Another hidden gem in South Walton is the Pickos Waterski and Wakeboard School off Sugar Road in Santa Rosa Beach. The school is a leader in watersports facilities, offering exceptional instruction and a world-class learning experience. Freshwater, man-made tournament lakes create the optimal conditions for waterskiing and wakeboarding. The facility has hosted a number of events, including the U.S. Nationals, U.S. Team trials, PanAmerican Championships, Jr. U.S. Open, among others. This season Pikos will host 20 Japanese students from 4 different Universities throughout Tokyo. They will train at the facility throughout their “Spring Break” for approx. 6 weeks. For some it is their 3rd or 4th year coming to the school, hoping to improve their skills and compete in the upcoming world championships. “Locals” are encouraged to take advantage of this community asset. For more information, call 850-687-7731 or visit www.skicory.com.