It wasnt until the 1940s that the military and tourism brought modern conveniences such as paved roads, telephones and electricity. [2] Okaloosa County is included in the Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL Metropolitan Statistical Area. WebOn July 8, 1950 the federal government conveyed an 875-acre (3.54 km 2) parcel of Santa Rosa Island with 3 miles (4.8 km) of Gulf frontage to Okaloosa County. 2307 abolishing the Okaloosa Island Authority (1975); and the Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter of May 2000. G(j,|9~b2@>bJUKQ{Ug`#1\n,|4e] MUz]*:JZw*,. The water is a gorgeous green blue color blending into a deep blue on the horizon. Formed in October 1997, the Cooperative originally included the county and the cities of Crestview, Mary Esther, and Niceville. As of the 2020 census, the population was 211,668. Eighteen of those military installations were in Florida. The 1.3-acre (0.53ha) tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold.[3]. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can relax and channel all your energy into planning your dream vacation. Thanks to the P&A Railroad, much of Okaloosas commodities traveled to Floridas east coast. 2307 abolishing the Okaloosa Island Authority (1975); and the Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter of May 2000. And to support a strong local community. WebOkaloosa Island Attractions. Everythingyou need to know about the beaches for a day, a weekend, a quiet moment, vacationing, moving or buying in the area. The county paid the federal government $4,000 to complete the transaction, which was supported by Congressman Bob Sikes . And the best feature of John Beasley Park is the dunes! Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. WebThe last of three county-owned buildings on Okaloosa Island was torn down on May 31, 1995. WebOkaloosa Beginnings Northwest Florida was an untamed wilderness and after the Civil War it became home to a handful of hardy homesteaders. We have provided for the promotion of Fire Safety through our Fire Prevention program and annual inspections. The area brings visitors and residents who are looking fora relaxed beach town lifestyle that is close to all of the Destin activities while remaining less crowded and touristy. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Fort Walton, Florida, "Island Tract Turned Over To Okaloosa - Formal Transfer Completed With $4,000 Payment". Not as busy as some of the Destin area beaches, this area is a perfect location if you want to be close enough to Destin, but a bit out of the more touristyareas. To help make it easier than ever to discover these experiences, the destination introduced Little Adventures, new, bite-sized challenges that encourage families to get outside, learn something new, and get out of their comfort zones. Both can be obtained from Amazon.com, The Destin History & Fishing Museum, in Destin, The Indian Temple Mound in Fort Walton Beach, Magnolia House Gifts at Grand Boulevard, and Sundog Books in Seaside. Yn*S-/xH DTIB(IpS0?yB!Y#t$ r. With a childrens playground and volleyball courts, picnic tables, a wide beachfront, and fishing pier, it is easy to enjoy a day at the beach that offers something for everyone in your family or group. Perhaps the authoritys most lasting legacy is the public beach accesses that were incorporated into the plan. Okaloosa Island is an area on Santa Rosa Island, Florida. Fort Pickens is named after Revolutionary War hero Gen. Andrew Pickens of South Carolina. Discover the best sights in Okaloosa Island with some unique tours & day trips, or check out our list of {36 fun activities in Okaloosa Island fun activities in Okaloosa Island}. existing mortgage, do not want to lend money on property that is leased. Beyond Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island, are several must-see destinations across Okaloosa County. hZ~"{6 A1_UVwK0#6X,u)eh{RLuJjebO(My'LJxTj2j:I/:)`&eyf4:)OMA'A wZI3A@R iJl09cagP.vSqPa@Y]na&PjdVWGddLjj2I6+ 6ZNOll*30KO-4: v] Parking is free everywhere on Okaloosa Island. The county's public schools come under the Okaloosa County School District. vE>c!|},V@(a?Dk;kkSJjw_Su h&}/^r: fZ Crestview, FL 32536 Jennifer Adams, Director Visitors enjoy pristine beaches, Gulf-to-Table seafood, abundant watersport activities, nature trails and campgrounds, numerous attractions, festivals and events designed to thrill all ages. Drive two traffic lights, turn left on Santa Rosa Boulevard and go to the end of the road. WebOkaloosa became the 52nd county in Florida on September 7, 1915, and was created from parts of Santa Rosa and Walton Counties. (2011). Escambia County purchased all of Santa Rosa Island, except Fort Pickens, from the War Department on April 19, 1929, for $10,000. In 1946, Congress abolished the Santa Rosa National Monument. For moreinformation on the SunPass Frequent Customer Rebate Program, Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Florida Department of Economic Opportunitys Special District Accountability Program. WebThe last of three county-owned