When you think of the sugary soft sand and warm, turquoise waters that Scenic Highway 30A is famous for, you probably think of the popular summer months when the beaches are packed and the sunshine is high in the sky.
But what if we told you there was an even better time to visit South Walton, a time that’s less crowded and a little less hot, yet still has beautiful sunsets? And also a time when the entire stretch of 30A seems to come alive with fun fall festivals and events?
Here’s a little secret of ours—one of our favorite times of the year to truly enjoy South Walton is in the late summer or early fall. Perfect temperatures, bright blue skies, and smaller crowds make our stretch of stunning beach even better. Come with us as we walk you through our top reasons why autumn is the ideal time to book a 30A trip with your whole family.
1. It’s the perfect time to unplug and unwind.
The smaller crowds and crisper weather allow for more time to truly relax and immerse yourself in the surrounding natural beauty of the beach. This is the time of year you visit when you’re looking forward to long walks on the beach with minimal interference—just you and the beach. Plus, the autumn sunsets are seriously spectacular!
2. It’s festival season.
Although the beaches may be quieter, the cooler temps invite all sorts of festivals to the area. There are multiple Farmer’s Markets to check out too, with all sorts of local goods and produce to pick from. On the sand, there are outdoor yoga and tai chi classes and lots of local live music, plus a food & wine festival as well as a film festival.
3. Monarchs migrate here, too.
Monarch butterflies migrate to South Walton in droves in the fall, attracted by the sunny skies and cooler temperatures. There’s even a Flutterby Arts Festival on November 22 with live music, an art market, and a butterfly parade!
4. Catch the game while you’re here.
We all know that fall is chock full of all kinds of sports. But not to worry, South Walton has you covered. We’ve got dozens of inviting spots to catch your favorite team while you enjoy a cold beer and some delicious appetizers. You can even choose from a classic sports bar ambiance or enjoy the game while listening to the waves on the beach—it’s up to you!
5. Find a perfect home base / 30A vacation rental for your family.
At Dune Allen Realty, we’re here to help you find that 30A beach rental home that will become your family’s new happy place on the Gulf Coast. Here are a few of our favorite spots to check out.
Chablis by the Sea: A five-bedroom luxury estate with peek-a-boo gulf views, this magnificent home will be a huge hit with your whole family.
Dancing Seahorse: A beautifully designed private home that’s just far enough away from everything to give you total privacy and peace.
Blue Opal: There’s something for everyone both indoors and out when vacationing in this spacious 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath beauty, Blue Opal. Named after the gemstone cherished to bring peace and joy into your life, Blue Opal was designed and furnished to provide your family just that, a completely relaxing and delightful beach vacation.
Pelican Watch: Classic, contemporary, captivating. Pelican Watch is a modern three-bedroom home that sits directly on the shores of serene Oyster Lake. With lake views and Gulf views, this magnificent oasis allows for total enjoyment of the surrounding natural beauty.
Therapy by the Sea: Just passed Magical Place—at the corner of Charming Way and Serene Way—sits this sun-kissed jewel of a home that is exactly what the doctor ordered. Grab a cold drink, pull up a deck chair, and treat yourself to some relaxing Therapy by the Sea.
Calming Tide- Hidden Lake Condo #133: Located within a pristine gated condominium community that’s surrounded by lush palm trees and tropical landscaping, this lovely three-bedroom condo is within easy walking distance to the beach.
Since 1958, we’ve helped families just like yours find their happy place on the coast.
If you need help with planning your family’s fall getaway to 30A, reach out and contact the local vacation rental experts at Dune Allen Realty.