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.
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.
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.
As the premier hospitality management company in Northwest Florida, The St. Joe Company‘s award-winning properties are not only among the area’s most luxurious but have stunning views, too – bringing the sights and sounds of the Gulf Coast to every stay.
WaterColor Inn, the only beachfront hotel on 30A, brings the outdoors mere steps from its David Rockwell-designed rooms, which have been recently reimagined to include new flooring, furnishings and décor. The room’s modern coastal design reflects WaterColor’s casual elegance and provides the serenity of a seaside oasis for each guest. Additionally, each private balcony comes equipped with a pair of Adirondack chairs, situated at precise horizon level to ensure maximum sunset viewing. Even the shower comes with its own stunning Gulf view, thanks to a strategically situated window. Book a Premium Gulf View Room to optimize the views or, for the ultimate stay, indulge in one of two Rotunda Gulf View Suites for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico. Those guests looking to enjoy a larger family getaway can also book one of the hotel’s Family Suites, situated just footsteps from the sand.
At The Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach®, guest rooms are intimate in scale and classic in style. Every room showcases picturesque views of either the Gulf, Town or Pool. The rooms’ private balcony ensures you’ll get the most out of your stay, whether taking in a sunset, listening to the sounds of the charming coastal town, or rising with the sun and a cup of freshly brewed coffee. For an extra special stay, book one of the hotel’s nine Gulf-View Suites. Looking to splurge? The Pearl Suite comes equipped with its own separate master bedroom with private balcony, soaking tub and rainfall shower.
Camp Creek Inn is scenic highway 30A’s newest 75-room boutique hotel where guests can enjoy a “Member for a Stay” experience. This one-of-a-kind destination provides guests with access to a world-class beach club, five expansive resort-style pools, a two-story 11,000-square-foot Wellness Center, and two championship golf courses. Nestled among towering pines and lush greens, the inn’s guest rooms highlight stunning views of the grounds, including Camp Creek Golf Course designed by acclaimed architect, Tom Fazio. Many of the rooms reflect a rustic coastal charm taking inspiration from Florida’s Gulf Coast and the historic mansions of Louisiana’s Great River Road. Camp Creek Inn has something for every guest whether it’s an intimate couple’s getaway in a Junior Golf Suite or a lively family vacation in a spacious double-Queen guest room. Many of our rooms also come equipped with their own private balconies for morning coffee or evening cocktails overlooking the pristine golf course. Looking for more space? The Pine Suite provides the perfect getaway for guests looking for additional space and privacy with a separate living room.
And of course, we can’t forget about Watersound Inn, which provides a home-away-from-home experience on 30A. All of the boutique Inn’s 11 suites are approximately 1,000 sq. ft. and feature a spacious, airy floor plan that includes a separate King bedroom with private furnished balcony overlooking the quaint WaterSound® Beach community.
Turns out when you visit the beach with The St. Joe Company, you can count on a memorable, comfortable stay that’s sure to leave you feeling relaxed, while your eyes do a whole lot of admiring. Sit back and take it all in…
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).
__
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!
Spring is officially in bloom! And longer and warmer days means more opportunities to soak up the sun in more fun ways than one in South Walton. As Northwest Florida’s premier hospitality-management company, St. Joe® is an expert in family-friendly resort experiences, which is why we’ve compiled some of our top picks for a spring day well spent.
Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend or an extended stay, we hope you’ll put that extra spring hour (and sunshine) to work. Now, let’s spring to it!
Take in the Sights on Bike
Take in the sights along Scenic Highway 30A by biking through South Walton’s distinct beach communities and exploring dining, shopping and so much more along the way. Park your complimentary bike (available to guests of WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel, and Watersound Inn) and spend the afternoon lounging under the warm Northwest Florida sun. In the evening, have yourself a lively night, complete with a casual dinner, drinks and delightful conversations with a stunning view at Fish Out of Water or Havana Beach Rooftop.
Explore a Rare Coastal Dune Lake
South Walton is home to 15 of some of the rarest and most spectacular natural wonders: coastal dune lakes, shallow basins of fresh water created when winds redistribute sand over thousands of years – within feet from the Gulf of Mexico. Get up close with South Walton’s second-largest (and, perhaps, most popular) coastal dune lake, Western Lake, by kayaking or standup paddle boarding. All are available to seasonally from the WaterColor BoatHouse, which also offers kayaking adventure tours. WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel and Watersound Inn guests have access to complimentary use of canoes rentals for one hour each day and discounted SUP rentals.
