Put on your favorite beach playlist and make a beeline for Florida’s Gulf Coast for your next trip. With 24 miles (38 kilometers) of powdery white beaches and an array of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, Fort Walton Beach is a paradise to every type of vacationer. It’s a resort city in southern Okaloosa County with year-round opportunities for warm-weather activities such as fishing, golf, and sightseeing. Family-friendly parks and museums like the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park make the city a suitable vacation destination for adults and kids alike. And when you’re headed to the coast, there’s no better place to stay than by the pristine Florida shores. Make the most of your seaside getaway at these top beachfront rentals in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Beaches to visit:
- Featuring white sands and sparkling emerald waters, John Beasley Park is a great place to swim, fish, and enjoy long strolls. However, visitors should note that while parking is available, it might be difficult to find a spot during peak times.
- Located a 25-minute drive from Fort Walton Beach, Henderson Beach State Park has an amazing 30-ft (9.14-m) white sand dunes and is known for its warm waters. There's also a nature trail to explore.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and location with easy access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on December 20, 2024.
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1. Warm, cheerful haven near beaches (from USD 245)
Best for: Budget travelers, group trips
This beach-themed condominium in the Sea Palm community is a modern gem with cheerful interiors and top-notch furnishings. Travelers will feel right at home in its two sunny bedrooms that feature charming touches like sea-inspired décor, colorful artwork, and driftwood lamps. Another highlight is the well-designed kitchen, which comes with high-quality appliances and ample counter space.
If you don’t feel like cooking, good restaurants are within walking distance of the rental. There is also an on-site pool, and the famous beaches of Okaloosa Island, only 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) down the road.
Top guest reviews
Host:
the place was very nice and tidy the host was friendly and responded quicklyLocation:
great location plenty of food options and close to the watercondominium is in a great location it’s not too close to the huge tourist spotsbut the area is great and close to everything would definitely stay here againso a good place to stay and overall good tripgreat and affordable place to stay in fort waltonCleanliness:
super clean and prettysuper clean good communication from hostthe place was very clean and nice on the insidefantastic house very clean and comfortablevery easy to communicate with and clean 10/10 would stay againRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
very nice decor & a view of the poolan iron and ironing board would have been nice in the unit as wellthe on-site pool was great and just steps from the back patio
2. Relaxing studio unit in a scenic spot (from USD 114)
Best for: Couples
If you’re seeking the best spot from Fort Walton Beach to enjoy views of the sea and sunsets, then this lovely studio apartment is a great choice. The top-floor unit is well-appointed with a full kitchen, a flat-screen TV with cable, free Wi-Fi, and a queen-size Murphy bed that can be stored away for extra space during the day.
The rental is located in a seaside complex with wonderful facilities, including two swimming pools. Whether you’re chilling indoors or watching the sunset from the private deck, this is a picture-perfect setting for a beach vacation. Take a stroll around the marina and keep your eyes open for dolphins and other underwater creatures.
Top guest reviews
Host:
randy was an amazing hostrandy was an excellent hostrandy was a super hostthe host was very communicative which was much appreciatedgreat place and a great host will be coming back soonLocation:
great location to drive 5 min or so to the beachwe loved the condo location restaurants galore all within a 5-10 minute drivebest part is it's walking distance to the olive gardenrandy's place is cute and cozyi loved the condo and the location was perfectCleanliness:
very clean and cozyvery clean and beautiful placeit was very clean and decorated so cuteperfect little getaway sparkling cleanthe room was very clean and the pool was a plusRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
beautiful balcony overlooking pool and marinasun hits the balcony apartment around 1pm beautiful viewpool is great and the view was nice toothe view was beautiful and the inside was modern and comfortablethe room has been newly remodeled with what looks like ikea type furnishings
3. Pretty lodging by the waterway (from USD 48)
Best for: Solo travelers, couples
Just a stone’s throw away from the ocean, this superbly appointed studio highlights the beauty of Fort Walton Beach with water views, a dock for watching sunsets, and a swimming pool for refreshing dips.
Although the studio space is limited, it’s well-designed and neatly organized with features like a full kitchenette, a full bath, and a cable TV. There’s even a charming balcony where guests can enjoy the scenic marina landscape.
