Santa Rosa Island in Florida is situated about a 15 minute drive from Fort Walton Beach, nestled alongside Okaloosa Island. Here, visitors come to and see sights such as the Gulf Islands National Seashore. For more information on what makes Santa Rosa Island such a special day trip destination during your time in Fort Walton Beach, read on below!
Plan a Day Trip to Beautiful Santa Rosa Island in Florida
Surrounded by Pensacola Bay, Choctawhatchee Bay, the Santa Rosa Sound, and the Gulf of Mexico, Santa Rosa Island is home to miles of undeveloped shoreline, preserving the natural, undisturbed beauty of the barrier island and giving visitors a window into the past simplicity of Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island. In short, it’s a fantastic place to plan a day trip!
On Santa Rosa Island, you and your guests can stroll along the pure white sand beaches and gaze out at crystal clear waters, soaking up the scenery or taking a dip in the water for some excellent swimming. Many visitors traveling with younger children who cannot swim comment on how clean the beaches are and how the water is shallow enough for children.
Santa Rosa Island in Florida includes beaches such as Pensacola Beach, well known for its spectacular beauty. The iconic water tower is located nearby, as is the famous flying saucer style Futuro house. There’s also the Footprints in the Sand Eco Trail, where you and your guests can learn all about Santa Rosa Island and Pensacola Beach’s natural environment, from how the snow white sand is formed to the harrowing journey that the local sea turtles undergo.
If military history is more of your forte, the Blue Angels Museum at Pensacola Navel Base will be well worth checking out. A bike path also runs along Santa Rosa Island, leading you to renowned destinations such as the National Gulf Shore and Navarre Beach Marine Park.
Stop by local restaurants such as Peg Leg Pete’s or Flounder’s Chowder House for a bite to eat during your time on the island!
Even More to Enjoy in the Area
Once you’ve had time to check out all of those exciting stops that are found directly on Santa Rosa Island, there’s more to explore just minutes away! Santa Rosa Island’s proximity to Okaloosa Island puts visitors in a great spot to be able to access activities that are family-friendly, fun, and always exciting to add to the itinerary. When you’re looking for the adventure to continue, there’s no reason not to include the following on your must-do list while you’re here!
Take a Stroll on the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier
Stretching majestically out into the emerald waves, a stroll along the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier is the perfect mid-day opportunity for travelers headed this direction. As you walk, you’ll want to be sure to keep your eyes on the waves below as it’s common to spot everything from sea turtles to dolphins keeping you company. A visit to the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier is one that merits keeping your camera handy. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or amateur enthusiast, this area offers plenty of stunning angles on the scenery. Of course, if you’re more of an angler, heading this way in the early-morning hours is a must. Those that look forward to casting a line will find this locale and an ideal place to fish before the sun comes up and your plans take you to Santa Rosa Island. No matter how you spend your time here, this fishing pier is one that’s worth your while.
Visit Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
On the other end of the adventure spectrum, those who are looking to immerse themselves in amusement park-style fun will find proximity to Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone to be endlessly intriguing! Featuring everything from mini-golf and rides to an arcade and climbing tower, Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone is a dream come true for kids of all ages and has something for adults to enjoy too! Don’t be surprised if you end up spending more time here than you initially planned.
Check out the Indian Temple Mound Museum
History comes to life at the Indian Temple Mound Museum and those with a heart for pursuing the past will find it’s as informative as it is exciting. This museum is paired up with several other nearby historic stops, making it easy to turn a visit into a full afternoon of fun. Come learn more about the history, and settlement of this area of Florida in an interactive and hands-on way!
Plan the Ultimate Beach Getaway with Breakers at Fort Walton Beach!
Our reservation specialists can give you local tips on making the most out of your time in Fort Walton Beach, from what to expect when you plan a day trip to Santa Rosa Island to the top things to do in Santa Rosa. Contact our office today by phone or email and book a long-term rental so you can experience this amazing attraction and more!
