Hwy 30abeaches Of South Walton Blog Posts

Coastal Dune Lakes: Rare Treasures Along South Waltonâs Scenic 30-A

Monday, July 8, 2024

Easter Happenings Will Soon Be Hopping on the Gulf Coast!

All along the Alabama and Florida Gulf coasts, communities are getting ready to celebrate Easter with live music, egg hunts, bunny visits, and more â and visitors of all ages are welcome to join in! Following is a list of several Gulf Coast Easter events!

Thursday, March 21, 2024

The 17th Annual Digital Graffiti Festival in Alys Beach Will Light up the Nights

Sunday, March 17, 2024

30A Wine Festival at Alys Beach

T his 12th-annual 30A Wine Festival at Alys Beach is scheduled for Wednesday through Sunday, Feb. 21st-25th, 2024. The five-day celebration features events and workshops catering to wine enthusiasts, bourbon lovers, foodies, and the festival-enjoying public. Proceeds benefit the Children’s Volunteer Health Network providing health services to

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

The 2023 Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest

Celebrating Delectable Craft Beers by Some of the World's Most Beautiful Beaches!   SaIf you’re a fan of the resort life, the beach, and great beer you’ll definitely want to check out the 15th Annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest, happening this October right in the heart of  Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort  near beautiful 

Friday, August 4, 2023

Emerald Coast Poker Run: Playing Cards for a Cause

Annual Event Making a Difference for a Quarter Century You don’t have to own a boat to have plenty of fun during the Emerald Coast Poker Run. Participants and party-goers alike are sure to have a blast at the annual boating and fundraising event, presented by the Emerald Coast Foundation as part of Boat Week. History shows this event -- which

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

The 15th Annual Digital Graffiti

Where Illuminative Art, Architecture and Sound Collide in a Feast of the Senses    This year's Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach will be held May 13-14   If you’re a fan of art, architecture, and the beach you’re certain to enjoy Digital Graffiti -- one of the most popular of all events along the beaches of South Walton , just

Sunday, May 8, 2022

Giddy for Graffiti

One of the  most popular events on 30A is right around the corner, Digital Graffiti Festival: A Drive-Thru Experience at Alys Beach. Alys Beach gives artists from all over the world the opportunity to display their original work while competing for prize money in a juried art competition. This one-of-a-kind visual and immersive event features

Thursday, April 8, 2021

Biking Along the Gulf Coast — a Winter Wonderland

Tuesday, February 16, 2021

Gulf Coast Fishing in Northwest Florida and Alabama â A Year-Round Affair

Itâs a fact that the sugar-white sands and blue-green waters of the Northwest Florida and Alabama Gulf coasts attract millions of visitors each year. But did you know that these locations also offer some of the best fishing in the world? In fact, the fishing fun is just as bountiful as sunshine here. And you donât have to sign up for a charter and

Thursday, August 16, 2018

10 Not-To-Miss Things To Do Along Highway 30A

[caption id="attachment_3379" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Campbell Lake, one of the area's rare dune lakes, is in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.[/caption] While most visitors are naturally drawn to the beautiful beaches when booking a stay on Highway 30A , they quickly realize that there is much more fun and adventure to be had

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Highway 30-A Arts: The Heart and Soul of South Walton

  While scenic Highway 30-A might be best known for its lush landscapes and tropical tranquillity, this renowned stretch of Gulfside road is also dotted with galleries displaying local and regional artwork. From beach paintings to driftwood furniture and seashell picture frames, these South Walton communities offer something just about everyone

Friday, April 28, 2017

Travel Insurance: Keep Your Money, Even If You Can’t Keep Your Plans

When given a choice, most of us would opt out of paying for travel insurance. Who wants to spend money to guard against something that most likely won’t happen? Most of us, though, have experienced instances when our plans have gone awry, making us feel like a member of the Griswold family from National Lampoon’s Vacation . That’s when

Monday, September 12, 2016

Beach Safety Tips for an Amazing Vacation

BE SAFE SWIMMING Make sure everyone in the family knows how to swim. Swim where there’s a lifeguard, and don’t swim alone. When swimming in the ocean, avoid getting into water that is more than waist-deep. Young and/or inexperienced swimmers should wear U. S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. If you're planning on going boating

Thursday, July 21, 2016

South Walton Artists: The “Art” and Soul of Highway 30-A

Award-winning artist Juan Francisco Adaro puts the finishing touches on his mural for the 2015 ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival.   While scenic Highway 30-A might be best known for its lush landscapes and tropical tranquility, this renowned stretch of Gulfside road is also dotted with galleries displaying local and regional art. From beach paintings

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Sterling Resorts Fall Break Special â Get 15 Percent Off on a Northwest Florida Vacation!

