Your guide to settling in on the Emerald Coast, from Fort Walton Beach and Niceville to Destin and 30A.
A note from us
Moving is a lot. New streets, new routines, and a long list of questions: who to call when the AC quits, where to get a good haircut, which beach is worth the drive.
This guide is our way of helping you find your people a little faster. Everything here was chosen by locals, for new neighbors, and every business inside is one we trust.
We’re so glad you’re here.
Porch & Coast
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Your first 30 days
Rules and deadlines can change, so confirm details with your county and the state before you file.
Getting set up
FPL serves most of the coast. CHELCO, a member-owned co-op, serves many northern and rural areas. Your address decides which.
If your home has gas appliances, start service at okaloosagas.com.
Inside city limits, the city usually handles it. Ask about your pickup and recycling days.
Cox is the main cable provider in many neighborhoods. Check which others serve your street.
Okaloosa County schools serve Fort Walton Beach, Niceville and Destin. Walton County schools serve Freeport and 30A. Northwest Florida State College is in Niceville.
HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital in Niceville, HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, and Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast in Miramar Beach.
Coastal home care
Life near the Gulf is wonderful, and it’s a little harder on houses. A few habits keep yours happy.
Need a hand? The trusted local pros in our welcome offers are a good place to start.
Welcome offers
Each of these local businesses has a gift waiting for you. Just mention Porch & Coast or bring the card from your basket.
One business per category, so every offer here is the only one of its kind.
Explore by town
Getting around: The Mid-Bay Bridge (a toll road) is the quickest way from Niceville and Bluewater Bay to Destin and 30A. US-98 gets busy in summer and on weekends, so leave early on beach days.
Bayou sunsets, shady trails and a real small-town feel.
Right next door to Eglin, with history to match.
Room to breathe on the bay, with 30A about 20 minutes south.
Classic beach town, with the Gulf and the Sound both close.
Emerald water, a busy harbor and the famous sandbar.
Coastal dune lakes, bike paths and the prettiest beach towns around.
Markets & libraries
Local produce, Gulf seafood, honey, bread and flowers, most of them all year long.
9 a.m.–1 p.m. · Twin Cities Pavilion, 1053 John Sims Pkwy E
8 a.m.–1 p.m. · Downtown Fort Walton Beach
7 a.m.–2 p.m. · Northwest Florida Fairgrounds. Seasonal.
425 Victory Blvd · Hours change with the season.
9 a.m.–1 p.m. · 600 Grand Boulevard, near Destin
9 a.m.–1 p.m. · Seaside Amphitheater, rain or shine
9 a.m.–1 p.m. · North Barrett Square
Farmers often sell out early, so go in the morning. Hours can change, so check the market’s page before you go.
Free storytimes, crafts and kids’ programs happen every week at libraries across the coast. A library card is free for residents, too.
Times can change, so check each library’s calendar before you go.
Happening this month
Dates come from event organizers and local calendars and can change, so check before you go.
Beach days & storm season
Beach warning flags fly along the whole coast. Check them every time, even on sunny days.
Make a plan before you need one: know your evacuation zone, keep a kit with water, medicine, documents and chargers, and review your insurance. Your neighbors are a great resource too. Ask how they prepare.
A year on the coast
Live music in small venues up and down 30A.
Fort Walton Beach’s pirate parade and fireworks.
Local seafood and music by the harbor.
Niceville’s beloved festival, with music, food and crafts.
Dates change each year, so check event websites before you go.
For military families
With Eglin AFB, Duke Field and Hurlburt Field close by, you’re in good company here.
Your base’s Airman & Family Readiness Center can help with relocation, spouse employment and settling in. Joining a spouses’ club or a neighborhood group is one of the fastest ways to feel at home. And when you need a dentist, a vet or a good AC company, the welcome offers in this guide are a great place to start.
Your base’s School Liaison Officer can help with school enrollment and transfers, and the Panhandle Warrior Partnership connects military families and veterans with local support.
Looking for work? CareerSource Okaloosa Walton (careersourceokaloosawalton.com) offers free job search help, including for military spouses and veterans.
Thank you for your service, and welcome home.
Good to know