South Walton Travel Guide

Tourist 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 kilometres) 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.

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Where to stay in South Walton

Seagrove Beach

Seagrove Beach

Seagrove Beach is popular for its beaches, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Seaside Beach or Seagrove Beach East.

Seagrove Beach
Seaside

Seaside

Seaside is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Seaside Beach and Seagrove Beach West.

Seaside
Watercolor

Watercolor

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

If you're spending some time in Crystal Beach, Miramar Beach and Henderson Beach State Park 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
The price is NZ$341 per night from 21 May to 22 May
NZ$341
21 May - 22 May
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,670 reviews)
"The property is beautiful inside and out! Staff was so kind and helpful. Definitely a place we would love to revisit."

Reviewed on 18 May 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin Grand Boulevard
Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach

Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach

3 out of 5
220 Scenic Gulf Drive Miramar Beach FL
The price is NZ$341 per night from 21 May to 22 May
NZ$341
21 May - 22 May
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,229 reviews)
"5 dollars a day parking was horse."

Reviewed on 18 May 2026

Hilton Garden Inn Destin Miramar Beach
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

4 out of 5
9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W Miramar Beach FL
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$432 per night from 31 May to 1 June
NZ$432
31 May - 1 June
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach aparthotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 4 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
7.8/10 Good! (3,885 reviews)
"The property was very nice. Thank you!"

Reviewed on 18 May 2026

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
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
Stay at this beach aparthotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 4 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
7.8/10 Good! (3,885 reviews)
"The property was very nice. Thank you!"

Reviewed on 18 May 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 holiday home in Santa Rosa Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, private pools and a fitness centre. Popular attractions Santa Rosa Beach and Blue Mountain Beach ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
"Great for families!"

Reviewed on 30 Oct 2025

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

Bay Club of Sandestin

3.5 out of 5
120 N Sandestin Blvd Miramar Beach FL
Stay at this aparthotel in Miramar Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 3 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Miramar Beach and Sandestin Golf Resort - Raven, ...
9/10 Wonderful! (164 reviews)
"Nothing special"

Reviewed on 18 May 2026

Bay Club of Sandestin
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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