As summer comes to an end and the families head back to school, there’s a shift in the air along 30A. The air becomes a bit cooler, the sunsets more vibrant and visitors relish in the quieter beaches. In fact, these are just a few reasons why the fall is prime season for girlfriends’ getaways to South Walton.
With a variety of accommodation options, delectable Gulf Coast dining, unrivaled sunsets, outdoor exploration and plentiful ways to relax, the only challenge you’ll have in planning your next escape with your girl gang is figuring out just what you’ll pack into your itinerary.
To get your planning started, we’ve pulled together a few of our top St. Joe resort experiences. Whether you’re seeking a full-service boutique hotel experience or a laidback home-away-from-home vibe, fun or relaxation indoors or outdoors, or simply looking to bask in the simplicities of the Gulf, these will surely have you and your friends covered.
Now, gather the ladies and get your getaway going! We look forward to welcoming you.
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Make Yourself at Home
From full-service elegance to a more laidback, limited-service approach, St. Joe’s portfolio of lodging experiences provides consistent customer service, comfort and coastal style (of course).
Stay at South Walton’s only adult-oriented hotel, The Pearl Hotel in picturesque Rosemary Beach, for a thoughtfully curated boutique hotel experience that’s as distinct as each guest, complete with on-site dining, a spa, complimentary beach setups and more. Enjoy a quintessential and long-beloved 30A tradition at WaterColor Inn, the flagship of the iconic WaterColor community, and indulge in a guest experience that delivers on the extra touches, including a variety of pools and recreational opportunities. Seeking the ultimate in comfort and convenience? Escape to Seagrove Beach’s newest boutique hotel, The Lodge 30A, to enjoy a prime location and home-away-from-home hospitality. If you’re seeking rejuvenation and relaxation, Camp Creek Inn is the ideal location to meet your needs. Enjoy the privacy and serenity of this newly opened boutique hotel’s luxury accommodations and private club amenities.
Toast to Friendship
Cheers to good times spent with even better friends with an unforgettable dinner or cocktail celebration at any of our St. Joe dining establishments. Celebrate the joy of living, eating and drinking well at Havana Beach Bar & Grill, featuring a colorful food and cocktail menu that is equal parts Gulf Coast, equal parts Caribbean; or head to the Havana Beach Rooftop for tapas, cocktails and stunning sunset views. Indulge in a long-standing WaterColor dining tradition at Fish Out of Water, complete with fresh seafood and panoramic Gulf views.
And of course, you’ll find plentiful dining options along 30A, all in close proximity to The Lodge 30A, The Pearl Hotel and WaterColor Inn. Additionally, guests of WaterColor Inn also have access to a plethora of delectable offerings of Gather Kitchen + Bar and the WaterColor Beach Club. A stay at Camp Creek Inn affords you access to six private dining venues, including three onsite at the hotel.
Disconnect to Reconnect
Traveling with your friends offers an invaluable opportunity to disconnect and reconnect with one another, making simplicity and relaxation a tenet of the ultimate girlfriends’ getaway.
And there’s perhaps no more relaxing (or analog) 30A amenity than South Walton’s beaches themselves! With sugar-white sand and the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no surprise that our area’s beaches are consistently ranked among the best in the world. And whether you’re a guest of The Pearl Hotel, Camp Creek Inn, WaterColor Inn or The Lodge 30A, you and your girlfriends will have plentiful opportunities to soak in our beaches however you choose. Take in an early-morning dip, lounge in the sun to your heart’s content or indulge in an iconic 30A sunset with your toes in the sand.
For the ultimate R&R experience, book yourselves a service or two at Spa Pearl, where you can all enjoy an invigorating and therapeutic poolside spa escape.
Explore Like a Local
The sky is the limit when it comes to exploring South Walton’s natural wonders. Whether you stay in Rosemary Beach, Seagrove Beach or WaterColor, you’ll find yourself in close proximity to walking, biking hiking, kayaking or standup-paddleboarding your way through 30A’s coastal beauty. Rentals and excursions are available through the WaterColor BoatHouse (WaterColor Inn guests have special access to rentals), and there are plentiful parks and trails to explore on your own, too (we recommend the Watersound Trail, Deer Lake State Park and Western Lake). Guests of WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel have access to complimentary bike rentals, so be sure to add pedaling through South Walton’s distinct beach communities to your itinerary!
