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.
With an array of fresh, all-day resort dining options, WaterColor Inn has all of your cravings covered. With six restaurants conveniently located on-site, guests can take a bite off a menu of diverse culinary delights, from fresh seafood and Southern favorites to decadent breakfast items and light, coastal fare, that are sure to please every palate.
But we know that with so many delicious options, making a decision can be tough, which is why our own Chef Blaine Wilkinson, WaterColor Inn’s Director of Culinary, has rounded up the five dishes that can’t be missed during your WaterColor Inn visit – and let us tell you, narrowing these down was tough!
So, foodies, take note and plan accordingly! Have another standout WaterColor Inn dish to add to the must-try list? Let us know on Instagram by tagging #watercolorinn on your favorite bites. Bon appetit!
Fried Chicken Biscuit at Scratch Biscuit Kitchen
Fried chicken, honey butter, pickles, Thomasville Tomme cheese
Available for breakfast or lunch, Scratch’s buttery homestyle biscuit sandwich is made with golden fried herb- and buttermilk-marinated chicken breast (okay, you have our attention) and topped with melted Thomasville Tomme semisoft cheese from Sweet Grass Dairy, house-made pickles and honey butter. A Southern staple and a Scratch must-have, this sandwich is bound to get your day started right! scratchbk.com
WaterColor French Toast at Fish Out of Water
Mixed berries, bananas, warm maple syrup
Whether you opt for an early breakfast or for an indulgent brunch, Fish Out of Water’s thick-cut soft brioche French Toast is coated with Rice Crispy crumbs for a delightful crunch, then pan-fried and topped with a heaping blend of fresh berries, bananas, hot maple syrup and icing sugar. After all, you’re on vacation, right? Enjoy this quintessential breakfast item against the restaurant’s Gulf views and you’ve got yourself the best start to your morning on 30A. foow30a.com
Fried Banger Shrimp at Fish Out of Water
Sriracha Comeback Sauce, Grilled Lemon
A taste of the Gulf and freshly made for your enjoyment as lunch or dinner, Fish Out of Water’s playful spin on the area’s classic fried shrimp offering incorporates Cajun and Asian seasonings for added zest. Marinated in a Cajun buttermilk blend, house-breaded and crisply fried, then topped with tangy sriracha sauce and served with grilled lemon, this is shrimp with a bang and perfectly suitable for sharing (though you probably won’t want to). foow30a.com
Gulf Fish Sandwich at Fish Out of Water
Brioche bun, lemon herb aioli, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles
Another delicious classic sourced from the Gulf of Mexico’s bounty, this lunch or dinner option is made-to-order. Choose from grilled, fried or blackened locally caught fish, accompanied with house-made pickles, lemon aioli and fresh, locally sourced vegetables. Simple, fresh, tasty and ideal to enjoy with a view of the coast, you just can’t go wrong with this one! foow30a.com
Gather Bowl at Gather Kitchen + Bar
Steamed rice, Asian coleslaw, ginger soya broth, edamame and sriracha mayo
Delicious yet versatile, this hearty bowl has become a go-to staple at Gather Kitchen + Bar, located within WaterColor Inn. Served with your choice of Gulf shrimp, fish, chicken or veggies atop fragrant steamed Jasmine rice, this dish delivers on firecrackin’ yet refreshing flavors. *Gather Kitchen + Bar is a private amenity available only to WaterColor Inn hotel guests and Watersound Club Lifestyle members.
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.
Just as the colorful and storied old-town Havana haunt from which it draws its inspiration, Havana Beach Bar & Grill, The Pearl Hotel’s AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, celebrates the joy of living, eating and drinking well. And it takes the latter to heart – crafting made-to-order cocktails that creatively engage all of the senses at the restaurant’s hand-carved mahogany bar.
Celebrating is what Havana Beach’s professional mixologists are all about, all while highlighting the best flavors and trendiest bartending techniques and still mixing up the classics. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or interested in trying something new, this team has you covered. In fact, during the restaurant’s busiest days, you’ll catch them shaking up more than 1,700 cocktails a day!
Sip your way through the classics with “A Taste of Havana” or opt for something “Elegant & Timeless.” Feeling “Light & Playful” after a day on the beach, or “Bold & Confident” ahead of a night on the town? Whatever the occasion, Havana Beach Bar & Grill has the cocktail to fit the mood of your celebration.
To learn more about the restaurant’s thoughtfully curated cocktail menu, we asked The Pearl’s Director of Food & Beverage, Kevin Dixon, to share some insights. Cheers!
What is the inspiration behind Havana Beach’s cocktail menu?
Our cocktail menu offers an inventive mix of classic and modern libations. Through our signature cocktails, we wanted to tell the story of Havana in the 1950s, a time of lively gatherings, where trendy travelers wanted to see and be seen. Each cocktail is an opportunity to expand upon that story, whether through historical references or through ingredients. Additionally, all of our professional mixologists bring their own inspiration and creativity to their craft, continually innovating flavors and bartending techniques. More than a menu, Havana Beach cocktails provide a full experience, and it’s one that can’t be experienced anywhere else on 30A.
What are some of the menu’s standouts?
Every Havana Beach cocktail deserves a spotlight of its own, but the Banana Boulevard and the Wolf on Mainstreet are particularly interesting. A fun take on the classic Boulevardier of the post-Prohibition Era, the Banana Boulevard fuses Caribbean flavors like banana and citrus with the classic cocktail’s traditional balance of sweet and bitter. More adventurous cocktail lovers will love the Wolf on Mainstreet. Spicey, earthy, sweet and smokey, this cocktail dances on your palate from start to finish, thanks to the flavors of pineapple, jalapeño, lime and Mezcal.
Which cocktail is a tried-and-true guest favorite? What do you think makes it so?
The Roseberry has been a Havana Beach staple for more than two years now and has become a go-to drink for our regulars. With flavorful rosemary-thyme-infused vodka as a base and layered with rose, elderflower and dark berry flavors, it’s refreshing yet earthy enough to appeal to everyone.
Which is your personal favorite?
I don’t like to play favorites, but my current go-to is the San Cristobal Sour, which is Havana Beach’s inventive play on a Tamarind Sour. With its flavorful bourbon base, coupled with the creamy and tropical notes of tamarind and orgeat, the sweet-and-sour flavor keeps things interesting from first to last sip.
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Havana Beach Bar & Grill is located at The Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach®. Havana Beach is open daily, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Full cocktail menus are available in all dining areas. The cocktails referenced above are available only in the restaurant’s bar area and main dining room and at the Havana Beach Lounge. Hours and offerings may vary seasonally. For more information, visit Havana Beach 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.
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.
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.