Family Fun in Fort Walton Florida: A Beach Vacation Recap

Brooke McIntosh
Apr 15
3 min read

Time with family, toes in the sand, and just the right mix of relaxation and adventure, our April trip to Fort Walton Beach, Florida checked every box. If you’re considering a spring beach getaway, here’s an inside look at what to expect, along with a few favorite spots we’ll absolutely return to!

Slow Mornings at the Beach

April in Fort Walton brings a surprising contrast: warm sunshine paired with crisp, chilly mornings. While the views are dreamy, the ocean water is definitely on the cold side, so early morning swims weren’t exactly tempting.

That said, these quiet mornings quickly became some of our favorite moments. With fewer crowds, the beach felt peaceful and serene, perfect for sipping coffee, taking long walks along the shore, or getting lost in a good book.

Pro Tip: Pack layers or a light jacket for those early beach strolls. You’ll be glad you did!

Where to Stay: Why We Loved Condo Living

Growing up, my family always stayed in condos, and after experiencing both private homes and condos as an adult, I can confidently say: easy beach access wins every time.

We stayed at Summerlin Condos, specifically Unit 601, which we booked through VRBO and it was truly a gem. With only about 30 units in the complex, the beach never felt crowded, giving us that peaceful, tucked-away vibe while still being close to everything.

What We Loved:

• 🛏️ Two spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms

• 🏖️ Direct and easy beach access

• 🏊 A quiet, uncrowded atmosphere

• 📍 Just a 5-minute drive to Destin and Crab Island

While it’s not located directly in Destin, that ended up being a huge plus. We enjoyed all the nearby attractions without the hustle and bustle that Destin can bring during peak seasons. We would absolutely stay here again!

A Kid-Approved Adventure: The Track Amusement Park

This trip, we tried something new, everyone got to choose a “day of their own.” Naturally, my son opted to spend his with friends who were vacationing nearby. The original plan was a water park, but we quickly discovered that many are still closed in April.

Enter: The Track in Destin, a tried-and-true favorite that saved the day.

Why It’s Worth a Visit:

🏎️ Go-karts for all ages

⛳ Mini-golf

🚤 Bumper boats

🕹️ Arcade games

It’s the perfect way to mix things up and gives kids a chance to burn off energy outside of the beach setting. If you’re traveling in the spring, this is a fantastic alternative when water parks aren’t yet open.

Where We Ate: A Local Favorite

After long days in the sun, easy and delicious meals were a must. Our standout find? Stewby’s Seafood: a casual, no-fuss spot that quickly became a family favorite.

From fried shrimp to fish sandwiches, everything was fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned. The hush puppies and coleslaw were the perfect finishing touch. It’s ideal for grab-and-go dinners when you want something quick without sacrificing quality.

Fun Fact: When we dined at AJ’s, our waiter leaned in and whispered that Stewby’s was not only better, but cheaper too. And honestly? We couldn’t agree more.

Tips for Planning Your Fort Walton Spring Break Vacation

✨ Pack for variable weather – Bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings.

🌊 Prepare for chilly water – The ocean may be too cold for long swims.

🎢 Check seasonal openings – Many water parks don’t open until later in the spring.

🍽️ Try local dining spots – Casual gems like Stewby’s offer fantastic meals.

🏖️ Enjoy the quieter beaches – Fewer crowds make for a more relaxing experience.

🌞 Final Thoughts

Our Fort Walton Beach trip was the perfect blend of relaxation, family connection, and kid-friendly fun. Between the peaceful beaches, cozy condo living, and memorable local spots, it’s a destination we’ll happily return to.

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back spring escape, Fort Walton might just be the hidden gem you’re looking for.