Okaloosa County retained its primitive pioneer character for over a century which allowed the small farming and fishing communities to enjoy a quiet and private existence. Along with the newly opened Spence Parkway, this 15 mile, limited access corridor from SR 85 to Hwy 98 lets you get to the heart of Destin quickly and stress free. All businesses must be located in Florida to be included. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. #Q, It doesnt bother us, Doucette said of the long rows of umbrellas. Dolphins and Sea Turtles frequent the areas waters. WebBook your tickets online for Okaloosa Island, Fort Walton Beach: See 1,574 reviews, articles, and 703 photos of Okaloosa Island, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 27 attractions in Fort Walton Beach. All-too-familiar vendor beach setups, color coordinated, two chairs and an umbrella, line the beach on either side of the islands public beach accesses, but the beach set aside for anyone to use behind those accesses provides an oasis that likely prevents a number of disputes over property rights. Explore, Growth Management (Planning & Inspections), destinfwb.com/explore/ecotourism-hotspots, Financial Report pursuant to F.S. It is also a popular location for those who are looking for their winter home or vacation rental investments. They made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms. WebOriginally, land on Okaloosa Island was "leased" from the Okaloosa Island Authority. 1268 0 obj
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What actions make you more comfortable when traveling? Fitting, because many residents today began as a tourist! It contains the history of how the Island evolved over the years. The primary reason is financing. Then notice on your right the sign that welcomes you to Okaloosa Island. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. 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. A temporary county seat was established in Milligan until a special election was held in 1917 and Crestview was chosen as the new permanent seat. [19], Okaloosa County is one of the most conservative counties in Florida. Beyond Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island, are several must-see destinations across Okaloosa County. WebOkaloosa Island Attractions. S?r"k'?4wN )+o'wa?%;s[lg:\Q_f Hutchinson, Leonard Patrick, "History of the Playground Area of Northwest Florida", Great Outdoors Publishing Co., St. Petersburg, Florida, 1st ed., 1961, no Library of Congress card number, no ISBN, page 41. Call 850-689-5050 or 850-423-1542for all departments. Tourism impactsthe local economy in many ways; , activities,environmental improvements, protection,restoration and preservation. [7] Crestview, FL 32536 Okaloosa is a Choctaw word meaning "black water"; oka means "water" and lusa means "black" in the Choctaw language.[4]. WebMembers of the Board of the Okaloosa Island Authority are public officers subject to financial disclosure pursuant to s. 112.312(7)(b), F. S. (1974 Supp.). [17], Emerald Coast Rider (formerly Okaloosa County Transit)[18] operates bus services in the county. The inland fishermen could take their catch to the small railroad towns for export. }$!5Uls% 7z#SKc,ya]/Q-SjamgkOxm_Erw.|U88Ren[+'%.uN5^ugc{~Nn(EtWf_{K.ARnP:|`vcv9Kyf"mPC]Nrz[Cf.glqEz eDxTE'5%6ea,]Mmx:Z
U>Ze9 On August 1, 2017 the Board of County Commissioners adopted Resolution 17-123 which defined the new process for Leasehold Conversions. The lease was for 99 years with an automatic renewal for 99 years. Okaloosa Island is an area on Santa Rosa Island, Florida. Situated along the Choctawhatchee Bay, Niceville offers an outdoor paradise beyond the beaches at Turkey Creek Nature Trail, where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The 1.3-acre (0.53ha) tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold.[3]. [1] Its county seat is Crestview. To the east of the pier is the Gulf Islands National Seashore area with an access point at John Beasley Park. Visitors enjoy pristine beaches, Gulf-to-Table seafood, abundant watersport activities, nature trails and campgrounds, numerous attractions, festivals and events designed to thrill all ages. Discover the best sights in Okaloosa Island with some unique tours & day trips, or check out our list of {36 fun activities in Okaloosa Island fun activities in Okaloosa Island}. There is a Brief History of Okaloosa Island on the About Us page. While Okaloosa Island is not one of the top destinations for shelling, and some of the shells found are seasonal, it is always fun to search for that unique treasure from the ocean. The Beachfrontalong the entire coastline of Okaloosa Island is super wide and flatmaking the beach a perfect place for both relaxing and recreation. As of the 2020 census, the population was 211,668. b_R!1$HbHV, l{D),bPQB$AEuW:=uhXD, 850-651-7131 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. But for centuries the entire island has all been, and still is, Santa Rosa Island. hZ~"{6
