Here Comes the Sun! Your Ultimate Guide to 30A’s Public Beach Accesses

Spring is nearly here, and the warmer, sunny days along 30A are already upon us! With March 1st marking the start of the spring vacation season, it’s time to embrace the beauty of Walton County’s stunning beaches. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local enjoying the warm weather, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you to kick back and enjoy the Gulf Coast’s sparkling waters.

From lifeguarded beaches to serene spots perfect for a quiet retreat, let’s explore your options:

Regional Beach Accesses

These are the most well-equipped spots for your beach day. You'll find parking, restrooms, showers, bike racks, and, in many cases, ADA accessibility. What's more, they've got flags flying to keep you updated on surf conditions, and lifeguards…

3322 Views, 0 Comments

Understanding Insurance Discounts: Flood vs. Wind in Walton County

Living along 30A means embracing the beauty of the Gulf while also preparing for the realities of storm season. Homeowners in Walton County can take advantage of insurance discounts that help lower premiums, but it's important to understand the difference between flood insurance discounts and windstorm mitigation discounts.

Both offer savings, but they apply to different types of risks. Let's break down how each works and how you can benefit from these programs.

Flood Insurance Discounts: Protecting Against Rising Water

What it covers: Flood insurance covers damage caused by storm surges, heavy rain, overflowing water bodies, and other forms of flooding. Homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage, so a separate policy is required.

…

2165 Views, 0 Comments

Top 30A Beach Towns Favored by Buyers

Curious about which beach towns along 30A had buyers buzzing last year? If you own property in Seagrove Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, or Seacrest, congratulations—you’re in a prime spot! These beloved communities saw some of the most activity and interest, and it’s easy to see why.

#1 - Seagrove Beach

Holding strong in the top spot for years, Seagrove Beach remains a buyer favorite. This little slice of paradise was once dubbed "The Place Where Mother Nature Did Her Best" by founding developer CH McGee back in the 1920s and '30s. Today, Seagrove stretches from Seaside’s eastern border to just beyond 30A at Eastern Lake, neighboring Watersound Beach. Whether it’s the lush oaks, the variety of home styles, or the unbeatable access to the Gulf,…

941 Views, 0 Comments

The Red Bar - 30th Anniversary: A Legacy of Great Food, Music, and Memories in Grayton Beach

The Red Bar Celebrates 30 Years of Great Food, Music, and Memories in Grayton Beach, FL!

It's hard to imagine Grayton Beach without The Red Bar. The iconic restaurant has been serving up more than just great food and drinks for 30 years now—it’s a place where memories are made, friendships are forged, and the good times roll on. As we mark this significant milestone, we're not just celebrating its founding on Super Bowl Sunday in 1995, but also reflecting on its remarkable journey. From the ashes of the 2019 fire to becoming a beacon of live music and a local legend, The Red Bar has truly earned its place in the hearts of all who’ve crossed its threshold.

And speaking of milestones, did you know that today also marks 6 years since that tragic…

2295 Views, 0 Comments

Can't-Miss Events in South Walton: February 15 - March 15, 2025

Can't-Miss South Walton Events from Feb 15 - Mar 15

Spring is just around the corner, and 30A is bursting with events that bring art, music, food, and community together in the most delightful ways. Whether you're a wine connoisseur, a fitness enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to spend a sunny afternoon, this season's lineup has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best happenings along 30A from mid-February to mid-March—so grab your calendar and start planning!

CAA Spring Show Special Exhibit at Coastal Branch Library

Saturday, February 15 | 10 am to Noon

Friends of the Coastal Branch Library & Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County invite you to meet the artists and see the artwork of The Spring Show Special Exhibit…

765 Views, 0 Comments

Western Lake Bridge Replacement Update

Western Lake Bridge Replacement: A One-Year Update

Time flies when you’re rebuilding a bridge! It’s been a full year since work began on the Western Lake Bridge along County Road 30A, and if you’ve driven across lately, you’ve probably noticed the towering cranes and rhythmic pounding of construction work. Here’s the latest scoop on the progress.

Bridge Construction Update

Over the last several months, project crews have been busy mobilizing heavy-duty cranes, preparing for demolition, and setting the stage for the next major steps. Most recently, work has focused on installing a temporary sheet pile retaining wall on the south side of the bridge. November saw the start of pile driving—one of the most critical phases of construction. And yes,…

974 Views, 0 Comments

2024 Annual Market Report is IN!

State of the 30A Market

As reported in Q4-2024, the 30A real estate market presented a blend of opportunities and adjustments. Increased listing activity provided buyers with more options, while sellers faced longer market times and adapted to evolving buyer expectations.

Price trends varied across beach communities along 30A, with some fluctuations appearing significant. Does this signal a volatile market? Not really. A broader analysis of home sales on 30A reveals that median sales prices for single-family homes remained steady at $1,700,000. Meanwhile, median sales prices for condos experienced a slight increase, rising from $1,000,000 to $1,012,000. These subtle shifts demonstrate the market’s adaptability and underscore the resilience of our…

656 Views, 0 Comments

Seaside Prize Weekend: Shaping the Future of Community and Design

The SEASIDE Institute™: Shaping the Future of Community and Design

The SEASIDE Institute™ plays a pivotal role in advancing discussions on architecture, urban planning, and community development. As a steward of innovative thought and collaboration, the Institute fosters meaningful dialogues and research that shape the future of sustainable and resilient communities. One of its most celebrated events, the annual SEASIDE Prize™, honors individuals whose work has significantly impacted the built environment, bringing together professionals, academics, and enthusiasts for a weekend of learning, networking, and inspiration.

A Legacy of Thought Leadership

Since its founding, the SEASIDE Institute™ has been dedicated to promoting New Urbanism and…

471 Views, 0 Comments

What Florida Homeowners Should Know About Flood Insurance

What Florida Homeowners Should Know About Flood Insurance

When buying a home on the Gulf Coast, flood insurance is one of the most pressing concerns for new homeowners. Given our areas susceptibility to hurricanes, storm surges, and heavy rainfall, understanding flood insurance requirements and options is essential for protecting your investment.

The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) has recently released its 18th Consumer Guide, offering vital information to help buyers navigate the complexities of flood insurance. Here's a closer look at the key insights from the guide and what you should know as a Florida homeowner.

Flood Insurance Is Separate from Homeowners Insurance

One common misconception is that standard homeowners insurance…

975 Views, 0 Comments

When Are Gulf Waters the Most Transparent in South Walton?

Why South Walton Stands Out for Crystal-Clear Waters

Just Google the best beaches for transparent water in Florida, and you'll undoubtedly find South Walton on the list. Also known as the Emerald Coast, the region’s white sand provides a striking contrast that enhances the emerald-green hues of the Gulf waters. Beachgoers flock to these shores year-round, but some months are particularly ideal for experiencing the clearest, most pristine conditions.

Best Times for Clear Waters in South Walton

The most transparent waters in South Walton typically occur in late spring through early summer, with May and June being especially favorable. During this period, the weather is warm, and the Gulf waters are generally calm, allowing sand and sediment to…

5643 Views, 0 Comments