Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
Airport, Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
23 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
2 Single Beds
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
About this property
El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day
This El Matador Two Bedroom Ground Floor Unit facing the spacious grounds offers convenient access to the Gulf Front Pool and Emerald Coast Beach. Just walk right out the patio door and take a short walk (about 100 yards) on down to the pool and Beach.
Free Activities are Included with your stay! As a Thank You for staying with us, you will receive complimentary admissions to popular activities and attractions, Everyday of your stay. Check Out Only Valid for Short Term Rentals. Not available for Per Diem Stays, Guest of Owner Stays.
1 Free admission everyday to -> Shalimar Golf Course - Round of Golf, Big Kahuna’s Water Park - General Admission, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park - General Admission, Wild Willy’s Grand Prix The Gator: Adult Admission, Sea Blaster - Beach or Sunset Dolphin Cruise, Sea Blaster - Snorkel Admission, Cruisin Tiki’s - Evening Sunset Cruise.
Looking for Paradise? It's Here at El Matador Condominiums in Fort Walton Beach on Okaloosa Island! The most sought after Florida Vacation location offering family vacations on the Beautiful Emerald Coast. El Matador Condos is a secluded condominium complex on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach located next to 17 miles of uninhabited beach. El Matador is nestled between the beautiful white sand beaches and the sparkling Emerald Green Waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
El Matador is truly a Florida Vacation Beach Resort. Just two miles down Santa Rosa Blvd at the end of Okaloosa Island you will find this family vacation gem – secluded but still just a few minutes to all the amenities that Destin and Fort Walton Beach have to offer. Just six miles down Hwy. 98 you can enjoy Destin – “ The Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village” – charter a private trip or take the kids out on a group boat and catch dinner. While in Destin enjoy fine restaurants, shopping, and golfing on some of the best golf courses in the Panhandle of Florida. Hard to believe that you might need a day off from the beach but if you do take the family to Big Kahunas Water Park in the center of old Destin. Much more than just a water park… it’s a day of fun!
Back at the El Matador enjoy the large,12 acre facility with grass areas between the buildings just right for family fun and games. With two pools, his and her whirlpool, and saunas just right for your tired muscles after a game of tennis or pickle ball on one of the courts, or the fitness center. We are located at the end of Okaloosa Island a small barrier Island between Fort Walton Beach and Destin. This gated community with 17 miles of undeveloped beaches to the west is sure to have you longing to return.
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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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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
Frequently asked questions
Does El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool. Pool types include heated pools.
How much does it cost to stay at El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day?
As of 6 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day on 25 Mar 2027 start from AU$200, 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 El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is El Matador 117 by Alicia Hollis Rentals Open Now FREE TICKETS! $300/Day located?
Located in Okaloosa Island, this condo building is within a 10-minute walk of Santa Rosa Sound, Fort Walton Beaches and Okaloosa Island Beach. Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center and Ross Marler Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
8.6
Excellent
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
While you can tell they haven’t made it to the bathroom yet as far as updates, everything was nice and functional! No issues at all during our stay. 😁
Eva G.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
From a partner site
8/10 Good
Tracy H.
20 June 2022
Great location!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
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:
Management company was great to work with, the location was wonderful because we wanted to be away from crowds. A little pricey, but we were happy to stay there.
Tracy H.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
Tracy we appreciate that you enjoyed your stay at the El Matador unit 117 and its location. It really is so conveniently located in the middle of the property and easy to use either pool and gazebo and our wonderful tennis courts.
It is so good to have you back and hope we can help you again to 117 El Matador and its awesome location.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Rachel C.
16 Aug 2023
Great place!
Rating Details:
The property manager was more than helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
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 had a great time here! We love the El Matador complex and location. The first floor was great for our boys to go out and play in the nice grass area. Their pool is great and close to the beach which is very convenient!
Rachel C.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
Rachel we are happy that you enjoyed your time at the El Matador unit 117, and yes, great location so that the kids can go out and play. We love to help you next time you want to come and vacation here.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Michele R.
13 Oct 2020
El Matador #117
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:
We thoroughly our week at El Matador. We enjoyed being at the end of the island where it is quieter. The beach was gorgeous and the grounds well kept. We will definitely come back.
Michele R.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
Michele, we appreciate you taking the time for this review, we are happy you enjoyed this wonderful updated condo, and its location, and with lots of ground for children to play and run. Call us again so that we can accommodate you with this condo for your future vacation
Archival
8/10 Good
Pattie W.
14 Sept 2015
Good Management
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:
We had some issues that were out of the mgmt co control (a/c went out), & they had it fixed immediately. They went the extra mile to make sure things were right for us.
Pattie W.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2015
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
Patricia, thanks for taking the time for responding to the reviews, we sure appreciate that. We are very sorry for your inconvenience with the a.c. but, thank goodness we were able to get the a.c. people out there immediately. Let us know if we can help you again, with a condo at the el matador, and a very comforting place to enjoy your vacation.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Z&M H.
