Fort Walton Beach Travel Blog
Our Journal
Plan Your Next Getaway
Helpful guides to make the most of your time on the Emerald Coast.
Jun 24, 2026
Free Things to Do in Destin, FL
Discover budget-friendly activities in Destin, Florida, from beach days and parks to live music and fireworks at Baytowne Wharf.
Jun 24, 2026
Vacation Guide
Explore Fort Walton Beach dining, activities, events, and outdoor recreation with curated restaurant recommendations and local attractions.
Jun 24, 2026
Why Book Direct: 3 Benefits to Make Your Vacation Better
Discover three key benefits of booking direct with El Matador: lower prices, exclusive specials, and dedicated customer service for your Fort Walton Beach vacation.
Jun 24, 2026
Best Tips for an Exciting Spring in Fort Walton Beach
Discover spring activities, festivals, celebrations and outdoor adventures in Fort Walton Beach, from swim days to dining and cultural events.
Jun 24, 2026
Free Activities in Fort Walton Beach
Discover free activities in Fort Walton Beach included with your El Matador stay, from golf and dolphin cruises to family-friendly attractions.
Jun 24, 2026
Why Book Direct: 3 Benefits to Make Your Vacation Better
Discover three key advantages of booking direct with El Matador: lower prices, exclusive specials, and dedicated customer service for your Fort Walton Beach vacation.
Jun 24, 2026
Exciting Water Activities in Florida
Discover top water activities along Florida's Emerald Coast, from dolphin tours and jet ski rentals to parasailing, fishing charters, and boat rentals for your vacation.
Jun 24, 2026
5 Things to Do in Winter in Fort Walton Beach
Discover five winter activities in Fort Walton Beach, from golf and fishing to dining and shopping along the beach.
Jun 24, 2026
Make Ultimate Memories: Kids Activities in Fort Walton Beach
Discover the best kids activities in Fort Walton Beach, from water sports and beaches to museums, water parks, and outdoor adventures perfect for family vacations.
Jun 24, 2026
Explore Crab Island for the Ultimate Destin Adventure
Discover Crab Island in Destin, a shallow sandbar destination perfect for boating, paddleboarding, and water activities in crystal-clear waters.
Jun 24, 2026
Bowling Fort Walton Beach: A Strike of Fun and Excitement
Discover bowling alleys in Fort Walton Beach offering lanes, dining, entertainment, and family-friendly activities for a memorable vacation experience.
Jun 24, 2026
4 Places for the Best Pizza in Fort Walton Beach
Discover the top four pizza restaurants in Fort Walton Beach, from waterfront casual to award-winning Italian dining spots locals recommend.
Jun 24, 2026
7 Local Coffee Shops in Fort Walton Beach
Discover seven of the best local coffee shops in Fort Walton Beach, from cozy cafés to unique venues with live music and art galleries.
Jun 24, 2026
5 Tips for a Florida Beach Vacation with Kids
Discover five practical tips for planning a stress-free Florida beach vacation with children on the Emerald Coast.
Jun 24, 2026
Top 5 Jet Ski Rentals in Fort Walton Beach
Discover the best jet ski rental companies in Fort Walton Beach, from Power Up Watersports to Blue Crab Watersports, offering premium equipment and thrilling water adventures.
Jun 24, 2026
Things to Do In Fall In Fort Walton Beach
Discover the best fall activities in Fort Walton Beach, from golfing and fishing to hiking and outdoor recreation in mild autumn weather.
Jun 24, 2026
Experience the Best of Ft Walton Beach Weather: A 4 Season Guide
Explore Ft Walton Beach weather across all four seasons with temperature ranges, humidity levels, and seasonal activities to plan your perfect vacation.
Jun 24, 2026
Summer in Fort Walton Beach: Your Ultimate Guide
Discover summer activities, festivals, beaches, and adventures in Fort Walton Beach with this comprehensive seasonal guide for vacation planning.
Jun 24, 2026
Fort Walton Beach in December
Discover Fort Walton Beach in December with mild weather, festive holiday events, and white sand beaches perfect for winter escapes.
