Yes.
Destin and Sand Destin is a shopping area. Okaloosa Island is what you want to see.
Destin and FWB are pretty close by. Lots of good resturants, then there is this...
Some of the finest beaches in the Western Hemisphere, in my opinion. Ft. Walton Beach and Destin not too far down the road with plenty of restaurants. Lots of shopping, too.
Been vacationing along the “Redneck Riviera” for nearly sixty years. No place better.
In addition para-sailing, jet ski rentals, and this...
I can remember the first time I took my then five-year old to the beach over twenty years ago. She had never seen waves before. Lots of giggling and squealing. I predict the same from your youngster...
Get them to take you to see the military museums on Hurbert Field, and at the West side of Eglin AFB.
It's mostly rental houses; if it just your immediate family, try to get a smaller house.
We got stuck in the sand, and that is catnip to rednecks, a number of whom came out of their houses to "help" us. After a few sort-of-scary, hold-muh-beer and watch me git ya out, moments, a group of competent guys (still Southern, but I would not classify them as rednecks) in a four wheel drive pickup stopped and got us out in short order. While we were doing that, my wife was invited into a high-class wedding party in a house across the street.
So, I suppose I am saying that there are all types of people there. It's a good place, and like someone else said, the beaches are great.
Lived there for 15 years...moved in 2007...you’ll like it!!
Theres a real nice aquarium there and a pier that runs several hundred yards out, at the end there a a place where you look down and you can see the sea floor at 45ft. Theres a bar at the other end!
Navarre Beach is Florida’s best kept secret.
And yeah, bring a jelly fish kit. Spray bottle with vinegar in it works great, especially when cold, and some meat tenderizer and water works well too.
Regular jellies aren’t too bad, but if Man-o-wars are in the mix, do not get in. They usually come when the water is colder though.
Catch some fish. Swoop party boat out of Destin is nice and affordable.
Here’s a miniature version of Marineland...I’ve taken my two girls there when we’ve visited the area. Obviously it doesn’t compare to a Sea World, but interesting for young ones nontheless.
I grew up near Navarre Beach. Clean beaches with plenty of room. Some of the best sand you can find. Actually, we were there last week. Water was cool due to recent rain. When the sun came out, the water temp and cool wind made it perfect. No jelly fish, a little bit of seaweed, no garbage in the water or on the beach.
If you get a chance, visit Ft. Pickens which is near Pensacola Beach. There are quiet and secluded beaches there, without undesirables.
We ate dinner or lunch on the beaches. Hooters has a nice deck. A place called Crabs has nice beach frontage.
Also, I highly recommend the Naval Aviation museum at Pensacola Naval Air Station.
Naturally, the beaches are incredible. And if you're a seafood fan, you'll be in heaven.
Tons of activities nearby, especially if you're a history or nature buff. Check out:
Fort Pickens, to the West, off Pensacola Beach. Fort Pickens
The USS Alabama battleship, to the West, in Mobile. USS Alabama
The National Naval Aviation Museum, on Pensacola Naval Air Station, as well as the lighthouse & museum nearby. National Aviation Museum & IMAX Theater
The Blackwater River State Park (to the North) for hiking and kayaking. Blackwater River State Park
Southern Raceway (dirt track racing), to the North. Southern Raceway
You’re going to heaven on earth IMO. I lived in Pensacola for years and the beaches of the Redneck Riviera are so beautiful! Shopping is awesome in Destin and Sandestin. Like someone else said, be sure to check out the naval museum on NAS Pensacola. (Too bad you’ll miss the Blue Angels, though.) There is so much to do and so much to see in the whole Okaloosa Island area. I envy you...I will always miss the Gulf Coast!
Trashcanistan!!! Hahahahahahah!
Your three-year-old will enjoy the calmer waters of the sound (north side of the island) and the Butterfly House!
