Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
Airport, Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
20 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 7)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Single Bed and 1 Double Bed
Other Space 1
1 Double Sofa Bed
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 2
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Spaces
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Dining area
About this property
GS 203: The Sandbar Escape -
Gulfside 203 - The Sandbar Escape! FREE PARKING AND FREE WIFI!! This lovely 2nd floor, 2 bedroom/ 2 bath corner unit with a wrap-around balcony and numerous windows allow for endless views of the Gulf of Mexico! Sit back, relax and take in all the endless views this corner unit has to offer!!! Featuring a full-size washer and dryer in the utility closet, a full kitchen, mirror /counter area in the hallway, and a private balcony. The property is highlighted with a rooftop pool – A REAL MUST SEE with BREATH-TAKING VIEWS of the Gulf!! Gulfside is one of the smaller complexes offering only 15 units, so if you are looking to avoid the crowds, then this is the place for you! The beach always feels private and quiet compared to the larger properties. This second-floor corner condo is real hidden gem! Unit has Smart TV's with streaming only: subscriptions not provided.
THE SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS IN THIS UNIT ARE AS FOLLOWS: MASTER BEDROOM - 1 KING BED, 2ND BEDROOM - 1 DOUBLE BED AND 1 TWIN BED. SLEEPER SOFA IN THE LIVING ROOM. THIS UNIT SLEEPS 7.
WHEN VACATIONING IN GULFSIDE 203, YOU'RE ABLE TO ENJOY THE FOLLOWING AMENITIES:
- STREAMING ONLY : SUBSCRIPTIONS NOT PROVIDED. - FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN - FULL SIZE WASHER AND DRYER IN CONDO - FITNESS ROOM - KEY-LESS ENTRY - FREE BEACH SERVICE - FREE GOLF - FREE DOLPHIN CRUISE - FREE SNORKELING - GRILLS - DIRECT BEACH ACCESS VIA BOARDWALK - PICNIC AREA - ELEVATOR - SMART TV'S WITH STREAMING ONLY
Gulfside Condominiums is close to Fort Walton’s shopping and dining and a mere ten minutes from Destin, it has a rooftop pool area that provides one of the best views on Okaloosa Island. Guests can get to the beach from the boardwalk at the base of the parking area and can use a barbeque grill that is located along this boardwalk as well.
All of our nightly and weekly guests receive the following complimentary guest package: 2 beach chairs and an umbrella set up daily (March 1st to October 31st) 1 Free Round of Golf DAILY at 4 courses to choose from * WINDSWEPT DUNES GOLF CLUB; a breathtaking 750 acre setting encompassing a serene 18 hole course * REGATTA BAY GOLF & YACHT CLUB; a "must stop" Par 72 course on the Florida Panhandle * EMERALD BAY GOLF CLUB; course designed by the famed golf course architect Bob Cupp * SHALIMAR POINTE GOLF CLUB; located on the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay 1 Free Pass to a Dolphin Cruise DAILY (March 1st to October 31st) * Morning, Afternoon, Sunset, and Fireworks Dolphin Cruise on the Cattywampus * Beach or Sunset Dolphin Cruise on the Original Sea Blaster 1 Free Adult Pass to a Snorkeling Cruise DAILY (late spring, summer, and early fall); discover the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico by embarking on an unforgettable snorkeling adventure on the Original Sea Blaster or Cattywampus 1 Free Pass to Big Kahuna's Water Park DAILY; a 25-acre family fun park with over 40 water attractions, including a wave pool and speed slide
**Once your reservation is made, you’ll receive a personalized virtual guidebook filled with all the information you need to enjoy your stay to the fullest!**
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Fort Walton Beach
Located on the beach, this condo is in Okaloosa Island, a neighbourhood in Fort Walton Beach. Shoppers can check out HarborWalk Village, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Fort Walton Beaches and Okaloosa Island Beach. Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park and Emerald Coast Science Center are also worth visiting. With jet skiing, scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, you'll find plenty of adventures in the water.
Fort Walton Beach, FL
What's nearby
Fort Walton Beaches - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
Okaloosa Island Beach - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
Santa Rosa Sound - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center - 3 min drive - 3.2 km
Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island - 3 min drive - 3.5 km
Getting around
Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional) - 19 min drive
Restaurants
Whataburger - 6 min drive
Olive Garden - 7 min drive
Ocean Buffet - 8 min drive
Slim Chickens - 7 min drive
Gi Jade - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does GS 203: The Sandbar Escape - have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
How much does it cost to stay at GS 203: The Sandbar Escape -?