Jun 24, 2026
Shopping in Fort Walton Beach, FL
Discover top shopping destinations in Fort Walton Beach, from Santa Rosa Mall and Silver Sands Premium Outlets to Harborwalk Village and The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island.
Jun 24, 2026
Snorkeling in Destin, FL
Discover the best snorkeling spots in Destin, FL, including Destin Jetties, Crab Island, and Norriego Point, plus gear rentals and guided tour options.
Jun 24, 2026
Top Tips for Working From Home
Practical work-from-home strategies including scheduling, workspace setup, and staying connected with colleagues during remote work.
Jun 24, 2026
Exciting Outdoor Activities in Fort Walton Beach
Discover the best outdoor activities in Fort Walton Beach, from biking and fishing to paddle boarding and kayaking along the Emerald Coast.
Jun 24, 2026
Keeping Your Home Safe While On Vacation
Learn essential home security tips to protect your property while away on vacation, from lighting and locks to smart monitoring systems.
Jun 24, 2026
Thanksgiving in Florida: Holiday at Fort Walton Beach
Discover Thanksgiving activities and dining options in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, from marine parks and water sports to holiday buffets and family attractions.
Jun 24, 2026
Fort Walton Beach vs Destin: Choosing the Right Vacation
Compare Fort Walton Beach and Destin to find your ideal Emerald Coast vacation destination with activities, attractions, and local insights.
Jun 24, 2026
Exciting Fort Walton Beach Fishing Experiences
Discover inshore and offshore fishing charters, surf fishing spots, and seasonal catches in Fort Walton Beach with El Matador Management Company.
Jun 24, 2026
How to Enjoy the Perfect Fort Walton Beach Christmas
Discover how to celebrate Christmas on Florida's Emerald Coast with beach activities, holiday light shows, and festive seasonal events in Fort Walton Beach.
Jun 24, 2026
The Best Time to Visit Fort Walton Beach
Explore seasonal weather, events, and attractions to plan your ideal Fort Walton Beach vacation with El Matador Management Company.
Jun 24, 2026
Find Indoor Activities Near Fort Walton Beach
Discover indoor activities near Fort Walton Beach to escape the Florida heat, including museums, dining, shopping, spas, and movie theaters on the Emerald Coast.
Jun 24, 2026
Sustainable Travel Tips: 7 Ways to Have an Eco-Friendly Vacation
Discover seven practical ways to practice sustainable travel during your Fort Walton Beach vacation on Florida's Emerald Coast.
Jun 24, 2026
Okaloosa Island Things to Do: 5 Exciting Ideas You’ll Love
Discover five exciting activities on Okaloosa Island, from The Gulfarium and Science Center to watersports, dining, and festivals along Florida's Emerald Coast.
Jun 24, 2026
Fort Walton Beach Dining on Florida's Gulf Coast
Explore Fort Walton Beach's best restaurants featuring fresh seafood, southern comfort food, and live entertainment venues along the Gulf Coast.
Jun 24, 2026
Free Fort Walton Beach Travel Guide
Download our complimentary Fort Walton Beach vacation travel guide to discover attractions, activities, and experiences on Florida's beautiful coast. Get it now and feel free to contact us for questions.
Jun 24, 2026
Tips to reduce stress levels
Discover practical stress-reduction strategies including physical activity, healthy eating, sleep, social connection, and planning a relaxing Destin beach vacation.
Jun 24, 2026
Best Tips for an Exciting Spring in Fort Walton Beach
Discover spring activities, festivals, and outdoor adventures in Fort Walton Beach, from beach days to dining and cultural events.
Jun 24, 2026
November in Destin: The Best Time to Visit
Discover why November is ideal for visiting Destin with pleasant 70°F weather, fewer crowds, and excellent opportunities for fishing, beach walks, and outdoor activities.
Jun 24, 2026
Plan the Perfect Girls Getaway in Florida
Discover the ideal girls getaway on Florida's Emerald Coast with water activities, spa days, nightlife, and beachfront condo amenities.
