Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport at a glance
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is a joint-use airport on Eglin Air Force Base property, just off State Road 85 North. It’s about seven miles north of downtown Fort Walton Beach, according to this Florida aviation study. Okaloosa Island is around ten miles away, about a 15–25 minute drive, according to the local visitor guide. Destin is farther—roughly 16 miles and 25–35 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
For airport updates and travel details, visit FlyVPS.
VPS rental options
FlyVPS lists the companies with rental counters at the airport. AutoVille Rent LLC is another local option and offers airport delivery; it is not an airport counter. Check with each company about availability and any delivery or parking charges.
| Company | Pickup | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alamo | Airport counter | alamo.com | 800-462-5266 |
| Budget | Airport counter | budget.com | 800-527-0700 |
| Enterprise | Airport counter | enterprise.com | 800-736-8222 |
| National | Airport counter | nationalcar.com | 800-227-7368 |
| Avis | Airport counter | avis.com | 800-331-1212 |
| Dollar | Airport counter | dollar.com | 866-434-2226 |
| Hertz | Airport counter | hertz.com | 800-654-3131 |
| Destin Jeep Rentals | Airport counter | DestinJeepRentals.com | 850-687-9262 |
| AutoVille Rent LLC | Airport delivery | autovillerent.com | See website |
AutoVille Rent LLC is owned by a friend of mine.
FlyVPS recommends reserving before you arrive. Its guidance says the counters stay open until after the last flight. To return your car, bear left after the Customer Service Kiosk and follow the Green Line. The airport administration office is at 1701 State Road 85 N, Eglin AFB, FL 32542-1498; call (850) 651-7160.
Turo at VPS
Cars offered by individual hosts
Browse cars from Turo hosts near VPS. Turo has its own airport rules: its VPS guest guide directs guests to Lots A and B for pickup and return and says curbside pickup is not allowed. Your total may include an airport fee, delivery charge, or parking. Check the trip instructions and full price in the app before booking. Read Turo’s VPS guest guide.
Fees
Airport locations often add concession/facility fees. Florida’s $2/day rental surcharge (first 30 days) applies statewide (Florida DOR). Compare out-the-door totals: price guide.
Off-airport alternative
For example, Enterprise’s Fort Walton Beach branch is at 99 Eglin Parkway NE, Suite 26; call 850-243-4446. The location lists pickup service, but does not accept after-hours returns.
Getting to the beaches
To reach Okaloosa Island or Fort Walton Beach, head south on SR 85 toward U.S. 98. For Destin, take U.S. 98 or the toll roads over Mid-Bay. FlyVPS says there’s no public transit at the airport, but Lyft, Uber, and private shuttles are available. See our guide to choosing between Destin and Fort Walton Beach.
FAQ
Where are the rental counters?
They’re in the lower-level baggage-claim lobby. FlyVPS says they stay open until after the last flight arrives.
How do I return my rental car?
After you enter the airport, bear left after the Customer Service Kiosk and follow the Green Line.
Can I take public transportation from VPS?
FlyVPS says there’s no public transportation system at the airport. Rideshares and private shuttles are available.