Help Wanted: Walton County Tourism Department Seeking Executive Director

As Walton County’s tourism industry doubles in size, county leaders debate whether it’s time to bring back a top leadership role to guide the way.
South Walton Filmmakers Highlight Regional Biodiversity at Florida Film Festival Panel

A conservation-themed panel at the Florida Film Festival spotlighted The Paper Bear, an animated film set in Walton County, exploring how storytelling can promote environmental preservation.
Walton County Might Contribute Something to Okaloosa’s SS United States Reef Project. Here’s What They Want in Return:

Walton County is considering contributing $1 million to Okaloosa County’s artificial reef project involving the SS United States ship, but wants to opt out of a separate $1 million marketing contribution; discussions are ongoing with a decision expected in June.
Congratulations! You* Just Bought The Red Lobster In Fort Walton Beach

What’s next for the former Red Lobster in Fort Walton Beach? You* just bought it—here’s what they might do with the prime waterfront property.
Day Tripper Rides Longleaf Greenway Trail

Discover the rugged beauty and peaceful solitude of the Longleaf Greenway Trail in Point Washington State Forest, where hikers and bikers can escape the busy 30A scene for an 8-mile adventure through nature.
Day Tripper: Falling Waters State Park

Falling Waters State Park, located in Chipley, Florida, offers visitors a scenic day trip or weekend getaway with Florida’s tallest waterfall, nature trails, a freshwater lake, and camping facilities.
County Buys Waterfront Property for Tourism Office

Okaloosa County has approved a $4.1 million purchase of the former PNC Bank building for a tourism headquarters, including a boat ramp and waterfront property, with planned security and infrastructure upgrades to address local concerns.
SS United States Arrives in Mobile, Prepares for Artificial Reef Deployment

The SS United States has arrived in Mobile, Alabama, after a 1,800-mile tow from Philadelphia, marking the start of preparations for its transformation into the world’s largest artificial reef off Florida’s Gulf Coast, alongside a planned museum and visitor center.
Sun Belt Basketball Tournament Returns to Pensacola

The Sun Belt Conference Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships return to Pensacola from March 4-10, featuring 14 teams competing for a spot in the NCAA tournament and associated family-friendly events.
SS United States to Depart Philadelphia, Begin Transformation into Artificial Reef

The SS United States will depart Philadelphia on Feb. 17, 2025, for Mobile, Alabama, where it will undergo a year-long preparation to become the world’s largest artificial reef. Once deployed off the Destin-Fort Walton Beach coast, the reef will support marine life and boost diving and fishing tourism.