Is Shalimar, FL a good place for military families near Eglin AFB?

Yes, Shalimar sits directly at Eglin Air Force Base's main gate, making it one of the shortest commutes available for base personnel. Its established neighborhoods and bay access make it popular among active-duty and retired military buyers alike.

What kind of homes can you find in Shalimar, FL?

Shalimar offers a mix of mid-century ranch homes, updated waterfront properties, and golf-course houses near Shalimar Pointe Golf & Country Club. Lot sizes tend to be larger than in nearby denser coastal towns.

Is Shalimar considered part of Fort Walton Beach?

No, Shalimar is its own incorporated city and serves as the county seat of Okaloosa County, though it borders Fort Walton Beach and Cinco Bayou. It maintains a distinct, quieter identity separate from Fort Walton Beach's tourist corridor.

Does Shalimar have waterfront access to Choctawhatchee Bay?

Yes, much of Shalimar borders Choctawhatchee Bay, giving many homes direct or near-water access for boating and fishing. This waterfront character is a key draw for buyers relocating from inland areas.

Okaloosa County

Shalimar, FL Real Estate

Shalimar blends small-town charm with Choctawhatchee Bay waterfront living, right at Eglin Air Force Base's back gate.

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About Shalimar

Shalimar serves as the county seat of Okaloosa County, a compact bayfront community wrapped around Choctawhatchee Bay and bordering Eglin Air Force Base's main gate. Housing stock ranges from mid-century brick ranches to updated waterfront estates and golf-course homes surrounding Shalimar Pointe Golf & Country Club. The city's small footprint means residents enjoy quick access to Fort Walton Beach shopping and dining, Cinco Bayou, and Niceville, while avoiding the density of larger coastal towns. Military families gravitate here for the short commute to Eglin, while retirees and boaters value direct bay access and established, tree-lined streets. Downtown Shalimar retains a low-key, civic character with county government offices nearby, giving the city a distinct identity separate from the tourist-driven beach communities to the south.

Shalimar on the map

Shalimar boundary — the area we serve.

Living in Shalimar

Life in Shalimar centers on the water — boating, fishing, and sunset views over Choctawhatchee Bay are part of daily routine for many residents. Golfers frequent Shalimar Pointe Golf & Country Club, while families appreciate the short drive to Fort Walton Beach's shops, restaurants, and Gulf beaches. Proximity to Eglin AFB makes the city a natural fit for active-duty and retired military households seeking a quieter alternative to base housing. Neighboring communities like Cinco Bayou and Mary Esther add nearby dining and recreation options without sacrificing Shalimar's quieter, established feel.

Why buyers choose Shalimar

Life in Shalimar centers on the water — boating, fishing, and sunset views over Choctawhatchee Bay are part of daily routine for many residents. Golfers frequent Shalimar Pointe Golf & Country Club, while families appreciate the short drive to Fort Walton Beach's shops, restaurants, and Gulf beaches. Proximity to Eglin AFB makes the city a natural fit for active-duty and retired military households seeking a quieter alternative to base housing. Neighboring communities like Cinco Bayou and Mary Esther add nearby dining and recreation options without sacrificing Shalimar's quieter, established feel.

Shalimar market snapshot

Shalimar's housing market draws buyers wanting bay access, golf-course living, or a short commute to Eglin AFB without the tourist traffic of beachfront towns. Inventory tends toward established single-family homes on larger lots, with some waterfront and golf-course properties commanding steady interest. Its small size and county-seat status keep demand consistent among military relocations, retirees, and buyers priced out of denser Fort Walton Beach or Destin markets. Overall, Shalimar appeals to those prioritizing location and lifestyle over new construction.

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Shalimar real estate FAQ

Is Shalimar, FL a good place for military families near Eglin AFB?: Yes, Shalimar sits directly at Eglin Air Force Base's main gate, making it one of the shortest commutes available for base personnel. Its established neighborhoods and bay access make it popular among active-duty and retired military buyers alike.
What kind of homes can you find in Shalimar, FL?: Shalimar offers a mix of mid-century ranch homes, updated waterfront properties, and golf-course houses near Shalimar Pointe Golf & Country Club. Lot sizes tend to be larger than in nearby denser coastal towns.
Is Shalimar considered part of Fort Walton Beach?: No, Shalimar is its own incorporated city and serves as the county seat of Okaloosa County, though it borders Fort Walton Beach and Cinco Bayou. It maintains a distinct, quieter identity separate from Fort Walton Beach's tourist corridor.
Does Shalimar have waterfront access to Choctawhatchee Bay?: Yes, much of Shalimar borders Choctawhatchee Bay, giving many homes direct or near-water access for boating and fishing. This waterfront character is a key draw for buyers relocating from inland areas.