Beach

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.

It’s five o’clock at the beach, which means it’s time for a refreshing coastal cocktail – and when it comes to those, Fish Out of Water knows best. With an array of specialty and seasonally featured handcrafted drinks and a selection of some of the world’s best rums, tequilas and more, the restaurant’s cocktail menu is inspired by the beach it overlooks: Santa Rosa Beach.

Can’t make it to Happy Hour with us on the Gulf? Get away to the beach with just one sip, thanks to these beach-inspired cocktails! These three recipes, imagined by Fish Out of Water’s head bartender, are inspired by the destination’s sugar-white sand, emerald-green waters and casual lifestyle but are simple to make from wherever you are. Just add sunshine and enjoy!

And when you’re back on our shores, be sure to visit Fish Out Of Water for the ultimate Happy Hour, daily from 2 – 4 p.m. (hours and live entertainment varies seasonally). Fish Out of Water is located at WaterColor Inn. Learn more at dinefish30a.com.

THE SWIM TO THE SECOND SANDBAR

INGREDIENTS

• 0.75 oz 360 Vodka 
• 0.75 oz RumHaven Coconut Rum
• 0.25 oz Combier Orange 
• 1 oz Blue Curacao 
• 3 oz Pineapple Juice 

RECIPE

• Pour all ingredients into a shaker and shake vigorously
• Using a strainer, strain shaken ingredients over ice into a highball glass
• Garnish with a large gummy shark – because why not?!

PUTTIN’ ON THE SPRITZ

INGREDIENTS

• 3 oz Lillet Blanc 
• 3 oz Lamarca Prosecco
• 2 Strawberries 
• 2 Lemon Wedges 
• 3 Thyme Sprigs 

RECIPE

• Softly muddle strawberry and lemon in a wine glass
• Add Lillet, ice and thyme sprigs
• Top with Lamarca Prosecco

BEACH HAIR DON’T CARE

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Cruzan Coconut Rum
• 0.25 oz Banana Liqueur 
• 1 oz Orange Juice
• 0.5 oz Lime Juice
• 0.5 oz Lemon Juice

RECIPE

• Salt the rim of a rocks glass 
• Pour all ingredients into a shaker and shake vigorously
• Using a strainer, strain shaken ingredients over ice into salt-rimmed glass
• Garnish with edible flower for an extra tropical flair!

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Cheers!

So, 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. Which will you pick?

Over the past two decades, WaterColor Inn has become a beloved family beach vacation tradition, thanks to its convenient location on 30A, comfortable accommodations, distinguished service and family-friendly resort amenities. In fact, with the addition of seven new Family Suites and a family-friendly pool area in 2022, WaterColor Inn truly is the ultimate family vacation destination in South Walton!

Additionally, with 10 pools, WaterColor Inn boasts the most pool accesses on Scenic Highway 30A – providing families with plenty of options for basking in the Northwest Florida sun, just steps away from the area’s iconic sugar-white-sand beaches.

WaterColor Inn Hotel Pool
The 2,800-sq. ft. zero-entry family pool includes a whirlpool bench with hydro jets, as well as an expanded pool deck provides ample space for families to swim, sunbathe or savor treats from Gather Kitchen + Bar.

WaterColor Beach Club (3 Pools)
The beach club boasts a main pool with expanded seating and lounge areas, a zero-entry pool, and an adults-only infinity pool with lounge seating – all with unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Camp WaterColor (3 Pools)
Located within Camp WaterColor, guests have access to three pools, each with a lifeguard on duty: the Butterfly Pool with Monarch Slide, the zero-entry Caterpillar Pool with a children’s area and Skipper Slide, and the zero-entry Lazy Lizard Pool with a lazy river.

Sandhill Frog Pool
A guest favorite, this pool features giant mosaic frog fountains that cascade into the pool on two sides – a popular feature with the kiddos. Centrally located in the Lake District, the pool offers both sunbathing and shaded lounges.

Dragonfly Pool
The ultimate all-day lounging destination, this beautifully detailed pool in the Crossings II District features an outdoor grilling area in addition to ample sunbathing areas.

Marina Pool
Located in the Park District near the WaterColor LakeHouse and BoatHouse, the Marina Pool has Western Lake as its backdrop, offering serene views and sounds under a canopy of palm trees.

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Pool access available to guests of WaterColor Inn and guests and owners of the WaterColor Community. To learn more about WaterColor Inn’s resort amenities or to book your stay, visit watercolorresort.com.

The WaterColor® community has long been the backdrop for multigenerational family beach vacations to South Walton. Year after year, hundreds of families flock to our coast to relish some days in the sun, reconnect and recreate beloved traditions with loved ones.

With its functional yet intimate accommodations, distinct location on 30A and overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, and variety of comfortable, convenient and just plain fun family-friendly amenities and the area’s premier family-friendly outdoor recreation and dining options in the area, it’s no surprise that WaterColor Inn has remained the go-to resort for these cherished family getaways.