Shop ‘til You Drop
We think every girlfriends’ getaway requires some retail therapy, and in 30A, you’ll find yourself in great company. No matter where you stay within the St. JoeÒ portfolio, you’ll find yourself in close proximity to some of the area’s best shops – from the merchants of Rosemary Beach and the stores of the WaterColor Town Center to the variety of amenities at Greenway Station and every beach community in between.
Step out in style with the latest seasonal styles from TheWaterColor Store (including items for the kiddos back home at WaterColor Kids); treat yourself to one-of-a-kind, locally made jewelry from Carrie Rhea Designs; or snag the essentials for recreating a relaxing spa experience at home at Spa Pearl. And because t’s not too early to get your holiday shopping started, our 30A Gift Guide may also come in handy.
Still on the fence on what to pack? We have you covered with our Beach Bag Essentials!
We think there is nothing more stunning than a fall sunset along the Gulf Coast – and certainly no more idyllic spot from where to catch it than WaterColor! We might be biased, but with an array of picture-perfect spots in one central and iconic location on 30A, can you really blame us?
Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner with cotton-candy skies as your backdrop, or take in the end of a day well spent with your toes in the pool – or with a cocktail in hand. Gather your family for an unforgettable barefoot photo-op Gulf-side just before the sun sets, or schedule a private kayaking class just in time to see the array of orange, pink and violet cast their shades over the dunes. Of course, you can always take in the splendid sights casually from the comfort of your balcony at WaterColor Inn. You really can’t go wrong in choosing how to catch the season’s most dazzling colors when you’re a WaterColor Inn guest.
Below, a roundup of the ultimate spots for catching a sunset in WaterColor this fall!
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In the Sand
There’s perhaps no better spot to take in the sunset than directly on the sugar-white sand of WaterColor beach, just steps from the area’s beloved emerald-green waters. Several area photographers offer sunset packages for families and couples alike, but you also can’t go wrong with a good, old-fashioned selfie. Be sure to claim the perfect spot in the sand with a beach setup from WaterColor Inn, or book a beach bonfire package in time for the sunset. For a truly memorable sendoff to a beach day, add on food, beverages or even games. How’s that for the ultimate beach sunset experience?
Poolside
With 10 resort pools to choose from – the most pool access on all of 30A – your biggest challenge will be choosing which pool to settle into! Lounge poolside at WaterColor Inn’s new 2,800-square-foot zero-entry family pool, which includes an extensive pool deck just footsteps away from the beach, while taking in sips or bites from the nearby Gather Kitchen + Bar. At the WaterColor Beach Club, enjoy plentiful space for lounging, swimming, dining or toasting while awaiting the sunset Gulf-side.
On Your Balcony
Who says you can’t have your sunset and the comfort of your room, too? All of WaterColor Inn’s beachfront guest rooms* offer the chance to take in the sunset, complete with a pair of Adirondack chairs on your private balcony (or patio, on the first floor rooms) – each situated at precise sunset-level (seriously!). Opt for a more luxurious experience by booking one of the Inn’s spacious 600-square-foot Rotunda Suites offering panoramic Gulf views. With only three Rotunda Suites available, these are extremely popular, so you’ll want to book yours quickly!
*please note that this does not include the hotel’s seven new Family Suites, which are not beach-facing.
From Your Dining Spot
For the ultimate sunset spot, there’s perhaps no more timeless Santa Rosa Beach spot than Fish Out of Water. At WaterColor Inn’s award-winning restaurant, the best seat in the house is always guaranteed, thanks to glass walls that showcase breathtaking views from every seat, while enjoying an authentic taste of the Gulf. For the best photo-op, head outside to the FOOW balcony. We can’t think of a more impressive stage for a sunset dinner, can you?
On the Lake
Take in a splendid sunset from one of South Walton’s rare coastal dune lakes. Book a private kayaking adventure tour with WaterColor BoatHouse around sunset time for a one-of-a-kind sunset-viewing experience on Western Lake, or opt for a bike ride around the lake (the WaterColor Bike Barn staff will be happy to provide you with maps and details for making the most of your experience).
However you find yourself taking in a WaterColor sunset this season, we invite you to share it with us on Instagram, using the hashtags #watercolorinn #watercolorfl.
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WaterColor Beach Club & Camp WaterColor is a shared community amenity for WaterColor residents and guests of WaterColor Inn & Resort. Only WaterColor Inn guests have access to the hotel’s main pool and complimentary bike and kaya rentals. Gather Kitchen + Bar is open to WaterColor Inn guests and Watersound Club Lifestyle members. FOOW is open to the public.
