A Child’s Perfect Perspective

I love that feeling when we’re almost there. We all roll down our windows and the fresh, warm breeze hits my face. Seeing that turquoise water in the distance for the first time makes me want to jump right in!

We don’t even let Dad start unpacking the car before heading to the beach. We’re big on building massive creations in the sand, so the last time we were here, we got in touch with Sand Castle Rockstars. They taught us how to build the most incredible castle as a whole family (picture a dolphin with a palace on its back).

Kids Running into the Gulf of Mexico

Now, of course everyone likes the beach, but did you know about all the cool nature stuff around Choctawhatchee (chok-tuh-hach-ee) Bay? We went on a sunset adventure by boat with Backwater Tours, exploring some of the incredible scenery that most visitors don’t ever get to see. We even spotted a pod of dolphins!

All that beauty inspires me to create. I have so much fun making sculptures and paintings over at Rock Paper Scissors 30A. There are so many materials to choose from, and my grandparents get the treat of a true masterpiece when I’m done.

Did somebody say treat?! You HAVE to go by Blue Mountain Beach Creamery. My brother gets a little hyper when he eats sugar, but that’s okay – I’m too busy enjoying my sprinkle cone.

Exterior of Blue Mountain Beach Creamery

When it’s time for some chill time on a rainy day – well, sunny ones too – the Hidden Lantern Bookstore in Rosemary Beach just feels like such a cozy spot. There’s a nice kids’ section so we have plenty of fun stories for reading after the beach and at bedtime.

And when chill time is over, and we’ve already had our beach ice cream for the day, we all like making a trip to Baytowne Wharf. It seems like there’s something different to do every day, from magic shows to fireworks and dance parties (we make Dad stay seated).

Fireworks at Baytowne Wharf

I need to get these notes over to Mom soon so she can start planning! But honestly, one of the best parts about South Walton is just wandering around. There’s something new to discover everywhere you turn, so it always feels brand new.