History
Around the globe this beautiful part of Florida is known as the Emerald Coast. Destin and Fort Walton are two popular destinations within that region. Destin claims to be "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village,” and reportedly has the largest fishing vessel fleet in the state of Florida. Although it was originally a small fishing town, today it is known for its white beaches and emerald-colored waters. Naturally, it’s a popular tourist destination. More than 4.5 million visitors come to Destin every year. Nearby Fort Walton is a year round fishing and beach resort community
In 1850 a man named Leonard Destin settled along the East Pass Peninsula. He was the first European to come to the area and he jump-started the economy by giving fishing jobs to young men new to the area. The first fishing camps opened on the Moreno Point Military Reservation that was sold by the government to private ownership. By 1908, there were homes, churches and at least 18 fishing camps dotting the coast.
Fort Walton Beach is a relatively young city (1937), though the history of the region dates back thousands of years. Artifacts from 10,000 B.C. have been discovered as has evidence of five different Native American periods that existed between 600 - 1650 A.D. In the early days Fort Walton was known both as Brooks Landing and later Camp Walton. It was renamed Fort Walton in 1932 when a civil war cannon was discovered and excavated from an Indian Mound.
Why you should go
Beautiful emerald green waters lapping on pristine beaches are the biggest draw. Other attractions include amusement parks, zoos and museums.
Main attractions
* Emerald Grande Sea Blaster Boat Rides: Operating for 15 years with Capt. Larry at the helm, Destin's Original Sea Blaster offers boat tours for snorkeling, swimming with the dolphins, beach cruises, and sunset cruises. They 73-foot boat carries 119 passengers and boards at the foot of the Destin bridge. www.seablasterdestin.com.
* Air Force Armament Museum: Located in Fort Walton, the Air Force Armament Museum invites you to experience the aviation warfare armament from the early days of World War I right through to today's high tech planes and bombs. Inside, you'll find an extensive collection of weaponry and interactive displays Outside displays include vintage military aircraft, including the fastest plane ever built - the SR-71 Blackbird. www.afarmamentmuseum.com
* Big Kahunas Water Park: In downtown Destin you’ll find a water wonderland with more than 40 wet activities, from relaxing river rides to wave crashing adventures. There are land-based activities, too, like go-kart tracks, thrill rides and miniature golf. It’s great fun for children and adults. www.bigkahunas.com
* Gulfarium: In Fort Walton Beach on Okaloosa Island, Gulfarium presents four live marine shows daily featuring dolphins and sea lions, as well as a Living Sea show with a live scuba diver and various animal exhibits. www.gulfarium.com
* SunQuest Cruises: Sun Quest Cruises launches from Destin. Enjoy dining, dancing and cruising aboard the yacht Solaris. Operates year round. www.sunquestcruises.com
* Indian Temple Mound Museum: This Fort Walton Museum explores the lifestyles of four southeastern American Indian tribes, dating from the 1300s. In addition to artifacts and exhibits, the grounds include a ceremonial mound. http://www.fwb.org/index.php/museums.html
* Golf: There are several picturesque golf courses along the coast. www.emeraldcoastfl.com/activities/destin-golfing/
How to get there
Flight time from Jackson-Hartsfield International Airport in Atlanta to the Okaloosa County Airport is one hour and fifteen minutes. By car, it’s a 320-mile drive that takes about six hours.
Links of interest
* Chamber of Commerce: www.waltoncountychamber.com
* Tourist Board: www.emeraldcoastfl.com
* Hotel/Motel/Restaurant Information: www.emeraldcoast.com
