Nestled between sugar-white beaches and lush pines, The Lodge 30A invites guests to immerse in the natural beauty of Seagrove Beach. Inspired by its coastal surroundings, this boutique hotel blends contemporary coastal style with convenience for an effortless retreat.
Just steps from the hotel’s front door, the Point Washington State Forest trailhead opens up a world of adventure. Spanning over 15,000 acres, this preserved natural haven is home to miles of 30A bike trails that wind through tranquil pine forests, shimmering coastal dune lakes and pristine wetlands. Guests staying at The Lodge 30A can take full advantage of the hotel’s Pedal & Explore Package, which includes complimentary YOLO bike rentals.
Advice for an Unforgettable Ride
To help you navigate the trails like a local, we turned to YOLO Board & Bike Founder and CEO, Jeff Archer. A passionate advocate for outdoor exploration, Archer shared his insights into why biking is the ultimate way to connect with the Gulf Coast’s natural beauty.
What makes The Lodge 30A’s location prime for experiencing 30A by bike?
Taking a bike ride down 30A to experience all the beach communities is a must, and Seagrove is the perfect starting point for biking east to to Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach or west to Seaside and Grayton Beach.
Guests of The Lodge also have access to the state forest trail, located right behind Greenway Station and can also bike along the paved Timpoochee Trail that runs the 18.5 mile length of 30A and connects the Point Washington State Forest with three additional state parks (Deer Lake State Park, Grayton Beach State Park and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park) and crosses a handful of the area’s rare coastal dune lakes – another one of our area’s must-see natural wonders.
What do you think surprises visitors most about the outdoors on 30A?
No one realizes that the 30A bike trails offer a beautiful, peaceful alternative to the beach. You might see deer, rabbits, eagles and much more. The abundance of sea life in the Gulf is such a special experience. Seeing dolphins and sea turtles is always a highlight! Paddling in the coastal dune lakes or the Gulf of Mexico is also a favorite way to make memories here.
What can guests experience with the YOLO Pedal & Explore Package?
We are so happy to partner with The Lodge to provide the highest level of customer service just as they do. All guests need to do is walk right over to our store, located right in front of the hotel, and we can outfit them in minutes. In addition to the two bike rentals included in the package, guests of The Lodge also receive 15% off additional bike, paddleboard and electric bike rentals.
Tell us how visitors can learn more about YOLO’s “While You’re Here” and “Adventures” app.
Simply search “Yolo Adventures” in the app store and download! Our guide provides invaluable area information, including beach and trail access points, dining and shopping recommendations and details on YOLO’s rentals and adventure tours.
Ready to book your adventure? Visit TheLodge30A.com to see current offers, explore accommodations and discover all that the hotel has to offer.
Winter in Northwest Florida means trading in your snow shovel for a different kind of white backdrop: our sugar-white beaches, that is! With milder weather, fewer crowds and the festive spirit of the season, there’s even more reason to celebrate during the winter months – and plenty of ways to stay warm while you do.
Here are our top picks for warming up and cozying up to enjoy a winter wonderland in true 30A style!
A Beachside Bonfire
Guests of WaterColor Inn can reserve two hours of bonfire fun for up to 30 guests – complete with beach chairs, bottled water and all of the fixings for s’mores. The expertly set-up bonfire experience, which can be set up before or after sunset, takes place behind the WaterColor Beach Club and provides a laidback and fun way to cozy up with the beach during the cooler winter months. Outdoor game packages and food-and-beverage amenities can also be added for an additional fee.
A Hot Stone Massage
Experience a hot stone massage at Spa Pearl at The Pearl Hotel and melt your winter blues away. Within four private poolside treatment rooms, men and women enjoy facials, signature body treatments and massages that incorporate invigorating and therapeutic oceanic elements. Better yet? All spa bookings receive complimentary access to The Pearl Hotel’s heated adults-only pool – and we can’t quite picture a winter day more relaxing than that.
