Everyone in our SoWal community wants locals and visitors to enjoy our beaches safely and to respect our wonderful natural areas. Please follow beach safety rules and guidelines.
We are committed to Beach Safety Every Day - For Gulf conditions and flag updates, text "SAFETY" to 31279.
South Walton Beach Safety Flag information
For the past six years, South Walton public beaches have had a Managed Beach Vendor Program.
Three years ago, the county took over the program from the Tourist Development Council (Visit South Walton). The program has generated a total of just over $1.1 million in revenue for the county over that span.
On Tuesday, county commissioners awarded a two-year contract to Coastal Parasail for just over $1.5 million a year.
Beginning March 1st, 2025 Coastal Parasail will rent beach chairs & umbrellas on South Walton public beaches.
Walton County offers a variety of Beach Driving Permits, Charter Fishing Permits and Dogs on the Beach Permits for Walton County landowners and/or residents.
The procedures for applying for and receiving a permit are outlined and dictated by the Walton County Beach Activities Ordinance 2024-21 and the Boating on Waterways within Walton County Ordinance 2024-20.
Representatives for the Walton County Board of County Commissioners and Walton County Tourism participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Visitor & Nature Center at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on December 20th.
The $4.2 million project will provide education, host events and connect visitors to the park's natural wonders. Walton County provided $285,000 in Tourist Development Tax funds to support the project, which is expected to be completed in late 2025.
Celebrate 200 years of our incredible Walton County with a day full of fun, community spirit, and unforgettable memories!
The Walton County Board of County Commissioners has officially declared October 13-19, 2024, as Coastal Dune Lakes Week!
The final voting round for the 2025 Perfect In Walton County Awards opened Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 7 a.m. and closes 5 p.m. CDT on Friday, Sept. 27. Vote online at perfectinwaltoncounty.com.
Kurt Lischka, Moon Creek Studios Photographer and SoWal founder, is proud to once again be nominated in "Best Photographer" category.
To further our community's commitment to protecting and preserving our quality of life and environment, the Walton County Tourism Department established Keep Walton County Beautiful in 2024 as an official affiliate of Keep America Beautiful. The preservation of Walton County’s natural landscapes allows residents and visitors to enjoy the area for generations to come.
Locals have known for years that Walton County has it all - rich agricultural lands, untouched forests, serene waters, beautiful white sand beaches, unique historical significance, the highest point in Florida, top-notch schools, and more.
The county is planning for the future and has many opportunities for citizens to participate. Visit www.planforwalton2040.com for more info.
It’s time to choose your favorites in the 2023 Perfect in Walton County Awards!
Online voting is open until Friday, Oct. 21 - pick your faves at www.visitsouthwalton.com/2023-perfect-walton-county-awards.
The top five nominees with the highest votes in 30 categories have been selected, and now it’s time for the final vote! Both residents and visitors are encouraged to vote for their favorite businesses, events, and activities.