Top guest reviews
Host:
great host and hostessgreat host 5 star everythinga very helpful host and a wonderful propertyvery nice host quick responses and helped when i needed itvery helpful and thoughtful hostsLocation:
super close to everythinggreat place and close to everythinggreat place & great locationalso it’s close to pretty much everythingwe absolutely loved the place and the location was awesomeRead more reviewsCleanliness:
very clean and cozyvery clean and decorated adorablyit was very clean and cuteit was very cleanvery nice and clean place
4. Cozy condominium with shared pool and beach access (from USD 100)
Best for: Couples
Dubbed as the “Pirate’s Playground”, this studio space is a cozy retreat for a beach getaway. Blue walls and ocean-inspired artwork keep you in the vacation mood while providing a tranquil place to relax away from the bustle of Fort Walton Beach’s tourist attractions. Small yet comfortable, this home offers all the essential amenities to travelers, including a fully equipped kitchen for cooking meals during your vacation.
Found on Santa Rosa Sound, this vacation rental is six minutes away from the white-sand beaches of Okaloosa Island. If you don’t want to venture far, the property features a small private beach. Guests also get access to a shared swimming pool and a private fishing dock.
Top guest reviews
Host:
surrounding neighbors are friendly and socialgreat host and very patient with newbies great spacegreat location and great host quick response times and so friendly even when we couldn’t ready directions clearlyvery nice place and the hosts were awesomeoverall was a very pleasant stay and the hosts were very kind and quick to respondLocation:
nice location and good valuegreat location away from the hustle of destin but close enough to make the quick drivegood location really cool little spacenice room close to several beachesthe condo location was very good not far from anythingCleanliness:
the condo was clean and beautifully decoratedthe place was clean and beautifulreally clean place with all the extrasthe condo itself was very clean well stocked and had great accommodationsthe decor is so fun and the condo is immaculately cleanRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
nice view of the water and the poolthe bed was comfortable a nice tv with roku and all the kitchen supplies one could needthis was a great place to stay at on the water with great views of the pool and baydirect walkout access to pool and yard leading to beautiful bay viewthe patio overlooked the pool and the bay and there's a nice dock right on the property
5. Sunlit hideaway with a balcony (from USD 166)
Best for: Couples, senior citizens
Enjoy the good vibes of Fort Walton Beach in this bright and breezy studio apartment with a private balcony. This third-floor rental is perfect for solo travelers or couples, featuring a comfy bed plus a couch for hanging out and watching movies on the flat-screen TV.
A well-appointed kitchenette allows guests to whip up quick meals before a full day of sightseeing. With the tastefully minimalist design and beach-inspired hues of the interiors, it’s easy to feel at ease in this apartment. Keeping the space bathed in light all day long, the sliding glass doors to the balcony offer sweeping views of the nearby marina and shared swimming pool.
6. Beach retreat overlooking the sea (from USD 218)
Best for: Group stays
Come home to the beach condominium of every ocean lover’s dreams. This two-bedroom Gulf coast-front residence in Okaloosa Island is perched on the second floor above the beach, allowing guests to wake up to spectacular views of the sea every day. Great restaurants are a short stroll away, along with fishing, golfing, and water sports opportunities.
Inside of the condominium is tastefully designed with ocean-inspired artwork and spacious common areas. Its two bedrooms are quiet and comfortable. With the sofa bed in the living room, this vacation rental can host up to six travelers at a time.
7. Delightful apartment with ocean views
Best for: Group trips, couples
This modern studio apartment has all the comforts of home in Fort Walton Beach, including a full kitchen and a balcony overlooking a pool and the beach. The queen-size bed and a twin loveseat sleeper sofa give up to four guests a comfortable place to doze off at night. A television and Wi-Fi are also available.
Plus, the building boasts top-notch facilities, including laundry amenities, a swimming pool, and even a fishing dock. If you’d rather explore beyond the property, the beaches of Okaloosa Island are less than 10 minutes away. Nearby restaurants also offer foodies with plenty of great choices for meals.
Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United StatesAccommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Host:
very pet friendly efficient elevator luggage cartsexcellent value accommodating host and best bang for your buckas an airbnb host myself i definitely recommend this beautiful and lovely place :)Location:
great location and distance from the beachesit’s literally 1-minute walk to an olive garden for those that like to eat at an italian restaurantplace was a amazing especially for the price loved it great locationloved the location so close to everything the place was so cleanmichael’s place is perfect for a stay in fort walton beachCleanliness:
just beautiful and very clean and sanitizednice place everything was clean and anything we needed was in the condoexcellent overall experience at pirates bay - condo unit was very clean with nice ammentiesotherwise clean with communicative hostssuper clean beautiful decor close to everything and very quietRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
beautiful apartment with incredible viewsmy husband and i really enjoyed the view and the poolgreat patio area for dining overlooking the pool and sea very quiet neighbors exceptionally comfortable bed and couchgood view of the pool and dock as well as a comfy bed full kitchenthe decor is just amazing and a very comfortable bed with an amazing view
8. Lovely studio by Santa Rosa Sound beach
Best for: Families, group trips
This charming ground-floor studio is just steps from the Santa Rosa Sound, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families looking to unwind by the sea. Its pristine interiors and classic furnishings create a cozy nook in bustling Fort Walton Beach. With a king-size bed and a sofa bed, the studio offers space for up to four guests. A flat-screen TV with Netflix, Wi-Fi, and central air-conditioning are also available.
If you need a break from swimming in the sea, there’s a shared pool and picnic grounds available to guests. Besides being a skip and a hop from the beach, this vacation rental is just 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from Okaloosa Island.
Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Location:
very close to attractionsit was nice good location very prettyi did like the location-close to everything that we neededin my eyes it is in the perfect locationenjoyed our stay the staff were very helpful and the location is great driving distance to beachesCleanliness:
clean comfortable and relaxinginside the unit was cleanwas glad to see that the pool was open however it really needs to be cleaned more ofteni enjoyed my stay it was very nice and cleangreat and clean space really enjoyed my stay here will be booking again soon 5 starsRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
great location and pretty view from room
9. Stylish waterfront home
Best for: Watersports enthusiasts, couples
This beautiful home away from home is nestled on a premium waterfront location, where the ocean is few just steps away. Travelers can simply step out the door to swim or ride a kayak in the waters. From the private balcony, guests can gaze over the tranquil sea while sipping on a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Inside, you will find modern furnishings and sleek interiors decorating the space.
While the vacation rental is tucked in a peaceful spot of Fort Walton Beach, it also enjoys easy access to the city’s major attractions and famous beaches.
Superhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
would definitely return kay is an amazing host and goes beyondalso kay was so kind and welcomingit’s an amazing location with amazing hosts & we will definitely be back thank yougreat location hosts were so friendly and welcominggreat location beautiful views greg and kay were great hosts highly recommendLocation:
the location is great because it is very near the beach and everything central in towntheir location felt safe and we were very close to beaches & restaurantssuper close to different local restaurants and tourist spotsgreat place to stay for 2 it’s 15 min from vps airportcute place on the water close to everything we like to do in destin and surrounding areasCleanliness:
very clean and convenientvery clean and neatsuper clean and stylish apartmenteverything was very clean and comfortablethe place is pretty roomy clean and stylishRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
we went swimming at the bottom of the garden most days which was a real treat
10. Newly renovated dwelling near tourist spots
Best for: Group stays
If you’re on the hunt for a spacious one-bedroom vacation rental, this welcoming residence in a mixed residential and office complex is ideal. The expansive space offers ample room for up to five guests, including a fully equipped kitchen, a pristine bathroom, and laundry facilities that ensure a convenient and stress-free stay. It’s a pleasant place for travelers due to its warm interiors and a glimpse of the Intracoastal Waterway from the living room windows.
This rental is a great spot to enjoy the most popular tourist places of Fort Walton Beach. The stunning white beaches of Okaloosa Island are less than a 10-minute drive away, and the city of Destin is just a few minutes farther from the rental.
Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United StatesAccommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Host:
josee was an amazing hostjosee was a great host toojosee was very responsive and kindjosee was responsive and provided timely informationjosee has a beautiful place great hostLocation:
it has a nice park nearby restaurants and gasoline station within walking distancethe location is great and a close commute to several restaurants and beachesconvenient location that is very easy to get toaway from the business of the city but yet close to everything you might enjoyit was a great locationCleanliness:
super clean and comfortableeverything was spotlessly cleanwonderful clean place with great spacethis please was very clean and cutegreat place to stay clean cozy and quietRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the view out the living room is so prettyyou get a relaxing view of the bay from the living room windowskitchen amenities are prepared and cleanclean great layout comfortable furniture and great decor and all the amenitieswith a great view out the liveing room/ bedroom of the bay and ocean
Other beachfront accommodations
Though these options aren’t vacation rentals, they are situated right by the beach for a fun seaside holiday, so check them out as well!
11. The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach (from USD 334)
If you’re interested in learning more about the resort, check out our above interview with Brittany, Senior Sales Manager at The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach!
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families with kids, group trips
If you’re going on holiday on the beach, do you require a hotel room with fancy amenities? If you’re satisfied with standard facilities and high-quality service, then you’ll be happy to book a room at The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach. Perhaps it’s worth mentioning that guests of this hotel on Miracle Strip Parkway Southeast, Okaloosa Island, have immediate access to the beach. The front of the hotel features outdoor swimming pools and pavilions, cleverly integrated into the landscaping.
Right behind the hotel building is an expanse of white sand beaches for your private enjoyment. The view of the sea from your beachfront room is breathtaking in every direction.
Traveler's tips
Brittany
Nearby attractions include the boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and a fishing pier, where you can view wildlife like dolphins, sea turtles, and jellyfish.
The Gulfarium, within walking distance, offers dolphin and sea lion shows and exhibits featuring alligators, penguins, and fish, making it a great family activity.
The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach
Address: 1500 Miracle Strip Parkway Southeast
12. Hampton Inn Fort Walton Beach (from USD 123)
Best for: Families with kids, people with disabilities, pet parents
A standard room at the Hampton Inn Fort Walton Beach Hotel in Florida is very much like other modern hotel rooms. Two features make the rooms in this hotel at 1112 Santa Rosa Boulevard stand out. The first is that every room has a private balcony or patio. The second is that the beach is a couple of minutes away.
This hotel is the ideal headquarters for family visits to Okaloosa Island and Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Let the kids take it easy during their vacation. No need to wake up early if you can reach local attractions on the Emerald Coast in less than 10 minutes!
13. Wyndham Garden Fort Walton Beach Destin (from USD 98)
Best for: Group stays, couples, families with kids
Wyndham Garden Fort Walton Beach Destin is available for booking! Its location along Santa Rosa Blvd. puts it right on the sugar-white beach that’s been drawing tourists for decades. This hotel is also an ideal starting point for people whose itinerary includes a few hours at the Indian Temple Mound Museum, only 1.7 miles (2.8 kilometers) away.
Wyndham Garden Fort Walton Beach Destin rooms have kitchenettes, which make it a suitable option for vacationers who prefer to cook their meals!
Wyndham Garden Fort Walton Beach Destin
Address: 573 Santa Rosa Boulevard
14. Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Walton Beach (from USD 130)
Best for: Group trips, pet parents
How does the Gulf of Mexico look like this time of year? Find out for yourself by booking a beachside room at the Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Walton Beach. Panhandle beaches are known for their sugary white sand and clear waters. But, before you can reach the shoreline, you’ll have to go through a lazy river in the pool area.
You probably won’t mind because the facilities there, as well as in your well-appointed room, are up to standard. Check out the full-service restaurant. No need to go far because Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Walton Beach has everything you need for a rejuvenating trip to Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Walton Beach
Address: 1297 Miracle Strip Parkway SE
15. Courtyard by Marriott Fort Walton Beach-West Destin (from USD 196)
Best for: Families with kids, group stays, people with disabilities
Spend comfortable nights and enjoy great meals at the Courtyard, which carries the Marriott badge. The Courtyard by Marriott Fort Walton Beach West Destin is a beachfront hotel that maximizes its prime location on Santa Rosa Blvd. From the hotel, you need to walk over a bridge to reach the seaside.
