Car Rental at Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport

Airport travel guide

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is actually located in Elgin but serves as a gateway to the central part of the Emerald Coast, popularly known as the “Redneck Riviera.”

These days, parts of the Emerald Coast have been developed into luxury resorts and communities. The region is ever-growing in popularity and is visited year-round. It’s both a fisherman’s and sunbather’s dream destination. 

You won’t find as many attractions as you would in Pensacola or Panama City, but you will find plenty of sand to park your beach chair on.  

Be aware that federal regulation currently required wearing a face covering at all times while at the airport. 

Main airlines

The low-cost airlines Allegiant and Southwest serve the most destinations from VPS. Delta, American (and its regional brand American Eagle), and United Express also fly to and from it.

Though it is a smaller regional airport, there are direct flights from as far away as Denver, Chicago, and Boston. Other large cities with direct flights are Atlanta, Charlotte, Baltimore, Nashville, Houston, and Dallas.

Terminals

There is only one terminal at VPS, though there are two concourses.

Location

As mentioned above, VPS is located in Elgin on the northern edge of Choctawhatchee Bay. Its location makes it convenient for reaching Fort Walton Beach, Desti, and the barrier islands along the central part of the Emerald Coast.

Most popular types of rental car

• Small cars - from $46 per day
• Medium cars - from $45 per day
• Large cars - from $46 per day
• SUVs - from $46 per day
• Premium cars - from $64 per day
• Vans - from $80 per day

Car rental desks

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport being a small airport makes picking up a rental car a breeze. All of the rental car desks are located right across from the baggage claim area. You’ll be in and out in almost no time!

Services and facilities

There are all the usual services and facilities you would expect of an airport of its size. There are convenience shops, restaurants, and such in case you are hungry or want to buy a drink before your flight.

There are 2 ATMs, one near baggage claim and the other in the departures area. Wifi and family restrooms round out the amenities offered.

Nearest gas station

It’s easy to find a gas station when returning to the airport unless you’re coming from the north along State Road 85.

When coming from Fort Walton Beach, there will be a Tom Thumb and a BP station on your right on Elgin Parkway.

When coming from the east, there is both a BP and an Exon station on Jonh Simms Parkway just a few miles from the airport.