A Swim in the Pool
The winter months won’t keep us away from the water – the pool water, that is! And because all of our pools at WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel are heated, our guests can enjoy a leisurely swim year-round. Not to mention, WaterColor Inn now has a new 2,800-square-foot zero-entry family pool, complete with whirlpool bench and hydro jets. We think there’s nothing quite as invigorating like a warm winter dip!
A Walk on the Beach
Never underestimate the simple, heart-warming pleasure of taking a stroll on the beach. Throw on your favorite hoodie (we have a preference for this super cozy WaterColor Shop sweatshirt) and head Gulf-side to take in a picturesque winter sunset or bask in the stunning display of stars that light up our coastal sky.
A Walk on the Wild Side
Explore South Walton’s varied landscapes with a brisk hike or bike ride through Point Washington State Forest. Guests of The Lodge 30A can conveniently access the trailhead from the hotel, enjoy complimentary bikes on the forest trails or along the paved Timpoochee Trail, and take advantage of discounted pricing on rentals at nearby YOLO Board & Bike.
A Seafood Feast with a View
Winter months are still perfect for enjoying freshly caught seafood just footsteps away from the Gulf. And cooler weather doesn’t mean forgoing the view either! Take it in indoors at Fish Out of Water, where every seat is the best in the house and every dish boasts the Gulf’s most delicious seasonal flavors.
A Fresh Cup of Hot Coffee
Load up on some extra fuel at Scratch Biscuit Kitchen, where you’ll find plenty of coffee flowing, thanks to the restaurant’s daily selections of its own signature blend. Consider yourself a die-hard coffee enthusiast well beyond the winter months? Join Scratch’s “Mug Club” to receive your own Scratch “Mug Club”-branded mug and $1 unlimited coffee (cheers to that!).
A Tropics-Inspired Happy Hour
Retreat to the Havana Beach Lounge, an intimate tropical hideaway nestled within The Pearl Hotel’s Havana Beach Bar & Grill, to enjoy a menu of small plates, pre-dinner cocktails or both. Bold, tropical prints and a lively Havana-inspired theme are surely to warm up your evening.
We might be biased, but we can’t picture a more cheerful way to spend the holidays than with the backdrop of our sugar-white sand (our much nicer version of snow) and the cooler coastal weather that seems to make every sunset just that much brighter. Besides, with fewer crowds, it feels like we have every inch of the stunning Gulf Coast for ourselves.
It’s undeniable: the holidays bring a bounty of good cheer to Northwest Florida, but if you’re looking for even more reasons to book your winter today, here are a few:
Lower Rates
Lock in the best rates of the year when you stay at WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel or The Lodge 30A during the winter and holiday months. Looking for the ultimate home-away-from home experience? Settle into comfort at The Lodge 30A and cash in on the extra savings when you book an extended stay.
30A in Lights
Experience a coastal winter wonderland as you stroll, drive or bike through the beautiful holiday decorations along Scenic Highway 30A, through WaterColor and into the Rosemary Beach town square. The only downside might be the number of times you’ll be compelled to stop for a magical photo.
Festive Events
‘Tis the season to gather with loved ones and celebrate – and we know how to do just that. Each year, WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel and their acclaimed restaurants, Fish Out of Water and Havana Beach Bar & Grill, get into the spirit of the season with a variety of festive holiday-themed events for the whole family, taking place in December.
Fuss-Free Family Time
Spend quality time in our coastal winter wonderland without having to worry about what to do or where to eat, thanks to an array of dining, shopping and entertainment options, including the newly opened Greenway Station. With so much to choose from – and fewer crowds to share it all with – you’ll find something everyone can enjoy.
Memorable Gatherings
Whether you’re planning a festive corporate party, a joyful family gathering or an intimate holiday dinner, let WaterColor Inn do all of the planning, with party packages within the resort’s doors or right at your home.
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For details on the holiday offerings and events available at WaterColor Inn or The Pearl Hotel, visit watercolorresort.com or thepearlrb.com, respectively.
Let’s say it: holiday gift-planning can be stressful, especially when left to the last-minute. We’re here to make holiday shopping both seamless and special for you with this list of 30A essentials. Each is reflective of our 30A lifestyle and also meant to highlight one of our most favorite things: gathering with loved ones.