Anyone who has visited South Walton’s beach communities is familiar with the area’s distinguishable fresh, sophisticated, comfortable and modern coastal lifestyle. Along 30A, sugar-white, turquoise and emerald-green pastel hues meld into a colorful palette of effortlessly casual elegance. It’s this fusion of South meets Coast that has become an iconic and authentic representation of our beloved beach community.
From breezy, branded shirts to stylish totes and colorful, striped towels, our beach style is equal parts elevated and approachable. Yet, there’s perhaps no more quintessential 30A accessory – for locals and visitors alike – than a piece of jewelry handcrafted by a local maker. Often characterized by natural elements, such as pearls and glass, and vibrant colors, locally made jewelry along our coast is understated and timeless enough for everyday wear but distinctly bold to elevate any occasion, long after your beach vacation is over.
The WaterColor Store is delighted to carry a well-curated selection of 30A-made jewelry and accessories, including pieces by Carrie Rhea Designs, one of our favorite local designers. Just in time for the summer season, we sat down with Carrie to learn more about what inspires her and what recommendations she has for those looking to add a new accessory to their beach haul.
When did your interest in jewelry begin?
I’ve been a jewelry lover from a very early age. My mom and grandmother were very creative and stylish women, and they allowed me to admire their jewelry boxes and try pieces on. In fact, I was so inspired by their style that I incorporated “Rhea” (my mom’s maiden name and my middle name) when creating my business. I’ve been creating ever since I can remember, even remaking pieces that I’d purchase and sharing it with others, simply out of enjoyment. After spending a decade working for an accessories company, I started setting up pop-up shops where people could purchase designs they’d seen me wearing. About six years ago, I finally made Carrie Rhea Designs my full-time profession.
What inspires your designs?
I always have women, of all ages, in mind when designing, and I consider how accessories can reflect their unique and individual tastes, personalities and styles. When it comes to designing my pieces, I am inspired by a spectrum of things: colors, fashion trends from around the world, architecture, art, nature and people. Whether it’s a particular shade of blue from Santorini or the tiles and painted artwork in the churches of Rome, I incorporate a variety of inspirations into my designs. I also purchase materials from around the world, including beads, pendants and even blessed religious medals from The Vatican, and reference vintage pieces from my personal collection that further influence my creative process.
What makes your designs so quintessentially 30A?
Well, our beaches are so inspiring! The hues of color in the Gulf of Mexico, the local plants, flowers, shells… A walk on the beach at any time of day can spark inspiration. From the colors of the sunrise and the sunset to the rainbow spectrum of umbrellas set up in the sand. Living here, my creative wheels never stop turning, and I think that shows up in my work. I am proud to create jewelry that reflects this beautiful corner of the world, pieces that can be worn to the beach, then out to dinner.
What are some of the features that distinguish your designs?
You will always see pearls in my collections. They are a favorite of mine. Classic and timeless no matter the design, they also beautifully reflect South Walton. I also incorporate shells and sea glass, as well as starfish, sand dollar and shell charms that add a whimsical touch to my pieces. I have a great sense of pride in being able to represent this area through my creations. When people wear them, I hope they get a sense of the coastal lifestyle, too. I truly believe no outfit is complete without an accessory, so I design mine to be wearable with anything and every day.
How do you describe the 30A style?
The style along our beaches is always comfortable yet polished and effortlessly stylish. Breezy sundresses, linen-cotton separates, stylish coverups and even trendy athleisure are on repeat. We’re also seeing a lot of color this season, as well as gold, which always looks very elegant. Along 30A, there are amazing local retailers who offer a vast selection of these styles in their shops, and I’m honored to have my jewelry available for both locals and visitors alike to create their own take on the 30A style.
What’s your advice when it comes to wearing jewelry?
There are no rules! Wear a necklace on its own or layer it with some of your own personal favorites. Use statement earrings to dress up an outfit for a special occasion or jazz up a casual outfit with a stack of your favorite bracelets. Jewelry gives our wardrobe more options by allowing us to create different looks. Whatever works for you simply works!
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Select jewelry by Carrie Rhea Designs, including WaterColor-branded woven bracelets, can be found at The WaterColor Store and at the Fish Out of Water Package Store at WaterColor Inn. Carrie Rhea Designs are also available at Watersound Club Mercantile and other select retailers along 30A.
The Watercolor® Store is located at 20 Goldenrod Cir. in the WaterColor Town Center. Just across the street at 6 WaterColor Blvd., the recently opened WaterColor Kids features baby accessories, children’s clothing, children’s jewelry, fashion backpacks, toys and a wide selection of kid-approved beach essentials, including WaterColor-branded items.
