Eglin Air Force Base sits along Florida’s panhandle on what’s known as the Emerald Coast, a nickname earned thanks to its green-blue waters and miles of soft, white sand. For beach lovers, it’s easy to see why this region is so appealing. But there’s far more to life here than sun and surf!
With Pensacola and Destin practically in your backyard, plus several other nearby military installations, the area offers a unique mix of coastal living and military-connected communities. Eglin AFB itself is the largest Air Force base in the world by land area, spanning hundreds of acres of diverse Florida terrain. It’s home to numerous units and commands, making it an active, high-energy duty station, with plenty of aircraft noise to match. On the upside, that busy runway also means solid Space-A travel opportunities for those looking to explore even more.
Whether Eglin AFB is your next duty station or a stop along your military travels, you’ll find no shortage of things to do. From cultural attractions and local dining to outdoor adventures beyond the beach, the Emerald Coast offers something for everyone. Here’s a list to help you start exploring the area.
1. Outdoor Adventures with Eglin Outdoor Rec
Enjoy the great outdoors with Eglin’s 96th Force Support Squadron (96 FSS). The Outdoor Recreation program offers access to beaches, nature spots, and on-base recreation areas, plus tons of ways to explore Florida’s Gulf Coast without traveling far (or breaking the bank).
2. Air Force Armament Museum
The Air Force Armament Museum, located just outside the west gate of Eglin AFB in Valparaiso/Fort Walton Beach, offers a unique look into the history of Air Force aviation and armament, from World War II to modern jets and weapons.
The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission and parking are free. The outside airpark remains accessible from sunrise to sunset.
3. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park invites you to connect with sea creatures in an up-close, interactive, and educational setting. Stroll through exhibits showcasing dolphins, sea lions, penguins, turtles, stingrays, manatees, and more, all while learning about marine life conservation, rehabilitation, and the ecosystems of the Gulf. Or, go all out and sign up for an animal encounter for a truly unforgettable experience.
Bonus: The park offers a military discount on general admission.
4. Destin Harbor Boardwalk
The Destin Harbor Boardwalk offers the perfect place to soak in Gulf Coast vibes, watch boats come and go, and enjoy a mix of dining, shopping, and waterfront activities.
Whether you visit during the day or at night, the Boardwalk delivers. During the day, you’ll see fishing charters unloading their catch, yachts and boats bobbing in the harbor, and families boarding dolphin cruises or snorkeling trips. But as the sun begins to set, the harbor transforms. People gather for drinks and live music, and the sunset over the water becomes a postcard-perfect moment.
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5. Crab Island
Crab Island is one of Destin’s most popular and iconic summer destinations. It’s a shallow, naturally formed sandbar in the middle of the Gulf where the water is impossibly clear and only waist-deep in most areas. Visitors typically arrive by boat and spend the day floating, swimming, paddle boarding, or simply lounging in the warm, turquoise water while enjoying music and easy conversation with friends and families around them.
Crab Island has become a favorite for groups looking for a low-stress way to enjoy the Gulf without worrying about finding a spot on a crowded beach. Whether you’re going with kids, friends, or looking for a unique way to spend a day on the water, the sandbar delivers a fun, social, and unmistakably “Destin” experience.
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6. The Track
For a break from the beach or to mix in some high-energy fun, The Track in Destin is a go-to destination for families and groups of all ages. On Highway 98, The Track packs a full day of fun into one spot. Find multiple go-kart tracks, including a three-story elevated track called “Wild Woody”, mini-golf, bumper cars boats, kid-friendly rides, and even a large indoor arcade for when you want to escape the Florida sun.
7. Gulf Breeze Zoo
The Gulf Breeze Zoo is home to more than a thousand animals and a wide range of open-air exhibits. Guests can explore at their own pace, ride a safari-style train through a large preserve, or get up close with animals through hands-on encounters like feeding giraffes, visiting hippos or rhinos, and enjoying interactive aviaries.
With its mix of adventure, education, and memorable animal experiences, Gulf Breeze Zoo is a family-friendly outing that offers something different from the typical beach day, making it a great option for anyone looking to add a little wildlife excitement to their time at Eglin AFB.
8. Destin Snorkel
Plunge under the waves to glimpse the Emerald Coast at sea level. The tours, like two-stop snorkeling and shelling or dolphin cruises, are designed for all ages and experience levels, with equipment provided and a friendly, certified crew guiding the way. This water-based adventure is fuss-free, making it a solid choice for families.
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9. Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
With a huge air-conditioned arcade, a 4D movie theater, laser-tag/laser-maze games, and a frozen-yogurt shop, a 60-foot ropes course, bumper-boat pool, bungee trampoline, and go-karts, Wild Willy’s is your next stop, and quite possibly your new family favorite!
10. National Naval Aviation Museum
About an hour and a half from Eglin, the National Naval Aviation Museum is a bit of a drive but incredibly worth it. Housing over 4,000 artifacts and over 150 aircraft, this aviation museum is a fantastic place to learn more about our nation’s history. You can also try a flight in the simulators, which offer a more immersive experience.
11. Silver Sands Premium Outlet Mall
Featuring over 110 designer and name-brand stores, Silver Sands Premium Outlets is the top shopping destination near Destin. From fashion and accessories to sportswear, footwear, and home goods, it’s a go-to spot for bargain hunters seeking deals on big-name brands like Nike, Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and others.
Beyond shopping, the center is pleasant to stroll through with its covered walkways, lush landscaping, and convenient amenities like ample parking and dining options, making it a pleasant break from beaches or water activities.
12. Downtown Pensacola
Downtown Pensacola is a lively blend of deep history and vibrant present-day energy. As one of the oldest European settlements in the United States with over 450 years of history, the downtown area features beautifully preserved architecture, historic homes, and a walkable layout that makes it easy to spend a day or more exploring. From morning farmer’s markets to lively restaurants at night, it’s hard to go wrong with this charming Florida town.
13. Henderson Beach State Park
Leave the daily grind behind you and step onto the snow-white sands of Henderson Beach State Park, a protected stretch of shoreline where 30-foot dunes cradle the coast and the Gulf’s turquoise waters gently meet the shore.
It’s easy to see that this corner of Florida delivers far more than sunshine and beaches. Whether you’re taking a break from searching homes for rent or sale near Eglin Air Force Base, craving adventure, looking to explore history and culture, or simply wanting a peaceful place to unwind, the Emerald Coast has something for every mood and every season. With so many unique experiences, this might become one of your favorite duty stations.
