Niceville, FL

County: Okaloosa

History

Niceville, Florida

Niceville is a city located in Okaloosa County, Florida. It has a population of about 15,000 and is part of the Fort Walton Beach-Crestview-Destin Metropolitan Statistical Area. The history of Niceville dates back to the early 1800s when the area was inhabited by indigenous Native American tribes.

The first documented European settlement in the area was in the 1880s when families from Alabama, Georgia, and other parts of Florida began to establish homesteads near Boggy Bayou. At the time, the area was known as Boggy, but in 1910, it was given the name "Niceville" due to the pleasant climate and scenery.

During World War II, Niceville played an important role as the location of Eglin Air Force Base, which was established in 1935. The base became a major military training facility and was instrumental in the development of aircraft, weapons, and tactics during the war.

The presence of Eglin Air Force Base brought significant growth and development to Niceville. Many military personnel and their families settled in the area, leading to an increase in population and the establishment of schools, businesses, and other facilities.

In the post-war period, Niceville continued to experience growth as it became an attractive place to live due to its proximity to the military base, beautiful surroundings, and access to recreational activities. The city saw expansion in residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and public infrastructure.

Today, Niceville is a thriving community that offers a high quality of life with a mix of suburban and rural characteristics. It is known for its excellent schools, outdoor recreational opportunities, and family-friendly atmosphere. The city continues to grow and evolve, while still preserving its rich history and connection to the military heritage of Eglin Air Force Base.

Attractions

Turkey Creek Nature Trail

Turkey Creek Nature Trail

A scenic park and nature trail that offers hiking, kayaking, and bird watching opportunities.

Bluewater Bay Golf Club

A premier golfing facility with 18 holes overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay.

Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park

A state park known for its pristine beaches, boating, fishing, and camping facilities.

Twin Cities Pavilion

A community park that hosts various events and concerts throughout the year.

Mattie Kelly Arts Center

A cultural center that offers art exhibits, live concerts, and theater performances.

Northwest Florida State College

The local college campus offers an array of events, including theater productions and art shows.

Niceville Children's Park

A popular park with playgrounds, water features, and picnic areas for children and families.

Niceville Museum

A small museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Niceville area.

Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival

An annual festival held in Niceville celebrating the local seafood and culture.

Destin-Fort Walton Beach

Niceville is located near popular beach destinations like Destin and Fort Walton Beach, which offer pristine white sand beaches, water sports, and a vibrant dining and shopping scene.

Climate

Niceville, FL, is located in the southeastern United States, specifically in the state of Florida. As such, it experiences a humid subtropical climate, which is characterized by warm to hot summers and mild winters.

Summers in Niceville are typically long, starting in May and extending through September. Average high temperatures during this time range from the mid-80s Fahrenheit (29-32 degrees Celsius) to the low 90s Fahrenheit (32-35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels are relatively high, making the summer weather feel quite hot and muggy. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing some relief from the heat.

Winters in Niceville are short and mild. They start in December and last until February, with average high temperatures ranging from the low 60s Fahrenheit (15-17 degrees Celsius) to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (18-20 degrees Celsius). Lows during this time hover around the 40s Fahrenheit (4-9 degrees Celsius). While snow is extremely rare in Niceville, there may be occasional freezing temperatures, but they are usually short-lived.

Spring and fall in Niceville are generally pleasant, with temperatures gradually warming up or cooling down. Spring sees moderate temperatures, with average highs in the 70s Fahrenheit (21-26 degrees Celsius). Fall brings slightly cooler temperatures, with highs in the 70s, then gradually dropping into the 60s Fahrenheit (15-21 degrees Celsius).

Overall, Niceville's climate is generally mild and pleasant throughout the year, making it an attractive place to live or visit. However, it is important to note that it is located in a region prone to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June to November.

Neighborhoods

Niceville, FL is a charming community located in Okaloosa County, Florida. It is known for its family-friendly environment, excellent schools, and proximity to the beautiful beaches of the Gulf Coast. While Niceville is a relatively small town, it is divided into several unique neighborhoods, each with its own characteristics and attractions. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Niceville:

Bluewater Bay

Located on the northeastern side of Niceville, Bluewater Bay is a large planned community that offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. It is known for its golf courses, waterfront properties, and access to the scenic Choctawhatchee Bay.

Rocky Bayou

Situated in the southeastern part of Niceville, Rocky Bayou is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is home to Rocky Bayou State Park, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The neighborhood also features waterfront homes and access to the Rocky Bayou Golf Course.

Swift Creek

Located in the southern part of Niceville, Swift Creek is a prestigious neighborhood known for its upscale homes and gated communities. It offers an array of amenities, including a golf course, community swimming pool, and tennis courts. Swift Creek is known for its beautiful landscaping and natural surroundings.

College Boulevard

Situated close to the Northwest Florida State College, College Boulevard is a primarily residential area that appeals to students and faculty. It offers a mix of apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. The neighborhood is conveniently located near shopping centers, restaurants, and other amenities.

Valparaiso

Although technically a separate town, Valparaiso is often included as part of the Niceville community. Located just east of Niceville, Valparaiso is a small, historic neighborhood with a strong military presence due to its proximity to Eglin Air Force Base. It offers a mix of residential areas, parks, and waterfront access to Boggy Bayou.

These neighborhoods showcase the diverse character of Niceville and provide residents with a range of housing options and amenities. Whether you're looking for a waterfront property, a golf course community, or a family-friendly neighborhood, Niceville has something to offer for everyone.

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