Accommodations with Families in Mind
In 2022, WaterColor Inn unveiled seven Family Suites, conveniently situated on the first floor, just footsteps from the sand.  Available as one-bedroom or two-bedroom accommodations, the Family Suites are designed with WaterColor Inn’s characteristic coastal comfort in mind, making them ideal for larger family getaways. Each elegantly furnished, coastal-inspired suite comes equipped with a kitchenette and wet bar area, including a microwave and mini refrigerator, as well as a personal “Treat Suite,” refreshed with snacks daily and a selection of family board games. Different view options, as well as bunk-bed suites, are also available.

This year, just in time for beach season, the boutique hotel also revealed its 60 reimagined  guestrooms, featuring new flooring, furnishings and décor with a modern coastal design that reflects WaterColor’s classically casual elegance. In addition to upgraded aesthetics, all rooms now feature keyless entry and guest entertainment systems, complete with access to Netflix and a comprehensive guest services directory.

Splish, Splash… Pools for Everyone!
With access to a total of 10 pools, guests of WaterColor Inn have access to the most pools on 30A! WaterColor Beach Club boasts a main pool with expanded seating and lounge areas, a second infinity pool with lounge seating and a third pool with zero-entry – all with unobstructed views of the Gulf. This, in addition to Camp WaterColor, the area’s ideal family recreation destination, which features featuring the main Butterfly Pool with Monarch Slide; the Caterpillar Pool, a zero-entry pool and small children’s area and slide; and the Lazy Lizard Pool, a zero-entry lazy river. Additionally, the hotel’s 2,800-square-foot zero-entry family pool includes an extensive pool deck just footsteps away from the beach and convenient access to the nearby Gather Kitchen + Bar.

But Wait, There’s More!
Guests staying at WaterColor Inn can also enjoy countless recreation options, thanks to the resort’s stunning location within 500 acres of sugar-white sand beach and pine forests alongside Western Lake. From biking and hiking to standup paddle-boarding and kayaking, there are a variety of family-friendly experiences to be enjoyed, all just steps away from the area’s sugar-white-sand beaches. All this, in addition to expertly set-up beachside bonfires (complete with all of the fixings for s’mores), a variety of seasonal events and casual dining options that are sure to please everyone’s palate.

Did You Say Food?
Oh, yes; yes we did. Whether your party is craving fresh seafood with a side of stunning sunset views (Fish Out of Water); fresh, costal-inspired Tex-Mex fare in a rooftop setting (Costa Chica); tasty burgers and shakes (Beach Cow); easy, breezy handheld bites (The Canteen); laid-back Southern favorites (Gather Kitchen + Bar); a transformative all-day menu of fresh, made-to-order items (WaterColor Grill); or even to-go drinks and cocktails (the Tiki Bar), your family won’t go hungry during their WaterColor Inn stay.

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With its bounty of resort amenities and recreational and dining options, WaterColor Inn is the flagship of the WaterColor community – offering an authentic 30A beach experience suited for the whole family.

To learn more about WaterColor Inn or book your family’s next stay, visit the resort online.

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!

At The Pearl Hotel in the charming coastal community of Rosemary Beach®, guests can expect a thoughtfully curated boutique hotel experience that’s sure to make each visit a distinctly memorable one. One such Pearl experience can be enjoyed on the sugar-white sands of the hotel’s stretch of private beach, accessible to guests only.

Guests of The Pearl enjoy complimentary beach chairs and oversized umbrellas. No reservations are required; beach setups are provided on a first-come, first-served basis! Just look for the distinctive black-and-white striped umbrellas that match the property’s iconic awnings. Better yet? The setups are arranged in such a way that every seat is the best seat on the sand, with ample space for enjoying your beach experience while taking in stunning views of the Gulf’s emerald-green water.

Need something while lying on the sand? Wave down one of The Pearl’s beach attendants for complimentary sunscreen, towels, water and even classic beach games.

Those guests wanting to enjoy the perks of being on the beach without having to step onto the beach also have plenty of opportunities for take in the beach views or an Instagram-worthy beach sunset from the Havana Beach Rooftop, from a Gulf-view room, or from the Western Green lawn, just footsteps from the hotel’s main entrance.

There’s no doubt that the beach is the backdrop to The Pearl experience, but so too does the hotel elevate the beach experience in a beautiful way. We’ll see you on the sand!

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To learn more about The Pearl, find special offers or book your stay, visit the hotel online, or follow along on Instagram or Facebook for inspiration.

You’ve arrived to WaterColor Inn and are just counting down the minutes until you walk down to the beach – so, what items do you bring? What can’t you absolutely live without?

