Santa Claus relaxing on a wooden beach chair on white sand, reading a card while surrounded by blue and yellow beach umbrellas.

Where Holiday Magic
Meets Gulf-Front Serenity

Welcome to Winter WonderIsland

Celebrate the season with coastal charm as we transform the resort into a festive seaside escape filled with twinkling lights, seasonal flavors, and moments made for memory-making. From November 28 to January 5, families can capture the joy of the season with our fun holiday happenings, letters to the North Pole, and a visit to the resort’s dazzling holiday displays, while themed cocktails, food truck favorites, and live entertainment keep spirits bright. With the sparkle of the Gulf as its backdrop, Winter WonderIsland offers a coastal twist on classic holiday traditions—inviting guests and locals to celebrate, connect, and make the most of the magic.

A cozy winter lounge setup inside a glass structure, featuring a tabletop fire bowl, a brown leather sofa, and chairs covered in red buffalo plaid blankets.

Cozy Winter Chalets

Relax in a luxurious coastal winter chalet, featuring a tabletop fire pit, s’mores and hot cocoa kits, and dedicated chalet concierge service.

Reserve Your Chalet

Low-angle action shot of people playing curling on a synthetic ice rink, focusing on hands gripping the handles of red curling stones.

Shoreside Curling

Feel the thrill of friendly competition as you gather for an exhilarating game of shoreside curling. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or first-time player, this unique winter sport offers fun for the whole family.

Walk-up reservation only at Beach Bar starting November 28th. First come, first serve!

A heartwarming photo of Santa Claus hugging a smiling young girl in a blue and white dress in front of a lit Christmas tree.

Breakfast with Santa

Get into the holiday spirit with a delightful breakfast buffet on December 13 from 11 AM to 1 PM, complete with special story time with Santa, cookie decorating, and plenty of opportunities to take memorable photos with the big guy himself!

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A large sand sculpture of a Christmas tree decorated with red ornaments and a Santa hat, featuring

Beachy Little Christmas

Celebrate the season Gulf side at The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach’s annual Beachy Little Christmas on Saturday, December 13, from 12 PM to 4 PM! Enjoy live music, holiday crafts, and shop local vendors. Capture magical moments with Misty the Mermaid, and join in the fun with Christmas-themed sandcastle building on the beach. Come for the holiday spirit, stay for the fun, and make unforgettable seaside memories!

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A playful holiday photo of the Grinch in a Santa suit sitting on a vintage sofa, high-fiving two smiling children who have their faces painted green.

Cookies & Crafts with The Grump

The Emerald Coast’s favorite Christmas grouch with a big heart is back! Enjoy a festive afternoon of holiday crafts, cookie decorating, face painting, and Whoville hair on December 20-21 from 12 PM to 3 PM.

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A festive white mug filled with hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream, crushed peppermint, and a candy cane, sitting on a wooden board with scattered marshmallows.

Winter Experiences

With everything from a hot cocoa bar to live music, holiday movies, fire pits, crafts, and more! Unwrap an array of seasonal experiences at The Island Resort.

Calendar of Events