Walton Beach may be of a less grand nature than many other areas of Florida but are no less interesting for it. The Gulfarium has been regularly attracting visitors since the mid-50s. This top-class marine park is home to a host of sea creatures including dolphins, stingrays and turtles and remains the most popular family attraction in the city. Celebrating the rich Native American culture which has been prevalent in this area for thousands of years, the Indian Temple Mound is one of the most sacred sites in the country and today features a fascinating museum telling the story of the Native American legacy.
Best Time to Fly to Fort Walton Beach
The months of May through to June and September to November are the best months to visit the city. The average daily temperature during these times is still very pleasant and the city tends to be a little less crowded. From the middle of March through to mid-April, it is Spring Break in Fort Walton Beach, so avoid visiting during this time if you do not like crowds.
The off-season months of January, February and November are the cheapest times to visit the city. Even though these are amongst the coldest months of the year here, temperatures are still suitable for enjoying days on the beach.
Getting around Fort Walton Beach
The main mode of public transportation in the city is by bus. There are five separate bus routes in operation, with the majority stopping at the most popular destinations in both downtown and uptown Fort Walton Beach. Exact fare is required on each bus as the drivers do not carry change.
