Destin/Fort Walton Beach
Destin Beach has a hard working harbor servicing fishermen who know about the 100 ft drop off that is teeming with big fish, another “the most” town, claiming the most prolific fishing village in the US. It has seen dramatic growth, and as a result, there are traffic and related issues. Called the Emerald Coast for the beautiful waters here, Destin and Fort Walton Beach have that famous powdery quartz sand, making it some of the prettiest beaches in Florida.
Ft. Walton Beach is known for water sports, and dive shops line the highway. Locals flock to Okaloosa Island for swimming, or to walk the pier. The presence of so many fishing boats means you eat fresh seafood in any of the joint area’s restaurants and cafes. Oysters any way you like them!
Restaurants:
Another Broken Egg Cafe: Best breakfast in Destin.
104 Highway 98 E, Destin, (850) 650-0499
Donut Hole Bakery Cafe: OK breakfast, real good donuts and lunch.
635 Highway 98 E, Destin, (850) 837-8824
Rick’s Crab Trap: Moderate pricing and really good seafood.
203 Brooks St SE, (850) 259-4251
Old Bay Steamer: Big platters of great steamed clams, crab legs, shrimp, mussels. Not cheap.
102 Santa Rosa Blvd, (850) 664-2795
Black Pearl Seafood: Expensive, but great.
1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy, (850) 833-3016
Helen Back Cafe: Best pizza, divey bar, on the water. Who needs more?
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Mulhollow’s Bistro 215: 5 star goodness at moderate prices.
215 Miracle Strp Pkwy SE, (850) 796-3663
Buffalo’s Reef: Great wings and burgers. College atmosphere.
116 Eglin Pkwy SE, (850) 243-9464
Big City American Bistro: Great brunch and pizzas. All time favorite for locals.
171 Brooks St SE, (850) 664-0664
Bars & Nightlife:
Boathouse Oyster Bar: Great dive bar with good cheap oysters. Major locals hangout.
288 Hwy 98 E, Destin, (850) 837-3645
AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar: Touristy, but a good view, fancy drinks, and sometimes a good meal.
116 Highway 98 E, Destin, (850) 837-3431
Watercolor by Peter Bailey