Aqua Villa

Aqua Villa is a low-rise condominium building on the Gulf side of Okaloosa Island, on Nautilus Court just off Santa Rosa Boulevard. Built in 1972, the four-story building has only 24 units and sits on more than 230 feet of private beach. Its oceanfront entryway balconies look straight over the sand, and it has long been a familiar name among the island’s smaller vacation-rental buildings.

Rental companies list everything from studios to one-bedroom, two-bedroom and larger condos here, many updated with newer kitchens, impact windows and new air conditioning. Units have full kitchens and Gulf views, and first-floor units sit only steps from the pool and beach. Aqua Villa is one of the few buildings on the island where some units are marketed as pet friendly, with fees set by each manager.

Shared amenities include a seasonally heated pool, a barbecue area, an elevator lobby, coin laundry on each floor and private uncovered parking. Some rental companies offer beach chairs and umbrellas for their guests. The building’s small size keeps the pool and beach area relaxed.

The beach in front of Aqua Villa is the white sand and emerald water of central Okaloosa Island, with neighbors including Sea Dunes, The Palms and the Nautilus. The Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier and the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, with its dolphin and sea lion exhibits, are a few minutes away. Go-karts, mini golf, jet skis and parasailing are available in Destin across the East Pass bridge, along with seafood restaurants around the harbor. Nautilus Court is a short side street off Santa Rosa Boulevard, so the building feels removed from Santa Rosa Boulevard traffic, and it is an easy walk along the water to neighboring buildings at sunset.

Aqua Villa suits budget-minded couples, small families and travelers bringing a pet who want a direct beachfront condo in a small, quiet building. It is a good fit for guests who value the beach itself over resort-style amenities. Because units range widely in size and update level, guests should compare square footage, bedding and pet rules before booking. Sunset Resort Rentals and several other companies manage condos here, alongside owners who rent directly. The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is roughly a half-hour drive, and parking is on site.