With their stunning natural beauty and charming coastal communities, 30A beaches have become a beloved family vacation tradition for generations of travelers. Inspired by these multigenerational beach getaways, we’ve pulled together the most classic 30A beach experiences to enjoy with your family on your next South Walton visit.
From the laidback beachcombers to the active beach adventurers, everyone in your family is sure to find enjoyment in our sugar-white sand with these classic 30A beach experiences.
Build a Sandcastle
Is there a more timeless beach activity than building sandcastles in the sand? Whether you trace your fingers in the sand to form a message, shape the sand into a family-made masterpiece, or book professional instruction from some of the area’s most acclaimed sand sculptors, you’ll find plenty of joy in the sand. Be sure to check out our guide for how to build sandcastles like a pro, too!
Refresh Yourself with a Tasty Treat
Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing libation, a frozen treat or a decadent made-to-order shake, you’ll find an array of beach-friendly drinks footsteps from the sand. Watersound Beach Club® restaurants offer an extensive selection of signature cocktails, frozen beverages and kid-friendly mocktails that can be enjoyed on the beach or poolside. WaterColor Beach Club, too, offers a refreshing menu of beach-inspired beverages and treats, including made-to-order milkshakes with several flavors and toppings to choose from at the Beach Cow counter.
Huddle by a Bonfire
Sunset + sand + s’mores = an unforgettable beach day sendoff! Guests of WaterColor Inn can book a two-hour beach bonfire package, which includes an expertly set-up bonfire beachside, complete with all of the fixin’s for s’mores. The same is true for guests of Camp Creek Inn and Watersound Inn, who can enjoy a bonfire on the Watersound Beach Club private beach. Book your spot before or after sunset, and choose add-ons like food, beverages or games of your choice.
Stake Your Spot in the Sand
Many of the area’s vacation spots don’t offer direct beach access on 30A, but St. Joe resort guests have (or can opt into) access to beach setups. Guests of The Pearl Hotel receive two complimentary canvas chairs and a spacious umbrella for shade on a first-come, first-served basis, as well as towels, sunscreen, water and beach games upon request. WaterColor Inn guests receive $15 off daily beach setups, which must be reserved online. Those guests staying at Camp Creek Inn and Watersound Inn enjoy complimentary beach setups through the Watersound Beach Club beach service, a members-only amenity that guests of The Lodge 30A can also opt into for a daily fee.
Pick Your Adventure
Active beachgoers need look no further than our St. Joe properties! Guests staying at and WaterColor Inn all have access to a variety of water sport beach rentals, including boogie boards, surfboards, kayaks and standup paddleboards (of course); reservations can be made directly on the beach, weather-permitting. Those staying at The Pearl Hotel also receive one hour of daily access to complimentary SUP rentals at Rosemary Beach. Camp Creek Inn and Watersound Inn both offer guests access to paddleboard and kayak rentals at the Watersound Beach Club private beach.
“Hunt” for Ghost Crabs
As the sun sets over the Gulf, grab a flashlight and join the locals on the sand to take in a formidable sight as ghost crabs (named for their pale appearance) come out in the dozens in search of small prey up and down the shore. While it’s called “hunting,” you won’t want to harm these tiny critters (each is around two inches long!); the fun is in searching for them in the dark. Locals’ tip: Use a light net to catch, observe and release them.
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For more details on each of our properties, including amenities, offers and more, click here. We look forward to welcoming you and your family on your next visit to 30A!
Details included in this story were accurate at time of publication but are subject to change based on seasonal schedules, amenity and/or operational updates. For the most current information, please visit the respective property’s website.
