Waterscape Resort in Fort Walton Beach is one of the Emerald Coast’s premier beachfront destinations, attracting families, couples, and groups looking for a luxury resort experience with the convenience of condominium living. Located at 1110 Santa Rosa Blvd, Fort Walton Beach, FL, this Gulf-front resort is known for its massive multi-level pool complex, lush tropical landscaping, lazy river, and unbeatable access to Okaloosa Island’s pristine sugar-white beaches.
Whether you’re searching for spacious family accommodations, easy beach access, walkability to local attractions, or one of the top pool decks on the entire Gulf Coast, Waterscape Resort Fort Walton Beach Rentals delivers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and coastal beauty. This guide provides an in-depth look at everything visitors should know before booking a stay.
Why Visitors Love Waterscape Resort
Visitors choose Waterscape Resort for several compelling reasons:
A Spectacular Beachfront Location
Situated directly on Okaloosa Island, Waterscape offers immediate access to the Gulf of Mexico and some of the softest, whitest sand in the country. The resort sits along a quieter stretch of Fort Walton Beach, creating the ideal setting for families and relaxation-focused travelers who want the beach without the heavy crowds found in neighboring tourist centers.
A Resort-Style Pool Complex Unlike Anything Nearby
Hands down, the most talked-about feature is Waterscape’s enormous aquatic playground, including:
- A lazy river winding through palm-lined gardens
- A zero-entry pool perfect for toddlers
- A heated upper-level pool
- A breathtaking waterfall feature
- Multiple hot tubs
- Poolside grilling & picnic areas
This pool deck makes Waterscape a favorite among families, as kids can spend entire days exploring its fun zones while parents relax under shaded cabanas.
Spacious Condominium Rentals
- Gulf-view balconies
- Full kitchens
- Laundry in-unit
- Private bedrooms
- Bunk areas for additional sleeping space
This makes the resort feel more like a luxury home than a traditional hotel.
Walkable Location Near Major Attractions
Visitors love that Waterscape is within a 5–10 minute walk of:
- The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
- The Okaloosa Island Pier
- Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
- Beachfront restaurants
- Fishing charter docks
The combination of walkability, resort amenities, and beachfront access makes Waterscape one of the most complete vacation destinations on the Gulf Coast.
Things to Do Near Waterscape Resort
1. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
📍 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL
📏 0.4 miles
A beloved attraction offering dolphin shows, sea lion presentations, alligator feedings, penguin encounters, and immersive marine education. A perfect activity for families right next to the resort.
📏 0.4 miles
A beloved attraction offering dolphin shows, sea lion presentations, alligator feedings, penguin encounters, and immersive marine education. A perfect activity for families right next to the resort.
2. Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier
📍 1030 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL
📏 0.5 miles
Extending nearly 1,300 feet into the Gulf, this pier provides unforgettable opportunities to watch sea turtles, dolphins, and schools of fish. Visitors can rent fishing gear or simply stroll the pier for incredible views.
📏 0.5 miles
Extending nearly 1,300 feet into the Gulf, this pier provides unforgettable opportunities to watch sea turtles, dolphins, and schools of fish. Visitors can rent fishing gear or simply stroll the pier for incredible views.
3. The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island
📍 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL
📏 0.8 miles
A beachfront dining and shopping hub featuring restaurants, live music, boutiques, ice cream shops, volleyball courts, and easy beach access. A must-visit sunset spot.
📏 0.8 miles
A beachfront dining and shopping hub featuring restaurants, live music, boutiques, ice cream shops, volleyball courts, and easy beach access. A must-visit sunset spot.
4. Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
📍 1306 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL
📏 0.7 miles
A family entertainment center offering mini golf, a ropes course, arcade, 4D theater, go-karts, and seasonal attractions.
📏 0.7 miles
A family entertainment center offering mini golf, a ropes course, arcade, 4D theater, go-karts, and seasonal attractions.
5. Downtown Fort Walton Beach – Shopping & Dining District
📍 US-98 through downtown
📏 3.2 miles
Filled with antique shops, local restaurants, breweries, markets, and historic sites, Downtown Fort Walton offers a charming atmosphere and unique shopping away from the beach.
📏 3.2 miles
Filled with antique shops, local restaurants, breweries, markets, and historic sites, Downtown Fort Walton offers a charming atmosphere and unique shopping away from the beach.
6. John Beasley Park
📍 1550 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL
📏 1.3 miles
A beautifully maintained public beach park with covered picnic pavilions, showers, and lifeguards seasonally.
📏 1.3 miles
A beautifully maintained public beach park with covered picnic pavilions, showers, and lifeguards seasonally.
7. Destin Harbor Boardwalk
📍 102 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL
📏 6.4 miles
A lively waterfront district featuring fishing charter docks, parasailing, jet ski rentals, boutiques, zip lines, restaurants, and nightlife.
📏 6.4 miles
A lively waterfront district featuring fishing charter docks, parasailing, jet ski rentals, boutiques, zip lines, restaurants, and nightlife.
Weather Guide for Waterscape Resort – Month-by-Month
Waterscape Resort enjoys classic Gulf Coast weather, offering warm sunshine much of the year and mild seasonal variation.
Winter months (December–February) are mild, with highs in the low to mid-60s and Gulf water temperatures in the low 60s. Visitors during this season enjoy quiet beaches, fishing, nature walks, and exploring local attractions without the summer crowds.