We’ve rounded up the essentials that are sure to make your beach day more enjoyable, fashionable and flexible, so you can just focus on soaking up the sun or soaking in the Gulf. Better yet? You can find all of these items right here in the resort, at the WaterColor Store in the Town Center. And of course, we’d never forget about the kiddos! Plenty of child- (and mom-) approved beach wares await at WaterColor Kids on Watercolor Boulevard.

Happy packing!

• Beach Bag. Nothing is more practical for a day on the sand than a trusty and stylish beach bag, and here in Watercolor, we’re big fans of Bogg® Bags! These durable, washable, tip-proof and sturdy designs are made for a Gulf Coast adventure. Better yet? These adventure-ready bags come in an array of colors and sizes.
• Skin Protection. No accessory can match well-cared-for skin, which is why a trusty SPF never goes out of style as a beach-bag essential. Locals seem to prefer Supergoop!®, but you can’t go wrong with any brand for protecting your skin from the sun.
• Water Bottle. Speaking of taking care of your body, staying hydrated is also a must. Be like the locals and grab a colorful WaterColor-branded one by Yeti or Corkcicle. Consider getting yourself two: one for water and one for a cold beverage of your choice (beachside cold brew, anyone?).
• Sunglasses. Every beach bag needs some stylish items, which is why we’re obsessed with the trendy yet affordable designs by I-SEA, available at the WaterColor Store. With all-day UV protection, you’ll be ready to set your eyes on making the most of your beach plans.
• Hat. For extra sun protection (and, let’s be honest, a very cute look), pack a hat of your choice – whether you prefer a stylish straw hat, a baseball cap or a trucker hat, you’ll be well dressed for the occasion – and you’ll find plenty to choose from at the WaterColor Store, too, including ones treated with SPF. What can we say? We’re always well equipped for the beach here.
• Sandals. Trust us, you won’t want to walk down to the beach barefoot during the hot summer months. Pack some Ipanema sandals for her and Peter Millar flip-flops for him, and you’ll be ready to pound the sugar-white sand in both comfort and style.
• Cold Beverages. On your way out to the beach, be sure stop by the Package Store,  conveniently located on the first floor of Fish Out of Water, to choose from a curated selection of spirits, wines and beers to-go, as well as bagged ice and other specialty beach essentials. And don’t forget to place your Fish Out of Water order to-go for the perfect beach picnic.
• Bonus Item: UV-Protective Clothing. If you’re planning to be out in the sun all day or just need an extra bit of protection, we recommend packing some UV-protective clothing, like these ICW SPF hoodies and tees, also available at the WaterColor Store.

What else will you be adding to your beach bag? Let us know on Instagram by tagging #shopwatercolor Want to pack up your beach bag essentials before your beach trip? Head to shopwatercolor.com to browse the WaterColor Store’s online selection. And don’t forget to stop by the WaterColor Town Center to shop in person!

Planning a visit to South Walton and craving comfort and convenience with an elevated style? Look no further than The Lodge 30A in the heart of Seagrove Beach, where seasonal offers will help you lock in up to 20% OFF standard rates this spring and summer. Nestled in the heart of the idyllic beach community and nestled between the sugar-white beaches and lush pines, the boutique hotel’s convenient location allows guests to enjoy the very best of 30A, including hiking, dining, golfing, shopping and plenty of relaxing, too!

Experience the Best of 30A
Situated in Greenway Station, the hotel puts a variety of shops and restaurants at your fingertips, as well as access to a private heated pool and a fitness center. You’ll be close to both the stunning beaches and – with the trailhead conveniently located just footsteps from the hotel – the renowned hiking and biking trails that 30A is known for. Whether you’re a beach lover looking to soak up the sun or an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure, you’ll find it all within reach. Guests of The Lodge 30A also receive discounted pricing on rentals at nearby YOLO Board & Bike and access to premier resort experiences, such as a private beach club and private championship golf courses, through the Watersound Club® (available as an opt-in amenity for a daily fee).

Play (or Work) in Style
Inspired by Northwest Florida’s natural coastal surroundings, The Lodge 30A combines comfort and convenience with contemporary coastal style for an approachable lodging experience that feels equal parts laidback and luxurious. All of the boutique hotel’s 85 rooms, which include king suites, double queen suites and adjoining rooms, are designed to make your stay feel like a home away from home – complete with essential kitchen appliances and the latest technology. An onsite boardroom and business center also ensure that whether you’re here to play, work or both, you’ll find yourself settling right in.

Indulge in Comfort
At The Lodge 30A, comfort and convenience are top priorities. Daily housekeeping is available upon request, ensuring that your room remains fresh and inviting throughout your stay. The hotel’s friendly and dedicated guest service staff is available 24/7, making check-in a breeze and ensuring that any needs or inquiries are promptly addressed. Parking at The Lodge 30A is hassle-free, since guests of the hotel enjoy complimentary onsite parking.

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Ready to book your beach getaway? Visit TheLodge30A.com to see current offers, explore accommodations and discover all that the hotel has to offer.

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.

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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!