A Teenager’s View of South Walton

Some of my favorite memories come from relaxing on the beach. I will always remember coming here when I was little and building sandcastles with my dad. We still do that, but now we get a little help from Sandcastle Rockstars. Their fun lessons teach you how to create the most story-worthy beach sculptures.

When that mid-day sunshine hits, my friends and I hop on our bikes and head over to Seaside to get frozen treats from Frost Bites. They’re set up in one of those vintage Airstream trailers, and they offer a variety of goodies, from shaved ice to frozen custard!

In the morning before hitting the beach, we like to check out some of the local coffee shops. Sunrise Coffee Co. in Gulf Place is always so welcoming. Plus, they’re pet-friendly! Another great place to try is Amavida.

Another place to hang out is the Village of Baytowne Wharf, where you can wander around, checking out all the cute shops and restaurants. At the Baytowne Adventure Zone, you’ll find lots of activities from a zipline and ropes courses to a golf challenge and a climbing tower.  

As much as I love going to the beach here, there’s a swimming hole north of the Choctawhatchee Bay that’s a totally different (and equally amazing) experience. Morrison Springs has a natural, spring-fed pool with crystal-clear water. It’s SO refreshing to dive in, and all the nature surrounding it just adds to the beauty.

After some scenic inspiration, we like to turn on the creativity for a while. My mom found these art classes at a place called The Shard Shop, where they teach you how to make creations out of glass and resin. Kind of like when my grandmother used to help us bake those little stained-glass things, but on a way cooler level! You learn a lot, and then you have an actual work of art to take with you when you go.

OK, so maybe I don’t put my phone down the whole time. After all, there are so many great opportunities for TikToks and Insta-worthy photo ops!

For TikTok inspo, check out South Walton's page for “Day in the Life” style videos – highlighting some of the best spots to explore. While you’re gathering content, be sure to take some photos at one of South Walton’s many Instagramable spots.

There’s this fun mural on the side of The Foster Gallery building in Grand Boulevard, which is a gallery led by the Cultural Arts Alliance that hosts artworks by some amazing local talents.

Over in Grayton Beach, Chiringo / Big Wheel Pizza Co. have an awesome two-sided mural – the newest side featuring a blue skateboarder holding a slice of pizza.

And nearby is the funky Grayt Wall of Art, which is basically a long fence where artists have hung their pieces as a sort of organic, free gallery. (Be sure to look for the sign that reads, “Grayton Beach. Nice Dogs, Strange People.”) Overall, there’s no shortage of outdoor art and murals for sharing with your friends.

As you can tell, there are so many activities in every Walton County neighborhood. Maybe you like getting out into the wilderness. Or maybe you prefer shopping in all the colorful local shops. Whatever your curiosity du jour happens to be, you’ll find more than enough ways to satisfy it here – take it from me!