At a time when much of the country is experiencing falling temperatures, Northwest Florida is experiencing falling rates on fall getaways to the most gorgeous beaches on the planet. And while the temperatures might be very pleasant â in the 70s and 80s â the festivals and special events really begin to heat up along the Emerald Coast. Of course, youâll

Sunday, October 18, 2015

Sterling Resorts Fall Break Special – Get 15 Percent Off on a Northwest Florida Vacation!

At a time when much of the country is experiencing falling temperatures, Northwest Florida is experiencing falling rates on fall getaways to the most gorgeous beaches on the planet. And while the temperatures might be very pleasant — in the 70s and 80s — the festivals and special events really begin to heat up along the Emerald Coast. Of

Sunday, October 18, 2015

Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest + Beach = Perfect Fall Getaway

Summer has yet to begin, and I’m dreaming of a fall beach trip! The Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is what started this train of thought. The festival touts 200-plus beers to sample and live music to enjoy — enough said: I’ll be there this fall for Beer Fest October 16 and 17. Can’t you just imagine

Saturday, May 16, 2015

Special Events Lure Visitors to Gulf Coast Year-Round

[caption id="attachment_2566" align="alignleft" width="461"] Anglers of all ages are welcome to compete in the Destin Fishing Rodeo.[/caption] Warm weather, emerald waters, and beaches so white that they dazzle the eyes are the major attractions for most visitors to the Florida and Alabama Gulf coasts. But the region also plays host to music festivals

Sunday, March 15, 2015

Trade in your snow shoes for flip flops!

With warmer temperatures just around the corner, now is the time to start getting into a Spring state-of-mind. And what better way to get into the spirit than with a spring break beach deal in Northwest Florida? Luckily, ResortQuest By Wyndham Vacation Rentals is currently offering hot deals like 15 percent off your vacation rentals, through April 12

Saturday, February 28, 2015

How To Pack the Perfect Beach Bag

The best way to ensure a relaxing day at the beach is to start with a little planning. Giving some thought to what to pack in a beach bag means you won’t get settled on the sand only to discover that your bottled water and sunscreen are back at your condo or hotel room. Following are some tips on how to pack the perfect beach bag, along with some

Saturday, January 10, 2015

Itâs a Great Time for Horsing Around on the Gulf

The cool, sunny days of winter are perfect for enjoying a different kind of Gulf Coast vacation adventure  ­ – horseback riding on the beach. Trail riding is an exciting way to get up close and personal with the areaâs natural beauty, from pine woodlands teeming with wildlife to coastal forests skirting the rare dune lakes (where fresh and salt

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

It’s a Great Time for Horsing Around on the Gulf

The cool, sunny days of winter are perfect for enjoying a different kind of Gulf Coast vacation adventure  ­ - horseback riding on the beach. Trail riding is an exciting way to get up close and personal with the area’s natural beauty, from pine woodlands teeming with wildlife to coastal forests skirting the rare dune lakes (where fresh

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Find Family Vacation Fun at Sterling Shores Destin

A top-rated resort, Sterling Shores is just minutes away from everything Destin has to offer, from fishing charters and golf to shopping and restaurants . Sterling Shores Destin is the ideal base for a family vacation on Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast. "It's a great place to spend quality time with your family," said one recent guest. "It's

Friday, June 13, 2014

Turn Your Sandcastle Creations Into Cash!

Enter our Sandcastle Facebook Photo Contest this summer, and you could win CASH and a FREE sandcastle-building lesson! The grand prize is $200 plus a two-hour lesson from beachsandsculptures.com , owned by professional sand sculptors Rick and Capri Mungeam. The lesson (good through the end of 2015) includes a demonstration of proper sand-sculpting tools

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Enter Our Gulf Coast Getaway Giveaway TODAY!