This spring and summer, step into the WaterColor way of living with the latest styles. From easy, breezy shirts and dresses to totes and towels, our local style is equal parts elevated and approachable and meant to have you 30A-ready from sunrise to sunset.
As the official purveyor of the WaterColor lifestyle, The Watercolor Store features thoughtfully curated lifestyle products by beloved Southern retailers, jewelry by local designers and vacation-essential products by quality brands – all in addition to unique WaterColor-branded merchandise, including t-shirts, home décor, beachwear and even novelty items for your four-legged friends.
This season, it’s all about retro prints and understated vibrancy, thanks to swimwear, breathable shirts and dresses and hats by Rhythm, an Australian surf-wear lifestyle brand. In true 30A style, The WaterColor Store’s women’s styles for the spring and summer months focus on versatility, making it easy to go from the beach to a nice dinner with the same lightweight yet elevated look. Contemporary brands like CRESCENT and By Together combine elegant yet breathable fabrics with relaxed yet sophisticated shapes meant to be worn all day long. Men’s styles also blend everyday wearability with elegance, thanks to a wide selection of golf and athleisure items by Peter Millar, Travis Mathew, Johnnie-O, Turtleson and lululemon, as well as swimwear and accessories.
Certainly, the WaterColor style wouldn’t be complete without a nod to this idyllic stretch of beach. The Watercolor Store is the official retailer of all WaterColor-branded merchandise, including eye-catching beachy tees and tanks, beach accessories and so much more.
From now through August, be on the lookout for exclusive drops by Boat House Apparel, a women-owned brand built on a shared love of fashion, travel, water and an easygoing lifestyle. In addition to a small selection of Boat House Apparel graphic tees, The WaterColor Store has also partnered with the brand to offer limited runs of WaterColor-branded women’s clothing. Stay tuned to The WaterColor Store’s Instagram page for the latest releases – and special sales!
Long after your vacation is over, keep the WaterColor vibes going with a beautiful selection of signature home items, like candles, towels and pillows. After all, WaterColor is meant to be enjoyed year-round.
Now, get ready, set and go enjoy a stylish summer!
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The Watercolor® Store is located at 20 Goldenrod Cir. in the WaterColor Town Center. Just across the street at 6 WaterColor Blvd., the recently opened WaterColor Kids features baby accessories, children’s clothing, children’s jewelry, fashion backpacks, toys and a wide selection of kid-approved beach essentials, including WaterColor-branded items.
The Watercolor® Store and WaterColor Kids are open daily, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For updates and more information, call 850-534-5004 – or visit shopwatercolor.com to shop online.
WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel offer an award-winning lodging experience that’s sure to leave you wanting to come back year after year – but don’t just take it from us!
Both hotels have once again received a Four-Star designation from Forbes Travel Guide. Not only are they the only properties on Florida’s Gulf Coast to tout the distinction in 2023, but they have also consistently received Forbes Travel Guide’s acclaimed standing since 2013 (WaterColor Inn) and 2015 (The Pearl Hotel). That means that when you stay at either hotel, you can count on the highest levels of service and on an experience that delivers on luxury and comfort.
Every year, Forbes Travel Guide – deemed to be the global authority on luxury travel – evaluates hotels against up to 900 rigorous industry standards that range from their level of service to the quality of their respective facilities. The hotels are inspected independently and anonymously, ensuring the ratings are both objective and consistent and graded on things like cleanliness, amenities, dining options and comfort.
“Travel is in an incredible position for continued growth, as people prioritize authentic, in-person experiences,” says Amanda Frasier, President of Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide. “The hotels, ocean cruises, restaurants and spas on our 2023 Star Rating list demonstrate an impressive commitment to creating memorable environments that nurture connection, joy and sense of place as we experience the world to its fullest.”
In addition to the coveted Forbes Travel Guide recognition, WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel have also maintained a AAA Four Diamond rating since 2007 and 2017, respectively, and have made an appearance on some of the travel’s industry most honorable lists, including Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best,” Conde Nast Traveler’s “Readers’ Choice Awards” and U.S. News and World Report’s annual hotel rankings.
Need we say more?
Learn more about WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel – or plan your stay! – here or here.
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.
Celebrating two decades as the flagship of South Walton’s WaterColor community, WaterColor Inn has long been a beloved multigenerational beach tradition for families traveling to Scenic Highway 30A. Opened in 2002, the Forbes Four-Star and AAA Four-Diamond 60-room hotel perfectly encapsulates the spirit of an intimate beach getaway – while providing the functionality necessary for a family vacation. From the David Rockwell-designed accommodations to the pair of Adirondack chairs on each private balcony, guests can expect to have a relaxing, comfortable and Gulf-inspired stay.
