Words by Claire Pool
16 unique beach neighborhoods, 26 miles of sugar-white beaches, more than 50 beach access points, and 52 weeks of the year to make your way down to South Walton, Florida.
South Walton may already be your go-to beach destination, but how much of it have you really explored? Maybe you visit Santa Rosa Beach every summer, but you’ve never been to family-friendly Seacrest. Maybe Alys Beach is your home away from home, but you’ve never considered tranquil Blue Mountain Beach. It’s the perfect season to mix things up and discover treasured South Walton beaches you’ve never visited before.
Soft sand and gentle waves give you the perfect landscape to walk along the coast or lay out with a cold drink, enjoying your surroundings and soaking in the sun. Make sure to pack your beach chairs and sandcastle building equipment for a full day of fun spent out on the beach. With the relaxing atmosphere, endless pathways, and natural beauty, you’ll want to return to South Walton season after season to explore every one of its beautiful beach neighborhoods.
South Walton, located in Northwest Florida, is the perfect getaway for people from all over the U.S., not just those from the South. Travel is a breeze, whether by car or plane. There are non-stop flights from 28 U.S. cities, and all major carriers service two convenient airports. South Walton’s 16 beach neighborhoods are enjoyable year-round, so take a trip down in the fall while it’s cooling down or spend your Christmas morning with your family beachside—or both! Instead of saying “see you next year,” they like to say “see you in a month!”
There’s also a beach neighborhood for whatever vacation state-of-mind you’re in. Trying to figure out how to entertain the kids on your family vacation? Santa Rosa Beach, Sandestin, and Grayton Beach are the perfect places for you to stay, with excellent family activities and recreational amenities. Looking for a romantic getaway? Check out Seagrove, WaterSound, and Rosemary Beach for the best couples retreats.
For the adventurous travelers, South Walton has four state parks, a 15,000-acre state forest, 15 rare coastal dune lakes, and of course, the Gulf of Mexico. They also have stand-up paddle-boarding, kayaking, and fishing available. There’s a different adventure for every day!
For active visitors, there are more than 200 miles of trails inviting nature lovers to observe rare birds while hiking or biking through state parks and forests. The 19-mile Timpoochee Trail beckons runners and bicyclists past New Urbanist neighborhoods and panoramic views of stunning, scenic beauty. Hiking not your style? Challenge a partner on the tennis court or tee off on a championship golf course.
For the foodies, incredible restaurants are scattered all throughout South Walton. You will relish the fusion of flavors created by award-winning chefs, showcasing fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood and locally sourced ingredients. If you don’t already know the area, check out their website where you’ll be able to find all the best restaurants in each beach neighborhood, based on cuisine and meal. You can find restaurants at all price points, whether you’re looking for the best hole in the wall fried fish or a five-course meal for a special night.
South Walton has visitor safety at the forefront of its mind, so be sure to visit their COVID-19 Travel Updates page to see how you can do your part to keep the community safe.
- South Walton is made up of 40% preserved land, creating a more relaxed, open, and laid-back feel.
- Their beaches are open with limitations, so please practice social distancing by maintaining 6 feet between yourself and anyone not in your quarantine group, limit your group size to 10 or less and check out their website for more information.
- Purchase essential items before your visit, as some items may not be available when you arrive.
- Your favorite South Walton restaurants are currently operating at limited capacity. Please be patient and plan ahead for your favorite South Walton dishes.
- And most importantly—stay safe! If you are feeling under the weather, please stay home. The beautiful beaches of South Walton will be there waiting for you when you return.
An upscale, yet casual place to unwind, South Walton, Florida, is the ideal place to rejuvenate, build lasting memories, and find your perfect beach. Learn more at www.VisitSouthWalton.com.