Located in the heart of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, The Island Hotel offers a fantastic family-friendly experience that keeps us coming back for more. After two visits, we’re convinced that this beachfront gem is one of the best places to stay in the area. From its prime location on Okaloosa Island to its array of amenities and activities, it’s an ideal spot for a quick, relaxing getaway.
Perfect Location on Okaloosa Island
The Island Hotel boasts a fantastic beachfront location right on Okaloosa Island. Just a few miles from Destin, the hotel allows easy access to both the peacefulness of Fort Walton Beach and the excitement of Destin. The hotel sits alongside the beautiful Gulf Islands National Seashore, offering stunning white sand beaches and abundant wildlife. The Gulf of Mexico’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for beach days, and you’ll find plenty of space to relax and unwind.
With only a 20-minute drive to Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, The Island Hotel is conveniently located for travelers, with easy access to nonstop flights to the Midwest and East Coast.
Accommodations to Suit Every Need
The Island Hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites to fit different preferences and needs. On our most recent stay, we stayed in a Gulf Front room with breathtaking ocean views. These rooms, located in the main tower, offer the best views of the Gulf, perfect for watching the sunset from the comfort of your room.
For families or groups, the hotel also has spacious suites, including those with poolside or Gulf views. The Island Suite, which sleeps up to 14 people, is a great option for large families or those traveling with multiple groups. This suite includes four bedrooms, two patios, and a 2000-square-foot covered deck, as well as a mini-kitchen area with a full-sized refrigerator and microwave. It’s an ideal choice for those who want the space and comfort of a vacation rental in a resort setting.
Dining and Drinks at The Island Hotel
One of the best things about staying at The Island Hotel is that you don’t have to leave the property to enjoy delicious meals and drinks. The hotel offers several dining options, making it easy to enjoy good food without having to go far.
- Fish House: Serving breakfast and dinner, this restaurant is located just off the lobby and features a full menu of seafood, pizza, and other American dishes. Don’t miss Captain Jay’s famous Bang Bang Shrimp!
- The Island Grille: If you’re craving lunch by the pool, The Island Grille is the place to go. Offering a variety of quick bites like burgers, tacos, and wings, this poolside spot is perfect for keeping the fun going without interruption.
- Tripp Tide Beach Bar: For a fun evening out, head to Tripp Tide, the hotel’s beachfront tiki bar. With live music on weekends and an extensive cocktail menu, it’s the ultimate spot to relax with a drink while enjoying the sunset.
- The Grotto Bar: For a more laid-back vibe, visit The Grotto Bar, located under a waterfall at the grotto pool. This seasonal bar offers happy hours and late-night drinks, making it a great spot to wind down after a day in the sun.
The hotel also has The Island Market, a convenient spot to grab snacks, drinks, pool toys, and souvenirs.
Pools and Beach Fun
The Island Hotel offers plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun. Guests can enjoy access to the hotel’s 600 feet of private beach with chair and umbrella rentals available. For a change of scenery, the hotel features the Grotto Pool and a heated outdoor pool, as well as a hot tub. Families can mix things up and enjoy both the pool and the beach during their stay.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot Misty the Mermaid at the Grotto Pool. She often reads books to kids and offers birthday party packages, adding a fun, whimsical element to your stay.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Island Hotel offers a variety of activities for guests, including musical bingo, yoga on the lawn, and live music. There’s also a small putt-putt green, bean bag toss, and other games for families to enjoy. On our first visit, we even got to see Captain Davy, a pirate who entertained the kids with fun activities.
Exploring the Area Around The Island Hotel
Though you might never want to leave the hotel, there are plenty of exciting things to do nearby. Across the street, you’ll find Ricks on the Island, a popular restaurant, and Island Watersports, where you can rent pontoon boats, jet skis, and more. The Island Pier is just a short walk from the hotel, and it’s a great spot for fishing, with plenty of wildlife to see, including dolphins and sea turtles.
For those seeking more adventure, head to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park or Wild Willy’s, a dinosaur-themed adventure park nearby.
The Ideal Spot for a Family Getaway
Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, The Island Hotel offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and convenience. It’s an affordable yet comfortable spot to unwind and enjoy time together as a family. With its amazing beachfront location, fantastic amenities, and range of activities, The Island Hotel is a place where unforgettable memories are made.
