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 are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from March to September. Can't ask for much more than that!
Inlet Beach Access
438 S Orange St, Inlet Beach, FL 32461
Features: Lifeguards, 50 parking spaces, ADA compatible, restrooms & showers
Bonus: Multiple beach walk-overs from the parking lot
Fun Fact: A pedestrian underpass connects 30A to 30Avenue shops & restaurants.
Santa Clara Access in Seagrove Beach
3468 E Scenic Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Features: Lifeguards, restrooms, 30 parking spaces (both beachside and across the street), ADA-compatible
Bonus: This is a prime spot for Seagrove lovers to spread out and enjoy a day at the beach!
Grayton Beach Access
At the end of Garfield Street, Grayton Beach - Not a Regional Access
Features: Lifeguards, ADA compatible, limited parking, beach chair rentals available
Bonus: Free shuttle service from County Hwy 283 parking lot (subject to change)
Blue Mountain Beach
2365 S Scenic Hwy 83, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Features: Lifeguards, restrooms, 20 parking spaces, NOT an ADA-compliant beach access
Bonus: Quiet yet convenient spot for beachgoers who want a peaceful retreat.
Gulf View Heights
Features: Lifeguards, restrooms, 22 parking spots, NOT an ADA-compliant beach access
Bonus: A hidden gem behind Goatfeathers restaurant!
Ed Walline Access
4447 W Scenic Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Features: Lifeguards, restrooms, ADA-compliant, 39 parking spaces
Bonus: Picnic pavilion and viewing tower—perfect for a beachside lunch!
Dune Allen Access
Features: Lifeguards, 23 parking spaces, Golf cart and bike parking, ADA compatible, restrooms & showers
Bonus: 220 feet of beach front!
Fort Panic Regional Beach Access
Features: Lifeguards during peak season, 34 parking spaces, ADA compatible, restrooms & showers
Bonus: Two nearby coastal Dune Lakes - Lake Allen and Oyster Lake
State Park Beach Accesses
Want to enjoy the beach and support local conservation efforts? Check out the State Park beach accesses, where you'll find ample parking, restrooms, and more. Each park has a small entry fee ($3-$5 per vehicle) and offers a fantastic way to experience nature. Visitors and locals, for instance, flock to Deer Lake State Park, while Grayton Beach State Park, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, and Camp Helen State Park are popular spots on or near 30A.
Neighborhood Beach Accesses
These gems are typically for walk-up traffic, so it's perfect if you're staying in one of the nearby neighborhoods. Some of these accesses also have flags indicating surf conditions so that you can keep an eye on the waves for safe fun in the sun.
Public Beach Rules (AKA, How to Keep Our Beaches Beautiful and Safe)
Before you hit the sand, make sure you're aware of the rules to help keep Walton County's beaches pristine and safe for everyone:
- Leave No Trace: Please pack it in, pack it out! Items left on the beach overnight will be discarded. This helps protect our sea turtles and keeps the beaches clean.
- Dogs on the Beach: Dog permits are required and only available to Walton County residents or property owners.
- Glass is a No-Go: Please keep those glass containers at home—plastic or aluminum only!
- Please stay off the Dunes: Dunes are delicate ecosystems, so enjoy them from afar.
- Tents and Grills: Keep tents to a 10x10 size and only use propane grills; no charcoal is allowed.
And Let's Not Forget the Fun Stuff
- Bonfires: Apply for a bonfire permit through the South Walton Fire District (Monday - Friday). Your beach bonfire must be put out by 1 a.m.—the perfect ending to a fun beach day.
- Vehicle Access: To drive on the beach, you'll need a permit (available through the Walton County Board of County Commissioners). The only beach that allows driving is Grayton Beach—a classic 30A experience.
Map It Out
Planning your visit? Here are some helpful links to find your ideal spot or beach chair rentals:
visitsouthwalton.com --> Beach Access Map
waltoncountychairs.com --> Beach Access Rentals
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot with lifeguards or a quiet neighborhood beach to unwind, you're bound to find the perfect place to soak up the sunshine as we roll into spring. See you out there!