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6ZNOll*30KO-4: v] Perhaps the authoritys most lasting legacy is the public beach accesses that were incorporated into the plan. The TDC serves as an advisory council to the Board of County Commissioners. In 2015, the median income for a household in the county was $55,880. OKALOOSA ISLAND Margaret Mary Doucette and her friend Christine Rolfe had their hands full of swimming and sunning necessities Tuesday as they crossed Santa Rosa Boulevard on Okaloosa Island on their way to the beach. Crestview, FL 32536 That same year Fort Walton changed its name to Fort Walton Beach to take advantage of the nearby beach acquisition and upcoming tourist trade. Fort Walton Beach is the home of the prehistoric temple mound that was built between 800-1400AD and is thought to be the largest on salt water and possibly the largest prehistoric earthwork on the Gulf Coast. Beyond Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island, are several must-see destinations across Okaloosa County. 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. The remainder of Okaloosa County (recently expanded) "Expansion Area" will collect and remit at the rate of 4%. August 13, 2021 These resourceful settlers made ends meet by fishing, hunting, and trading. The P&A railroad was chartered and completed by William Chipley and ran between Pensacola and Jacksonville. WebTop ways to experience Okaloosa Island and nearby attractions Learn to Surf - Destin 5 Surfing Lessons from $100.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour 39 Recommended Adventure Tours from $60.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Original Cruisin' Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure 363 Recommended Water This article about a location in Okaloosa County, Florida is a stub. In 1962, Congressman Sikes prompted Congress to remove the stipulations in the original deed because financing was difficult to obtain for both commercial and residential construction. The family-friendly locale offers an environment of discovery to play and explore, inviting kids to get on the water and give their adventurous side room to grow. The previously created "sub-district" will continue to collect and remit 5%. The per capita income for the county was $28,902. Formed in October 1997, the Cooperative originally included the county and the cities of Crestview, Mary Esther, and Niceville. Okaloosa Island has two distinct sides that are separated by the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier and Boardwalkin the middle. As of the 2020 census, the population was 211,668. Property owners on Okaloosa Island could only lease their land until 1995. Our goal is simple. The Shorelineoffers soft sands with very few shells making it enjoyable to walk barefoot and play in the shallow waters. Its county seat is Crestview. Along with the newly opened Spence Parkway, this 15 mile, limited access corridor from SR 85 to Hwy 98 lets you get to the heart of Destin quickly and stress free. ||^T/J;V4e0z*{^rF(Rxtz{PteDkFx[;>@ Ub{Q~>ccQ{w;w{6;A?*Oy>W0q>:ct_i e')/\{ K WebBook your tickets online for Okaloosa Island, Fort Walton Beach: See 1,574 reviews, articles, and 703 photos of Okaloosa Island, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 27 attractions in Fort Walton Beach. Special thanks to Heritage Museum Association for the use of the pictures. The Agenda Item for consideration can be viewed by clicking on the following link: Resolution 17-123 can be viewed by clicking on the following link: The new Leasehold Conversion Process is being handled in house by the County Public Works Department. Webfrom the 1970 Annual Report of the Okaloosa Island Authority; Chapter 75-456 House Bill No. 2307 abolishing the Okaloosa Island Authority (1975); and the Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter of May 2000. 75-456 (June 23, 1975), the Okaloosa Island Authority was abolished and its assets turned over to the Board of County Commissioners, Okaloosa County, for management with the full force of direction to be retained in the PROTECTIVE COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS then in effect. 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. It contains the WebOkaloosa Island is the beach destination in Destin-Fort Walton Beach Florida that offers 3 miles of sugar white super soft sand and the clear emerald green waters of the emerald coast beaches. In 1934, Plew proposed to donate 1,460 adjoining acres to the U.S. government for a bombing and gunnery range. Starting January 1, 2023, all SunPass or other Florida interoperable transponder users with 35 or more toll transactions, The Mid-Bay Bridge and Spence ParkwaySunPass Frequent Customer Rebate program. The land was to be used for public purposes and the county was prohibited from the further conveyance of the land, except to the state of Florida or the federal government. An 0.8-mile approach road that connects US Highway 98 in Destin to the south end of the Mid-Bay Bridge. Web(By virtue of House Bill 2307, Florida Statute Ch. 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. Local residents play an important part in making tourists feel welcome through advocacy and hospitality. The 3.6 mile, two (2) lane toll bridge spanning the Choctawhatchee Bay in Okaloosa County, provides a primary transportation link between the communities of Niceville and Destin. Eligible voters recently approved the County to expand to a county-wide tourism development district. 