As of 26 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at GS 203: The Sandbar Escape - on 7 Aug 2026 start from AU$449, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is GS 203: The Sandbar Escape - pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at GS 203: The Sandbar Escape -?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at GS 203: The Sandbar Escape -?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at GS 203: The Sandbar Escape -?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is GS 203: The Sandbar Escape - located?
Nestled on the beach, this Okaloosa Island condo building is within a 5-minute walk of Fort Walton Beaches and Okaloosa Island Beach. Wayside Park and Santa Rosa Sound are also within 2 miles (3 km).
Reviews
8.8
Excellent
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Lovely! We are so happy to hear that you had such a wonderful time during your stay with us and we look forward to having you back again soon. Remember to utilize your repeat guest discount.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Steve R.
25 June 2024
Great location and view
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We've stayed here 3 times and always come back...the location and view is great and the roof top pool is an added bonus. It's close to everything and some great dining choices as well
Steve R.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2024
Thank you for your review Steve, we love having you as a repeat guest! The rooftop pool is such a hidden gem and we cannot wait to host you for your fourth year!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Paul Q.
18 June 2024
Great vacation!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Plenty of room and we'll equipped. A great vacation for the second year in a row and will definitely book again next year if available.
Paul Q.
Response from VrboOwner on 19 June 2024
Thank you so much for your kind review Paul! We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay and we cannot wait to host you again for year number 3!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Kent W.
19 Aug 2024
Watts review
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Great time of relaxation. Great location. We love being on the beach.We do think that the extra fees are a bit excessive.
Kent W.
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Aug 2024
Thank you for your feedback! We love to hear you were able to relax and enjoy your time with us on your beach vacation. We hope to have the opportunity to host you again soon!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Aaron R.
9 Apr 2024
Spring Break 2024
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Awesome, would stay again. Everything was great but would like to see some upgrades in the kitchen. Thankfully we didn't need to use it much.
Aaron R.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Apr 2024
Thanks so much for your review! We are happy to hear you enjoyed your stay and will pass along the kitchen concerns to the appropriate party. We hope to host you again soon!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Mallory C.
14 June 2018
Very pleased nice condo for 3 adults and 1 toddler
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We were overall very please with our stay and location. Only con is the beds were really uncomfortable ( like sleeping on springs) and the ax didn't circulate well to the master bedroom. But overall very nice place.
Mallory C.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2023
Gulfside is a lovely place to vacation with a small family!! This 15 unit condo building makes peacefulness and relaxation the top priority so all guests really enjoy. There is nothing like the rooftop pool and view from there. We will have the mattresses in this condo inspected for purchase date and functionality/comfort however we appreciate you keeping in mind the fact that mattress comfort is a personal preference and sometimes even brand new mattresses aren't comfy to every single guest. We'll make sure they are still up to standards though!! Thank you for your high rating review of your stay and we look forward to welcoming you back soon!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Macy M.
10 July 2024
BEST STAY!!!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
This was a great unit! Very clean, best view, great parking under the building, and I loved that there was a washer and dryer in the unit. I absolutely love this place and will be staying here again! Also Brooks and Shorey were super helpful and always answered my calls immediately. Great experience all around!
Macy M.
Response from VrboOwner on 10 July 2024
Thank you for your stellar review! Gulfside is an amazing property for gorgeous Gulf views and less crowds. We cannot wait to host you again!
Overall nice place. The location was very good.
Carpet in smaller bedroom needs cleaned at minimum and probably replaced. TVs in the bedrooms were impossible to figure out. They just need a simple setup for these TVs.
Deborah L.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Nov 2023
Thank you for staying with us and bringing these items to our attention. We hope that you enjoyed your stay and will return to Okaloosa Island soon.
From a partner site
6/10 Okay
Diane L.
30 June 2024
Beach Vacation
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Location is great, Property management great. But, when we arrived there was cob webs in the windows, french fry under pull out sofa, dirt under the area rugs, and cockroach in kitchen. Stayed in 502 of same building and was perfect was expecting the same outcome. Disappointed...
Diane L.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 July 2024
We are very sorry to hear this and will pass your feedback along to the director of housekeeping on the cleaning issues. I will inform HOA about the bug to see if treatment needs to be scheduled. I am glad you enjoyed the location and found the management great. Come back soon to use your return guest discount - Okaloosa Island is waiting for you!
We enjoyed our stay at this property very much. The location is absolutely perfect! Right on the beach, right next to the beach access walkway. The chair service was outstanding. The beach attendant is so nice and helpful. The condo is nice and large, plenty of space for our family. I wish the lighting in the rooms were better--only lamps light the bedrooms and living room area. And we were disappointed that the pool wasn't finished by the time of our trip; it was projected to be finished before Memorial Day. But that didn't ruin our trip at all. We hope to stay again in the future!
