A secluded gem along the Emerald Coast, WaterSound is a coastal community known for its serene beauty and stunning views. With architecture inspired by New England towns like Nantucket and Cape Cod, a visit to WaterSound offers a unique and peaceful getaway along 30A. The community of WaterSound incorporates WaterSound Beach, WaterSound West Beach, and WaterSound Origins north of Highway 98. Navigating to WaterSound: Your Gateway to Coastal Tranquility WaterSound is a master-planned community located 17 miles northwest of Panama City Beach and 30 miles east of Destin. Travelers to WaterSound will appreciate its close proximity to the Northwest Florida Beaches airport in Panama City and US Interstate Route 10. WaterSound is nestled amongst the picturesque beach communities along Florida’s scenic highway 30A, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Emerald Coast. Discovering WaterSound: What to See For more local guides  Visitors to WaterSound will delight in its meandering boardwalks that accentuate the coastal dunescapes along the shoreline. You’ll find saw palmettos, scrub oaks, and wax myrtles, with views of the sparkling gulf waters in the distance. A stroll along the boardwalks is a quiet respite for those in search of peace and tranquility from some of 30A’s more popular beaches. WaterSound is home to Deer Lake State Park, a 1,900-acre area on the western border of WaterSound Beach. The recently renovated Deer Lake State Park features two hiking trails and a scenic overlook that offers views of the coastal dune lake with which it shares its name.... Read More

The Point Washington Medical Clinic (PWMC) is pleased to announce the official Ribbon Cutting and Reception of its new stand-alone 4,750 sq. ft. facility located at 1321 N. County Hwy 395 in Santa Rosa Beach. The press and public are invited to attend the event beginning at 4:00 p.m. with a ribbon cutting promptly at 4 p.m. on Thursday, January 25, 2024. Following the ribbon cutting there will be a reception with live music and tours of the building. The building, designed by architect Zack Quinn, with interiors by Suzanne Rester Watson, built by Woodruff Construction with landscaping by Bradford Davis Landscape Architect, is beautifully situated on the Point Washington United Methodist Church campus in Point Washington. Co-founder and Executive Director Dr. Hillary Glenn, DNP shares, “This building is by the community, for the community. We wouldn’t be here without the many contributions of our generous supporters, and we’re incredibly excited to expand our services and hours to serve our neighbors even more. Designed with the patient in mind, the building’s intentional details are all planned to ensure privacy and provide a calming comfortable environment, as well as being organized so the volunteers and team can easily access the tools they need.” Dr. Glenn continues, “Unique attributes of the facility include a children’s educational play area, a state-of-the-art classroom with a teaching kitchen, and a meditation prayer garden. To support the calming environment, we leaned into the natural landscape. This is seen with the oversized windows in the lobby looking... Read More

Before standing in line at TSA, waiting for luggage, and running through airports to catch a connection became emblematic of travel, Pullman Train Cars ferried passengers from one end of the country to another in style. Rich walnut covered the walls, sumptuous fabrics upholstered the seating, and brass fixtures populated the spaces. The feeling of grand adventure permeated every surface.  Reminders of that age of travel whisper throughout the space Will and Liz Farrington opened on 30A. M&P’s tall, arched windows on either side look to the landscape, the mirrors give depth forward and aft, plush emerald velvet benches line the walls, and brass accents pop throughout the dining room. But the ceiling seals the connection—the rich navy color and elaborate brass chandelier that looks like a vintage dress form with twinkling Edison lights brings to mind a vast night sky as you transit the American landscape. Like the Pullman Train Car that inspired the Farringtons’ vision, Will wants to connect foods from all over the country. He added, “We have mountain ranges, deserts, tropical regions, and so many different kinds of terroir and food. My goal is to show off what I think is beautiful food that we have to offer here in the United States. Liz went the same direction with the wines. We have some heavy hitters from the Pacific Northwest, but we also wanted to try to show some other wine regions of the country that deserve attention.” As intentional as each choice at M&P feels,... Read More