7 Mar 2023
A good place to stay
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was more than happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Overall, the condo was as described. The deadbolt didn’t work from the outside...you could only lock it if you were in the condo. It was definitely more than 30 yards from the beach, but still not a bad walk to get there. We had a good time and I would stay here again.
Z&M H.
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
We are happy that you enjoyed this unit which is 50 yds out to the beach, and a perfect location for the kids to go out and play on the lawn. We are glad you enjoyed 117 At the El Matador and we hope to see you again.
From a partner site
6/10 Okay
Mark R.
29 Sept 2023
Beware of hidden charges
Rating Details:
The property manager was somewhat unhelpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was more than happy with the location.
I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Not a bad place overall, clean, but no paper towels or dish soap, beach chairs were garbage, only 2 rolls of toilet paper for 3 people 4 nights, had to buy a fry pan because the ones there were garbage!
Mark R.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Oct 2023
Mark thanks for your review, i am so sorry but, we do not provide paper towels, we do provide 2 packs of dish soap and 2 garbage bags which are left on the kitchen counter with the dish cloths. You also get 2 rolls of toilet paper and that is all we can provide for everyone and then you are on your own.
thanks for choosing an Alicia Hollis Realtor, and hope to see you again.
From a partner site
6/10 Okay
Paula R.
14 June 2018
Our stay at 117 El Matador
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very clean.
I was more than happy with the location.
I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Our experience was pretty good. The place could use some updating, but served our purpose well. There was a bad smell when we first walked in the door (later deduced that it was the vent a hood filter) but we sprayed room deodorizer and was better after that. And I there needs to be places on the patio to hang things.All in all it was a good place to do the beach (which is further than 50 yards, but still close).
Paula R.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
Thanks for enjoying the El Matador unit 117, and i so sorry you experienced a bad smell in the condo, but, we are going to be updating the kitchen and stove, so next time you come down, it should be done. The unit had a lot of things done to it,
and most of all the painting of the walls, and some new mattresses and comforters, and most of all very convenient to the 2nd pool and tennis courts, and then just 50 yds out to the main pool.
We hope you also enjoyed our beautiful beach and white sand. Come back.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Beth T.
8 July 2020
Great Family Getaway
Rating Details:
The property manager was more than helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
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:
This was a great and affordable vacation for our family of four. The place is in a close location to the beach. Just walk out of the unit and down the path to the beach. It is an older place, but it has been renovated and was clean. It had a “retro/ Old Florida” feel to it and we liked that too. Lots of grassy areas for families to grill out or relax and watch the sunset. We did have some issues with the internet, but someone came right away from the realty company to fix. Very family friendly place and we would stay here again.
Beth T.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
Excellent Scott, that you enjoyed your stay at 117 El Matador and you described it just perfect. You vacation here and everything is there for you pleasure, from the pools , sauna, b.b q and of course to go and enjoy the wonderful sunset.
this unit has been updated to their style, and it seems like everyone have thoroughly enjoyed their stay there. We will be happy to see you again for your vacation.
From a partner site
8/10 Good
Amanda A.
13 June 2022
Nice condo, close to the beach!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was more than happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
This condo is a nice location just steps away from the beach, the two pools were clean and easy to get to. They are located at the very end of the strip so there is no traffic beyond your condo. The condo was clean, mostly updated however it’s considered a home away from home so you have to wash your towels if your run out, bring all your cleaning, toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent, dishwasher pods, dish soap.. ect because it is not provided to you. There’s washing machines on each level and it’s $1.50 to wash and dry so something to keep in mind if your staying a whole week and want clean bath towels and dish towels. Overall this was a nice quiet place, the kitchen is nice to have to cook breakfast and lunch and not have to eat out so much!
Amanda A.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
We are happy that you enjoyed your stay at the El Matador unit 117 and its location is just steps for either pool, and jacuzzi and spa. The building has a small laundry room for your convenience for your washing. We only provide you with complimentary, soap,t.paper and g. bags and the rest is on you. We provide 10 bath towels and hand towels, and we don't do room service, as you are on vacation for either 3 days or a week, so you have to pick all those amenities that you will need. The condo, is a very comfortable and delightful place to enjoy your vacation.
We decided to book a VERY last minute trip to the gulf for Memorial Day Weekend. That being said, we went in expecting that we’d gotten the “runt of the litter” with availabilities for the price and proximity to the beach. Not at all! Cute little place. Comfortable beds, plenty of space for us and our 2 teens, extra bonuses (activities) came with the stay, great pool, and so close to everything while still being not over crowded. We had an issue with the air conditioning leaking. The rental management sent someone out, and it was determined that it was a condo association issue. The condo association never got back with us so we did what we could to prevent further water damage. But the management company (Austin and Chris were who I dealt with upon check in) were accommodating and so pleasant to deal with.
Heather R.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Robert M.
