Agree Grayton Beach has changed a ton over the years like all of South Walton and along the Emerald Coast of Florida.
In my experience, it's still a great place to live, work, play and stay. When I visited with friends as a child in the 70s it was so different.... When we honeymooned and vacationed here throughout the years, it changed and grew and we loved it all. When we moved here in the 90s we still appreciated all of its weirdness and uniqueness. And now? I know many who live there still and who make it their home, their work, their life. They are locals.
We always were super aware of safety for our kid and young kids in a beach town where we have so many strangers visiting. Even 20 years ago. Locals were relaxed but ever cautious.
I miss dogs on the beach. Many of the old families. But there are many still there. The Red Bar remains my favorite spot. And we can still go and hang out but mostly in the off season.
The monster houses are ridiculous. The traffic on weekends outrageous. Vendors on the beach are not a good thing. July is one month we won't do the beach. As locals we know when to go. We have adapted. We love sunsets and moonrise on this beach always.
I miss old Grayton. Will never forget it. But I appreciate the town always. Love our community of artists, good restaurants, fun shops, locals, old and new businesses, and our old friends here who adapt to change because they love their community. We know the people of Grayton. We are proud to work here surrounded by such people. The people do make the place.
I will always love:
The preserved state park with its coastal dunes and lake. The incredible beaches.. Miles of trails and natural preserved woods and dunes and lake that literally surround the town. The iconic Western Lake pines view from Scenic 30A. Secret trails and marshes. Tucked in and hidden neighborhoods.on the outskirts. Black bears. Deer. Wildlife.. State Park camping and cabins. The pass. Our new artificial reefs and Underwater Museum of Art just offshore. Small fishing charters taking you out to the Gulf. Fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, biking and hiking. The beach as our children's playground. Playing in the lake all day. Old Florida cottages throughout town. Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse. Pelicans. Great Blue Herons. Moonrise and night time on the beach. Full moon kayaking through the tall grasses on the lake. Fall and winter days spent with friends on the beach.. Dread Clampitt. Cold beer. Margaritas. Paneed chicken. Halloween.. 4th of July hometown parade with no registration or pre-planning required. Chanticleer. The peace of Christmas day on the beach and throughout town. Goodness. Memories. New experiences. Forever funky.