An Active Vacationer’s Playground

In fact, the ability to remain so active while still feeling relaxed is a big draw here year-round. For example, competitive ultrarunner and cyclist Zach Miller recently paid a visit and was able to explore the extensive trail system by bike – including the Timpoochee Trail, which winds for nearly 19 miles.

“The ease of access was awesome,” said Miller. “I could wake up, eat breakfast, stand-up paddleboard on the lake, or hang at the beach, then jump on the bike and hit the trails.”

This incredible variety provides so many avenues for exploration. On any given day, you can hike, swim, play tennis or test your skill on one of the championship golf courses. Or, as Miller mentioned, you can stand-up paddleboard – either on the turquoise water of the Gulf or on one of the area’s rare coastal dune lakes. It’s a great way to give your core a work-out while soaking in some beautiful scenery.

In fact, more than 40% of the land in South Walton is preserved for nature. This includes Eden Gardens State Park and the 15,400-acre Point Washington State Forest, which features more than 27 miles of trails looping through longleaf pine flatwoods, wet prairie, coastal scrub oaks and sand hills.

Another recent guest who arrived with an eye on the great range of running trails was RRCA- and USATF Level 1 run coach Dorothy Beal.

“South Walton felt like a runner’s dream,” said Beal. “Not only did I have miles of paved paths to run on, there were also plenty of soft trails in Grayton Beach State Park.”

When it’s time to refuel after all the fun, the 16 beach neighborhoods are filled with food that is equal parts healthy and tasty. Discovering these eclectic eateries is a whole other kind of exploration, as you try fresh local seafood, organic salads or even gluten-free breads. And taking time to rest and recover will offer just the right excuse for enjoying a little time lounging on the beach.

So start planning your adventure now, with new activity options for each day. And if you’re having trouble motivating to get active on vacation, Beal’s blog article shares some helpful tips about finding just the right balance.