How to Vacation Responsibly in South Walton

South Walton’s beautiful beaches make it the perfect destination for good times and lasting memories. In the midst of all the fun, visitors also have a responsibility to preserve the area’s natural beauty while being courteous to all. Here are a few easy ways to protect our beaches and keep South Walton safe for everyone to enjoy.

Know Before You Go

Before going out in the surf and sand, there are some rules to remember when it comes to responsible beach behavior.

After your day at the beach, dispose of all garbage and take your items with you. Unattended items will be removed if left overnight. Glass containers and charcoal grills are prohibited, though propane grills smaller than 225 square inches are allowed.

Though there’s no camping allowed on the beach, visitors can use a tent during the day. To prevent crowding, tents larger than 10 feet by 10 feet are prohibited, and all tents are limited to the backshore, or top half of open beach. Be sure to leave a 4-foot walkway between tents, except on Grayton Beach.

Remember that permits are required for beachgoers who want to enjoy a bonfire, bring their dogs, or drive a vehicle on the beach. Solicitation, littering, nudity, and excessive noise are also prohibited.

A key part of protecting South Walton beaches is sand dune conservation. Keep off the dunes, and allow a 15-foot setback from both the dunes and the water’s edge so emergency vehicles can pass safely. Removal of vegetation, sand, or Gulf water is prohibited.

As a reminder, violation of South Walton beach rules may result in fines or penalties according to Walton County municipal code.

For more important safety facts, including information on beach flag warnings and rip currents, as well as other information on services, visit VisitSouthWalton.com/beach-safety.

Leave No Trace

Protecting South Walton wildlife is vital, and Walton County’s Leave No Trace program helps outdoor enthusiasts reduce their footprint while still enjoying recreational activities.

Keeping the beaches #CleanDarkFlat supports wildlife conservation, protecting sea turtles during nesting season, which occurs annually from May to November. Leave no trace on the beach by removing all personal items and trash each night while also turning off any lights to help protect these endangered species.

Building sandcastles and playing in the sand are beloved pastimes, but for sea turtle safety, it’s important to fill in any holes dug in the sand when you leave the beach. Holes cannot be larger than 3 feet by 3 feet and no deeper than 2 feet, and they must not be left unattended. Large holes create dangerous pitfalls for beachgoers and marine life.

For more on how to protect sea turtles in South Walton, visit VisitSouthWalton.com/sea-turtles.

Vacation Responsibly

With so many activities to choose from, South Walton is a perfect vacation destination for all ages. 

While you’re here, there are several things you can do to engage with the community in positive ways. By getting involved in civic organizations, visiting and sharing scenic spots, and supporting South Walton local businesses, you can give back to the community and have fun doing it.

One rewarding way to enhance your vacation is to get involved with local organizations that give back to the community. Wondering where to volunteer in Walton County Florida? Keep Walton County Beautiful leads conservation efforts in South Walton, spearheading community beach and roadway cleanups, litter prevention campaigns, and other county-wide initiatives. And just a short drive away, Alaqua Animal Refuge encourages volunteers to help a variety of animals in need and make new furry friends.

Additionally, visitors can spread the love by sharing the destination with others via social media.  There are so many picture-perfect spots in South Walton. From the eclectic art around Grayton Beach to the iconic sights of Seaside and more, beauty is everywhere – so don’t be afraid to snap a picture! Check out this article on picture-perfect places around Walton County. Friends and family will love to tag along on your South Walton vacation via your feed!

Excited to support local business in South Walton? For both sun seekers and night owls, there’s a lot to love in South Walton’s 16 beach neighborhoods, which offer entertainment like unique boutique shopping, a state-of-the-art movie theater, and plenty of family activities. Grab an ice cream at Blue Mountain Creamery or listen to some live music in South Walton at The Big Chill or North Beach Social.

South Walton may be famous for its turquoise waters and abundant wildlife, but it’s not the only place to explore! The Choctawhatchee Bay is also a hub of activity. Spend a day on the Bay boating, fishing, paddleboarding, or swimming – this fisherman’s paradise is a must-visit. Afterwards, don’t miss your chance to see one of South Walton’s rare coastal dune lakes. A favorite hangout for local wildlife, these biodiversity hotspots are perfect for canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Just don’t forget your camera!

And with events like Bayfest, visitors can enjoy live entertainment and local festivities galore. Take a look at our annual events page to discover what’s coming up. And remember, following neighborhood rules helps keep harmony between visitors and the local folks who welcome them.

Whether you’re relaxing on the white sand, swimming along the shoreline, or exploring the neighborhoods, remember to leave only footprints and take only memories. These beaches and neighborhoods are precious, so practice sustainable tourism in South Walton to ensure everyone can enjoy the beauty for years to come.