During the month of May, we’re offering one of our lucky Facebook fans the chance to win a three-day, two-night stay in a deluxe two-bedroom condo on the beautiful Gulf Coast, from Gulf Shores to Panama City Beach. To enter, just visit us at https://www. facebook .com/ Beachguide ‎ and click on the contest link. Be sure to ‘share

Thursday, May 1, 2014

Easter Happenings on the Gulf

All along the Alabama and Florida Gulf coasts, communities are getting ready to celebrate Easter this weekend with live music, egg hunts, bunny visits, and more — and visitors of all ages are welcome to join in! Following is a (partial) list of what’s going on. Destin and South Walton — The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin, April

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

The Gulf Coast Welcomes Spring With Food, Wine, Music, and Fun

[caption id="attachment_1922" align="alignleft" width="960" caption="The Seabreeze Jazz Festival is coming to PCB's Pier Park April 23-27."] [/caption] With a lineup of events that includes music festivals and food festivals, plus the iconic Flora-Bama’s annual Mullet Toss, folks along the Gulf Coast are gearing up to have fun this spring. Following

Monday, March 31, 2014

Gulf Coast Food Festivals Warm Chilly Winter Days

Winter is prime time for food festivals along the Gulf Coast. Following are details on some of the most popular, coming up in the next few weeks. Apalachicola Oyster Cook-off — Friday, January 17, 6 - 8 p.m., and Saturday, January 18, noon - 5 p.m., Riverfront Park On Friday evening, there will be a preview of oyster-related silent auction items

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Beer Fest This Weekend at Baytowne Wharf

More than 200 international and craft beers from 40-plus breweries are the stars at the sixth annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest in Sandestin. Known as “the Best Beer Fest on the Emerald Coast,” the celebration kicks off on Friday night, October 18, with a beer and barbecue pairing presented by Marlin Grill on the Village of Baytowne Wharf&

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

October Means Month-long Seafood Celebration in Destin

“The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” is counting down the days till the Destin Fishing Rodeo. Described as “the ultimate tournament for saltwater anglers of all ages,” the popular competition — a magnet for fishermen since 1948 — annually attracts more than 30,000 participants. The fishing is free for everyone

Monday, September 23, 2013

Any Timeâs a Good Time for Fishing in the Gulf

As home to more than 200 species of fish, the Gulf of Mexico attracts thousands of anglers every year. In fact, thereâs something biting year-round, all the way from Destin â known as âThe Worldâs Luckiest Fishing Village❠and boasting one of the largest charter fishing fleets in the U.S. â Â  to Gulf Shores â which annually hosts the popular

Monday, September 9, 2013

Any Time’s a Good Time for Fishing in the Gulf

As home to more than 200 species of fish, the Gulf of Mexico attracts thousands of anglers every year. In fact, there’s something biting year-round, all the way from Destin — known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” and boasting one of the largest charter fishing fleets in the U.S. —   to Gulf Shores

Monday, September 9, 2013

Pool Parties, Picnics, Fine Art, and More for Labor Day

[caption id="attachment_1788" align="alignleft" width="1936" caption="Folk art at last year's Baytowne Art Walk"] [/caption] Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is gearing up for its annual Labor Day Weekend Celebration, August 29 through September 4. This year’s lineup of special events includes an art show, live music, pool parties, picnics, beach

Friday, August 23, 2013

A Prosperous Past Enriches the Present in Apalachicola

The spirit of Old Florida is still alive along the wide, tree-lined streets of Apalachicola. Situated between river and bay, the town has been a busy commerce center since the 1830s and was once the third largest shipping port on the Gulf Coast. Before the Civil War, cotton grown in the surrounding areas was stored in Apalachicola warehouses until it

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

What To Pack for the Beach

While you don’t need a whole lot of stuff for a trip to the beach, it still pays to put a little thought into what you’re packing. Otherwise, you’ll either end up lugging too many pairs of shoes or discovering when you arrive that you’ve forgotten something basic like suntan lotion or your bathing suit. Following are our suggestions

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

SunQuest Solaris Serves Up Dadâs Day Treat

Still looking for something to give Dad for his special day? Even if heâs one of those guys who already has it all, heâll appreciate being treated to the Fatherâs Day lunch and cruise aboard the SunQuest Cruises Solaris. Sailing from Sandestinâs Baytowne Marina, the Solaris will depart at 1 p.m. on Sunday, June 16, for a two-hour trip that includes

Monday, June 10, 2013

SunQuest Solaris Serves Up Dad’s Day Treat

Still looking for something to give Dad for his special day? Even if he’s one of those guys who already has it all, he’ll appreciate being treated to the Father’s Day lunch and cruise aboard the SunQuest Cruises Solaris. Sailing from Sandestin’s Baytowne Marina, the Solaris will depart at 1 p.m. on Sunday, June 16, for a two-

