Destin’s Okaloosa Island has so many exhilarating activities for you to undertake during the daytime at this heavenly white sanded beach. But did you know about the exciting and lively entertainment that awaits once the sun goes down? After enjoying any of our outdoor water activities here at Crab Island Watersports, we recommend you continue to explore and treat yourself come the end of the day.
As with this beauty of a beach, you’ll be amazed at the effervescence of Fort Walton Beach at night time. Whether you want a chill evening in a cool bar sipping on a signature cocktail at the beach front or if you’re seeking something more lively, there is no shortage of pubs, clubs and bars, dancing, live music and even games for those who continue to seek stimulation late at night. Looking for something more substantial than just a drink? Fear not, there are many incredible restaurants in and around the Fort Walton Beach area, including the amazing Broadwalk on Miracle Strip Parkway on Okaloosa Island. With many bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood and a great many other types of food that you can choose from.
Now, because there are simply too many incredible places on this wondrous island, it’s unlikely that you will have the chance to experience them all (this upsets us too, but it’s true), that is if you’re only here for a limited time on vacation. This is why we have taken it upon ourselves to narrow down our list to just a few of the very best places to spend a fun night on your visit to Okaloosa Island.
Boathouse Oyster Bar
This Okaloosa Island oyster bar is considered a hidden gem, and the locals quite literally try to keep this place a secret. Boathouse Oyster Bar has had its spot on the Destin Harbor for over 30 years, serving the freshest oysters, cold beer and entertaining their loyal customers with live music every day of the week.
Their oysters and gumbo have been voted the best, however, their menu is not limited to only those fresh sea delicacies. At this Boathouse bar you can also get your hands on some delicious burgers, sandwiches, salads and other warm hearty meals whether you prefer seafood, meat or none of the above.
The daily live music, usually commencing from 6:30PM onwards, consists of local bands with original styles and songs. Some weekends hold special music events in store with bigger shows and well known artists. Rumor has it this place had a famous visit once from modern country music icon Keith Urban as well as other well known musicians.
Here’s an extra piece of information, this bar has dollar bills, bras and hats hanging from the ceiling. Not only hanging from the ceiling, the ceiling is in fact made up of those objects. This is based on a trend going around in Florida beach bars that indicates, the bars with this theme of decoration are usually the most fun and lively bars.
This place is a must! Be it for the delicious fresh (and best) oysters, the original live music or cheeky decor trend…you’ll regret not going. Their business hours? From 11 till Late!
Location: 288 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Contact: (850) 837-3645
Al’s Beach Club and Burger Bar
This is the place that keeps on giving. Al’s Beach Club and Burger Bar have really set the bar high. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy with family, friends or your partner, there is A LOT of entertainment to be had at this ideal location at the beachfront within Okaloosa Island Boardwalk. From live music, fireworks to movie nights at the beach, this is another spot you will not want to miss.
Ground fresh daily, from special selected cuts of beef, hamburgers are Al’s specialty. In case this is not your preferred protein, they also have a chicken or tuna burger option, which are prepared with equal amounts of TLC as the beef ones. Vegans don’t worry, Al’s have also thought of you with a plant-based burger option! You can accompany these premium patties with some of their smooth and crunchy homemade french fries, cajun or regular style, some colossal onion rings or sweet potato fries with maple dijon dipping sauce. Yum-my! Delicious fresh salads are also on the menu. There’s a section on the menu for the little ones too (12 or under), where they can choose from more adequate portions for their belly, from mac and cheese, a fresh burger slightly more plain (for a younger palate) or chicken tenders.
Handspun milkshakes with fresh ingredients and local craft beer also add to the many reasons we love this bar so much.
Every day of the week they have exciting evening entertainment. From fireworks to movie nights, live music and other shows, we believe you will definitely find the right entertainment to fit your mood at Al’s. Live music is a given every night of the week, from solo artists to bands playing blues, jazz, classic rock, indie-soul, contemporary, country and pop.
Surround yourself with friends and family and watch the night sky light up on the waterfront, as fireworks blast off from the pier. You can observe this spectacle whilst enjoying a meal seated at our bar or grab a drink and root your feet in the sand as you observe the brilliant Okaloosa Island fireworks. Catch this exclusive display on Wednesdays from 9PM.
Now to our favorite part: Movie night at the beach! Family-friendly films are screened on a large inflatable screen one day a week, typically Tuesdays from 8PM. We recommend grabbing some burgers and milkshakes (or why not a beer) from Al’s and then plonk yourself into the sand in a nice comfy spot to enjoy the movie. Did we mention, the movie is FREE?
If you want to plan a visit to Al’s but are aiming to enjoy a specific music genre or other event, we recommend you check out Al’s Beach Club and Burger Bar site where they keep an organized calendar of every day’s event and performing artists. You can check out which talent will be performing their music and which movies will be screened, as well as other activities.
Location: 1450 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Contact: (850) 226-4100
The Block
The exterior of this joint won’t strike you as anything out of the ordinary, but step inside and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the diversely fueled atmosphere. The Block is made up of 3 distinct clubs, impeccably merged into 1. The three divisions of this club are Country Block, Sports/Karaoke Block and Cell Block.
Let’s start with the Country Block side of things. We’re sure you`re great at using your imagination, but it is our pleasure to give you direct insight. Country music. Dancing to live bands. A rough and rowdy mechanical bull called Sugar. Do you have the courage to get up on that bull?
The Sports/Karaoke Block is nothing short of pure entertainment. You can catch all the latest sports relaxing at the bar with a cold one and shoot some pool in between. Alternatively show off your vocal talents or just simply sit back, relax and bask in the other local legends of karaoke. With their award-winning drink specials we’re sure you’ll muster up the courage to do some singing with friends.
The party aspect is in no way absent from this club! You’ll enjoy the Cell Block if you’re looking to dance the night away. You’ll need the energy to keep up with our locals as they hype up to the best dance and party music, including some pop and rock, all accompanied by a spectacular lighting show.
One more thing: As if this club wasn’t diverse enough already, The Block has integrated live comedy specials every Saturday night, with nationally touring comedians, some of which have appeared on Comedy Central, HBO and other channels and programs. Doors open at 6PM and the shows start at 8:15PM.
Our conclusion: This multi-ambience club is an ideal choice for many reasons, but especially if you’re looking at staying out after hours.
Location: 113 Eglin Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Contact: (850) 301-9393
Hours:
Wednesday – Thursday 8PM to 2AM
Friday – Saturday 8PM – 4AM