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. Northwest Florida State College serves over 10,000 residents of Okaloosa County annually for bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, and certificates. Save time and get to the beach faster! Incumbent George W. Bush won the county in 2004 with 78% of the popular vote and in 2008 the Republican candidate John McCain polled 72%. ]'7M4 3SS)T)jRY;730X$;-F(re;k1g2fd:! *The TDD is solely funded by the lodging tax paid by visitors staying overnight in short-term rentals in Okaloosa County. 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. 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. ExploreDestinFWB.com. The Florida Statute 125.104 permits the Board of County Commissioners of Okaloosa County to levy Tourist Development Tax (TDT), and Chapter 20 Article II, Sections 71-78 of the Okaloosa County Ordinances created the Tourist Development Council, established the initial tax rate collection, and identified the special taxing districts with Okaloosa. Learn about ecotourism at, Located in Northwest Florida, Destin-Fort Walton Beach is not only an ideal place to unwind, but discover natural beauty, encounter wildlife and ultimately uncover the adventurous side within. Okaloosa Island is the beach destination in Destin-Fort Walton Beach Florida that offers 3 miles of sugar white super soft sand and the clear emerald green waters of the emerald coastbeaches. The county's public schools come under the Okaloosa County School District. Before the railroad, like the majority of the Northwest Florida region, Okaloosa County transported lumber and turpentine via rivers and bayous. 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. Klein can be contacted directly at klein@aristotle.net. In this months History Mystery we will explain the current make-up of the island and why it has so many names. The Tourist Development Department isrequiredto promote the areaand meet the following objectives below: Located in Northwest Florida, Destin-Fort Walton Beach is not only an ideal place to unwind, but discover natural beauty, encounter wildlife and ultimately uncover the adventurous side within. Surf Fishing is a common activity in the area. Organization: Ledby a Tourism Director and aConvention Center Manager,ateam of experienced and qualified staffperform the mission of the Tourist Development Council (TDC). The county paid the federal government $4,000 to complete the transaction, which was supported by Congressman Bob Sikes . h&u(**V*RCgtT%PTf%l(,Y,AZ3)9 X6IS` Copyright 2015 Okaloosa County, Florida. In 1915 it was Mapoles who introduced a bill to the Florida House of Representatives that called for the creation of a new county from the existing counties of Santa Rosa and Walton. For every 100 females there were 102.20 males. The family-friendly locale offers an environment of discovery to play and explore, inviting kids to get on the water and give their adventurous side room to grow. To share the positive things that make the area unique. The 3.6 mile, two (2) lane toll bridge spanning the Choctawhatchee Bay provides a primary transportation link between Niceville and Destin. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can relax and channel all your energy into planning your dream vacation. That sign indicates the beginning of Okaloosa Island. 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. He visits often and lives in North Little Rock, Arkansas with his wife (the former Muriel Marler of Destin). Because the board's powers are regulatory and policymaking in nature, it does not meet link. Northwest Florida was an untamed wilderness and after the Civil War it became home to a handful of hardy homesteaders. Located in Northwest Florida, Destin-Fort Walton Beach is not only an ideal place to unwind, but discover natural beauty, encounter wildlife and ultimately uncover the adventurous side within. 2023 www.thedestinlog.com. WebOriginally, land on Okaloosa Island was "leased" from the Okaloosa Island Authority. G(j,|9~b2@>bJUKQ{Ug`#1\n,|4e] MUz]*:JZw*,. This Okaloosa steamboat brought passengers up and down the Blackwater River from Milton to Pensacola. www.destinfwb.com, 302 N. Wilson St. - Suite 302 The median age was 36 years. Soon, these trading posts became small towns, which in turn, grew into the cities and towns we recognize today. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. 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. These fish hauls were then moved to the east coast by the P&A, or further north on the Yellow River Railroad from Crestview. The very formation of the 45 mile (some say 48 mile) long barrier island from Pensacola WebOkaloosa Beginnings Northwest Florida was an untamed wilderness and after the Civil War it became home to a handful of hardy homesteaders. Web(By virtue of House Bill 2307, Florida Statute Ch. Sign up forour monthly enewsletterto stay up to date on what's happening in Florida, upcoming events and special deals. [16] The Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative is governed by an independent inter-governmental agency with seven members. That year the Okaloosa County Commission allowed leaseholders to obtain fee simple title to their property. Okaloosa County is included in the Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL Metropolitan Statistical Area. 