Monday, June 10, 2013

Get Ready to Enjoy a Great New Sport – Paddleboarding

One of the most popular new sports to hit the Gulf Coast is stand-up paddleboarding. Itâs fun, itâs safe, and itâs relatively simple to learn, so itâs a great activity the whole family can enjoy. Paddleboarding offers a whole new way to enjoy the water – lakes, canals, and other inland waterways as well as the Gulf. Similar to a surfboard but

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Get Ready to Enjoy a Great New Sport - Paddleboarding

One of the most popular new sports to hit the Gulf Coast is stand-up paddleboarding. It’s fun, it’s safe, and it’s relatively simple to learn, so it’s a great activity the whole family can enjoy. Paddleboarding offers a whole new way to enjoy the water - lakes, canals, and other inland waterways as well as the Gulf. Similar to

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Summer Happenings at HarborWalk Village

Pardi Gras The good times never stop rolling at Pardi Gras. The annual HarborWalk Village celebration, billed as “a little bit of New Orleans every Tuesday night all summer long,” kicks off this year on May 28. Festivities include parades, live jazz by the Village Brass Band, jugglers, dancers, street performers, stilt walkers, floats,

Monday, May 20, 2013

Art, Music, and More in Santa Rosa Beach

The landscaped grounds of WaterColor Inn and Resort in Santa Rosa Beach are the setting for the 25th annual ArtsQuest Fine Art and Music Festival. Scheduled for Mother’s Day weekend, May 10, 11, and 12, ArtsQuest includes a juried competition showcasing 40 artists from the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, plus the work of hundreds of

Monday, April 29, 2013

Cycling for a Good Cause at Sandestin

You’ll be cycling for a good cause as well as the fun of it when you sign up for the Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour, scheduled this year for May 17, 18, and 19. Proceeds from this popular event, which draws hundreds of bikers to Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast each spring, are donated to the Alaqua Animal Refuge, a non-profit, no-kill shelter

Monday, April 15, 2013

Contest-Winning Beach Photography Tips

If you think all shots of sand and surf have to look the same, think again. By following a few simple  beach photography tips from the pros, you’ll be able to create prize-winning photos that capture memorable moments you and your family will enjoy again and again. Following are some (nontechnical) suggestions for better beach photos: - Look...

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Alys Beach Hosts Highway 30-A Wine Fest

Alys Beach, one of the communities along Northwest Florida’s scenic Highway 30-A, is hosting the second annual 30A Wine Festival on March 9 and 10. Activities for the two-day event include wine tastings and seminars, wine and food pairings with dishes from local restaurants, live music, and Sunday’s Rose and Croquet, featuring rose wine

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Annual Song Fest Brings Stars to Highway 30-A

Lucinda Williams, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and Jeffrey Steele top an exciting line-up of more than 125 performers participating in this weekend’s Highway 30-A Songwriters Festival. Williams penned “Passionate Kisses” in the 1980s, a song later recorded and made popular by Carpenter. The title earned Williams the Grammy for Best Country

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Sandestin Sends Troops a Labor Day Salute

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort salutes the U.S. armed forces this Labor Day weekend, offering both active and retired military personnel a special rate and complimentary greens fees with its “Picture Perfect Labor Day Getaway.” This discount package, good from August 31 through September 3, includes one night’s free lodging with the

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Sandestin Announces Artful Ending to Summer Fun

Some of the South’s most gifted artists will display their work at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort this Labor Day weekend during the annual Baytowne Art Walk. A variety of different artistic styles, techniques, and media will be represented at the three-day event, which runs from August 31 through September 2. Hours for the show, to be held at

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Sandestin Serves Up Free Fun for the Fourth

Even if you’re on a budget, you can still have a blast this Fourth of July by taking advantage of these special offers from Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort . Golfers and other active adults will appreciate LeCiel boutique hotel’s package , which includes a free night’s stay (when you book three nights), free fitness center access, and

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Get Certified to Boat in Florida

If your Florida vacation fun includes boating, here’s something you need to know. State law requires anyone born after January 1, 1988 operating a vessel powered by 10 horsepower or more to pass a boating safety class and get a boating safety identification card from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. But not to worry &mdash

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Sandcastles Reach for the Stars

