Sandestin / Watercolor full time w/family

[Rhett Smith]

Hello I'm sure locals get this quite a bit but I was wondering if anyone could shed a little insight into what life is like in the Sand Destin community or Water Color community full time and with school aged children. My kids are 8 and 7 and we are considering relocating to the area from Atlanta to raise our children in a more nature oriented lifestyle without all the hustle and bustle of city life. Any advice would be great thx

 

[tsutcli]

IMO, Watercolor would be my hands down choice of the two. Much more laid back than Sandestin and you don't have to contend with 98 to go places. WC and surrounding 30a communities have many things to do and is closer to the beach. Seaside is right next to WC and has the Seaside Academy which is an award winning school but does have a waiting list with lottery. Public schools are close by.

 

[Jim Tucker]

Sandestin if you like everything more controlled and more of a sprawling resort feel with lots of golf and lots of homes and condos. WaterColor is more southern and great amenities and nature. But it is overrun by tourists most of the time.

 

[second wind]

Any community on 30a would be awesome for children.
Slower pace, bike friendly and safe.

 

[Rhett Smith]

Thank you for responses. Are there any communities or pockets that are majority full time vs seasonal tourist?

 

[Franny]

The Pt. Washington area is a full time resident area vs tourist. Beautiful, quiet and nature galore and very close to Grayton Beach. Waterfront homes and lots are available. Call for more information. Francesca Gage, The Beach Group. 850-376-4660.

 

[Beach Runner]

There are some neighborhoods near/at the beach that don't allow rentals. Heritage Dunes on Eastern Lake Road is one of them. It was developed in the early 2000's, yet only two homes have been built on thirty lots. The last time I drove by there I saw a third home is under construction. I think it's because the lots are so small. Also many people are afraid to buy there because even if they can afford not to rent, if they ever decided to sell there wouldn't be as many potential buyers. Most people need renters to help pay the mortgage.