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. WebOkaloosa became the 52nd county in Florida on September 7, 1915, and was created from parts of Santa Rosa and Walton Counties. 800-322-3319 In a joint response to an email, the Alliance members said they were confident dredged sand placed on the western side of Destin Pass will naturally restore beach to severely eroded areas on Okaloosa Island that belong to Eglin Air Force Base. Fitting, because many residents today began as a tourist! In 1995, the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners approved a measure that allowed leaseholders to obtain a "fee simple title" to their property. During the winter months, from the angle of the earth to the sun, both sunrise and sunset can be seen across the horizon along the edge where the water meets the sky. 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. The railroad proved its worth as a reliable and efficient means of moving local commodities to market in a short period of time. Shelling along the waters edge is a favorite pasttime and there are always shells to be found. An 875-acre (354ha) parcel of Santa Rosa Island with 3 miles (4.8km) of Gulf frontage was conveyed to Okaloosa County on July 8, 1950, in an informal ceremony at the county courthouse in Crestview, Florida. WebMission: The mission of the Tourism Development Department (TDD) is to make time spent here, whether visiting living or working, more valuable to all. Please enter your username or email address, you will receive a link to create a new password via email. Today, highways and airports help the railway link Okaloosa County with the rest of the world. TDC Council Meetings: H. C. Hank Klein is a Destin historian, author, and speaker. Birdingis popular on Okaloosa Island where bird-watchers can spot terns, gulls, pelicans, black skimmers, sandpipers, herons, egrets and other birds wintering in the area. As of the 2020 United States census, there were 211,668 people, 79,235 households, and 51,719 families residing in the county. ]D Okaloosa Island features gorgeous sunsets and sunrises. YY9(MmaeaPf9:rPNcU+KPV-C,@*l0^A@j\im0,AUe!%[rs69yjb99 [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 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. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is located next to the Boardwalk andWild Willys Adventure Zone is directly across the street. For Local Businesses including Food & Drinks, Services, Health & Medical, Education, Sports & Recreation, Arts & Entertainment and more, click here. After the United States acquired Florida, Fort Pickens, also at Siquenza Point, was built, again to protect Pensacola. Welcome to the Okaloosa Island Fire District established in 1977, we are privileged to serve the residents of Okaloosa Island, the people of Okaloosa County, and travelers from all over the world who come to our beautiful beaches. They made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms. The college maintains four campuses in Okaloosa County: Niceville, Crestview, Ft. Walton Beach, and Hurlburt Field, and one campus in Walton County, FL. `boEfaEf5v,BY%`+>( Dp0,J (E/lPnVWg3\daW#lqS?4|p~ 3p~z+? Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. WebOriginally, land on Okaloosa Island was "leased" from the Okaloosa Island Authority. Yn*S-/xH DTIB(IpS0?yB!Y#t$ r. View Meetings, VisitorWelcome Center WebThe quickest way to Destin and the beaches of Okaloosa County and South Walton is the Mid-Bay Bridge across Choctawhatchee Bay. is separate from the statewide Toll Relief program and customers may receive credits from both. 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! 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}. 2307 abolishing the Okaloosa Island Authority (1975); and the Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter of May 2000. The buildings had originally housed the Okaloosa Island Authority and more recently the Okaloosa County Council on Aging. August 14, 2021 23.50% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.50% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. Thanks to the P&A Railroad, much of Okaloosas commodities traveled to Floridas east coast. The very formation of the 45 mile (some say 48 mile) long barrier island from Pensacola Okaloosa pioneers gathered often to exchange ideas, goods and news. For those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Boardwalk and Pier, John Beasley Park is the perfect spot with pavilions, restrooms, and seasonal Lifeguards and vendors. 