Have the ultimate beach getaway in South Walton, FL, with our top 5 fun activities, from relaxing on sugar‑white sands and biking scenic trails to savoring fresh Gulf seafood and teeing off on coastal golf courses.
Vacation is synonymous with fun. No matter if you're in the Colorado Rockies, the Outer Banks, or along Florida's Emerald Coast, finding the best spots to enjoy yourself to the fullest is a must.
Thinking about South Walton as your next vacation destination? Great choice! Beyond its gorgeous beaches, you'll also find plenty of fun things to do in this piece of Florida paradise.
Here's a bite-sized intro to the fun stuff:
- Hit the Beaches: Swim, collect seashells, and enjoy 26 miles of sugar‑white sand and turquoise waters.
- Take a Shopping Trip: Explore cozy boutiques, browse unique finds, and relax with a snack or a book.
- Play Outdoors: Bike scenic paths, kayak coastal lakes, hike trails, and spot local wildlife.
- Indulge in Great Food: Savor fresh Gulf seafood, Southern favorites, pizza, and sweet treats.
- Go Golfing: Tee off on scenic courses with family and friends, complete with golf cart fun.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I've rounded up five fun things to do in South Walton so you and your vacation crew can have the best time in this Florida paradise.
Let's dive in!
1. Hit the BeachES
South Walton stretches for about 26 miles along the Emerald Coast, with sugar‑white beaches, turquoise waters, and 16 distinct communities along Highway 30A. The area's beaches range from lively seaside towns to quiet, nature‑rich escapes, perfect for family fun, couples, or anyone seeking coastal serenity.
HIGHLIGHTS
2. Take a Shopping Trip
Shopping in South Walton is as fun as a day at the beach. From charming boutiques to small parks perfect for lounging with a book, the area offers plenty of ways to mix a little retail therapy with relaxation. Spend the day hopping between cozy shops, browsing for unique finds, and grabbing a bite to eat when you need a break.
HIGHLIGHTS
- The Shops of Ruskin: Browse local boutiques and relax on the lawn with a good book.
- The Shops of Grayton: Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, apparel, and keepsakes.
- 30Avenue: Explore specialty shops, an athletic store, and tasty dining spots.
3. Play Outdoors
South Walton is packed with ways to get outside and explore, from pedaling along scenic paths to gliding across spring-fed waters. If you enjoy wildlife spotting, paddling, or hiking under the sun, there's an outdoor adventure waiting for you here.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Rent a bike and explore the area while soaking in the coastal scenery.
- Join Coldwater Excursions for kayaking, snorkeling, and diving in crystal-clear springs.
- Wander local walking trails and spot wildlife in its natural habitat.
- Book an airboat tour for a thrilling ride across the water.
- Visit nearby state parks to see native plants and enjoy wide-open spaces.
4. Indulge in Great Food
Eating well is one of the joys of vacation, and South Walton delivers with flavors for every craving. Fresh seafood pairs with Southern favorites, while creative pizzas and sweet treats keep things fun. This Florida spot makes every meal feel like part of the adventure, and with so many tempting options, choosing where to start won't be easy.
HIGHLIGHTS
- The Great Southern Cafe: Southern classics meet fresh seafood favorites.
- Pizza by the Sea: Classic and creative pizzas served in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
- Bijoux: Upscale dining with dishes like salmon, grouper, steak, and filet mignon.
- Pecan Jacks: Famous for Southern pralines, plus a wide variety of candy and ice cream.
5. Go Golfing
If golf is your game, South Walton has you covered. This Florida paradise is full of scenic courses where you can tee off with family and friends. Spend the day cruising in a golf cart, taking in the views, and sharing a little friendly competition.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Scenic golf courses perfect for all skill levels.
- Fun for family and friends to enjoy together.
- Golf cart rides with beautiful coastal views.
- Popular spots include Camp Creek Golf Club and Sandestin Links Course.
- A relaxing way to spend part of your South Walton vacation.
Bonus: How to Have the Most Fun in South Walton
- Start with the Beaches: South Walton's sugar‑white sands and emerald waters are the main event. Spend a morning swimming, building sandcastles, or just soaking in the sun.
- Hop Between Beach Communities: Each of the 16 beach neighborhoods has its own personality. Bike through Seaside for its colorful cottages, stroll Rosemary Beach's cobblestone streets, and grab a bite in Grayton Beach.
- Get on the Water: Kayak or paddleboard on the rare coastal dune lakes, take a sunset cruise on the Gulf, or try your hand at fishing for a taste of the local lifestyle.
- Savor the Local Flavor: Seafood is a must. Order Gulf shrimp, oysters, or the catch of the day at one of the area's waterfront restaurants for a true coastal meal.
- Add a Dose of Adventure: Mix in activities like golfing, biking the Timpoochee Trail, or exploring nearby state parks to keep every day different.
- End the Day with a Sunset: Nothing beats a South Walton sunset. Pack a blanket, find a quiet stretch of sand, and watch the sky turn pink and gold.
Wondering Where to Stay on the Emerald Coast
Stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!