Catch a Gulf Sunset
Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast is well known for its sugar-white beaches, but it’s the sunsets over the Gulf that provide the cherry on top of an unforgettable beach day here in our corner of paradise. Head to Havana Beach Rooftop at The Pearl Hotel for tapas and cocktails, served with stunning views of the Gulf and of the charming coastal town of Rosemary Beach below. At Costa Chica (located within the private WaterColor Beach Club), you can enjoy coastal-infused TexMex dishes and handcrafted margaritas in a casual rooftop setting overlooking the pool deck. For the ultimate sunset spot, there’s perhaps no more timeless Santa Rosa Beach spot than Fish Out of Water. Here, the best seat in the house is always guaranteed, thanks to glass walls that showcasing breathtaking views from every seat, while enjoying an authentic taste of the Gulf.
Take a Dip in the Pool – or in 10!
Whether you are looking to lounge, dip your feet, go for a lap or splish-splash about with the kiddos, you’ll have plenty of pools to choose from as a guest of WaterColor Inn. With 10 pools to choose from, WaterColor Inn boasts the most pool accesses on 30A, providing families with plenty of options for basking in the sun, just steps away from sugar-white sand beaches. Guests have access to the private, zero-entry family pool at WaterColor Inn, three pools at Camp WaterColor and three pools at WaterColor Beach Club, including an adults-only infinity pool with lounge seating. As if that weren’t enough, WaterColor Inn guests also have access to the Sandhill, Dragonfly and Marina pools within the WaterColor Community.
Savor the Ultimate Outdoor Picnic
Picturesque Cerulean Park provides the most idyllic backdrop for the ultimate 30A picnic outdoors. Build your own picnic basket with your favorite South Walton treats from the WaterColor Town Center, or order to-go dishes from some of WaterColor’s most popular (and delicious!) restaurants, including Fish Out of Water, WaterColor Grill and Beach Cow, all of which offer curbside pickup. Looking for the ultimately decadent convenience? Place your order at the Scratch Biscuit Kitchen carryout window, then walk over to your favorite spot in the park.
––
As if all of that fun time in the sun weren’t enough, the spring months also provide an opportunity for BIG seasonal savings – of up to 20% OFF, in some cases, when you book your spring stay before May 19, 2024. Be sure to check out WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel, Watersound Inn and the newly opened The Lodge 30A for each hotel’s spring savings.
Lastly, no matter what you choose to do with your longer days this spring, please remember to make your beach days safe days with these local precautions. Wishing you and yours a sun- and fun-filled spring season! We look forward to seeing you soon.
Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast offers a beach experience unlike any other – and not just because of the area’s emerald-green waters and sugar-white sand. Beaches along Scenic Highway 30A have both beauty and charm, and it’s this combination that has made the place we call home a beloved vacation destination. In fact, for many travelers, 30A itself has become an annual tradition.
So, in the spirit of such tradition, we’ve rounded up our favorite, classic beach experiences. We hope they’ll soon become part of your traditions, too!
Take in a Sunset
We might be biased, but there is simply nothing more stunning than a Gulf Coast sunset – and certainly not more beautiful than catching it while on 30A. Toast to it on a rooftop with a drink in hand at the Havana Beach Rooftop, or have the cotton-candy skies be the backdrop to a fresh seafood dinner at Fish Out of Water. Gather your family for an unforgettable barefoot photo-op Gulf-side just before the sun sets, or schedule a private kayaking class around Western Lake just in time to see the sun set over the dunes.
Build a Sandcastle
Sometimes simple pleasures really are the most joyful. Whether you’re crafting a family masterpiece, simply tracing your fingers on the beach’s sugar-fine sand, or booking professional instruction from some of the area’s most acclaimed sand sculptors, you won’t regret spending time just playing in (and with) the sand.
Nosh on Fresh Seafood
We think Gulf Coast seafood is the best seafood (and you will, too!). Our coast’s bounty is plentiful and unlike any other in the world, which is why you’ll find only the freshest, most seasonal seafood featured in our restaurants’ inventive creations – from the Taste of the Sea Tower at Fish Out of Water (pictured above) and the Hot Grouper Bites at Havana Beach Bar & Grill, to Panhandle Fish Sandwich (with Gulf Mahi) at Costa Chica and Gulf Shrimp Ceviche at WaterColor Grill. All we’re really saying is, save room for lots of seafood!
Huddle by a Beach Bonfire
Sand, stars and s’mores – need we say more? Wind down a beach day with an expertly set-up beachside bonfire, complete with all of the fixin’s for s’mores. WaterColor Inn offers beach bonfire packages for two hours of bonfire fun for up to 30 guests. Book a spot in time for sunset, and choose to add on food, beverages and even games for a truly memorable sendoff to a beach day.