It took eight hours’ hard labor to build “Illumination Castle,” the sand sculpture in the photo posted here . The fanciful creation is the work of “The Sandman,” Rick Mungeam, a former residential home designer turned professional sand sculptor. “At sunset, we lit the strategically located windows and doors with candles

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour: Cycling for a Cause

Riders in the 2012 Sandestin Beach Bicycle Tour will have the satisfaction of knowing they’re supporting a great cause while having fun on Florida’s Emerald Coast. The 2012 tour, which runs from Friday, May 18, through Sunday, May 20, benefits Alaqua Animal Refuge, a non-profit shelter that promotes the general welfare and humane treatment

Friday, May 18, 2012

Moms Pick Their Own Presents at ArtsQuest 2012

The picture-perfect town of Seaside, Florida, is the setting for the 24th annual ArtsQuest. Started in 1989 as the Grayton Beach Fine Arts Festival, ArtsQuest has evolved into a juried event that regularly attracts around 5,000 visitors. More than 130 artists, producing works in categories ranging from ceramics to photography, will participate in ArtsQuest

Thursday, May 3, 2012

26th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival coming soon!

Good wine, good food, and live music take center stage again this year at the annual Sandestin Wine Festival.   Set against the backdrop of Florida’s Emerald Coast, the festival, which attracts thousands each year, is affectionately called the “Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals.” This year’s festival, to be held at The

Thursday, March 29, 2012

New 2012 Golf Packages by Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

  I'm not a golfer, but for one of my best friends, a good round of golf is practically a religious experience (He claims that a big bucket of gently used golf balls was one of the best presents I ever gave him.) So when I saw the great packages being offered for 2012 at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort's championship courses, I was quick to

Friday, February 10, 2012

Just a Little Beach Lovin'

I welcome each month as if it were a new beginning and in particular, February.   Why, you ask?   Well, it's the month of love!!   For those of you that criticize Valentine's Day as being a Hallmark-holiday, steer clear of me because on this day, and pretty much for the next week and a half, I will be wearing pink, tying

Monday, February 6, 2012

Hooks, Lines, and Singers

It's back and bigger and better than ever!   The 30a Songwriters Festival will host over 300 musical performances and 125 artists during the weekend of January 13-15.   I really enjoy music but I feel a little insecure about my music knowledge (or shall I say, lack-there-of).   That said, I recognized one of the groups

Thursday, January 12, 2012

BeachGuide's Performing Arts Guide

Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College:   Broadway Series, Artist Series, and Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra.   A collection of professional and student productions.   You won't believe this venue and the incredible works of art. Sinfonia Gulf Coast- Just celebrating it's 5th season, Sinfonia

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Labor{less} Days on the Emerald Coast

It's about that time again.   One last day to say adios, sayonara, and adieu to another fantastic summer.    Time to fire up the grill after a long day at the beach and watch some fireworks.   I won't be your hometown tourist this weekend as I'll be spending my holiday with my favorite people, the Chicago Cubs (oh, and

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Here Comes the {beach} bride

The Emerald Coast is famous for sunny beach days, great seafood, and creating lifelong family memories.   But what better memory is there than two families uniting in marriage?   Here at the beach, weddings are a common occurrence.   From Destin , Santa Rosa Beach , Panama City Beach, Pensacola Beach , and every beach and

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Run Tourist Run

I have yet to write a post about this (although I may have mentioned it from time to time) that I enjoy a good run.   Last year, I ran my first half marathon and have 2 slated for 2012.   The other day, I jogged down hwy 30A exploring the scenery.   I glanced over to my right while running past Oyster Lake and saw the reflection

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

See our Shining Sea

If you've been reading this blog long enough, you know that I am a holiday junkie:   food, friends and family, and themed decorations.   It makes me want to find something to celebrate every single day.   I can't think about the 4th without thinking of all the cookouts, watermelon eating, and sparklers that have become

Monday, June 27, 2011

The Heat Is On!

Is it hot out here or is my credit card burning a hole in my pocket? I realize that for most, Spring Fever means getting that "itch" to blow off work and hit the beach.   To me, the itch is in the form of a little bite from the shopping bug.   I have found that the Rx for this is a strong dose of serious, hard-core shopping. 