Jun 24, 2026
Gulfarium: Fun with Family
Discover the Gulfarium on Okaloosa Island, a marine adventure park featuring dolphins, seals, penguins, and educational wildlife programs perfect for families.
Jun 24, 2026
Morrison Springs Park
Discover Morrison Springs Park in northwest Florida near Fort Walton Beach, featuring diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and scenic natural springs with crystal-clear water.
Jun 24, 2026
Emerald Coast Science Center: Family Fun For All
Explore interactive exhibits, animal ambassadors, and outdoor activities at the Emerald Coast Science Center, a must-visit family destination in Fort Walton Beach.
Jun 24, 2026
Breweries in Destin
Discover the best breweries in Destin, Florida, including Destin Brewery, Props Brewery, and 3rd Planet Brewing with craft beers and local favorites.
Jun 24, 2026
3 Popular Must-Visit Fishing Piers Near Destin, FL Anglers Love
Discover three top-rated fishing piers near Destin, FL where anglers catch Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, redfish, and more in the Gulf of Mexico.
Jun 24, 2026
The Ultimate Day Trip from Destin, FL, to Okaloosa Island
Explore Okaloosa Island just 10 minutes from Destin with marine attractions, adventure activities, and Gulf-view dining options.
Jun 24, 2026
Where Is Fort Walton Beach?
Fort Walton Beach sits on Florida's northwest Gulf Coast in Okaloosa County, between Pensacola and Panama City Beach, offering white sand beaches and easy access to nearby Destin.
Jun 24, 2026
3 of the Best Outdoor Activities in Fort Walton Beach
Discover top outdoor activities in Fort Walton Beach including dolphin cruises, golfing, and fishing charters along the Emerald Coast.
Jun 24, 2026
What to Pack for Vacations to Fort Walton Beach
Essential packing checklist for Fort Walton Beach vacations, including sunscreen, chargers, umbrellas, and medications to prepare for your Emerald Coast getaway.
Jun 24, 2026
Enjoy Fort Walton Beach Festivals
Discover year-round festivals in Fort Walton Beach, from winter holiday parades to spring kite festivals and summer pirate celebrations.
Jun 24, 2026
Road Trip from Charlotte NC to Fort Walton Beach
Plan your drive from Charlotte to Fort Walton Beach with route tips, must-see stops, and travel advice for a smooth eight-hour coastal getaway.
Jun 24, 2026
The Top 7 Seafood Restaurants in Fort Walton Beach
Discover the best seafood restaurants in Fort Walton Beach, from fresh oysters and crab to shrimp and daily catches at seven local favorites.
Jun 24, 2026
Exciting Bars & Nightlife in Fort Walton Beach
Explore Fort Walton Beach's vibrant nightlife scene with live music, DJs, karaoke, and craft cocktails at top-rated bars and clubs.
Jun 24, 2026
The Best Family Destination in Florida
Discover why Fort Walton Beach is Florida's premier family vacation spot, featuring white-sand beaches, water parks, and family-friendly dining on Okaloosa Island.
Jun 24, 2026
Fun in the Sun: Explore Ross Marler Park with Your Family
Discover Ross Marler Park in Fort Walton Beach, featuring a new nautical-themed playground, fishing, picnic areas, walking trails, and boat launch facilities for families.
Jun 24, 2026
Atlanta to Fort Walton Beach Road Trip
Discover the best route, must-see stops, and travel tips for your 320-mile drive from Atlanta to Fort Walton Beach in five to six hours.
Jun 24, 2026
Discover the Best Hidden Gems in Destin, FL
Explore lesser-known attractions in Destin, Florida, from spearfishing adventures to historic museums and antique shops locals love.
Jun 24, 2026
Choosing Between Gulf Shores vs. Ft. Walton Beach
Compare Gulf Shores and Fort Walton Beach to find your ideal beach vacation destination with family-friendly attractions and pristine Gulf Coast beaches.
Jun 24, 2026
Our Ultimate Guide to The Best Golfing Near Fort Walton Beach
Discover the best golf courses near Fort Walton Beach, including Fort Walton Beach Golf Club, Shalimar Pointe, and Gator Lakes Golf Course.