Adventures beyond the beach

The Heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast has stunning beaches but don’t forget to explore the fun things to do beyond the beach too!  If you need a break from the sun and the sand take time to enjoy these activities in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa Island.

Are you in search of the perfect rainy day or beach break activity?  The Emerald Coast Science Center located in Fort Walton Beach is the perfect answer for families with younger children! The Science Museum is a hands-on interactive experience that is both fun and educational.  Kids will marvel at exhibits such as robots, electricity, and color and light.  Have an animal lover in your group?  They’ll love seeing the birds, reptiles, and small mammals that call the Science Museum home.  Continue to learn with a stop at the Airforce Armament Museum which is adjacent to Eglin Airforce Base and is the only facility dedicated to the display of Air Force armament! There are a variety of indoor and outdoor displays with an airpark of historic airplanes, rockets, missiles, and equipment.  History buffs will love the 32-minute film on the history of Eglin Air Force Base and its role in the development of armament.

A trip to the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” isn’t complete without a visit to the Destin History & Fishing Museum!  Dive into historic photographs, artifacts, and check out “all things rodeo” in the Destin Fishing Rodeo Gallery.   You’ll learn all about why the commercial fishing industry is an important part of Destin history and present day.  Then head down to HarborWalk Village and take a stroll along the Destin Harbor where the nation’s largest commercial fishing fleet is docked.  The charter fleet has fishing experiences from novice to expert – even kids can get out and “catch a big one!”  A fishing trip aboard 5th Day or Blue Water Escape Charters is an adventure your family will remember for years to come.

Located on Okaloosa Island, Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone features 16,000 square feet of fun!  Play a round of T-Rex Island Adventure Golf, take a spin on go karts, partake in the 60-foot ropes course, or check out their 4D movie theatre!  Once you’ve worked up an appetite grab a delicious slice of pizza at Salvati’s Pizza Factory or a scoop of fresh frozen yogurt at YogoMogos, both located at Wild Willy’s!

Rock Out Climbing Gym is great indoor option for those looking for something exhilarating and active.   They offer classes for beginners and the “bouldering” gym is safe for kids too.

Check out any of these fun activities in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa Island and your trip will be a memorable one!