We have a feeling these are surely to delight everyone on your list. What other 30A gifts would you add to yours?
Destination-Inspired Goodies
Sure, you’ll find plenty of WaterColor-branded essentials at the WaterColor Store, complete with perfectly curated winter essentials like sweatshirts and hoodies a but you’ll also find a variety of holiday-themed goodies, too, including custom-painted ornaments and Christmas-themed WaterColor-branded tees. All this in addition to the store’s expertly curated selection of active wear, locally crafted jewelry and even the ideal drinkware for keeping your winter beverages warm.
Shopping for the little ones on your list? Head to WaterColor Kids at 6 WaterColor Blvd. The newly opened specialty children’s clothing outfitter features baby accessories, children’s clothing from brands like Pepita & Me, Miki Miette, Appaman and more, children’s jewelry by Carrie Rhea, fashion backpacks, toys and a wide selection of beach essentials and WaterColor-branded novelty items, of course! Nearby, at the WaterColor Package Store, you’ll find a small selection of specialty gift items, such as locally beloved “Theo the Stuffed Turtle,” proceeds from which go towards protect sea turtles in Northwest Florida.
Toasting Essentials
Stock up on unique liquors, fine wines and local craft beers at the WaterColor Package Store – perfect for gifting and toasting – at the WaterColor Package Store. The shop’s curated collection includes Fish Out of Water favorites like Duckhorn Decoy Flavored Seltzers, Grayton Beer Company Beers, Heathen Wines and Casa Dragones Joven Tequila, as well as WaterColor-inspired barware and specialty gifts. Looking to gift something really special? You’ll also find rare items like E.H. Taylor Rye, Eagle Rare and even Louis XIII de Remy Martin Cognac Grande Champagne.
Coffee for Life (Kind of)
Give the coffee enthusiast(s) in your life the gift that keeps on flowing with a year-long membership to Scratch Biscuit Kitchen’s “Mug Club.” In addition to major bragging rights, they’ll get their own personal Mug Club YETI, which gets them $1 unlimited coffee with every visit. For good measure, add in a Scratch gift card to complement their fresh cup of Joe with some house-made biscuits. Cheers to that!
Time Well Spent
There’s simply no better gift than that of experiences, and thanks to a variety of gift cards available through our St. Joe Collection, we’ve got everyone on your list covered! Gift the foodies in your life a special dinner at Havana Beach Bar & Grill or Fish Out of Water. Pamper the busy and tired mom with a coastal-inspired treatment at Spa Pearl. Give the ultimate beach experience with gift cards to WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel, WaterSound Inn and, our newest properties, The Lodge 30A and Camp Creek Inn (just remember to work yourself into the vacation, too!).
The Gift of the Outdoors
Send the outdoor lovers in your life on an adventure with gift cards from the BoatHouse Paddle Club at the WaterColor BoatHouse. Gift them a kayaking or standup paddleboard rental for the day or pick from an array of classes on the water, which include everything from a run-and-SUP workout to SUP yoga. They’ll be thrilled with the thoughtful gift and be one step closer to crushing those New Year’s resolutions.
Searching for a home away from home in the heart of 30A? Look no further than The Lodge 30A! Seagrove Beach’s newest select-service hotel offers comfort and convenience with coastal style (and without any of the frill or hassle), so whether you’re here for a short weekend away or looking to settle in for a bit longer, you’ll find yourself right at home.
The Lodge 30A provides an approachable and affordable lodging experience that feels equal parts laidback and inviting, thanks to an abundance of comfort and convenience, including essential kitchen appliances and the latest technology in every guest room, complimentary WiFi, daily housekeeping service (upon request) and complimentary self-parking. A fitness center, outdoor pool, boardroom and business center also have you covered – whether you’re here to play, work or both!
With self-service laundry and spacious rooms (king or double queen suites and adjoining rooms are available), The Lodge 30A is an ideal destination for an extended stay. In fact, guests who book seven or more nights can enjoy up to 25% OFF standard rates, thanks to the hotel’s Extended Stay Offer. Guests can enjoy plenty of savings year-round, thanks to special offers offering 30A’s best rates!
