For families in Baton Rouge looking to combine a winter getaway with holiday magic, The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach is offering an unforgettable experience this season. From November 28, 2025, through January 5, 2026, the resort transforms into Winter WonderIsland, a festive coastal escape filled with twinkling lights, family-friendly activities, and Gulf-front charm.
Guests can cozy up in Coastal Winter Chalets, private spaces that seat up to eight, complete with tabletop fire pits, s’mores kits, hot cocoa, and dedicated cocktail service for adults. Each reservation also includes an hour of curling rink access, perfect for playful family competitions or holiday gatherings with friends.
The resort’s shoreline comes alive with a curling rink, local food trucks, live entertainment, and themed cocktails like the Bah Humbug and Mistletoe Margarita. Families can drop letters to Santa in the lobby’s magical red mailbox, while weekly events include gingerbread house decorating, holiday movie nights, and Hot Chocolate Fridays. Special seasonal highlights include Breakfast with Santa, a Christmas dinner buffet, Cookies & Crafts with The Grump, and a Noon Kids’ Eve Ball Drop on December 31, followed by a midnight champagne toast for adults.
The centerpiece of the season is the fifth annual Beachy Little Christmas: A Sandcastle Spectacular on December 13, featuring sandcastle building, crafts, live music, local vendors, and a meet-and-greet with Misty the Mermaid.
With its coastal charm, festive decorations, and array of activities for all ages, Winter WonderIsland offers Baton Rouge families a chance to celebrate the holidays in a unique seaside setting. A trip to Fort Walton Beach this winter promises both relaxation and seasonal cheer—a perfect way to make lasting family memories by the Gulf. Plus, get ready for our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways—Day 1 features a chance to win a stay at The Island Resort!
