Okaloosa County, Florida, is located in the panhandle of the state bordering both Alabama and the Gulf of Mexico. Because of this placement, the county has an ambience that makes this area unique. The county has a population of around 183,000, and the county seat is Crestview. It was originally created from the Santa Rosa and Walton counties.
The county was established in 1915. The borders of the county have remained the same since this time. The name “Okalossa” comes from a Choctaw word that means “black water.” Experts in this native language also say that the word has connotations of beauty. Clearly the original inhabitants, as well as those who live there today, found the land to be a place of beauty, and a pleasant place to live.
The county features some of the loveliest beaches in the state. With blue waters and white sands, it is a perfect vacation spot, as well as a great place to build a dream home. The county also features treasures such as the HarborWalk Marina in Destin. With its rows of boats and quaint architecture, visiting this oceanside haven feels like stepping back in time.
Traveling further inland brings even more surprises. The county is home to the Yellow River which forms a web throughout the area making the land perfect for farming. Many homes are placed along the river, and country lanes meander through the county’s abundant vegetation. From farms to cozy homesteads, the land holds it all.