But, you won’t mind the picturesque walk that takes a few minutes. This hotel’s location brings you close to the local marine park. Gulf Breeze Zoo is a longer drive at a distance of 41.3 kilometers (25.66 mi), but It’ll be a treat to bring the kids to these places, so plan it well.
Courtyard by Marriott Fort Walton Beach-West Destin
Address: 414 Santa Rosa Boulevard
16. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Fort Walton Beach-West Destin (from USD 100)
Best for: Group stays
The beach is right behind Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Fort Walton Beach-West Destin. This hotel is one of the most sought-after in the area because there’s not much distance to travel to your ultimate destination–the warm waters of the Florida Panhandle. What’s more convenient than putting on swimwear and taking a short walk to where land meets water?
If you want to take a break from the salt spray, then head over to the outdoor pool area. You can lounge under the sun for as long as you like. Let Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Fort Walton Beach-West Destin bring you back to the summer season for a few days!
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Fort Walton Beach-West Destin
Address: 540 Santa Rosa Boulevard
17. Four Points by Sheraton Destin - Fort Walton Beach (from USD 134)
Best for: Families with kids, group trips, watersports enthusiasts
Four Points by Sheraton Destin - Fort Walton Beach has good reason to be proud of its address. It’s one of the prime hotels on Okaloosa Island. This island has 3 miles (4.8 km) of beaches on the Gulf side. When you book a room at Four Points by Sheraton Destin, you’ll be in an enviable spot. Visitors who choose to stay on the mainland will have to make the trip to Okaloosa.
You’re already there, waking up every morning to the sound of the surf and to emerald seas. You’ll be happy to know that the hotel also has a hot tub and two swimming pools with ample sitting areas.
Four Points by Sheraton Destin-Fort Walton Beach
Address: 1325 MIRACLE STRIP PKWY 98 E, Okaloosa Island, Fort Walton Beach (FL), United States
18. Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach, an IHG Hotel (from USD 118)
Best for: Group stays
Hotel accommodations one minute away from the beach. Does that sound sufficient for you? If you run, you’ll probably be at the water’s edge in less than a minute. Book a beachside room at the Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach on Okaloosa Island to find out how fast you can get to the beach.
The hotel has indoor and outdoor pools, a lazy river, and an artificial waterfall. You might find it hard to stay away from water fun options, but your hotel room will convince you to stay in for a bit to rest in a cool, comfortable, and clean place. Book a room with a view. There’s plenty of that at Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach.
Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach, an IHG Hotel
Address: 1299 Miracle Strip Parkway SE
19. Beal House Fort Walton Beach, Tapestry Collection By Hilton (from USD 105)
Best for: Group trips
Beal House Fort Walton Beach, Tapestry Collection By Hilton offers exceptional accommodations for business travelers attending an event at the Emerald Coast Convention Center. It won’t be a bother to reach a convention venue located a mere kilometer away. You can enjoy the beachfront rooms in the hotel if you book now, and wake up to white sands and blue seas.
There should always be time for a swim after a busy day, and the shores of the Gulf of Mexico are just steps from the hotel itself. Ask the receptionist if the poolside cabana bar will be open during your stay and if live music is playing at Swizzle Stick Lounge.
Beal House Fort Walton Beach, Tapestry Collection By Hilton This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
20. Emerald Coast Inn & Suites (from USD 176)
Best for: Budget travelers, group trips
Emerald Coast Inn & Suites is right next to the convention center. If you’re visiting Fort Walton beach purely for pleasure, then you’ll be happy to know that the beach is a two-minute drive from the hotel. Modern accommodations with smoking and non-smoking options await the intrepid traveler to the Florida Panhandle.
Emerald Coast Inn & Suites offers affordable and updated rooms and proactive service. You can’t find a better hotel for the price in the heart of stunning Okaloosa Island.
Emerald Coast Inn & Suites
Address: 1214 Miracle Strip Parkway Southeast, Okaloosa Island, Fort Walton Beach (FL), United States, FL 32548
Soak up the glorious sunny weather in Fort Walton Beach
Make your way to the Sunshine State for a well-deserved break from regular life. Swimming, fishing, and golfing are a few of the popular activities in Fort Walton Beach that tourists can enjoy during their vacation. Book these top beachfront rentals in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and start packing for a memorable vacation on the coast.
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