Friday, May 27, 2011

Time to Wine Down on the Emerald Coast

Finally, after all these years, I was able to attend the Sandestin Wine Festival at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. I admit that I know very little about wine (and saying that I know "little" is giving myself a lot of credit).   But I enjoy it, and more importantly, enjoy the social aspect of drinking wine at an event, when I'm bound

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Fine and Dandy, Just a Wee Bit Sandy

This year on April 20, 2011,   marked the one year anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico.   It's hard to believe that it was just this time last year that our pristine waters and wildlife of the Emerald Coast were in critical danger.   A year later, residents and businesses are still recovering

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Not Just Another Beach Bunny

In the next couple weeks, we'll be seeing quite a few beach bunnies, and I'm not talking about the tourists!   Easter is right around the corner and Peter Cottontail has his swim trunks packed, his SPF 100 ready (he's kind-of on the fair side, you know?!) and ready to visit all the kids along Northwest Florida's Gulf Coast.   If

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Art in the Park

On Saturday, March 19, 2011, the WaterColor Community Association will be hosting their 6th Annual Art in the Park from 9 a.m. — 5 p.m. in WaterColor’s Cerulean Park and Town Center! This event is open to WaterColor residents, guests and the public and is free of charge.   Whether you're staying in your 30-A Vacation Rental , Destin Condo Rental

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Seaside Celebrates it's 30th Anniverstory

Seaside, Fl along Scenic Highway 30-A is celebrating thirty years of simple life, thirty years of   vacation memories, and thirty years of community.   As a salute to Seaside, you can post your very own stories and photos of Seaside, FL at MySeasideStory . As the Hometown Tourist, I've seen Seaside grow and have so many fond memories

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Spring Fever

Hot flashes?   Hallucinations?   Not to worry.   No need to pick up the phone and call the Doc.   It's a mild case of Spring Fever but, be warned, it's more contagious and severe with every day that goes by.   The cure?   Pack your bags and visit the beaches of Northwest Florida's Gulf Coast

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

February deals and steals!

Stay two nights and receive the third free in Seaside, FL!   Who's ready for an early spring break?

Monday, February 7, 2011

Tour de' 30A

I have an old friend who was a Florida transplant (military) and relocated to Germany.   A few weekends ago, the once flip-flop-wearing friend returned to the beach for a short visit.   As the Hometown Tourist, I felt it my obligation and delight to give my friend an official Tour de' 30A.   Our plan was to eat and drink

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Hooks, Lines, and Singers 2011

The 30-A Song Writers Festival is making it's annual debut January 14-16, 2011.   Hosted by the Cultural Arts Association of Walton County ,   nationally recognized artists as well as up-and-coming acts will be shakin' booties and moving souls up and down Hwy 30-A.   (Side note:   last year, I purchased a custom

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Santa's Gettin' Sandy

The Holiday's are back!   If it wasn't for the calendar, I would have a hard time believing that to be true after sitting on the beach this past weekend.   I mean, really?   Thanksgiving is next weekend?!   I've probably gained 5 pounds just typing the word Thanksgiving!   Hopefully the ongoing list

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Sounds of the Beach

I would be remiss if I didn't tell you about one of my favorite series of events that takes place here at the beach .   All along the coast from October-May, the orchestral sounds of Sinfonia Gulf Coast ring through the air.   Kicking off the season is Mary Wilson of the Supremes followed by Orchestral Holiday (one of my most favorite

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Take a paid vacation!

In this economy, it's tough to hang on to a job, let alone have a benefits package with a paid vacation.   We can't change the economy and we're not your HR department, but we can increase your vacation benefits package!   Now through September 30, 2010, Beaches of South Walton will reward you with a $250 gift card redeemable at

Sunday, August 8, 2010

When the beaches are rockin', please come a'knockin'

As if you need another reason to visit the beach, check out these amazing concerts coming to a beach near you. Amazing deals on accommodations are available in the Destin, FL , South Walton area , Fort Walton Beach, FL, or Panama City Beach, FL .   Free concerts and lodging deals?   Why aren't you down here yet?! Seaside Concert Series

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Feel Good Shopping!

I feel like I've been living under a giant, organic rock this summer!   For a few years now, I've heard of the Seaside Farmers Market where local vendors sell local goods, but, had yet to attend.   Last Saturday, I went and have been talking about it nonstop (to anyone who would listen) since. I brought my own organic cotton tote

Monday, August 2, 2010

Beaches of South Walton launches new ad campaign

Beaches of South Walton launches “Be beaches of South Walton” campaign.   This 90-day radio and television ad campaign is funded by BP and distributed to the Beaches of South Walton to boost a damaged tourism market as a result of the Gulf Coast Oil Spill.   The campaign focuses on the growing cultural experiences available...

