Okaloosa County Hotels

Discover Okaloosa County: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Vibrant Community Spirit

Discover the enchanting Okaloosa County, Florida, where pristine beaches meet charming coastal towns. Nestled along the Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach beckons with its soft sands and vibrant atmosphere, while Okaloosa Island offers stunning views from its iconic pier. Explore the lush landscapes of state parks, perfect for family adventures and nature lovers alike. With nearby Destin's world-renowned beaches and the quaint allure of local communities, Okaloosa County is a delightful blend of relaxation and recreation, making it an ideal getaway for families, couples, and anyone seeking a slice of coastal paradise. For the best hotel rates in Okaloosa County, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Okaloosa County

Some of the best places to stay in Okaloosa County are Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Crestview. Okaloosa County, Florida, offers stunning beaches and vibrant coastal activities. Destin is ideal for first-time visitors with its beautiful oceanfront hotels and family-friendly attractions. Fort Walton Beach features charming motels and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. Crestview, while inland, provides affordable accommodations and access to natural parks. Across the area, you'll find a range of options, from beachfront resorts to cozy motels, ensuring a comfortable stay regardless of your preference. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Okaloosa County:

1. DestinOpens in a new window: Destin is a vibrant beach destination known for its stunning white-sand beaches and family-friendly attractions. The area features popular spots such as Destin Beaches and Destin Harbor Boardwalk. For accommodations, consider The Henderson Beach Resort & SpaOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star resort offering direct beach access, adventure sports, and business amenities like conference space. Another excellent option is The Palms of Destin by Compass ResortsOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel perfect for families, featuring a children's pool and beach access. Also, Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window offers a luxurious stay with golf and business facilities, making it suitable for both leisure and corporate travelers.
2. Fort Walton BeachOpens in a new window: Fort Walton Beach is a fantastic beach locale with easy access to the beautiful Okaloosa Island Beach and family attractions like Destin Harbor Boardwalk. For a remarkable stay, The Island Resort at Fort Walton BeachOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort, is ideal for adventure seekers and business travelers, featuring beach access and various recreational activities. Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Walton BeachOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, is great for families, offering child-friendly amenities and direct beach access. Courtyard Fort Walton Beach-West DestinOpens in a new window also provides a comfortable stay for business travelers with essential amenities, ensuring a pleasant visit.
3. CrestviewOpens in a new window: Crestview is an outdoor-oriented area that offers a blend of family-friendly activities and city conveniences, with attractions like Northwest Florida State College and Crestview Commons. For budget-conscious travelers, Quality Inn Crestview near Eglin AFBOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and provides business amenities. Comfort Inn & Suites CrestviewOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star option, is family-friendly and pet-friendly, offering essential services for a comfortable stay. Finally, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott CrestviewOpens in a new window caters to business travelers with its meeting facilities, making it a practical choice for those visiting the area.

Things to do in Okaloosa County for first time

Okaloosa County offers a perfect blend of family-friendly attractions and stunning natural beauty along the Emerald Coast. Enjoy golf courses, scenic hiking trails, and vibrant boardwalks on Okaloosa Island, where pristine beaches and exciting dolphin cruises await. Explore the charm of local towns and the serenity of nearby state parks. Here are some of the top things to do in Okaloosa County:

• Visit Fort Walton Beach: Fort Walton Beach is a picturesque coastal city that offers a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure. Spend your days soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches, where you can indulge in activities like surfing, fishing, or even dolphin watching. Don't miss the stunning sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues. Explore the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park for an interactive experience with marine life or delve into local history at the Indian Temple Mound Museum. For nightlife, head to Miracle Strip Parkway SE, where you can enjoy lively bars and restaurants. The laid-back atmosphere makes Fort Walton Beach a perfect spot to unwind while still having plenty of activities at your fingertips.
• Visit Destin: Known as the Emerald Coast, Destin is famous for its sugar-white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here, you can relax on the beach or engage in exciting water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding. Don't miss the chance to catch a breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Shopping enthusiasts will love the local boutiques and the Destin Commons. The HarborWalk Village offers a vibrant nightlife scene with dining and entertainment options. For golf lovers, the area boasts several championship courses. Destin is a perfect blend of relaxation and seaside excitement, ensuring a memorable getaway.
• Visit Crestview: Crestview presents a charming escape from the beach with its scenic countryside and lush parks. This welcoming city is perfect for nature lovers, offering picturesque spots for hiking and picnicking. Visit local parks to enjoy the beautiful flowers and greenery that characterize the area. Crestview's lively community hosts various events throughout the year, giving visitors a taste of local culture. While it may not have the beach appeal of Fort Walton or Destin, Crestview offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for relaxation and exploration of Florida's natural beauty.

5 tips to find a great Okaloosa County hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, consider visiting Okaloosa County in January, November, or December when hotel prices are at their lowest. For the best experience, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the area’s attractions, such as its beautiful beaches and the scenic state park. This budget-friendly destination offers great value for money, making it perfect for families and travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Okaloosa County, you're in luck! You could find excellent rates on hotels that offer great availability as your travel date approaches. To explore these offers, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where discounted rates may be available. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you seize any chance to save on your reservation costs.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Okaloosa County.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the heart of major cities in Okaloosa County certainly provides unmatched convenience, but this prime location often comes with a higher price tag. While you can easily access local attractions, dining, and entertainment, the costs associated with city center accommodations are generally more significant. In contrast, smaller towns and rural areas are more likely to offer affordable lodging options, allowing travelers to save money. For those seeking budget-friendly rates, considering hotels a bit farther from the city center can be a wise choice, although it may necessitate some additional travel to reach the main attractions.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Okaloosa County and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Okaloosa County

Here are some popular dishes in Okaloosa County, Florida, United States of America:

• Shrimp Po' Boy: This iconic sandwich features crispy fried shrimp stuffed into a fresh baguette, often dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, and a zesty remoulade sauce. Originating from Louisiana, the po' boy has become a beloved staple along the Gulf Coast, showcasing the region's rich seafood culture and providing a delightful, handheld meal perfect for a casual dining experience.
• Key Lime Pie: A classic Floridian dessert, key lime pie is made with tart key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Traditionally topped with whipped cream, this refreshing treat captures the essence of Florida's citrus heritage and is a must-try for anyone visiting the area, offering a sweet and tangy finish to any meal.
• Barbecue: In Okaloosa County, barbecue is more than just food; it’s a social event. Local BBQ joints serve slow-cooked, smoked meats, often accompanied by tangy sauces and traditional sides like coleslaw and baked beans. Enjoying barbecue here is a communal experience, perfect for gathering with friends and family.

Best time to go to Okaloosa County

Okaloosa County has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. March, June, and July are the peak travel months in Okaloosa County, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.