Immerse yourself in the epitome of Après Beach luxury at Gallion’s Bar! Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence as you join in 7 days a week from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. for an unforgettable experience of exclusive food and drink features. Access is limited to guests aged 18 and above after 3 p.m. Treat yourself to the crème de la crème of flavors with our exclusive barrel picks and reserves. We’ve handpicked the best of the best to ensure a taste experience like no other. Take a load off and grab a seat at our cozy bar, where you can dive into a mouthwatering selection of bites from our unbeatable special menu. Trust us, these dishes are pure magic for your taste buds. Don’t miss out on this epic culinary journey at Gallion’s Bar. It’s time to unwind, indulge, and create unforgettable memories during your Après Beach adventure. See you there! To learn more, visit Gallion’s or follow them on Facebook.    https://30a.com/apres-beach-gallions/ Read More

Get ready for an exciting week on 30A with a lineup of events that promise fun, music, and delicious food! From Sunday Funday brunches and live music at AJ’s Grayton Beach to enchanting storytelling under the stars at the Emerald Coast and a Latte Art Throwdown at Amavida Coffee and Tea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy along the stunning 30A coast this week. 1. Dive into History: The Gulf of Mexico U-boat Invasion with Chick Huettel The Walton County Coastal Branch Library is hosting “Winter Community Programs” every Wednesday at 10:00 am from January 10th to March 6th, 2024. These programs, supported by the Friends of Coastal Library, provide entertainment and education for adults and families, focusing on community topics. The first program on January 17th features historian Wilfred “Chick” Huettel discussing the German U-boat invasion in the Gulf of Mexico and showcasing recovered local artifacts. Seating in the Community Room is limited, and the events are open to all for free. Winter Community Programs: War in the Gulf of Mexico: the German U-boat Invasion / Wednesday, January 17, 2024, 10 a.m. @ Coastal Branch Library 2. Experience Brain-Teasing Fun Every Wednesday at the Marina Bar & Grill. Challenge Your Wits with Trivia, Savor Tasty Bites, and Compete for Bragging Rights in a Stunning Marina Setting. It’s an Unforgettable Night of Entertainment and Friendly Rivalry! Trivia Night / Wednesday, January 17, 2024, from 6 p.m. @ Marina Bar & Grill 3. 2024 Open Mic Night: Stars, Stories, and Lobster... Read More

Walton County is set to commemorate its Bicentennial in 2024. As of January 8, 2024, it marks the 200th anniversary since the county’s establishment in 1824. The current land area of Walton County spans 1,028 square miles, though it was originally larger. Parts of its initial territory were allocated in 1846 to form Washington County, in 1848 to Holmes County, and in 1915, to help create Okaloosa County along with a portion of Santa Rosa County. This means that Walton County once included much of the present-day Washington, Holmes, and Okaloosa Counties. The county boasts a significant history, reflecting its expansive original borders. Throughout 2024, various projects and events are planned to celebrate its historical and cultural heritage. Among these is the development of a new website dedicated to Walton County’s history, featuring articles, photographs, and videos. Additionally, a weekly video series titled “Reflections of Walton County” has been launched. This series includes interviews with residents of Walton County who have either been a part of its history or have relatives and ancestors who were. This series aims to educate, inform, and entertain the county’s residents with weekly historical insights throughout the year. Check out the first video from the series below: The hope is that these weekly episodes will provide an engaging journey through Walton County’s past, enhancing the appreciation for this unique place. The first episode of “Reflections of Walton County” features Chris Mitchell, a former television news reporter, historian, and past director of the Florida Chautauqua Association.... Read More

Marieanne Khoury-Vogt, representing Alys Beach’s Town Architect team with husband and partner Erik Vogt, has been acknowledged by the Urban Guild as this year’s recipient of the Barranco Award. The Urban Guild recognizes excellent architectural design within the context of good urbanism, with the Barranco Award going to “individuals who not only distinguished themselves in design but who also demonstrate a gift for building relationships beyond architecture, and inspiring coalitions for transformative change in the lives of families and communities.” The award announcement also recognizes a modesty in impacting the architectural landscape without a demand for personal credit and recognition, which speaks to the team that Alys Beach is honored to call their Town Architects. With Vogt and Khoury Vogt at the helm, shepherding a design code that responds to a dynamic climate, Alys Beach moves into its twentieth year of diligent pursuit of the master planned, New Urbanist vision. It is tremendously gratifying to see the talents of our Town Architects recognized in this way. In the words of the Barranco Awards Committee: Marieanne’s work (in Alys Beach) with her partner, Erik Vogt, has been pivotal in the recovery of the living tradition process, and (Alys Beach) is the best example of a living tradition we have seen in our lifetimes. A living tradition builds on what makes sense for sustainability and resilience in its location. The fact that Marieanne and Erik were producing stunning buildings without blemish and leading others to do the same, backed by a development team... Read More

