Okaloosa Island is one of those gems along the Florida Panhandle that offers the perfect blend of relaxation, nature, and a bit of history. From its bustling west end with condos and easy public access to its quieter, more secluded sections, every part of this island has something special to offer. From the white sandy beaches, to the fishing pier, and the natural beauty of the bayside, Okaloosa has a vibe that feels both inviting and laid-back.
West End: Condos, Townhouses, and Public Beach Access
When you first arrive at the west end of Okaloosa Island, the sight of condos and townhouses lining the shore makes it clear that this part of the island is a favorite for vacationers and snowbirds alike. The beachfront properties offer some of the most stunning views of the Gulf, and waking up to the sight of emerald-green waters every morning is nothing short of paradise.
Beach Access
Even though this part of the island is more developed, the city has done a fantastic job ensuring the public has access to the beaches. There are several public beach access points along the west end, which is great if you’re just visiting for the day. The parking lots are well-maintained, and most of them have showers and restrooms, which is always a bonus after a day of swimming and sunbathing. And as of this writing, parking is free.
Okaloosa Island Access #7
Emerald Promenade Beachwalk
900 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Okaloosa Island Access #6
Mike Mitchell Beachwalk
820 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Okaloosa Island Access #5
Doris Jordan Freeway Beachwalk
700 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Okaloosa Island Access #4
Jerry Melvin Beachwalk
600 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Okaloosa Island Access #3
Seashore Beachwalk
530 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Okaloosa Island Access #2
Emerald View Beachwalk
399 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Okaloosa Island Access #1
Blue Dolphin Beachwalk
372 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
The beach itself on the west end is pristine, with that signature Panhandle sugar-white sand that’s so fine it almost feels like you’re walking on powdered sugar. The water is typically calm and clear, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just floating with the gentle Gulf waves. Despite the proximity to condos and townhouses, it never feels too crowded—there’s always enough room to spread out and relax.
Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier
A short walk from the condos is the iconic Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, which stretches out into the Gulf of Mexico. For me, the pier is one of the highlights of the island. Whether you’re an angler or not, walking out onto the pier is an experience in itself. There’s a small fee to access it, but it’s well worth it for the views alone. Standing at the end of the pier, looking back at the coastline and the wide expanse of the Gulf stretching out in front of you, gives you a sense of just how vast and beautiful this area is.
If you are into fishing, the pier is a fantastic spot. On any given day, you’ll see locals and tourists reeling in catches of Spanish mackerel, kingfish, and redfish. Even if you’re not fishing, it’s fun to watch the excitement when someone hooks a big one. And if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or sea turtles swimming below the pier, something that always makes the experience extra special.
Beasley Park
Heading a bit farther east, you’ll find Beasley Park, one of my favorite places to spend the day on Okaloosa Island. This public park is beautifully maintained, with ample parking, covered picnic pavilions, and clean restroom facilities. The park makes it easy to enjoy the beach with family or friends, especially if you plan to spend the whole day. It’s a great spot for a BBQ or picnic lunch, and the beach is just steps away.
The beach at Beasley Park is one of the most scenic on the island. The sand dunes, with their waving sea oats, create a picture-perfect backdrop for the stunning emerald Gulf waters. It’s a more peaceful, family-friendly spot, with plenty of room to set up a beach tent and enjoy the sun and surf. It’s also a popular spot for beach weddings, and I can see why, the views are spectacular.
This is a perfect spot to take a walk in the sand. If you walk too far east, you will see the signs for a private beach area for the Eglin Air Force Base.
Eglin Private Beach
On the far eastern end of Okaloosa Island, past the public beaches and park areas, lies a stretch of beach that is designated for Eglin Air Force Base. This section is closed to the general public and reserved for military personnel, but if you’re in the area, you can see the difference in the landscape—this area is even more untouched and pristine, with no development in sight.
Even though it’s off-limits, it’s still interesting to know that this part of the island exists. The military presence has helped to protect this section of Okaloosa, preserving it as a natural habitat.
Bayside and Gulf Islands Seashore Section
On the other side of the island, facing Choctawhatchee Bay, lies a different but equally captivating section of Okaloosa. This is where the Gulf Islands National Seashore comes into play. This part of the island is much quieter and less developed, with more of a focus on preserving the natural landscape and wildlife. This side feels more like a retreat into nature. The water on the bayside is calmer than the Gulf, and it’s perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. When I was there, a paddleboarder was learning with an instructor in these calm waters.
This side of the island is a prime spot for birdwatching and exploring the marshlands. You can take a leisurely walk along the shore, where you’ll see egrets, herons, and ospreys. It’s a different kind of beauty compared to the Gulf-facing beaches—a more serene, almost meditative experience. There are fewer people around, which makes it feel like you’ve discovered your own private slice of paradise. It’s also a great spot for a peaceful sunset walk, as the sun sets over the bay, casting a golden light across the water and the grasses.
Okaloosa Island truly offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re staying in a condo with easy access to the beach, fishing off the pier, enjoying a family day at Beasley Park, or exploring the quieter bayside, there’s something here for everyone. For me, the island represents a perfect blend of development and natural beauty, with enough space to find your own piece of serenity while still enjoying the pier, boardwalk and attractions in the area.