Winter months (December–February) are mild, with highs in the low to mid-60s and Gulf water temperatures in the low 60s. Visitors during this season enjoy quiet beaches, fishing, nature walks, and exploring local attractions without the summer crowds.
Spring (March–May), temperatures rise quickly. March brings highs in the low 70s, April in the upper 70s, and May typically reaches the mid-80s. Gulf water warms from the mid-60s into the mid-70s, and the resort’s pools become lively with families enjoying early-season vacations. Spring offers excellent weather for beachgoing, paddleboarding, visiting the Gulfarium, and exploring the Okaloosa Island Pier.
Summer (June–August) is peak season. Highs sit around 88–92°F, with Gulf waters warming to 82–85°F. Long sunny days dominate, with occasional afternoon showers that pass quickly. The resort’s pools, lazy river, and beachfront fill with visitors who enjoy some of the best beach conditions of the entire year.
Fall (September–November) is one of the best times to visit Waterscape. September offers highs around 88°F with warm water still in the low 80s. By October, highs drop into the upper 70s and water temperatures remain pleasant. November brings comfortable highs in the low 70s and fewer crowds, making fall an ideal season for a relaxing getaway.
Five Closest Restaurants to Waterscape Resort
1. Rockin’ Tacos Grill & Tequila Bar
📍 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE
📏 0.8 miles
Cuisine: Coastal Mexican fusion, rooftop dining, fresh seafood, and margaritas.
📏 0.8 miles
Cuisine: Coastal Mexican fusion, rooftop dining, fresh seafood, and margaritas.
2. The Crab Trap – Fort Walton Beach
📍 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE
📏 0.8 miles
Cuisine: Seafood baskets, Gulf views, casual beachfront dining.
📏 0.8 miles
Cuisine: Seafood baskets, Gulf views, casual beachfront dining.
3. Floyd’s Shrimp House
📍 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE
📏 0.8 miles
Cuisine: Peel-and-eat shrimp, fried seafood, beach bar atmosphere.
📏 0.8 miles
Cuisine: Peel-and-eat shrimp, fried seafood, beach bar atmosphere.
4. AJ’s Oyster Shanty
📍 108 Santa Rosa Blvd
📏 0.3 miles
Cuisine: Oysters, seafood platters, live music, outdoor seating.
📏 0.3 miles
Cuisine: Oysters, seafood platters, live music, outdoor seating.
5. Old Bay Steamer
📍 102 Santa Rosa Blvd
📏 0.2 miles
Cuisine: Steamed seafood, crab legs, shellfish boils; highly popular with locals.
📏 0.2 miles
Cuisine: Steamed seafood, crab legs, shellfish boils; highly popular with locals.
Beach Access at Waterscape Resort
Waterscape Resort provides some of the easiest and most convenient beach access on Okaloosa Island. Guests can:
- Exit the pool deck on the Gulf-facing side of the resort.
- Walk directly over the private boardwalk leading through the dunes.
- Arrive on the sugar-white sand within about 60 seconds.
Waterscape also maintains:
- Seasonal beach chair service
- Umbrella rentals
- Roped-off swim areas
- A beachfront rinse station
Because of the resort’s prime Gulf-front location, many visitors say the beach access is one of Waterscape’s top advantages.
FAQ for Waterscape Resort (10 Questions)
1. What makes Waterscape Resort unique compared to other Fort Walton Beach rentals?
The multi-level pool deck, lazy river, and tropical landscaping set Waterscape apart. It feels like a full resort but with the space and amenities of a condo.
2. Is the lazy river open year-round?
Yes — the lazy river operates year-round, though water temperatures vary by season. The heated upper pool ensures comfortable swimming even during cooler months.
3. How close is Waterscape to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park?
Gulfarium is just 0.4 miles away, about a 7-minute walk.
4. What family activities are located within walking distance?
Gulfarium, the pier, Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone, mini golf, boat rentals, and The Boardwalk are all less than 1 mile away.
5. Can guests walk to restaurants from Waterscape?
Yes — several restaurants are within a 5–10 minute walk, including AJ’s Oyster Shanty, Old Bay Steamer, Crab Trap, and Rockin’ Tacos.
6. Is the beach private?
While the beach is public, Waterscape maintains a designated beachfront area for resort guests with optional chair service.
7. Does Waterscape Resort have parking?
Yes — guests receive garage parking passes. The garage is gated and connected directly to the resort.
8. Is Waterscape a good location for visiting Destin?
Absolutely — Destin is only 6 miles away, making Waterscape a quieter alternative to busy Destin while keeping you close to all its attractions.
9. Are there beachfront rentals available at Waterscape?
Yes — many Waterscape Resort Fort Walton Beach Rentals offer direct Gulf views or ground-floor walkouts close to the beach access.
10. What amenities come with the condo units?
Most units provide full kitchens, washer/dryer, balconies, bunk areas, Wi-Fi, and spacious living areas.
Packing Checklist for Waterscape Resort
Packing Checklist for Waterscape Resort
Beach Essentials
- Sunscreen
- Towels
- Beach chairs (or rent onsite)
- Umbrella or beach tent
- Cooler & drinks
- Sand toys
- Sunglasses & hats
Clothing
- Swimwear
- Light beachwear
- Comfortable sandals
- Evening outfits
- Light jacket
Electronics
- Chargers
- Camera or GoPro
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Bluetooth speaker
Food & Condo Supplies
- Coffee
- Spices & condiments
- Snacks
- Laundry detergent pods
- Dish soap
Optional Items
- Snorkel gear
- Beach wagon
- Fishing gear
- Pool floaties
