New Recommendations Released for Plan for Walton 2040

New Recommendations Released for the Plan for Walton 2040

The momentum continues with Plan for Walton 2040, and even more detailed recommendations are now available. In addition to transportation and land use strategies, Walton County and DPZ CoDesign have released in-depth proposals covering housing, recreation, and coastal management and conservation. These newly published documents aim to address some of the county’s most pressing challenges while preserving the character and natural beauty that define the region.

• Housing Recommendations focus on expanding attainable housing options, promoting a variety of housing types, and ensuring responsible growth patterns that reflect the community’s needs.

• Recreation Recommendations…

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What’s Happening on 30A: May 15 - June 15, 2025

What’s Happening on 30A: May 15 - June 15, 2025

Digital Graffiti

May 16-17, 2025

Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach transforms the town into a vibrant outdoor gallery where cutting-edge digital technology brings art to life on its iconic white walls. This unique art festival features a nearly one-mile-long exhibition trail through the New Urbanist community, providing a striking backdrop for the nighttime event. Approximately 70 artworks will be displayed, ranging from juried submissions by international artists to pieces by Residency Artists and emerging talents, illuminating architectural facades, pathways, and landscapes. The event melds art, technology, and architecture, celebrating the synthesis of these elements in a spectacular display.

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May Means Art: Festivals, Music, and Creative Vibes All Month Long

Art Month is Back—and It’s Bigger Than Ever!

Every May, Walton County turns into a creative wonderland—and 2025 is shaping up to be the most exciting yet! Art Month Walton County is back, thanks to the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) and Visit South Walton, with a packed schedule of over 50 events celebrating the arts in all their forms.

From live music and theater to digital art and storytelling, something is happening almost every day—and everyone’s getting involved: artists, performers, businesses, and community members.

At the April 22 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners officially proclaimed May as Art Month Walton County, showing continued support for local artists and creative growth in our community. As CAA President and CEO…

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Should You Sell Your Home Off-Market? Learn About Hidden Costs

Thinking of Selling Your Home Off-Market?

In today's competitive real estate landscape, the allure of selling your home privately—often referred to as an "off-market" or "pocket listing"—can be tempting. You may want to avoid a flood of showings, or you may not be quite ready to fully "go public," or you may believe your agent already has the perfect buyer lined up. However, recent research shows that private listings and off-market sales often come at a hidden cost.

A comprehensive analysis by Zillow showed that between 2023 and 2024, sellers who chose not to list their properties on the MLS sold for 1.5% less than their MLS-listed counterparts.

By limiting a property's exposure, sellers reduce the competitive bidding environment that…

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A PGA Tour Event Could Soon Call Sandestin Home!

PGA Tour Event One Step Closer to Sandestin

A new kind of September buzz could be heading to Walton County — and it has nothing to do with the usual back-to-school shuffle or the first signs of fall.

This month, the Walton County Tourist Development Council gave a unanimous thumbs-up to explore a partnership with the PGA Tour, aiming to bring a professional golf tournament to Sandestin as early as 2026. The event would land squarely in the shoulder season, offering a much-needed boost for local businesses during one of the quietest times of year.

The plan now moves to the Board of County Commissioners for consideration. If approved, the tournament could anchor several years of new September excitement, filling hotel rooms, keeping hospitality…

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Looking Ahead: 'Plan for Walton 2040' Is Underway

Walton County Invites Public Input for "Plan for Walton 2040"

Big decisions are on the horizon for Walton County, and local residents and business owners now have the opportunity to help shape the future.

A new planning initiative called "Plan for Walton 2040"  is underway. Its goal is to guide future growth and development throughout the County while gathering community input to ensure that Walton's unique character—ranging from its beach towns to rural farmland—is preserved as the area evolves.

The County has partnered with DPZ CoDesign, a planning firm with strong ties to Walton County, including its early work on Seaside and Rosemary Beach. Over the coming months, this team will blend community feedback with expert analysis to create a…

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30A & South Walton Event Guide: What’s Happening April 15 – May 15, 2025

No matter how you choose to spend your spring days, 30A and South Walton offer endless ways to make new memories — from scenic festivals and family-friendly fun to one-of-a-kind local traditions. Be sure to check event details before you go, and keep an eye out for even more coastal happenings as the season unfolds. See you out there!

Good Friday Concert | Alys Beach

• Friday, April 18

Enjoy a Good Friday Concert with Soul Sensations in the Alys Beach Amphitheatre, 6–8 pm. Bring low-back chairs and blankets!

Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt | Camp Helen at Inlet Beach

• Saturday, April 19, 10-2

The 2025 Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt, presented by The Friends of Camp Helen State Park will be Saturday, April 19. Guests are encouraged to…

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Top Remodeling Projects for Value & Satisfaction: What Homeowners Should Know

Which Remodel Projects Rank Highest for Value & Satisfaction?

Whether you own a beach cottage in Seagrove or a bayfront retreat in Santa Rosa Beach, remodeling your second home isn't just about boosting resale value—it's about enhancing enjoyment during your time there and maximizing appeal when it's on the rental market.

According to the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report by the National Association of Realtors® and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, Americans invested an estimated $603 billion in home remodeling projects in 2024 alone. So, what projects are worth your time and money?

High-Impact Projects with Big Returns

Some renovations don't just feel good—they pay off. The top three remodeling projects that received a…

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Turtle Nesting Season: How to Spot and Protect Sea Turtle Nests on 30A Beaches!

Although sea turtle nesting season doesn't officially begin until May 1st along South Walton and other Panhandle beaches, it's never too early to brush up on your turtle-spotting skills and learn how to be a beachside hero.

How to Spot a Sea Turtle Nest

Not sure what to look for? Here are some clues that sea turtles have been busy:

• Crawling Tracks in the Sand  – Look for flipper marks leading from the shoreline into the dunes, usually in a symmetrical or staggered pattern. The tracks resemble tire treads and indicate that a female turtle has crawled up to the nest.
• A Disturbed Patch of Sand  – Unlike the smooth, untouched beach around it, a turtle nest area may appear rough or slightly mounded where the turtle has dug and covered her…

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South Walton's Easter Roundup 2025

Easter is approaching, and Walton County is buzzing with festive activities! Families can enjoy everything from resort brunches to egg hunts with the Easter Bunny. Whether you're looking for a gourmet meal or fun-filled activities for the kids, these local celebrations will add some extra joy to your holiday weekend.

The Big Chill 30A: Easter Sunday 

Sunday, April 20

Photos with the Easter Bunny will be available from 1 - 3 p.m. The Easter Egg Hunt runs from 2 - 2:30 p.m. Timing is definitive; please arrive during this time to participate. Participants will stroll The Big Chill and The Shops, gathering eggs at participating businesses trick-or-treat style. All locations will have signs on the business indicating their participation.…

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