Monday, July 26, 2010

Repping it up on a Tuesday night

I'm ashamed to admit that in the last 9 years of it's existence, I have yet to attend a performance by the Seaside Repertory Theatre.   Last week, we checked out the schedule and saw there was multiple children's performances as well as shows for the grown children (I have yet to admit that I'm an adult).   We decided to pack up

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Cool for a Cause

Life on the Emerald Coast can be very rewarding.   I'm not just speaking of our the beautiful beaches, dining, and shopping.   I'm talking about the real things in life that are rewarding.   The small gifts that make a big impact.   I'm talking about the gift of giving.   I've come across a few do-gooder...

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Abrakadoodle

I'm trying to figure out how I can rewind time.   I'd like to be a kid again.   I can think of many reasons why being a kid is fantastic (eating cookies and not gaining an ounce, playing until I pass out, not paying bills, etc.) but if I were anywhere between the ages of 5-12 in the year 2010 living on the beach (dang, that really

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Pomp and Cirque-umstance

[gallery link="file"] I wasn’t sure what to expect when we decided to go to Le Grande Cirque this weekend. Located at Grand Boulevard in Sandestin, Le Grand Cirque is a traveling Cirque Du Soleil show. I was interested as I heard feedback that it was an amazing show, but not until I experienced it, did I understand what that critique meant. As

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Digital Graffiti Show at Alys Beach

I've seen a lot of graffiti in my day but I can't remember the last time I went out of my way too see it.   Oh wait, yes, it was this time last year at the annual Digital Graffiti show at Alys Beach, FL .   Artists from around the world are selected by a panel of judges to compete in this outdoor art festival where the artists create

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Seaside Rocks

I spent Friday night of Memorial weekend   in Seaside, FL and it rocked!   Not just because it was Seaside, but because Seaside is one of the local resorts that host free outdoor concerts during the summer.   Last weekend, a local band called Heritage performed and they happen to be one of my favorite bands.  

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Traveling to the beach just got a whole lot easier

I'm planning my next trip.   To where?   I'm not sure yet but I can plan easily to multiple destinations thanks to the opening of the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. With non-stop flights as well as international flights provided by Delta and Southwest, Beaches International will provide easy access to the most beautiful

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

[gallery link="file"] I'd like to take some time to address an issue here on the Emerald Coast, or should I say a non-issue.   Since you are not here (and you should be) you wouldn't know the beaches are unaffected by the oil spill.     You wouldn't know that the beaches are just as pristine and clean as they have always

Sunday, May 23, 2010

YOLO your way across the bay

There is a new activity sweeping the beaches of Northwest Florida and I had to test it out for myself.   I borrowed a YOLO Board and headed to the bay.   I could count on the water in the bay being shallow and I feared a dramatic wipe out the first time I tried to stand up.   The trick is, you start off on your knees and

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Healthy Guide to Beach Vacations

[gallery] Today I talked to Colleen, my friend/personal trainer/nutritionist about fun, family activities to do while on vacation at the beach.   Sure, we all love the beach, but there is so much to see and do on Northwest Florida's Gulf Coast.   We came up with this idea to write today's posting on how to incorporate family fitness...

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Giving back to the kiddo's

This Mother's Day weekend was filled with goodness!   Aside from the fact that this was an amazing beach weekend, we (myself and my daughter) made our way to Rosemary Beach to volunteer at the annual Cottages for Kids fundraiser.   Taking place every weekend in May, the Cottages for Kids raises money for the Children's Volunteer

Monday, May 10, 2010

A heavenly breakfast at the Hibiscus House Bed and Breakfast

My mother always said that a good day starts with a good breakfast!   I put this proverb to the test with a homemade breakfast at the Hibiscus House in Grayton Beach, Florida.   Although the menu only contains approximately ten items, I was feeling a little overwhelmed by my options.   By overwhelmed, I mean everything

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Grayton Beach State Park

If you’re looking for the “The Real Florida”, Grayton Beach is the ideal place for you. Located near the town of Grayton Beach on County Road 30A south of U.S. 98, you’ll find award-winning beaches, campgrounds, and cabins here along with vacation fun for the whole family! Grayton Beach State Park has been consistently ranked

Friday, November 20, 2009