Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Tucked on Florida's Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach is Famous for its White Strips of Sand and Fishing Waters
On Florida’s Emerald Coast, which stretches about 100 miles from the Alabama border to Panama City, Fort Walton Beach (FWB) is a fishing town and beach resort close to Eglin Air Force Base and along Santa Rosa Sound and Choctawhatchee Bay.
The city is known for its relaxed ambiance and long powdery, white beaches which are across the water on the barrier islands of Okaloosa and Santa Rosa. Fishing adventures begin on Okaloosa Island. Its Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park has gators, stingrays, and dolphin splash encounters.
The recently renovated downtown is packed with restaurants, galleries and boutiques. The Heritage Park and Cultural Center includes the Indian Temple Mound Museum and a collection of prehistoric ceramics that is one of the best in Florida. Fort Walton Landing has a boardwalk, boat ramps, and a stage for summer concerts. Other city parks have waterfront views and fishing piers.
The city’s Emerald Coast Science Center features interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Fort Walton Beach manages two public golf courses and an active senior center.
Population: 22,000
Median Home Price: $325,000
Crime Rate: Meets the national average
Age 45 or Better: 39%
Hospital: HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital
Public Transit: Yes, provided by Okaloosa County Transit
Political Leanings: Conservative