The hotel’s lush natural surroundings are also part of The Lodge 30A guest experience, thanks to close proximity to both the area’s beaches and South Walton’s renowned hiking and biking trails. Guests also receive discounted pricing on rentals at nearby YOLO Board & Bike and access to premier resort experiences.
Additionally, nestled within Greenway Station, The Lodge 30A is within footsteps from a variety of the area’s trendiest shops and restaurants, making it easy to soak up the very best of 30A within reach.
So, whether you’re looking to get away for a weekend, a mid-week escape or an extended-home-away-from-home experience, you’ll find comfort, convenience and cost-savings at The Lodge 30A.
Ready to book your stay today? Head to thelodge30a.com to see current offers, explore accommodations and discover all that the hotel has to offer.
Along our little sliver of coastal paradise, the fall and winter months seem to be colored with perfectly romantic hues. From colorful sunsets and cooler weather to fewer crowds that make for a more intimate experience, the result is an idyllic backdrop for a getaway with your favorite person.
Whether you’re escaping for a weekend or longer, we’ve compiled some of our favorite romantic experiences that’ll surely have you cozying up to a warm stay this season.
For the Adventurous Couple
Outdoor-loving couples may opt to take advantage of the myriad of outdoor recreational activities available in Northwest Florida, such as paddle-boarding, biking, kayaking, hiking or simply a beach bonfire – complete with s’mores. Guests staying at The Lodge 30A, a prime destination for couples retreats, can also enjoy the best of 30A’s iconic beach communities and picturesque trails with the YOLO Pedal & Explore Package, which includes two bike rentals from YOLO Board & Bike.
For the Classic Romantics
Located in one of the most romantic towns in America (the charming coastal community of Rosemary Beach®) and as the only full-service, adult-oriented hotel in South Walton, The Pearl Hotel provides the perfect setting for luxurious couples retreats. And because the hotel offers everything from beach and heated pool access to fine dining and plentiful shopping – you can truly have it all in one stay!
An early morning coffee on your private balcony (overlooking the Gulf or the town below) is sure to get you ready for a romantic day ahead. You’ll definitely want to book a relaxing couple’s massage in the couple’s suite at Spa Pearl, then spend the rest of the day lounging or enjoying a cocktail poolside by one of the firepits on the Havana Beach Rooftop. Dining options abound, so whether you’d like to dine in-room or at the hotel’s AAA Four Diamond restaurant, your experience will be equally elegant and delectable.
For the Active Resort Enthusiasts
For couples who love an active getaway, Camp Creek® Inn offers the perfect mix of luxury and recreation along the scenic Highway 30A. This boutique hotel provides exclusive access to the championship-level Camp Creek® Golf Course and Shark’s Tooth Golf Course, with a new links-style course debuting in spring 2025. For those who prefer other activities, the Wellness Center has top-tier tennis and pickleball courts with private lessons available.
After an active day, retreat to the Pine Suite for the ultimate in comfort and relaxation. With its private bedroom featuring a luxurious King-size bed, spacious bathroom stocked with L’Occitane toiletries, and serene private balcony, you’ll have the perfect setting to unwind together and plan your next day’s adventures.
For the Beach-Loving Type
For the ultimate coastal retreat, look no further than WaterColor Inn. From the David Rockwell-designed beachfront accommodations, which bring the outdoors mere steps from the door, to the pair of Adirondack chairs on each private balcony (situated at precise sunset-level), you’ll have your own romantic seaside oasis. Even the shower comes with its own stunning Gulf view!
Located within one of the most iconic communities on 30A, you’ll find plenty of romance to soak up. Take a cozy walk (or bike ride) along Western Lake or enjoy a picnic for two at Cerulean – just be sure to get back before sunset! Pair a stunning Gulf sunset view with fresh coastal cuisine at WaterColor Inn’s beloved Fish Out of Water restaurant. And of course, room service is always available – champagne and chocolate strawberries for dessert, anyone?