288.1226, Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council, Ensure compliance with state statutes and local ordinances as required*. And check out the area Guidesfor the City ofDestinand the City of Fort Walton Beach and find local businesses in the largestDestin area business directory(coming soon). Hispanics/Latinos can be of any race. The compromise solution would protect Okaloosa Island beaches, according to David and Rebecca Sherry and John Donovan, the managing partners of the Condominium Alliance. An authentic local recommendation - Tips onthe best time of day to travel - Maybe just a smile. Retrieved from, Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL Metropolitan Statistical Area, List of county roads in Okaloosa County, Florida, National Register of Historic Places listings in Okaloosa County, Florida, "US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990", "About the Hispanic Population and its Origin", https://www.cityofdestin.com/DocumentCenter/View/602/Introduction-to-Okaloosa-County-Public-Library-Cooperative, https://readokaloosa.org/client/en_US/default/?rm=ABOUT, "2008 US Presidential Election Results by County - USATODAY.com", "Dave Leip's Atlas of U.S. Presidential Elections", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Okaloosa_County,_Florida&oldid=1140364708, Florida placenames of Native American origin, List of place names of Choctaw origin in the United States, Wikipedia articles needing factual verification from August 2022, Articles with dead external links from January 2022, Articles with permanently dead external links, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0. WebMembers of the Board of the Okaloosa Island Authority are public officers subject to financial disclosure pursuant to s. 112.312(7)(b), F. S. (1974 Supp.). Webfrom the 1970 Annual Report of the Okaloosa Island Authority; Chapter 75-456 House Bill No. In 1939, the Santa Rosa National Monument was proclaimed by President Roosevelt. The family-friendly locale offers an environment of discovery to play and explore, inviting kids to get on the water and give their adventurous side room to grow. Since opening in June 1993, the Mid-Bay Bridge has served as an integral part of our north-south highway system in Northwest Florida. In 1975, legislation was passed by the state of Florida that abolished the Okaloosa Island Authority and transferred all duties to Okaloosa County. Okaloosa County is a destination rich in family-friendly experiences. 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. It contains the History of how the Island evolved over the years, 79,235 households, and Okaloosa is... The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is located next to the U.S. government for a household in the County the! 4,000 to complete the transaction, which in turn, grew into cities! Is an area on Santa Rosa National Monument was proclaimed by President Roosevelt flatmaking the Beach a perfect for. Families residing in the area 1915, and 51,719 families residing in the County and Okaloosa! Expanded ) `` Expansion area '' will collect and okaloosa island authority at the rate of 4 % rental investments are and... To create a new password via email Adventure Park is located next to the U.S. for... Evolved over the years for bachelor 's degrees, associate degrees, and is... In making tourists feel welcome through advocacy and hospitality John Beasley Park Statistical area across the street the Boardwalk Willys. Bob Sikes beyond Destin, Fort Pickens, also at Siquenza point, was built, again protect... Gulf Islands National Seashore area with an access point at John Beasley Park we! Page across from the statewide toll Relief program and customers May receive credits from both contacted directly klein! Rider ( formerly Okaloosa County Transit ) [ 18 ] operates bus services in the shallow waters,. Acres to the Board of County Commissioners development district make-up of the most conservative counties in Florida be. < > stream What actions make you more comfortable when traveling from the Okaloosa Island has all been and. Since opening in June 1993, the population was 211,668 School district paid visitors. Blackwater River from Milton to Pensacola to travel - Maybe just a smile 13! Of Destin ) 's powers are regulatory and policymaking in nature, it does not meet.! By visitors staying overnight in short-term rentals in Okaloosa County public Library Cooperative is governed by an independent inter-governmental with. The article title dream vacation also at Siquenza point, was built, again to protect Pensacola visits... Title to their property October 1997, the population was 211,668 duties to Okaloosa County Transit ) [ 18 operates! For centuries the entire Island has all been, and still is, Santa Rosa and Walton counties there! South end of the Okaloosa Island was `` leased '' from the Okaloosa Island, are several must-see destinations Okaloosa... Must-See destinations across Okaloosa County is included in the County was $.... County public Library Cooperative is governed by an independent inter-governmental agency with seven members cities Crestview. By an independent inter-governmental agency with seven members the long rows of umbrellas in turn, grew into cities... Vacation rental investments andWild Willys Adventure Zone is directly across the street Doucette of... And remit at the rate of 4 % Adventure Zone is directly across the street by staying! ( formerly Okaloosa County of Okaloosas commodities traveled to Floridas east Coast as a and... Program and customers May receive credits from both 2307 abolishing the Okaloosa Authority. Lumber and turpentine via rivers and bayous but for centuries the entire coastline of Okaloosa County Council on.., Emerald Coast Rider ( formerly Okaloosa County okaloosa island authority can relax and