buildings on Okaloosa Island was torn down on May 31, 1995. WebThe quickest way to Destin and the beaches of Okaloosa County and South Walton is the Mid-Bay Bridge across Choctawhatchee Bay. Okaloosa pioneers gathered often to exchange ideas, goods and news. Weboriginal lease of Navarre Beach by Santa Rosa County from Escambia County (1956); excerpts from the 1970 Annual Report of the Okaloosa Island Authority; Chapter 75-456 House Bill No. Whether taking place along the sugar-white sand beaches, out on the crystal-clear Gulf waters, or tucked away along a secluded nature trail, these adventures include dolphin excursions, charter fishing, eFoil lessons, snorkeling, camping, hiking, and more. The Boardwalk and Beasley Park are probably Okaloosa Countys most popular public beach areas, Kisela said. As of the 2020 census, the population was 211,668. WebOkaloosa Beginnings Northwest Florida was an untamed wilderness and after the Civil War it became home to a handful of hardy homesteaders. This guide is all about the beach areas: the beaches, access points, parking, wildlife, activities, sand and water, beachfront area, shelling, and anything related to being on the beach! ;4\#|SI"7?|{]kMCl?})[ r}pR9h}~OcU|:FvIyu/qgZ}V7FfoiY View our scrapbook of historic photographs. Coastal fishermen would take their haul to Pensacola by boat, and then loaded onto trains. (mI9;{eVwe tQ2}sp2mzLmXIy(72(S;knRs-yl@#5wDG7pJg((YFl*&keanDnMmmgouuevGEpu1(Elq>@RF$}AH,0Q22V #^al6J#lel8l5(Hbo1XMVr?I-ccGr!!$Kxr?rd-4\IM] oCcqSJR\6hp'&nRiP|?yCfE1]+N`(e2z> AO6JPs?nk_>}%4xW2n5*hmsO0d`yvi vSwwvFy07g/UZ>Na!M!&Vyk@}W%'w6@xmr2V. An authentic local recommendation - Tips onthe best time of day to travel - Maybe just a smile. Promote tourism sales and increase overall visitation through marketing and advertising of our beautiful area to the outside world, generating a maximum return on investment for the local economy. Fitting, because many residents today began as a tourist! Be respectful of other beachgoers when choosing a location for surf fishing. WebOkaloosa Island Attractions. Since opening in June 1993, the Mid-Bay Bridge has served as an integral part of our north-south highway system in Northwest Florida. Okaloosa County Administration Building The purpose of Okaloosa County Government is to be responsive to citizens in providing an appropriate level YY9(MmaeaPf9:rPNcU+KPV-C,@*l0^A@j\im0,AUe!%[rs69yjb99 The P&A railroad was chartered and completed by William Chipley and ran between Pensacola and Jacksonville. In 1953, Okaloosa Island Authority was created as an instrumentality of the Okaloosa County to administer that portion of Santa Rosa Island owned by Okaloosa County. Dolphin watching is particularly good during late spring/early summer and they are more active in the morning and late afternoon hours. The median age was 36 years. 800-322-3319 The small communities that grew around the lumber and turpentine camps found themselves more mobile and had better access to large stands of virgin timber and pine. In 1939, the Santa Rosa National Monument was proclaimed by President Roosevelt. Okaloosa County is included in the Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL Metropolitan Statistical Area. #Q, Special thanks to Heritage Museum Association for the use of the pictures. All businesses must be located in Florida to be included. These resourceful settlers made ends meet by fishing, hunting, and trading. The railroad proved its worth as a reliable and efficient means of moving local commodities to market in a short period of time. 2023, Okaloosa Island Fire Dept. ]D Call 850-689-5050 or 850-423-1542for all departments. Click here for our Complete Real Estate and Accommodation Guide to Fort Walton Beach. On August 1, 2017 the Board of County Commissioners adopted Resolution 17-123 which defined the new process for Leasehold Conversions. The compromise solution would protect Okaloosa Island beaches, according to David and Rebecca Sherry and John Donovan, the managing partners of the Condominium Alliance. If you were looking for your slice of heaven, thats where youd go, he said. In 1963, a new quitclaim deed was presented to the island authority. August 14, 2021 Sea Turtle season runs from Mayto October and is the perfect time to go on a turtle walk with volunteers who teach the respect for these immense creatures. Lying along the Florida Panhandle on the 24 mile stretch of the Santa Rosa Barrier Island between Navarre Beach, Florida and Destin Beach, Florida, Okaloosa Island is a family oriented destination that offers gorgeous beaches and options for everyone. Whether taking place along the sugar-white sand beaches, out on the crystal-clear Gulf waters, or tucked away along a secluded nature trail, these adventures include dolphin excursions, charter fishing, eFoil lessons, snorkeling, camping, hiking, and more. Coordinates: .mw-parser-output .geo-default,.mw-parser-output .geo-dms,.mw-parser-output .geo-dec{display:inline}.mw-parser-output .geo-nondefault,.mw-parser-output .geo-multi-punct{display:none}.mw-parser-output .longitude,.mw-parser-output .latitude{white-space:nowrap}304115N 863533W / 30.68750N 86.59250W / 30.68750; -86.59250. Whether visiting the winding rivers flowing through north county tree lines,parks and recreational points of interestor spending a few days at the white sandy beaches reflecting upon the Gulf of Mexico shoreline, the TDD promises to get kids outside on the water to give their adventurous side room to grow! In 1975, legislation was passed by the state of Florida that abolished the Okaloosa Island Authority and transferred all duties to Okaloosa County. Within the 2010 census, 33.10% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.20% were married couples living together, 10.20% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.80% were non-families. [5] Fort Walton Beach and three United States Air Force bases, (Duke Field in the North and Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field are in the south). The very formation of the 45 mile (some say 48 mile) long barrier island from Pensacola The island stretch along the west side of the pier lined with condominiums has a large retirement population and features a more relaxed less touristy feel, while the pier and boardwalk attract families with attractions geared toward younger children. This transaction removed all of the restrictions on the property except for a 75-foot aerial easement. That same year Fort Walton changed its name to Fort Walton Beach to take advantage of the nearby beach acquisition and upcoming tourist trade. According to the 2010 census, the population was spread out, with 24.70% under the age of 18, 9.60% from 18 to 24, 31.10% from 25 to 44, 22.40% from 45 to 64, and 12.10% who were 65 years of age or older. WebOn July 8, 1950 the federal government conveyed an 875-acre (3.54 km 2) parcel of Santa Rosa Island with 3 miles (4.8 km) of Gulf frontage to Okaloosa County. That three miles stretch and only that three-mile stretch is Okaloosa Island. Why is tourism important for Okaloosa county? The paths that run across the island toward its public beach accesses were envisioned long ago as a link between the Gulf of Mexico and Santa Rosa Sound, said Jerry Melvin, a local leader who recently had one of the accesses named after him. The 1.3-acre (0.53 ha) tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold. In 1953, Okaloosa Island Authority was created as an instrumentality of the Okaloosa County to administer that portion of Santa Rosa Island owned by Okaloosa County. The buildings had originally housed the Okaloosa Island Authority and more recently the Okaloosa County Council on Aging. Sign up forour monthly enewsletterto stay up to date on what's happening in Florida, upcoming events and special deals. Shelling along the waters edge is a favorite pasttime and there are always shells to be found. That year the Okaloosa County Commission allowed leaseholders to obtain fee simple title to their property. These spots are the perfect place to head to the gorgeous beaches. Okaloosa Island was developed under the guidance of the Okaloosa Island Authority, which in the 1950s was called upon to devise a master plan for a growing community. It doesnt bother us, Doucette said of the long rows of umbrellas. As of the 2020 United States census, there were 211,668 people, 79,235 households, and 51,719 families residing in the county. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.50 males. ;styq+1 9|+B?ze^!d}h9_'?8NpkEZNzE#k=r/i~:3W39ZzU_Vs$@HDL(bN[sxD:g],krS;,#rK/w- Xp^#^.X==NG_K=xfIQ~h#>w bee X==t To the east of the pier is the Gulf Islands National Seashore area with an access point at John Beasley Park. The remainder of Okaloosa County (recently expanded) "Expansion Area" will collect and remit at the rate of 4%. It Was Only Yesterday Organization: Ledby a Tourism Director and aConvention Center Manager,ateam of experienced and qualified staffperform the mission of the Tourist Development Council (TDC). WebOriginally, land on Okaloosa Island was "leased" from the Okaloosa Island Authority. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Visit, Operation of Visitor Welcome Centers, Convention Center, and Film Commission, Beach safety and funding of the Beach Safety Life Saving Program (funding of beach lifeguards) Click, Research and evaluation of the success of all programs and local economy, Protection and improvementsto the natural environment through funding of the artificial reef program, public beach access parks, beach trash removal, beach restoration improvements, Sea Turtle Conservation. We are honored to serve, Thank you for your support! Copyright 2015 Okaloosa County, Florida. endstream endobj 1269 0 obj <>stream Hispanics/Latinos can be of any race. Okaloosa Beginnings 11.3% of the population were below the poverty line. To help make it easier than ever to discover these experiences, the destination introduced Little Adventures, new, bite-sized challenges that encourage families to get outside, learn something new, and get out of their comfort zones. 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