No matter how you dream of spending time together, your perfect romantic escape awaits along 30A. Visit our stay page to compare properties and start planning.
A vacation spent along Florida’s famous Scenic Highway 30A is truly an escape – the area is blessed with beautiful white sand beaches, idyllic beach towns and an abundance of preserved natural areas, with walking and biking paths (not to mention a Scenic America-designated National Scenic Byway) connecting them all. What visitors and locals love most about this stretch of coast is the opportunity to unplug and unwind, and what makes it such an ideal vacation destination is the ease of doing just that!
While the majority of rentals in the area are houses, townhouses and condos, for those who’d truly like to take a break and let front desk personnel and professional hospitality staff onsite ensure a successful stay, the St. Joe Company offers five unique inns and hotels to choose from. Each offers its own advantages in terms of location and amenities, but all provide an elevated hospitality experience that makes your stay a true vacation.
Camp Creek InnSM (New!)
684 Fazio Dr. | Watersound
Perfect for the golf enthusiast, the Camp Creek Inn is a 75-room boutique hotel that offers guests a private club “Member for a Stay” experience, including access to private Watersound Club® amenities including onsite health, wellness, and recreational facilities, Watersound Beach Club®amenities, and Shark’s Tooth and Camp Creek golf courses. The ground floor serves as a clubhouse featuring a high-end golf outfitter shop and two dining venues, ANR and 1936, while the guest rooms are located on the second and third floors. Nestled between the Camp Creek® Golf Course and the 11,000-square-foot wellness center, the inn offers rooms with views overlooking the golf course, making it the perfect place to stay when your mind is on the green. Having access to the incredible Watersound Club amenities, the inn is ideal for a wellness retreat geared towards anyone looking to relax and recharge while enjoying a taste of the Watersound Club Membership experience.
The Lodge 30A (New!)
4271 E. County Hwy 30A | Seagrove Beach
Inspired by the beauty of its natural surroundings and with an idyllic location in the heart of Seagrove Beach and along the Point Washington State Forest , The Lodge 30A is an ideal destination for exploring nearby state parks, coastal dune lakes and beaches. The select-service boutique hotel offers guests all of the essentials – including kitchenettes in every room, a fitness center and an outdoor pool – without any of the fuss, including the most affordable rates on 30A! Additionally, situated within Greenway Station, the hotel is just steps from some of the area’s trendiest and newest shops and restaurants.
The Pearl Hotel
63 Main St. | Rosemary Beach
The Pearl Hotel’s commitment to excellence and luxury is reflected in an intimate setting where patrons are offered respite and calm alongside breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and the town of Rosemary Beach. Visitors can unwind at the hotel’s Spa Pearl, where they’ll enjoy signature body treatments and massages delivered at four private poolside treatment rooms.
For a spectacular culinary experience, claim a table at Havana Beach Bar & Grill, the hotel’s AAA Four-Diamond restaurant. The chef-driven, seasonal menu is a fusion of Gulf Coast and Caribbean cuisine and can be enjoyed in the colorful, Cuban-inspired dining room, on the veranda, in the lounge, or on the rooftop. The ultimate getaway for couples looking for luxury, the Pearl also offers amenities including a private beach with complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas, valet parking, a welcome reception with a complimentary beverage, use of bicycles, signature bath amenities, an adults-only outdoor pool with towels and food service, as well as snacks and a departure gift.
WaterColor Inn® & Resort
34 Goldenrod Circle | WaterColor
Families love WaterColor Inn & Resort, where 10 pools, multiple dining options, beachfront rooms and newly created family suites offer everything one could want to keep the entire group happy and occupied. WaterColor Inn is a AAA Four-Diamond hotel whose amenities leave little room to wonder why it has won so many awards. Dining options include casual coastal cuisine at Fish Out of Water® and WaterColor Grill, burgers and shakes at the Beach Cow® counter-service restaurant, a twist on Baha-Mexican fare at Costa Chica, snacks and camp-inspired faves at The Canteen, and an elevated international take on bar food served inside or poolside at Gather Kitchen + Bar. Guests enjoy access to WaterColor Beach Club and its amenities, including three pools, as well as Camp WaterColor, which boasts two pools with slides in addition to a lazy river, playground and basketball court. Other perks include complimentary house-made biscotti and assorted fruits upon arrival; complimentary adult bicycle rental; access to the cardio fitness room; guest floor treat suites including complimentary sodas, ice cream, coffee, snacks and more; a beach bag for use during your stay; housekeeping services offered twice a day (including a nightly evening service with freshly baked treats); and a departure gift.