Immerse yourself in the allure of coastal living with this custom-built retreat in the serene gated community of Cottage Grove, Santa Rosa Beach. This exclusive four-bedroom, four-bath residence, a mere 1.4 miles from the pristine beaches of 30A, is perched on one of the community’s four premium lots, offering a blend of elegance and tranquility. Start your journey of discovery with breathtaking sunsets and a private oasis in your backyard, complete with an outdoor kitchen, a sparkling pool, and a cozy fire pit, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Point Washington State Forest. Cottage Grove, nestled south of Highway 98, is a captivating, non-short-term rental neighborhood, boasting its own community pool, outdoor kitchen, and lush green spaces. The home’s exterior exudes charm, from its painted brick façade to gas lanterns and antique brick porch floors. A one-car garage with epoxy flooring includes a custom wall storage system, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, accommodating two stand-up paddleboards and four bikes, enhanced by a custom ceiling storage system accessible via remote controls. Inside, the open living area is a marvel of design, with 11-foot ceilings adorned with shiplap and painted beams, harmoniously paired with tumbled brick floors. Entertain in style at the oversized white marble island in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances including a 36-inch Wolf gas oven, a 42-inch Sub-Zero refrigerator, and more, all set against a backdrop of pecky cypress and shiplap-trimmed custom hood. Ample storage is discreetly integrated throughout, from the double pantry doors with pull-out drawers... Read More

It can be hard on a mom when a baby is first born. Add another baby 14 months later, and things get a little wild. Now, imagine that mom caring for those two babies on a giant tour bus, lumbering across the country while their superstar dad performs night after night at packed concert venues. “It was pretty crazy,” said Brittany Aldean, wife of country music star Jason Aldean, about the time when her children were born. “You have a little zip-up bunk that the infants sleep in. They are strapped in with Velcro, and you’re riding down the road and thinking, ‘What is happening right now?'” Today, Brittany (36), Jason (46), their now-five-year-old son Memphis, and four-year-old daughter Navy spend much of their lives on a tour bus. For nearly five months a year, they hit the road every Wednesday night, returning home Sunday morning. (Shorter stints dot the rest of the year.) “It’s predominantly the kids’ bus,” said Brittany. Every nook and cranny is stuffed with toys and books. On concert nights, the kids get to stay up, watching Daddy perform from the wings. Their days off are spent at their estate in Spring Hill, Tennessee, about 40 minutes south of Nashville, though their time there is fleeting. “Touring is extremely chaotic,” Brittany said. “There’s not a lot of time at home doing the normal things you do.” This rock-star life has become the norm for the Aldeans. For Brittany, it wasn’t always this way. Lake Life Brittany... Read More

In an unsettling turn of weather, winds roaring up to 60 MPH, carved a path of disruption, starting from Dune Allen, sweeping across Walton County, and extending through the regions of Freeport, Red Bay, and into Holmes, Washington, and Bay counties. The high winds left a trail of blocked roads and property damage, notably obstructing Chat Holley Road between CR-393 and US331 due to fallen trees. The impact of this weather event was not isolated, as neighboring areas east of Walton County also experienced similar turmoil, marked by additional tornadoes and wind damage. Thankfully, despite the extensive damage to structures and the ensuing power outages across various locales, there have been no injuries reported in connection with the tornado. Current efforts are focused on detailed damage assessments throughout the affected areas. The National Weather Service in Tallahassee has issued a wind advisory for high winds until 5 pm this evening. Schools in the area remain closed for the day. Walton County landfill has been temporarily shut down today due to storm and lightning impact. Residents who have experienced property damage are urged to contribute to the ongoing assessment by completing the survey available on the Emergency Management website at wcem@waltoncountyem.org. Reg Flags are up and beaches are closed to the public. Please follow storm safety rules and stay safe. For more info and live updates, follow 30A on Facebook.  https://30a.com/south-walton-weather-update/ Read More