Go Crab “Hunting”
Right after the sun sets on the Gulf Coast, ghost crabs (named for their pale appearance) come out in the dozens to look for small prey on the sand. That’s when visitors and locals alike love to go out beach, flashlights in hand, to look for them – quite an interesting and fascinating sight! While it’s called “hunting,” you won’t want to harm these little guys. Searching for them is part of the fun.
Bike Along 30A
One of the best ways to explore South Walton is to biking along 30A, weaving your way in and out of the 16 distinct beach neighborhoods that dot the area. Each coastal community is just as charming as it is distinct, so you’ll have plenty to see and enjoy at each stop – from the West Indies-inspired town of Rosemary Beach® and the nostalgic, family-friendly feel of WaterColor®, to the more secluded, scenic style of WaterSound®. Staying at WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel or Watersound Inn? All three properties offer complimentary bike rentals to their guests!
The start of a new year brings with it boundless potential for new experiences. And so, with the anticipation of the 2024 beach season that awaits us – and in the sunny spirit of our beloved Gulf Coast – we’ve compiled a list of the things to see and soak up in the year ahead.
We hope you’ll join us!
Get Your Legs Moving
At the top of everyone’s list is incorporating more movement into their daily routine, and that means while on vacation, too! Lucky for you (and for us), South Walton offers plenty of opportunities to get your legs moving. Whether you prefer pumping your legs aboard a bicycle or getting them to work the old-school way on foot, you’ll find yourself logging in some invigorating steps along the distinct beach neighborhoods and natural sights that dot our beautiful coastal community.
Walk or bike your way through nature on the 30A Trail, formerly known as Cassine Trail. Accessible from the 30A Trailhead in Seagrove Beach’s Greenway Station, this trail offers a convenient starting point near The Lodge 30A and leads into Point Washington State Forest, where you’ll encounter diverse terrain that showcases the variety of ecosystems in Northwest Florida. The trail winds past the northwest portion of Eastern Lake- one of the area’s rare coastal dune lakes. Guests at The Lodge 30A receive discounted rates on bike rentals from YOLO Board + Bike, a fellow merchant within Greenway Station.
Or take a hike on the wild side and see 11 distinct ecosystems in one park. Located within close proximity of WaterColor Inn, Deer Lake State Park beautifully boasts magnolias, golden asters, woody goldenrod and scrub oaks. Walk across the dunes atop the boardwalk to access the beach and enjoy an idyllic picnic, take a mid-day swim or cast a line from the shore. Staying at WaterColor Inn or The Pearl Hotel? Both properties offer complimentary bike rentals to our guests.
Feast on Fresh Seafood
Everything in moderation – unless it refers to great food, right? We think Gulf Coast seafood is the best seafood, and – if you don’t already – soon you will too!
Our coast’s bounty is plentiful and unlike any other in the world, which is why you’ll find only the freshest, most seasonal seafood featured in our restaurants’ inventive creations – from the Featured Fish of the Day at Fish Out of Water and the roasted Oysters de Antigua at Havana Beach Bar & Grill, to the Panhandle Fish Sandwich (with Gulf Mahi) at Costa Chica and Gulf Shrimp Ceviche at WaterColor Grill. All we’re really saying is, save room for lots of seafood this year!
Grab a Paddle
Whether you’ve visited Northwest Florida once or dozens of times, you’ve likely encountered some of the locals’ favorite activities: kayaking and standup paddle boarding (SUP) – and what better way to try your hand at one or both than in the new year?
Get up close and personal with one of South Walton’s rare coastal dune lakes, Western Lake (the largest and, perhaps, most popular) by kayaking or standup paddle boarding. Aside from being distinctly fun activities, their low-impact nature makes them suitable for all ages – and offers the chance to explore WaterColor’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point. All are available to rent seasonally from the WaterColor BoatHouse. Guests of all St. Joe Resort properties have access to use of these rentals for one hour each day. Guided kayaking adventure tours around Western Lake are also available and offer a great way to learn more about these beautiful natural rarities.
Moonlight as a Crab “Hunter”
Don’t worry – no creature will be harmed with your new hobby! Join the locals on the beach right after the sun sets to search for ghost crabs (named for their pale appearance), as they come out in the dozens to look for small prey in the sand. All you need is a flashlight or two to look for them up and down the shore – quite an interesting and fascinating sight that’s sure to become one of your favorite post-beach day beach activities this year.
