The Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach is a premier beachfront destination on Okaloosa Island, specifically made for families who want the full resort experience without leaving the property. Freshly updated, the resort combines a modern coastal aesthetic with a high-energy atmosphere. Its central location puts guests within a five-minute walk of the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and the Okaloosa Island Pier, though the resort's extensive on-site water features often make it hard for guests to tear themselves away.
The standout feature of the resort is its expansive beachfront pool deck, which includes a lazy river winding under man-made waterfalls and a seasonal schedule of unique entertainment, including pirate and mermaid shows. Families can transition from the sun to the shade in the indoor heated pool or the arcade/game room. Dining is anchored by Riptides Grill, a casual Gulf-front restaurant where kids under 12 eat free, and the poolside Tiki Bar, which serves tropical cocktails and light bites as "Dive-Inn" movies play on the pool deck during the summer season.
Accommodations are tailored for family comfort, highlighted by unique KidSuites® that feature partitioned areas with bunk beds and play spaces. Standard rooms are well-equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and Keurig coffee makers, with many offering private balconies and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. With additional perks like a 24-hour fitness center, a seasonal kids' club, and eco-certified sustainability practices, this IHG property remains a top-tier choice for an Emerald Coast vacation.