White beaches, a lively boardwalk and an interactive marine adventure park await at this sandy barrier island on Florida’s Emerald Coast.

Immerse yourself in a landscape of white beaches and gorgeous views on Okaloosa Island. Look across the sparkling Gulf of Mexico while enjoying fun in the sun. The area is a popular vacation destination for families and students on spring break.

Okaloosa Island is a bit of a misnomer. It is actually part of Santa Rosa Island, a 80-kilometre (50-mile) barrier island. Okaloosa makes up its eastern end between Fort Walton Beach and Destin. Much of the island is owned by the U.S. government for military purposes, but you’ll find plenty of public space to explore and enjoy.

Put on your swimsuit and thongs and head to the ocean. The beaches on Okaloosa Island are renowned for their pristine white sand and clean conditions. Play beach volleyball or look for shells in the surf. A stretch of shoreline is protected as part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Begin and end your day on the Boardwalk. Cool off with a drink or enjoy a meal and stunning views across the Gulf of Mexico. After sundown, go dancing or listen to live music at one of its many clubs and bars.

Grab your tackle box and head to Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier. Jutting over 2,000 metres (1,200 feet) into the water, this sturdy concrete pier makes saltwater fishing easy. Rent equipment or just stroll along and see what the fishermen are reeling in.

Kiss a harbour seal and snorkel among stingrays at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. Watch dolphins flip, spin and splash their way through the water. Become a VIP trainer for the day and get to know the porpoises and other marine animals at the park a little better. Touch juvenile alligators, penguins and turtles.

For a change of beach surroundings, visit Destin or Fort Walton Beach. These cities have sandy stretches similar to Okaloosa Beach, but on a larger scale. Take the Destin Bridge west to Destin or the Brooks Bridge east to Fort Walton Beach.