According to Expedia’s new Destinations of the Year list, one of the top travel spots in the world is right here in Florida! 🌎
If you’ve got the travel bug and aren’t sure where to go next, how does a trip up to the Emerald Coast in the panhandle sound?
Expedia has released its top 10 trending destinations for 2026, shining a light on places that have captured the hearts of travelers worldwide, and one of them is right here in Florida!
That’s right: Fort Walton Beach has clinched a spot on the global list. Sure, it’s no secret that Florida’s beaches are picture-perfect, but Expedia’s data backs up just how much global attention it is receiving – searches for the Florida destination jumped by 45% in 2025, compared to the previous year.
Fort Walton Beach finds itself alongside other global hotspots like Okinawa, Japan; Savoie, France and Sardinia, Italy. It is one of only two U.S. destinations on the list, the other being Montana’s Big Sky.
Residing in Okaloosa County, on the northwestern part of Florida, this picturesque beach town is known for its sugar-white sand and emerald green waters. Why is the sand so white? Composed of 99% pure quartz crystal, it was delivered by way of the Appalachian River and other waterways, where it was deposited along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.
This Florida spot is great for those looking for a slightly more secluded atmosphere than its Destin neighbor. If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping our busy beaches for somewhere that feels straight out of a postcard, here’s where to go.
Of course, you can take to the relaxing beaches particularly on Okaloosa Island once you’re there. If you’re keen on an outdoor adventures, snorkeling, pier fishing, kayaking and a sunset cruise are popular activities.
If you prefer to see dolphins and other marine mammals, pay a visit to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. The prehistoric-themed Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone also offers a fun family outing with arcade games, go-karts, mini golf and more.
As the town was home to indigenous cultures for many centuries, you can plan a trip to the Indian Temple Mound Museum, which houses thousands of Native American artifacts and a 12-foot-tall mound. Another historical site to visit is the free Air Force Armament Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated to the collection.
The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island also features a lively atmosphere with plenty of beachfront restaurants, live music and vibrant shops that are worth exploring.
Learn more about each of Expedia’s 10 best travel destinations for 2026 here!
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