Southern Guide Fishing Maps, Fort Walton Beach, FL - Reviews, Ratings, Tips and Why You Should Go – Wanderlog (2024)

FAQs

Which is nicer, Destin or Fort Walton Beach? ›

In this area, there is a distinct difference between Destin vs Fort Walton Beach. If you want a little more action then Destin is the place for you. If a chill and relaxing nightlife is your jam, then you'll be happier on Fort Walton Beach.

The vast majority are home to picnic pavilions and playgrounds while others include features like nature trails, performance stages, and even rock-climbing walls! Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids or making it a romantic day on the shoreline, the beaches here are well-worth discovering.

The waters around Fort Walton Beach are teeming with potential and host everything from tarpon and redfish to mahi mahi, flounder, red snapper, and king mackerel just to name a few.

Created as a municipality called Fort Walton in 1937, it was reincorporated in 1941 as a town; it was rechartered in 1947 and in 1953, when it was renamed the City of Fort Walton Beach. Its population grew rapidly in the first few decades after World War II.

Twenty-four miles of soft, sugar-white sand make Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida. While the sunshine state may offer over 1,800 miles of coastline, the shores of Destin-Fort Walton Beach provide access to the clear, emerald green water of the Gulf of Mexico unlike any other.

Destin offers a more refined, family-friendly atmosphere with upscale amenities. Panama City Beach, with its energetic urban vibe and diverse beach culture, caters to those seeking a livelier coastal retreat.

» Alcohol: Alcohol is allowed on the beach except in the state parks. Again, no glass. Underage drinking is not permitted.

Surf fishing

Spring is the best time to catch Pompano, which usually range from 2-3 pounds. In the fall, look out for Redfish, which are delicious (though they must be between 18 and 27 inches long to keep). In the winter, try for Whiting, which are usually found close to shore.

Red Snapper are one of the most popular fish to catch in Destin and the Gulf of Mexico on a deep sea fishing trip. Red Snapper are known for their tasty meat and they thrive in the warm waters of the Gulf.

In 2022, there were 6.24 times more White (Non-Hispanic) residents (14.2k people) in Fort Walton Beach, FL than any other race or ethnicity. There were 2.27k Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) and 984 Asian (Non-Hispanic) residents, the second and third most common ethnic groups.

What are some interesting facts about Fort Walton Beach? ›

Interesting Fort Walton Beach Facts

For centuries, Native American tribes inhabited the land now known as Fort Walton Beach. Early settlers arrived in the area around 1821 and the landscape was used as a strategic protection point during the Civil War which saw the establishment of Camp Walton.

Sand just doesn't get much whiter than it is in the Destin and Fort Walton Beach area, and that's only the beginning of what's so special about this well-loved band of Gulf of Mexico beachfront dubbed the Emerald Coast.

Destin is known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village." The city houses the largest and most elaborately equipped fishing fleet in the State of Florida. In addition to fishing, recreational opportunities include golf, tennis and water sports, including diving and snorkeling.

Notably, the water in Destin isn't just clear; it possesses a captivating luminescence with glowing green and blue tones. These tones change, creating a stunning spectrum of colors ranging from Emerald Green and Turquoise to Aquamarine and Sapphire Blue. It's not just in the name – the scenery is a true gem!

Yes, Gulf Shores is known for clear waters, but Destin's emerald-green waters are renowned for their exceptional clarity.