So, what makes the WaterColor Inn experience so timeless? To learn more about how the beloved boutique hotel delivers on the ultimate guest experience, we sat down with WaterColor Inn’s own Lodging Manager, Michael Clauson.
How would you describe the WaterColor Inn guest experience? The Watercolor Inn experience is all about enjoying Southern hospitality – much like going back to the old days of saying hello to your neighbor, striking up conversation anywhere you go, and coming back year after year to see familiar faces and relive cherished memories. It really is a nostalgic, multigenerational experience that we’re so proud to be a part of.
What makes a stay at WaterColor Inn unique? In addition to our Southern hospitality, I think it’s the unique structure of our guest services that make WaterColor Inn such a special place. Our team maintains the service standards of a premium hotel brand, yet has the flexibility of a boutique hotel to offer a tailored approach for each guest. Because we have so many repeat guests, our staff gets to know them on a personal level – from their favorite sports team to their preference for the beach or the pool. Our team serves with heart; we all get joy out of spreading comfort, convenience and contentment to our guests, and I think that shows. At the end of the day, we’re taking care of one big WaterColor Inn family.
What do you think would surprise someone most about staying at WaterColor Inn? While the hotel has been around for two decades, it is always evolving to provide guests with the very best amenities and services. Our team is constantly adding to our offerings, while staying true to the family-minded essence that has made WaterColor Inn such a beloved destination over the years. Whether a guest has been visiting the 30A area since we opened, or whether this is their first time, WaterColor Inn will always make them feel at home.
What’s your favorite WCI amenity or feature and why? I love all of our outdoor recreation options, such as kayaking or canoeing along Western Lake on a slightly foggy morning and just taking in the natural sights and sounds. Few things are more relaxing in my opinion! I’m always on the lookout for the local wildlife that make our rare coastal dune lakes so unique.
What is a recurring piece of feedback you receive most from WaterColor Inn guests? Our guests are always very gracious with their feedback. Our team most commonly receives thank-you notes for going above and beyond in providing a memorable stay for a guest and their family. I think it boils down to our team’s genuine enthusiasm and joy for serving guests, and that’s not something that can be faked. A smile goes such a long way. We also get quite a few messages about the quality of the food at Fish Out of Water – the shrimp tacos are a consistent guest favorite!
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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.
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.
Sure, the boutique hotels within The St. Joe Company’s portfolio are beautiful and located on one of Florida’s most coveted beaches, but it’s not just looks or location that make our beloved WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel so special. That’s because they have each been evaluated based on hundreds of standards that rate them among the world’s very best.
Every year, Forbes Travel Guide – deemed to be the global authority on luxury travel – evaluates hotels against up to 900 rigorous industry standards that range from their level of service to the quality of their respective facilities. The hotels are inspected independently and anonymously, ensuring the ratings are both objective and consistent and graded on things like cleanliness, amenities, dining options and comfort (including “exceptionally comfortable” beds). In simple terms, a Forbes Four-Star designation tells the world that the recipient is an exceptional property that offers high levels of service and quality of facility to match.
And service is especially important to us (hospitality is, after all, part of our company name). That’s why we pride ourselves in providing our St. Joe Company associates with extensive year-round hospitality training, ensuring every team member is well-versed in meeting our guests’ every need. The Forbes seal of approval is thus as much a testament to the tremendous amount of work, dedication and attention-to-detail that goes on behind the scenes at each hotel, as to the memorable guest experiences they offer.
WaterColor Inn and The Pearl Hotel have consistently received a Forbes Four-Star designation since 2013 and 2015, respectively, and they’re the only properties on Florida’s Gulf Coast to tout the distinction. That means that when you stay at either hotel, you can count on the highest levels of service and on an experience that delivers on luxury and comfort.
In addition to the coveted Forbes recognition, both hotels have also maintained a AAA Four Diamond rating since 2007 and 2017, respectively, and have made an appearance on some of the travel’s industry most honorable lists, including Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best,” Conde Nast Traveler’s “Readers’ Choice Awards” and U.S. News and World Report’s annual hotel rankings.
Need we say more? WaterColor Inn and The Pearl both offer an award-winning experience that’s sure to leave you wanting to come back year after year – and you didn’t just hear it from us.
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To learn more about WaterColor Inn or The Pearl Hotel, visit watercolorresort.com or thepearlrb.com.