The Latest Beach Access Improvements in South Walton
Since our last update in December, South Walton has seen exciting progress on several beach access improvement projects. These upgrades continue to enhance the experience for both locals and visitors. Here’s a roundup of recently completed projects, what’s currently in the works, and what's coming next:
Now Open: One Seagrove Neighborhood Beach Access
Construction began in February and is now complete! The project included:
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Removing the aging stairway and installing a new ADA-compliant dune walkover
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Adding two rinse showers
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Replacing the old cul-de-sac fence and sidewalk with fresh, modern materials
The new access provides safer, more inclusive beach entry and a cleaner, updated experience for everyone.
Headland Street Neighborhood Beach Access
South Headland Ave. right-of-way
Planned improvements:
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A new sidewalk and boardwalk
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Dune walkover
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Connectivity to the multi-use path
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A stormwater component to reduce local flooding
Status: Construction began in January 2025 and is expected to be completed by June 2025.
Grayton Beach Community Center
44 Hotz Avenue, Grayton Beach
The upcoming 1,600-square-foot facility will feature:
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A local information station
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Restrooms
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An observation deck
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A boardwalk to the beach
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Access to the Beach Tram
Status: A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for June 30 at 9 a.m. Construction will take approximately 12 months, with completion expected by summer 2026.
393 Municipal Parking Facility
1668 S. Co. Hwy. 393, ~¼ mile from Ed Walline Beach Access
This facility will offer:
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74 parking spaces, including ADA, Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV), and bike parking
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A 1,300-square-foot transit building with restrooms
Status: Construction began in March 2024 and is expected to be complete by late summer 2025.
Seagrove Regional Beach Access (RBA)
In the heart of Seagrove
Features include:
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Parking with spaces for standard vehicles, ADA access, and bicycles
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A 1,011-square-foot restroom facility
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An ADA-accessible dune walkover
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Connection to the multi-use path
Status: Construction began in July 2024 and is expected to wrap up by fall 2025.
Walton Dunes Regional Beach Access
258 Beachfront Trail
Proposed features:
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14 parallel parking spaces (including ADA, LSV, and bike parking)
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Restroom facilities
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An ADA-accessible boardwalk
Status: The project is currently on hold, pending a final decision by the Zoning Board of Adjustments regarding the development order appeal.
South Walton Lakeshore Drive Right-of-Way Improvements
This project is being completed in three phases to improve pedestrian safety and stabilize the access corridor:
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Phase I (Completed):
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Split rail fencing installed to define the area
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New bike plaza at the south end of the site
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Phase II (Begins October 2025):
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New sidewalk from Emerald Cove Lane S. to Walton Magnolia Lane
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Crosswalk to beach access
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LSV parking
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Landscaping and hardscaping
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Phase III (Planned for 2028):
Sidewalk extension from Highway 98 south to connect with Phase II
Stay Tuned
These projects reflect Walton County’s continued investment in enhancing public beach access while supporting safer and more enjoyable experiences for everyone. Keep an eye out for future updates as we move through construction phases and grand openings!