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 Pearl Hotel may be known for its romantic aesthetic, idyllic location within the charming beach community of Rosemary Beach® and its countless accolades among the world’s best hotels, but it’s also a treasure trove of gem-like experiences for the whole family. Elevated yet approachable, luxurious yet grounded, The Pearl is best enjoyed in the company of all of your loved ones.
Splish, Splash to Your Heart’s Content
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, play in the surf or build a sandcastle by the shore, your family will love spending the day at The Pearl’s private beach, where guests enjoy complimentary beach setups, including beach chairs and oversized umbrellas. Ready to swap out the sugar-white sand for some family pool fun? Grab your pool passes at the Front Desk for instant access to Rosemary Beach®’s four community pools.
Embark on an Adventure
Sailing, kayaking, standup paddle-boarding or deep-sea fishing adventures await, thanks to The Pearl’s state-of-the-art concierge services and a variety of local excursions. Turn your experience into an educational opportunity with an eco-tour to learn more about the area’s unique environments and history, including these five must-see natural sights within a short distance from the hotel.
Let the Games Begin
Those families who love a physical challenge and a little bit of competition can also enjoy a match of tennis or try their hands (or rather, feet!) at FootGolf (a combination of golf and soccer) at the Origins Golf Club, thanks to a plethora of Watersound Club® private resort amenities, including a private beach club and championship golf courses.
Soak Up the Best of 30A
Explore South Walton’s most iconic sights and attractions by foot or by bike (thanks to complimentary beach cruisers available to guests of The Pearl). Pedal along part or all of the scenic, 18.6-mile 30A Bike Trail through the area’s rare coastal dune lakes and distinctive beach communities. Along the way, you’ll also discover plenty of photo-perfect spots. For the ultimate souvenir(s), be sure to browse the boutiques along the independent shops that dot the Rosemary Beach Town Center, just steps away from the hotel.
Taste the Gulf’s Bounty
Guests of The Pearl will find something to satisfy every palate, thanks to three distinct casual dining experiences available at the hotel’s Havana Beach Bar & Grill. Celebrate the joy of living, eating and drinking well with a menu that’s equal parts Gulf Coast, equal parts Caribbean – all served up in an approachable, family-friendly ambiance – in the main dining room, on the veranda or on the Havana Beach Rooftop. And, of course, when hunger calls but the day’s adventures have gotten the very best of you, Havana Beach also offers a delectable in-room menu that can be enjoyed in your private balcony. Looking to change things up? An array of dining options, including restaurants, coffee shops and on-the-go treats, are also available just outside the hotel doors.
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To learn more about The Pearl, find special offers or book your stay, visit the hotel online.
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, including:
Lower Rates
Lock in the best rates of the year when you stay at WaterColor Inn, The Pearl Hotel or WaterSound Inn during the winter and holiday months. Better yet? Guests at any St. Joe Company property have access to an array of our private membership club amenities.
30A in Lights
Experience a coastal winter wonderland as you stroll or drive through the beautiful holiday decorations along Scenic Highway 30A and tucked within the WaterColor Community and beyond. 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, 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 on the beach without having to worry about what to do or where to eat. WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel have your gathering covered. We take the hassle out of family time so you can focus your time on family – and who wouldn’t want to cheers to that?!
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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.
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 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’re delighted to announce that WaterColor Inn has completed a major expansion that includes even more family-friendly amenities to be enjoyed! With the addition of seven Family Suites, a zero-entry family pool and a brand-new dining venue, WaterColor Inn has cemented itself as 30A’s go-to family vacation destination – just in time to celebrate its 20th anniversary as the flagship of South Walton’s WaterColor community.
These ultimate family-vacation amenities are in addition to the recent reimagining of the WaterColor Beach Club, including the addition of multiple pools and restaurants, and the beloved Camp WaterColor.
New Spacious Family Suites
Situated just footsteps away from the sand, WaterColor Inn’s seven new Family Suites are conveniently located on the hotel’s first floor. 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. The one-bedroom suites vary from 1,010 – 1,070 sq. ft. and the two-bedroom suites range from 965 – 1,220 sq. ft., making them the hotel’s most spacious room options. 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.
**Please note that each Family Suite is unique and room layouts vary from suite to suite. The photos featured in this story are of Room 108 (1 Bedroom w/ Bunk Beds, Dune View), 109 (2 Bedroom, Pool Front) and 112 (2 Bedroom Beach Club View).