Erica G.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2023
Thank you for taking time to review your stay with us. We are so happy to hear that you enjoyed your time with us minus these few issues. We are sorry about the pool not being open in time they had some set backs unfortunately. We hope you come again soon and stay at one of our many wonderful locations we have here on the island.
We loved our stay at Ft Walton Beach! The condo was exactly as described. Lots of space with comfortable beds and couches. My teenage boys loved going to the gym every morning and the pool every night! Beach service was great. Plenty of chairs available. If you want a front row spot take your towels down at 8am when they set up to reserve your spot. You can claim your chairs and come back later. This is one of the smaller buildings with less units so that means the beach is less crowded than some of the larger buildings. Very pleased and we would definitely stay again!
Krista P.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Jan 2024
Thank you for the stellar review! Whenever you are ready to visit the area again, please don't forget to mention our return guest discount!
Our visit was great! The beach was beautiful and not crowded at all. They set up the beach chairs really early which is nice. The only thing we didnt like was the pool. It's rooftop which offers a great view but thats about the only perk. Most of the chairs up there are very old and there is NO SHADE not a single awning or umbrella. The beds were very comfortable and the furnishings were nice. The kitchen definitely needs updating but its clean and functional. The kitchen supplies are pretty limted. I bought a frozen pizza for the kids only to realize there wasnt a single cookie sheet to be had. Most condos we've stayed at will have things left over from previous people (salt, pepper, maybe napkins or a trash bag) everything is cleaned out between people so prepare accordingly. We enjoyed our stay but wouldn't stay in that building again just due to the pool.
Morgan H.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2023
From a partner site
8/10 Good
Becky E.
14 July 2023
July 2023 Vacation
Rating Details:
The property manager was more than helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We enjoyed our stay at Gulfside, the beach was beautiful and clean. The accommodations were nice and we loved the being in a small condo building. The beach service with chairs and umbrella was a very nice benefit. The unit itself could use some updating, it was clean but has ware and tear. There is water damage under the sink and the kitchen had a musty smell because of it. The wifi signal isn't very strong and required login for all devices everyday. The beds were newer and very comfortable, the rental company was responsive however not very accommodating when requesting additional linens for beds due to the bedding being thin and kids being cold at night. We will likely try other locations in the Destin/30a area before returning to this location.
Becky E.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2023
Thank you for sharing your recent experience with us. We genuinely apologize about these issues and concerns. We aim to give each guest the absolute best service possible, and we are disappointed that we did not meet these expectations. We hope you will give us another occasion to provide you with the hospitality you deserve.
From a partner site
4/10 Poor
Kristi I.
22 July 2024
Not the best
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was somewhat dirty.
I was very happy with the location.
I was somewhat dissatisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Needs some updates in the kitchen. Paint chipping in kitchen and handle broken on outside of balcony door. Front door difficult to close. Floor in bathroom had not been properly cleaned in a long time around legs of cabinets. Hair in shower when we arrived. No lids for the pans in the kitchen. Stove tilts backwards really badly so food doesn’t cook evenly and things in the oven slide to the back. I couldn’t use the microwave because it was installed at the top of the wall so I couldn’t reach it ( I’m 5’2”). We always stay at Gulfside in a different condo, but gave this one a try for this summer instead. We will be going back to our other one from now on when possible.
Kristi I.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 July 2024
Thank you for your feedback. We are sincerely sorry to hear about these concerns you have about the unit. We do hope to have another opportunity to host you again.
Archival
8/10 Good
Diana S.
27 July 2016
Wonderful View
Rating Details:
The property manager was more than helpful.
The vacation rental was clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We only had a short time away but always love the Destin/Ft. Walton area's! This condo was conveniently located on Okaloosa Island with easy access to whatever you're interested in doing/seeing. The management company noted that there's no guarantee of getting into the condo at the 4:00 PM time. This is true in our case... Unfortunately it was 5:00 PM CST before we received the call that it was cleaned and ready to enter. We were disappointed mostly because in the last 15 years of renting via VRBO, we've never had a delay and generally able to enter early. The condo was very comfortable and had everything we needed for our stay. Personally, I think the carpet should be replaced with tile (or something that doesn't hold stains and easily cleanable between guests). The furniture outside is a bit tired and stained as well. But served it's purpose. The staff was friendly and well organized when we went to their office to check in. Probably wouldn't recommend this particular condo to a friend mostly because of the cost vs overall condition.
Diana S.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2023
We are happy that you enjoyed your overall stay at the Gulfside 203 and are sorry that you felt a little delayed getting into the unit itself. We do our best to ensure a quick and easy check in process however during busier months due to our high standards for cleanliness, not all units will be ready for check-in promptly at 4:00 p.m. We do ask for your patience and suggest that you have alternate plans available between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. in case the unit is not yet ready. We appreciate your feedback and are glad you got to indulge in some sunshine and shore time on the Gulf Coast. We hope that you can return again soon!
