South Walton Beach Rules

Please help keep South Walton beaches clean and safe. Your help and cooperation make for a better beach experience for everyone.

Violations of Walton County beach rules may result in fines or penalties. Check current beach conditions and flags before entering the Gulf. Swim at beach accesses where lifeguards are present.

Walton County Beach Rules

Leave no trace. Remove unattended belongings overnight.
No glass containers, camping, overnight stays, or charcoal grills. Propane grills must be smaller than 225 square inches. Charcoal grills are not allowed.
Vehicles, dogs, and fires require permits. Beach dog permits are limited to eligible residents and apply only during permitted hours.
No solicitation, littering, nudity, or excessive noise.
Stay off dunes. Do not remove vegetation, sand, or Gulf water.
Keep a 15-foot setback from dunes and the water’s edge for emergency vehicles.
Tents cannot exceed 10 by 10 feet. Keep tents in the upper third of the open beach.
No metal shovels. Do not leave holes unattended. Holes cannot exceed three feet by three feet or two feet deep. Fill them before leaving.
Do not disturb wildlife. Keep away from nesting birds and sea turtle nests.

See Walton County’s beach rules and safety information for current guidance.

Leave No Trace

Walton County Municipal Code 22-54(g) prohibits leaving beach chairs, umbrellas, tents, and other personal items unattended overnight. Items left from one hour after dusk to one hour after sunrise may be discarded unless otherwise permitted. Removing belongings protects nesting turtles and keeps access clear for beach maintenance and emergency vehicles.

Walton County Beach Bonfire Rules & Permits

Beach bonfires require a permit from the South Walton Fire District. Permitted bonfires are allowed at eligible public beach accesses. Private beach locations require the property owner’s written permission. Confirm the location and current requirements before making plans: South Walton Fire District bonfire permits, 850-267-1298.

Required Florida Fishing licenses

Florida generally requires a fishing license, with exemptions including children under 16 and Florida residents age 65 or older with proof of age and residency. The senior exemption does not apply to nonresidents. A properly licensed charter may cover its passengers. Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s license requirements and exemptions for your trip.

South Walton Sea Turtles

Observe sea turtles from a distance. Only authorized, permitted responders should handle turtles, eggs, or nests. Do not attempt to assist a stranded turtle yourself. Report turtles or tracks to South Walton Turtle Watch at 850-865-4503.

Clean: Remove trash, toys, furniture, food, tents, and other belongings so nesting turtles and hatchlings do not become trapped or entangled.
Dark: Turn off beachfront lights and close shades and blinds. If you need a light on the beach at night, use a turtle-friendly red light. Never shine lights on sea turtles.
Flat: Fill holes and flatten sandcastles before leaving. They can trap hatchlings and birds and create hazards for people.