South Walton’s thriving year-round arts scene features an engaging array of galleries, studios and public art. Artist colonies at Gulf Place, Ruskin Park in Seaside and Shops of Grayton allow visitors to enjoy a diverse array of art and meet many of the local personalities in one colorful location. There’s also an active repertory threatre and a music scene that includes everything from jazz to country.
Treat your taste buds to a wonderful variety of cuisine from South Walton’s amazing array of restaurants and eateries. Whether you crave a prime cut of steak with fine wine, seafood fresh from the Gulf with hand crafted beer, the comfort of a warm grilled cheese sandwich, or the sinful sensation of just-made donuts, we’ve got a flavor for every palate. After all, vacation calories don’t count, right?
There’s more to South Walton’s beauty than its beaches. In fact, 40% of our land area is preserved for nature - state parks, dune lakes, coastal forests and more. With all that wonderful, wild nature comes incredible opportunities to explore it, whether on water, on bike, on horseback or on foot. See South Walton in its natural state, and get a close-up look at the unique landscape shaped by centuries of wind and water.
Shopping in South Walton feels like a paradise, from one-of-a-kind boutiques to luxury brand stores throughout the area. Explore Grand Boulevard, The Market Shops at Sandestin, the Village of Baytowne Wharf, Gulf Place, Merchants of Seaside, Shops of Grayton or Silver Sands Premium Outlets in Miramar Beach.
You’re on vacation, so you’re already is relaxation mode. Why not give your body the same feeling? indulge yourself at one of our luxury spas, from full-service day spas to small holistic studios. Rejuvenate and renew both mind and body.
Adventure abounds in South Walton. You can fish, swim or boat in one of the 15 fresh and saltwater lakes, zipline across the Village of Baytowne Wharf, bike through miles of paved trails or go off-road over miles of nature trails throughout the area’s four state parks and forests. South Walton also offers 207 holes of championship golf, and there are more than 30 tennis courts open to the public, with all levels of play available on hard, clay and grass-style courts. Let’s get outside!
Water surrounds you in South Walton and water activities beckon. Stand up paddle boarding is a great workout and a whole lot of fun. In South Walton, it’s been dubbed YOLO (You Only Live Once) Boarding and there’s no better place to try it out. Jet skis and parasailing are the exhilarating kind of fun. For a slower pace, try quietly drifting in a kayak across a dune lake and experience these rare coastal jewels like nowhere else.
South Walton is rich with many natural resources and we are further blessed that talented people add “soundtracks” to our wonderful lifestyle. We invite you to enjoy this beachside playlist that includes music from local talent you can see during your next visit. Be sure to listen and download the South Walton soundtrack "This is the Place" by written and performed by Susanna Hoffs of the Bangles.
