If you think about white sandy beaches and pristine blue-green waters at the mention of luxury living, you may want to check out Fort Walton Beach. This relatively small city on the Florida Panhandle with Okaloosa Island immediately adjacent offers its residents and visitors plenty of scenery, great weather, and activities. Approximately 21,000 people call Fort Walton Beach home.

 

The panhandle location makes for beautiful summers in Fort Walton Beach. The temperatures usually stay in the eighties, and while relatively humid, you will also enjoy the ocean breezes. The winters typically see high temperatures in the sixties, and the thermometer rarely falls below freezing.

 

Homes in Fort Walton Beach cater to families, young professionals, and retirees. Homes vary from single-family to condo units, many with an airy, beachy feel.

• Plenty of green and blue spaces
• The relaxed atmosphere
• Family-friendly
• Affordable living

Most people living in Fort Walton Beach share a passion for nature, especially the fantastic beaches on the panhandle and off Okaloosa Island. Though much of the area may qualify as suburban, the pride in the community and home ownership gives the city a unique charm and a small-town vibe.

 

Water sports enthusiasts enjoy the area, but Fort Walton Beach also offers plenty of other activities for families and retirees. With two military bases nearby, many military families live in the area. Fort Walton Beach also provides high-rate schools for young families.

Whatever kind of food you're craving, there's a restaurant in Fort Walton Beach that will satisfy you. One of the favorite places in the area serves tapas and wine. Taste Tapas and Wine Bar aim to give its patrons a genuine culinary adventure. They only use the freshest ingredients, and the knowledgeable staff will help make your dining experience memorable.

 

Another terrific place to try offers delicious French food and mouthwatering desserts. Head on over to the Bay French Café, where you'll enjoy fabulous views along with your handcrafted food. If you love Italian fare, check out Clemenza's for all your favorite dishes and an impressive wine list.

If you need to do heavy-duty shopping, nearby Destin offers plenty of places to meet your every need. Right in Fort Walton Beach, you will find some unique places. D'France Antiques provides a one-of-a-kind shopping experience with indoor inventory, an outdoor flea market, and various special events. It's a great place to shop for home furnishings and gifts.

 

You could spend a week at Uptown Station and not run out of things to do. It offers retail stores, restaurants, and family-fun activities such as outdoor movies. 

As if Fort Walton Beach's natural surroundings weren't enough to keep you entertained, you'll find plenty of other ways to spend your leisure time. The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island will keep the entire family happy for hours. It surrounds you with breathtaking scenery and offers plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, such as the daily Pirate shows.

While on Okaloosa Island, don't miss Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. At Gulfarium, you'll get the chance to greet penguins, dolphins, and alligators. The Indian Mound Temple Museum displays a wide array of Native American Artifacts. And World War II history buffs will appreciate spending time at the Air Force Armament Museum.