28 June 2021
El Matador -117
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:
El Matador- 117 was a great rental experience for my family of four. We have two Children (5&2) and this location was perfect. No Elevators needed to get to the room and a short walk to the pool and beach. The condo itself was in great condition and comfortably fit our family! The floors were a bit dirty/sandy, but that’s to be expected on a first floor condo near the beach. There was some minor maintenance that was needed, but did not hinder our stay at all. The outdoor space outside the condo also allowed a grassy area for our kids to run around in. I highly recommend this condo for families traveling and looking for a nice relaxing vacation. If we head back to the pan handle we will absolutely consider this condo again.
Robert M.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
we are happy that you enjoyed 117 at The El Matador and we looking forward to see you again, and enjoy the beautiful beaches and our wonderful condos.
It worked for us to stay at for a few nights, but probably wouldn’t book again. The property is dated and not very well maintained. Everything was functional, but very basic and dated. There isn’t much decor, and what is there homemade (not always bad) or broken (for example, a glass cover one a frame was busted). Some of the walls were poorly painted or had spots that weren’t painted. Super 8 quality, functional but nothing more. The bed frames were cheap and even came apart on the middle of the night when someone was sleeping. It was put back together, but definitely inconvenient. The cleanliness was the only real issue we had. One of the beds had sand in it when the blankets were first pulled back and the bed had trash, hair, and dead bugs under it. We booked last minute and options were very limited, so we didn’t expect a 5 star resort, but we were hoping for something with a little more care given to the property.
Gen H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
From a partner site
4/10 Poor
Paul O.
22 July 2024
2nd visit
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was very dirty.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I do not recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
My family returned for a second year and we're really not people who complain but this unit was bad, the floors were never mopped, the furniture is disgusting zero hot water, after running it for 20 minutes. 1 roll of toilet paper, zero sponges or anything to clean anything with.The storms I guess kicked up a bunch of algae on the beach so the water wasn't an option so we had to drive to another area in destin to enjoy the beach which obviously isn't in your hands. The condo as mentioned wasn't great and won't be getting that unit again, we were so disappointed we ledt a day early. But we are still plan on returning next year as we really do like the property as a whole just not this unit.
Paul O.
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2024
We are so sorry about this PAUL AND WILL LET THE OWNER KNOW TO FIX THE ISSUES.
The trip started with the property manager informing us there was a leak and had to be a hose draining into the ONLY bathtub/bathroom in the unit. She also lied saying “there are no other units available on the island for you.” In isolation- the hose would be no big deal as she said they’d be out to fix on Monday. However, upon arriving at the unit. It was terrible. Mold and rust in the bathroom, dirty, blinds across the sliding door that didn’t work, an old, dirty, wobbly horrible outside table. It was absolutely horrific and we checked out early as we learned there certainly were other units available. This was unsanitary and DANGEROUS for my small children.
This was an outstanding location and a wonderful stay for our family vacation! Close to everything but still private enough to be away from all the hustle of tourists! Definitely a place to stay again!
We stayed in this unit during the fourth of July week. The island was very busy but the resort was quiet. This unit had several updates and was clean, however the sliding glass door to the patio needs replaced badly. The bathroom could use some updates but again was clean.
Other than that the unit was super convenient and had plenty of room. We definitely enjoyed our stay.
Jason K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
From a partner site
8/10 Good
joseph M.
19 July 2021
Great Stay
Rating Details:
The property manager was more than helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
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:
IT was a really good experience. The Property is really nice and an amazing location. The Condo itself had a few issues. The Sliding back door was in rough shape and really hard to open and close. The Fan in the Master was a lil sketchy. and A few of the Doors to the Pantry and Closet were in rough shape. Other than that, Great experience!
joseph M.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
Thanks so much for your review, we will try and check those things out immediately and we are so happy that you enjoyed your stay at the condo and enjoyed it. El Matador has all the amenities for your enjoyment and the best sunrises and sunsets. Let us help you again for your next stay.
Wonderful location, close enough to everything and away from the hustle of the main strip
This was a great property. Such a great location and the other renters were super nice. Everyone on the property were nice.
Amanda W.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
James M.
14 May 2021
Nice condo and Alicia J. Hollis, Realtor made it easy to check in
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:
We had a Great time and will definitely be using Alicia J. Hollis, Realtor the next time we come down.
James M.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Sept 2023
Thanks so much for your comment, it sure is a pleasure working with you. we are happy that you enjoyed your condo at The El Matador unit 117 is such a beautiful comfortable unit. We hope to see you again, in this condo and our great area.
We enjoyed our stay... the floors were sandy but what do you expect when your so close to the beach. Nice view and easy access to everything..
Trishka J.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
PETER T.
1 Sept 2018
BEACH 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 time at the beach. Ground floor is great for the kids to come in and out and have some additional room to play outside. Great grassy area right on the balcony. Save guarded grounds great for family.