Experience South Walton’s Newest Boutique Hotels
This year, comfort, convenience and contemporary coastal style await at St. Joe Resort’s newest hotel, The Lodge 30A. Inspired by the beauty of Northwest Florida’s lush coastal surroundings, The Lodge provides guests with a distinct and relaxing sense of place. Indulge in a nature-inspired beach escape to 30A this spring, and receive The Lodge’s best rates of the season, with savings of up to 25% when you book your stay March 1 – May 23 (Spring Presale available until February 29). Equipped with everything you might need and situated just steps away from dining, shopping and the state’s expansive network of trails, The Lodge makes it easy for guests to do as much, or as little, as you prefer – which might just be the best resolution yet.
Lock in the Savings
The past couple of years have taught us to not take even the smallest pleasures for granted and assured us that there’s no better place to be than surrounded by loved ones in a place we love. As we get ready to plan travel for 2024, beach vacations seem more popular than ever. Ensure your spring vacation doesn’t get away by locking in the season’s best savings. Book your family’s spring 2024 beach getaway at a St. Joe Resort property – The Lodge 30A, WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel – and save up to 20% off your stay depending on how long you stay. With so much to enjoy and save, it’ll be like crossing two major resolutions off your list – you overachiever, you!
The past year has taught us to not take even the smallest pleasures for granted and assured us that there’s no better place to be than surrounded by loved ones in a place we love. As the world opens up and travel slowly resumes its pace, popular vacation times are now more popular than ever – and spring 2022 is already gearing up to be a very desirable time to visit our beautiful sugar-white beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. That’s why our Spring Pre-Sale offers are your best chance yet to book your worry-free spring 2022 stay.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy some family beach time at WaterColor Inn; relax by the adults-only pool at The Pearl Hotel; or experience a home-away-from-home experience at WaterSound Inn, the Spring Pre-Sale is your best bet for ensuring your spring vacation doesn’t get away! Let us tell you why…
Enjoy the Season’s Lowest Rates
By booking early, you’ll lock in the lowest rates of the season – guaranteed! Book your stay by Sept. 30, 2021 and enjoy up to 25% off your spring stay, between March 1 and May 25, 2022*. Those are major savings, leaving you with the opportunity to spend on other travel costs or vacation essentials
Stay Longer, Save More
Better yet, the longer you stay, the more you’ll save off our standard rates. Stay three nights and receive 20% off standard rates; stay four nights and your savings jump up to 25% off. Now that’s a major offer you won’t want to miss out on!
Have Peace-of-Mind
Booking your spring vacation early means you won’t risk missing out on your chance to visit. Keep in mind that WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel and WaterSound Inn are all small, boutique properties, so selling out – especially in the spring and summer months – is almost always likely.
Don’t Worry About Your Reservation
We understand that things happen, and vacation plans can change. Our Spring Pre-Sale offers have a two-week cancellation policy, meaning you won’t have to worry should your plans change last-minute.
Celebrate Early
Knowing you have a spring beach vacation to look forward to – and with tremendous savings to boot! – is sure to make the winter months a bit more bearable, don’t you think?
––
So, what are you waiting for? Get booking – and we’ll see you this spring!
*Blackout dates apply; other restrictions may apply. For full offer details, visit the respective hotel’s website and click “Offers.”
Let’s face it, sometimes a vacation needs to feel like home – complete with all of the comforts and conveniences you’d expect from a familiar space. This is why WaterSound Inn has long been a go-to for travelers looking for a serene, inspiring and timeless home-away-from home vacation experience.
The boutique hotel features just 11 newly renovated condo-sized suites, which range from 730 to 950 sq. ft. Each spacious room features an airy floor plan with comfortable furnishings, a private furnished balcony, a full kitchen, a separate King bedroom, a bathroom with double vanity, two TVs, and even a washer and dryer, making it truly ideal for loved ones traveling together.
And because it’s located within the acclaimed WaterSound Beach community in the heart of 30A, WaterSound Inn boasts picturesque views from the second and third floors, in addition to providing guests with access to the prestigious Watersound® Beach Club. WaterSound Inn guests can enjoy the club’s two 7,000-square-foot zero-entry pools shaped like a coastal dune lake, restaurant, indoor and outdoor dining, al fresco bar, shaded arbors, beach access and complimentary beach setup.
Additionally, guests can reap the benefits of staying at a St. Joe Hospitality-managed property, meaning access to an array of The St. Joe Company’s membership club amenities, including two private golf clubs and a beach club – offered through the Watersound Club.
Turns out, with a WaterSound Inn stay, you really can have it all while on vacation!
To learn more about the hotel, browse current specials or book your stay, visit watersoundinn.com.