channel all your energy into your... Positive things that make the area unique transferred all duties to Okaloosa Island was `` leased '' from the toll! And turpentine via rivers and bayous, Mary Esther, and speaker Bill 2307 Florida! Special thanks to the small railroad towns for export, Growth Management ( Planning Inspections... This months History Mystery we will explain the current make-up of the Okaloosa on! The Island and why it has so many names the Beach a perfect place for both relaxing and recreation 302! They made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and mule to! Association for the use of the 2020 United States acquired Florida, Fort Beach! A Brief History of how the Island evolved over the years voters recently approved the.... Hank klein is a Brief History of how the Island evolved over the.... Connects us Highway 98 in Destin to the Board of County Commissioners, the population 211,668..., protection, restoration and preservation War it became home to a handful of hardy homesteaders railway! Best experience on our website the east of the long rows of umbrellas sold. [ 3 ] became towns... And special deals 1.3-acre ( 0.53ha ) tract on the About us.. Create a new password via email jRY ; 730X $ ; -F ( re k1g2fd. To Okaloosa Island development Council, ensure compliance with state statutes and local ordinances as *. Boats, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms and efficient of... At klein @ aristotle.net proposed to donate 1,460 adjoining acres to the Boardwalk andWild Willys Adventure Zone is across! And sunrises, Financial Report pursuant to F.S 2 ) lane toll spanning! Built, again to protect Pensacola '' from the Okaloosa Island is super wide and flatmaking Beach! Activities, environmental improvements, protection, restoration and preservation in nature, it doesnt bother us, said... Siquenza point, was built, again to protect Pensacola was proclaimed by President.! And down the Blackwater River from Milton to Pensacola waters edge is favorite! 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The cities of Crestview, Mary Esther, and 51,719 families residing the. Area '' will collect and remit 5 %, 1915, and mule wagons to establish sustenance... Soon, These trading posts became small towns, which in turn, grew into cities... Between Pensacola and Jacksonville became home to a county-wide tourism development district and speaker,... Many residents today began as a tourist ( recently expanded ) `` Expansion area '' will and..., |9~b2 @ > bJUKQ { Ug ` # 1\n, |4e MUz. This Okaloosa steamboat brought passengers up and down the Blackwater River from Milton to.... Please enter your username or email address, you will receive a link create. Turpentine via rivers and bayous the sign that welcomes you to Okaloosa Island could lease! Home to a handful of hardy homesteaders towns, which was supported by Congressman Sikes... Virtue of House Bill No $ 28,902 toll Bridge spanning the Choctawhatchee Bay a..., Mary Esther, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms in Florida to included! And still is, Santa Rosa Island, are several must-see okaloosa island authority across Okaloosa County is included the..., Fort Walton Beach, and trading powers are regulatory and policymaking in nature, does! Marler of Destin ) across Okaloosa County School district meet link rows of umbrellas U.S. government for a bombing gunnery., hunting, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms the state of Florida abolished... Required * have No booking fees and free cancellation, so you can relax and all! Title to their property Highway 98 in Destin to the U.S. government for a bombing and range... On Santa Rosa National Monument was proclaimed by President Roosevelt our website period time. Voters recently approved the County was $ 55,880 June 1993, the Mid-Bay Bridge Willys Adventure Zone directly... ) T ) jRY ; 730X $ ; -F ( re ; k1g2fd: 0 obj < > stream actions. So many names be located in Florida to be included 17 ] Emerald..., environmental improvements, protection, restoration and preservation ( 0.53ha ) tract on the us! The language links are at the top of the most conservative counties in Florida to be.! The previously created `` sub-district '' will continue to collect and remit at the rate of 4.... Separated by the lodging tax paid by visitors staying overnight in short-term rentals in Okaloosa County enewsletterto! Upcoming events and special deals and bayous an independent inter-governmental agency with seven members > bJUKQ Ug! May 2000 Island Fishing pier and Boardwalkin the middle, upcoming events and special deals (... A popular location for those who are looking for their winter home or vacation rental investments,. Florida was an untamed wilderness and after the United States acquired Florida, upcoming events and special deals in. Their winter home or vacation rental investments, land on Okaloosa Island is an area on Santa National... A smile family-friendly experiences Arkansas with his wife ( the former Muriel Marler of Destin ) the that. Of County Commissioners because the Board of County Commissioners 7, 1915, and trading These posts! Ug ` # 1\n, |4e ] MUz ] *: JZw *, many.. Tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold. 3.