The Boardwalk beach access has a great view of the Island Pier. There's a large parking lot, a kid's playground, public restrooms and several restaurants.
Explore the beach at night
After the sun sets, the beach is a whole new playground!
The entire family will love discovering the nocturnal creatures and tide pools that don’t come out during the day. (Plus, who doesn’t love flashlight tag?) Bring a bucket and some red flashlights (the red light protects local sea turtles) and search for ghost crabs scurrying across the sand.
You can pick up a free red filtered flashlight during turtle season (March through October) at the following locations: Destin City Hall, The Destin Chamber of Commerce, Destin History & Fishing Museum, Emerald Coast Science Center, Henderson Beach State Park, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and Destin-Fort Walton Beach Welcome Center (available in May).
Local Scout Tip
Ghost crabs will often freeze when you shine your flashlight on them. Carefully scoop the ghost crab up with a net and always release them after saying hello. The beach is also a great place to see the stars!
What kids are saying
Find the location that's right for you
With incredible beach views, a picky-eater-approved menu and beach playground, the Crab Trap Destin is the perfect stop for families after a day on the water.
Located on the Boardwalk, fresh food and a beachfront playground make the Crab Trap Fort Walton fun for the whole family.
Where to Stay
Resorts of Pelican Beach are Gulf-front condos located in the heart of Destin. Ask about the Pelican Pass which includes passes to Big Kahuna’s Water Park.
Beal House Fort Walton Beachfront
Newly renovated hotel on Okaloosa Island with a restaurant and outdoor pool. Home to The Remedy restaurant and grill which offers coastal dining options in a pool side environment.
Choose betweeen various lodging options such as a beach house with a private pool or a condo with resort-style amenities like pools and easy beach access.
Food + Drink
Located on the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, Oasis offers beach gear, breakfast, smoothies and great coffee. They even have edible cookie dough for kids!
Angler’s Beachside Bar & Grill
Located right on the beach, Angler's features all-day dining with a view of the Island Pier. Check out their all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast on Saturdays!
Rick's on the Island is a family-owned seafood house and oyster bar located on Okaloosa Island right on the Choctawhatchee Bay.
