OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — Okaloosa County officials are thanking Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet for approving the purchase of waterfront property in Destin, ensuring the land remains open for public use rather than private development.
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According to the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), the state’s investment preserves a one-of-a-kind stretch of Destin’s waterfront that will now expand public parkland by roughly 33 percent.
The newly acquired parcel is connected to Gulf Shore Drive and features a protective seawall, an improved roadway and parking access, and full utility connections.
“Thank you, Governor DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet, for recognizing the tremendous value of this land and approving an investment that will expand public access of the coastline for Floridians,” said BOCC Chairman Paul Mixon.
“The state recognized what a unique opportunity this was—to purchase land on our state’s one-of-a-kind coast for a new state park—and they took action with Floridians in mind.”
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The four-acre site is situated adjacent to several waterfront condominiums near the East Pass, an area of Destin where private development has experienced rapid growth in recent years. The parcel was previously under contract for a high-density residential project that would have added another large condo complex to the harbor skyline.
“This purchase represents a strategic investment in our community’s future,” said Okaloosa County Commissioner Drew Palmer (District 5).
“It protects public access to a rare stretch of waterfront that would otherwise be lost to private development, preserves one of the most iconic views along our coastline, and ensures lasting benefits for Destin, Okaloosa County, and generations to come.”
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The land, appraised by state-certified professionals, was approved for acquisition by the Florida Governor and Cabinet on October 14, 2025. Okaloosa County pledged $5 million toward the purchase and will help manage the property in coordination with state agencies.
According to published reports, the purchase price was approximately $83.3 million, making it one of the most significant state land preservation investments in recent Florida history.
The site features a 53-slip marina that will now be open to the public, rather than being limited to private residents.
The newly acquired parcel is expected to connect with existing public access points near Norriego Point, expanding opportunities for recreation, boating, and tourism while protecting one of Destin’s most visible and valuable coastal spaces.
The property will be developed as a new state park in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Okaloosa County.