New Family-Friendly Pool Area
Designed with ultimate family enjoyment in mind, each Family Suite features a private outdoor terrace, with ease-of-access to the family pool area – yet another family-friendly resort amenity now open to WaterColor Inn guests (as well as Watersound Club Lifestyle members). The new 2,800-square-foot 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 the hotel’s newest culinary addition (more on that below!). With this new addition, WaterColor Inn guests now have access to 10 resort pools – the most family-friendly pool access on all of 30A!
New Casual, Coastal Cuisine
Located poolside with indoor, bar and poolside service available, the newly opened Gather Kitchen + Bar serves an elevated bar menu of locally sourced coastal cuisine with a global flair in a setting designed to feel as warm and comfortable as home. As the restaurant’s name implies, the menu is meant to be shared with family and friends – poolside, in the dining room or at the Gather Bar. Live music, a nightly Happy Hour, indoor and outdoor games and even Dive in Movies for the kiddos are also available (dates and times may vary seasonally). Gather Kitchen + Bar is open only to WaterColor Inn guests and Watersound Club Lifestyle members.
Additional Guest Experience Enhancements
WaterColor Inn’s recent expansion also includes the addition of a brand-new Cardio Room, equipped with free weights, stair climber, treadmill, stationery bike and lululemon MIRROR, all overlooking the new pool deck. The hotel has also fully renovated the lobby bathrooms on the hotel’s first floor for guests’ comfort and convenience., as well as newly renovated lobby bathrooms on the hotel’s first floor. Additionally, WaterColor Inn’s youngest guests will now also have a place to shop for their favorite WaterColor lifestyle items thanks to the opening of WaterColor Kids. The specialty children’s clothing outfitter features baby accessories, children’s brand clothing, children’s jewelry, fashion backpacks, bicycle bells, toys and a wide selection of beach essentials and WaterColor-branded novelty items.
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To learn more about WaterColor Inn’s family-friendly amenities to book your family’s next stay, visit the resort online.
Don’t let its idyllic aesthetic and “World’s Best” rankings deter you from making The Pearl Hotel your next family vacation destination. Centrally tucked within the charming coastal community of Rosemary Beach® and just footsteps away from South Walton’s sugar-white beaches, The Pearl provides a treasure trove of gem-like experiences meant to be shared with the whole family.
Spend the day lounging on the beach, thanks to the convenience of complimentary beach setups, including beach chairs and oversized umbrella’s on The Pearl’s stretch of private beach. Whether you soak up the sun, play in the surf or build a sandcastle by the shore is entirely up to you. Rather swim in or lounge by the pool? Family pool passes are available at the Front Desk, granting you access to Rosemary Beach®’s community pools. With four fantastic ones to choose from (Coquina, Sky, Cabana and Barbados), your challenge will be making time to experience them all!
Explore the area by foot or by bike, with a leisurely stroll or bike ride through Rosemary Beach®, or – if you’re feeling more athletic – explore part or all of the scenic, 18.6-mile 30A Bike Trail through South Walton’s coastal dune lakes and communities. Along the way, soak up some of the area’s various family-friendly dining experiences, shops and photo-perfect spots – and be sure to save ample time for boutique-browsing and window-shopping along the distinct, independent shops that dot the Rosemary Beach Town Center, just steps away from the hotel.
Give the kiddos the ultimate delight with a visit to one of our area’s lovely butterfly gardens! You’ll find our closest butterfly garden on nearby West Kingston Road. Wind through the wooden footpath through a maze of colorful plants that attract thousands of beautiful butterflies. The kids won’t be the only ones oohing and aahing.
Feeling extra adventurous? Allow The Pearl to help arrange a sailing, biking, kayaking or deep-sea fishing excursion for your family. Turn it into an educational opportunity with an eco-tour to learn more about the area’s unique environment and history. Add an element of competition to your family getaway with a match of tennis, thanks to complimentary guest access to the Watersound Beach Club’s tennis facilities, or try your hand (or rather, foot!) at FootGolf (a combination of golf and soccer) at the Origins Golf Club, also available to guests of The Pearl Hotel.
When hunger calls, you’ll surely find something to satisfy every palate at Havana Beach Bar & Grill, which offers three distinct casual dining experiences suitable for families (in the main dining room, on the veranda and on the Havana Beach Rooftop); the menu is also conveniently available in-room. And certainly, you’ll also find an array of options outside the hotel doors with several Rosemary Beach® restaurants, coffee shops and treats located just a quick walk away.
However your family plans to enjoy their stay at The Pearl Hotel, it will undoubtedly be an unforgettable one – one meant to be slowly unpacked and lovingly shared.
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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.
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?
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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.