Beaches of Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida

The beaches in Destin-Fort Walton Beach are captivating. The sands under your bare feet were once Appalachian quartz, washed from rivers and tumbled by the tides to fine white powder over thousands of years. The white sands and sunlight combine to give the Gulf waters their emerald green vibrance. No matter what else you experience on your trip, the pristine beaches of Destin-Fort Walton Beach form a picturesque backdrop for your dream vacation.

Beach Access

For beach access in Destin, you can check out access points such as James Lee Park on the east end of Destin, Henderson Beach State Park and Norriego Point with shallow tide pools to explore.

The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island is the place for beach day entertainment, places to eat and access to the beach. For an even more relaxed beach, go to John Beasley Park just west of the boardwalk or the various numbered beach access points along Okaloosa Island. Find out more about parking, boardwalks, picnic areas, restrooms and other beach access amenities.

Beach Flags and Safety

Visiting the beach in Destin-Fort Walton Beach is a lot of fun and can make for relaxing―or even adventurous―outing. Come out and play in the crystal-clear waters, but be sure to abide by the beach flag warning system and safety guidelines. It’s also important to be prepared for potential rip tides and weather by checking the tide charts and currents.

Sunrise, Sunset

Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida is positioned on the Gulf such that the sun rises and sets over the water throughout much of  the year. Find the perfect spot in the sand to watch the sunrise and make waterfront dinner reservations to enjoy Gulf cuisine with a sunset view.

“Leave Only Your Footprints”

Our beaches are a natural wonder because they’re pristine and well-maintained. They’re also the habitat of nesting and hatching sea turtles which need a clear path out to the water. Be sure to understand beach rules on the guidelines and preservation page. In short―no glass, no fires, no camping, no dogs and leave only your footprints in the sand when you leave.