South Walton, FL

Travel Guide

South Walton
South Walton
South Walton
South Walton
South Walton

Swim, kayak or go fishing at this collection of gorgeous Floridian beaches, backed by coastal communities, stunning lakes and national parks.

Discover 26 miles (41.8 kilometers) of golden sands, laidback beachside communities and beautiful national parks when you visit the South Walton beaches. Kayak in pristine lakes or surf, swim and go fishing in the warm, clear waters of the Floridian coast.

Set between Destin and Panama City, the beaches of South Walton are a year-round destination. Walton County is home to some of the most charming beach communities in Florida. Grayton Beach and Mirimar are two popular destinations, though each town has something unique to offer.

Hit the beach to try stand-up paddle boarding, rent a windsurfer or drop a fishing line from a kayak. The ocean is usually calm during the summer months, making it perfect for swimmers and families. Lifeguards patrol the beaches at this time. Lay down a towel on the soft, golden sands and relax for an afternoon.

Make your way inland to explore several miles of well-maintained walking trails. More than a third of the land in South Walton is made up of nature reserves, including stunning forests and around 15 different lakes. These lakes are great for swimming, fishing and kayaking. Spot native wildlife such as deer, tortoise and the rare red-cockaded woodpecker.

Golfers can take advantage of several world-class courses and tennis fans can play at more than 30 courts in the area.

Find a selection of options for shopping and dining in each of the South Walton towns. Keen shoppers can head to Sandestin for designer brands and local markets full of great souvenirs. Relax at the spas of Watercolor. Don’t miss the fabulous live music bars dotted throughout South Walton. Ask ahead of your visit about the various food, music and culture festivals that take place in the towns year-round.

South Walton and its communities are within an hour’s drive of both Panama City and Destin. Be aware that dogs are only allowed around the beaches and parks at certain times of the year and you may have to get a permit first.

Where to stay in South Walton

Seagrove Beach

Seagrove Beach

4.5/5(28 area reviews)

Travelers come to Seagrove Beach for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Seaside Beach and Seagrove Beach East while you're in town.

Seagrove Beach
Seaside

Seaside

4/5(1 area review)

This unincorporated area on Florida's Panhandle boasts a Seaside Farmers Market and a picturesque interfaith chapel. Explore the town center and stroll along pedestrian alleys radiating from the heart of the community.

Seaside
Watercolor

Watercolor

5/5(10 area reviews)

While visiting Watercolor, you might make a stop by sights like Grayton Beach State Park and Seagrove Beach West.

Watercolor
Pathway and sea oats on beach at Santa Rosa Island near Pensacola, Florida

Blue Mountain Beach

If you're spending some time in Blue Mountain Beach, Blue Mountain Beach and Santa Rosa Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Blue Mountain Beach
Boardwalk Hiking Trail Through Longleaf Pine

Grayton Beach

You'll enjoy the beaches and bars in Grayton Beach. You might want to make time for a stop at Grayton Beach State Park or Grayton Beach.

Grayton Beach
Crystal Beach

Crystal Beach

4.5/5(76 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Crystal Beach, Henderson Beach State Park and Henderson Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Crystal Beach
Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin Grand Boulevard

Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin Grand Boulevard

3 out of 5
100 Grand Blvd Miramar Beach FL
$127 nightly
The price is $142 total per night from May 18 to May 19
$142 total
May 18 - May 19
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,661 reviews)
Room was spacious and comfortable. Property beautiful.

Reviewed on May 8, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin Grand Boulevard
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

4 out of 5
9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W Miramar Beach FL
$221 nightly
The price is $248 total per night from May 16 to May 17
$248 total
May 16 - May 17
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
7.8/10 Good! (3,873 reviews)
When I booked the room it displayed room pictures and the pool that was outside and I thought I booked what it displayed but was placed in a whole different spot. There was no hot water, red stains on the shower curtain, the toilet paper holder on the wall was broken and would turn sideways when ...

Reviewed on May 8, 2026

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach

Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach

3 out of 5
220 Scenic Gulf Drive Miramar Beach FL
$145 nightly
The price is $163 total per night from May 13 to May 14
$163 total
May 13 - May 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,215 reviews)
Excellent will stay again

Reviewed on May 6, 2026

Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

4 out of 5
9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W Miramar Beach FL
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
7.8/10 Good! (3,873 reviews)
When I booked the room it displayed room pictures and the pool that was outside and I thought I booked what it displayed but was placed in a whole different spot. There was no hot water, red stains on the shower curtain, the toilet paper holder on the wall was broken and would turn sideways when ...

Reviewed on May 8, 2026

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
HUGE Private Pool w/ 6 seater Cart 4 bikes, 4 min to Beach, 3 hole Putting Green

HUGE Private Pool w/ 6 seater Cart 4 bikes, 4 min to Beach, 3 hole Putting Green

Santa Rosa Beach FL
Stay at this vacation home in Santa Rosa Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Santa Rosa Beach and Blue Mountain ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
Great for families!

Reviewed on Oct 30, 2025

HUGE Private Pool w/ 6 seater Cart 4 bikes, 4 min to Beach, 3 hole Putting Green
Sleeps 18! Private Pool, Hot Tub, Near Beach | Miramar Dream House by AvantStay

Sleeps 18! Private Pool, Hot Tub, Near Beach | Miramar Dream House by AvantStay

Miramar Beach FL
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a garden. Popular attractions Miramar Beach and Sandestin ...
10/10 Exceptional! (16 reviews)
Great pool. Pet friendly. Walk to beach. I’m

Reviewed on Apr 20, 2026

Sleeps 18! Private Pool, Hot Tub, Near Beach | Miramar Dream House by AvantStay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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