WaterSoundSM Inn
6652 E. County Hwy 30A | Watersound Beach
Ideal for enjoying a private family escape, aWatersound Inn vacation offers a home-away-from-home experience with the luxury of resort. Located in the famed Gatehouse building overlooking the WaterSound Beach community, the inn boasts a contemporary Nantucket-style design and decor with 11 condo-sized suites offering comfortable furnishings, private balconies, laundry, and a full kitchen. With picturesque views from the second and third floors, the inn also extends guests access to the Watersound Beach Club amenities and its 7,000-square-foot, zero-entry pool, dining venues, al fresco bar, beach access and complimentary beach setup. Watersound Inn guests also enjoy access to the WaterSound Beach fitness center, and private Watersound ClubSM golf courses, including Camp Creek® and Shark’s Tooth golf courses.
Groups looking to host a small gathering or meeting in South Walton need to look no further than The Lodge 30A, a limited-service boutique hotel in the heart of Seagrove Beach. The Lodge offers all the essentials needed for business meetings, workshops, corporate events or even family reunions and intimate celebrations.
The hotel’s 300-square-foot Boardroom can accommodate up to 14 people and is equipped with Smart TV and video conferencing, and complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms, suites and common areas. Audiovisual rental and full-service catering services are also available upon request.
Additionally, a 24-hour business center offers complimentary printing and express mail services, and the hotel’s on-site market is open 24/7 ensures guests’ immediate needs are met, including Starbucks coffee. Other hotel amenities include a fitness center, outdoor pool, self-service laundry facility, complimentary parking and bottled water at registration. All guestrooms include a kitchenette and desk area.
In addition to featuring all of the necessities for a memorable gathering, The Lodge’s convenient location, nestled between sugar-white beaches and lush pines footsteps from Greenway Station, allows groups to enjoy the very best of 30A, including hiking, dining, shopping and plenty of relaxing, too!
Exclusive group rates – the lowest on 30A! – are available to all meeting guests staying at the hotel, and flexible room blocks of 10 or more rooms can be coordinated to best meet your group’s needs.
Ready to book your next small group event at The Lodge30A? Submit a request for proposal here to learn more about hosting your gathering at South Walton’s premier select-service hotel. We look forward to welcoming you!
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Explore The Lodge30A, including accommodations and seasonal offers at thelodge30a.com.
The Lodge 30A may be the latest boutique hotel to arrive to 30A, but its roots run as deep as those of the longleaf pines in the 15,000-acre Point Washington State Forest, which adjoins the property. In addition to its location, the hotel thoughtfully borrows inspiration from the area’s beautiful surroundings, with natural materials and colors helping to bring some of South Walton’s outdoors inside. But certainly, guests of The Lodge 30A will find plentiful ways to enjoy the outdoors outside!
A trailhead for exploring Point Washington is conveniently located just footsteps from the hotel, at the gravel parking area adjacent to Greenway Station (the name is inspired by the name of the Longleaf Greenway Trail system that traverses the preserved forests along 30A). The 30A Trail, or Cassine Trail, offers a variety of terrain and showcases Northwest Florida’s diverse ecosystems in an easy and shady walk. The flat half-mile trail can be enjoyed year-round (leashed pets are also welcomed), but is most colorful in the spring and fall months due to the variety of wildflowers it hosts. This beloved spot also offers a magnificent view of one of South Walton’s rare coastal dune lakes. Part of the Eastern Lake Trail, the 30A Trail is a connector to other legs of the trail system.
Guests of The Lodge can also enjoy the hotel’s complimentary bicycles on the forest trails or along the paved Timpoochee Trail, which also crosses several coastal dune lakes. Running the 18.5 mile length of 30A, the Timpoocheee Trail also connects the Point Washington State Forest with three additional state parks (Deer Lake State Park, Grayton Beach State Park and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park).
Within the stunningly lush state forest, visitors can follow trails through varied landscapes, including longleaf pine forests (one of the most ecologically diverse ecosystems in the world) sandhill, titi swamps, wet prairie and cypress swamps. Several species of threatened and endangered plants and animals can also be found in the forest, including the American kestrel, gopher tortoise, flatwoods salamander, white-topped pitcher plant, and the world’s largest population of Curtiss sand grass.
Notably, the Point Washington State Forest is a stop on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, making it a great place to spot the myrtle warbler, prothonotary warbler, red-headed woodpecker, mourning dove and common ground dove and many other species of birds. Additionally, Point Washington State Forest is home to white-tailed deer, Florida black bears, wild boar, raccoons, rabbits, duck, quail, turkeys, gopher tortoises, herons, egrets, cranes and alligators. Point Washington State Forest is open to the public for recreational use, including hiking and biking. As with all of our area’s natural attractions, it’s imperative that visitors be good stewards of these unique and invaluable surroundings. Learn about the Florida Forest Service’s guidelines and become familiar with the rules before visiting here.
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Inspired by the beauty of these natural coastal surroundings, The Lodge 30A provides guests with a sense of place. Ready to book your nature-inspired getaway? Visit TheLodge30A.com to see current offers and explore accommodations.
Beach season is almost upon us, which means longer days spent on Northwest Florida’s beautiful shores and enjoying the Gulf’s turquoise waters. It also means respecting our natural surroundings and local rules for your safety, the safety of others and the safety of area wildlife.
Whether you’re staying at WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel, The Lodge 30A, Camp Creek Inn or WaterSound Inn, your beach experience deserves to be an unforgettable one. To help make your escape to the beach a safe one, our friends at the South Walton County TDC have put together a treasure trove of resources, which we’re sharing with you here!
Pay Attention to Beach Flags
Knowing whether you should go in or stay out is as easy as knowing your colors, thanks to our local beach flag warnings. Double red flags flying? The water is closed to the public, and water activity is prohibited (in fact Entering the Gulf during double red flag conditions can result in fines and criminal charges). A red flag means high hazard due to high surf and/or strong currents, whereas a yellow flag implies a medium hazard, with moderate surf and/or currents. When a green flag is flying, hazard is low, but you should still exercise caution. Is a purple flag in the mix? Watch out for man o’ wars, jellyfish and stingrays nearby.
Be Mindful of Rip Currents
Rip currents are common in the Gulf of Mexico and can be extremely dangerous, so it’s important to pay attention to the beach flags and know the surf conditions before entering the water. If you see someone caught in a rip currently, notify a lifeguard right away and call 911. If possible, throw them a flotation device and don’t lose sight of them. Do not enter the water under any circumstance, as you will also get caught in the strong current. If you unexpectedly find yourself in a rip current, stay calm and float with the current until it dissipates; do not try swimming against it. If possible, swim parallel to shore and back in until help can get to you.
Know the Rules of the Beach
Safety comes first, and so does the protection of our natural environment and local wildlife. That means leaving no trace! Littering and glass containers are not permitted, and any items left on the beach overnight will be discarded unless otherwise permitted. Vehicles, dogs and bonfires all require permits. Take a lasting look, but taking sand, water or vegetation from our beaches is strictly prohibited. Also, please stay off the dunes, and be sure to follow local ordinances during Sea Turtle Season (late spring through early summer).
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Time at the beach should be fun, relaxing and memorable for all of the right reasons. Learn more about local beach rules and ordinances from our friends at the South Walton County TDC. For Gulf conditions and flag updates, text “SAFETY” to 31279. Stay aware, courteous and safe out there!