From a partner site
6/10 Okay
Bob s.
15 Dec 2023
Gulfside 203 Okaloosa Island
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was somewhat dissatisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
The beach was perfect. The local restaurants, Stewby’s and The Gulf, had great seafood. We have always loved Okaloosa Island. The beds were very comfortable but not the living room couches. Kitchen particleboard upper cabinets were several water damaged, sagging down. Silverfish were in the kitchen. Carpet in the bedrooms was worn and stained. Upholstered bench in master bath was stained. Hallway floor tiles were buckled and loose. Light fixtures, curtain rods, and dryer all had significant rust. Elevator buttons were intermittent. You would have to try and get the up button to work in order to go down. This unit is directly above the open walled garage and the floor of this unit stayed cold all week. No overhead lighting in the living room or bedrooms, reading was a bit difficult due to the dim lighting provided by the table lamps. If staying in December, bring extra blankets, the provisions are the minimum. Brooks and Shorey management was very responsive, but most of the issues were due to the need of updating and maintenance repairs.
Bob s.
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Dec 2023
We are sorry to have not met your expectations and are addressing these things right away. The elevators are controlled by the HOA of the building and we have no control over that matter, but I will make a note to reach out to them in regards to the issues you experienced. I am thrilled to hear you enjoyed the beach and local eateries. We welcome you back soon to utilize your return guest discount!
We loved the location. Steps to the beach, handy to run back for lunch or the restroom. Clean. Mattresses are firm but that’s our preference. We forgot to start the dishwasher so sorry about that!
Sara G.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May 2026
Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback on one of our beautiful condos, Gulfside 203! We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed the cleanliness and convenient location, making those back-and-forth trips a breeze. Providing comfort and creating a peaceful, enjoyable experience for our guests is always our goal.
We hope the special moments shared with your family during your stay will be cherished for years to come.
We truly appreciate your feedback and look forward to welcoming you back again in the future!
This is a perfect condo for a stay on the beach! A few staples like coffee, coffee filters, windex or Clorox wipes would have been appreciated. Most rentals have at least basic necessities. Otherwise it was a 5 star stay!
The condo is better than advertised. Very clean and spacious. It is in a quiet area. The view from the balcony is very cool. A very short walk to the beach. Chairs were set up every morning. There is a good convenience store an easy walk away.
Paul D.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
A guest from Dothan, AL
1 Aug 2022
2022 vacation
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Great stay. Love this location. Pool has the best view of any place there.
A guest from Dothan, AL
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2023
We agree with all above. We hope you will visit Gulfside in the future.
Great condo in a great location. Plenty of space for our family of 5. Loved the balcony overlooking the water. We had an issue with the A/C and the property manager was great with getting us the help we needed, very quickly. Easy check in/check out! Absolutely wonderful experience.
Meagan C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Manda T.
29 July 2022
Excellent place to stay
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
The condo was so nice! Close to Destin and lots to do!
Manda T.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2023
We are thrilled you had an amazing experience and enjoyed the location. Thank you for sharing your feedback. We look forward to your next visit.
Perfect condo for the 4 of us
Pictures are accurate for the property. Everything is very close. Dustin was great setting out our chairs and umbrella daily. Problem with TV but a representative from Brooks team stayed on the phone with us until issue was resolved. We would definitely stay there
Steve R.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Laura L.
11 May 2022
Our visit to paradise
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
This was a nice time for just my husband and I to really enjoy the peace that comes with the beach. The condo was in great shape and very, very clean. I enjoyed the kitchen being fully supplied with everything you need to cook and serve with ready and waiting to be used. We had a tiny issue of the surface bulb over the stove not working, but I let the office know and a maintenance man came a few hours later and had it fixed. Brooks and Shorey are wonderful to work with, always pleasant and helpful. My husband and I enjoyed Rockin Tacos, Anglers, McQuires Irish Pub and of course who can resist a Whataburger burger. Mostly I appreciate the umbrella and chairs set up for me every day to enjoy!!! That is a huge THANK YOU!! Okaloosa Island is a tremendously beautiful and very clean white sands beach a pleasure to visit. Everyone should have the opportunity to put their toes in the sand and breathe in that fresh air and swim in that beautiful water. We will be back in October, we are usually there once a year. Thank you for a great time.
Laura L.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2023
Thank you for the review & compliments. The Island has some of the best restaurants in town. We are glad you enjoyed your condo and stay & look forward to future reservations in which you can take advantage of the return customer discount.
About the host
Hosted by Brooks and Shorey Resorts, Inc.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests