When it comes to enjoying the captivating beauty of the Emerald Coast, having easy access to its white sand beaches is important to both beachgoers and those who love to walk along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline. The following public beach access points along Scenic 30A offer varying amenities, so read on for a few of our favorite places.
- Dune Allen Regional Beach Access – across from Stinky’s Fish Camp
On the west end of Scenic 30A, you will find Dune Allen Regional Beach Access, across from Stinky’s Fish Camp. This expansive beach access point offers restrooms, parking, and a lifeguard station for additional safety during peak season. The 1.5 acre stretch of shoreline features 220 feet of beachfront access that is open to the public.
- Ed Walline Regional Beach Access – across from Gulf Place
At the intersection of Highway 393 and Scenic 30A, the Ed Walline Regional Beach Access is ADA accessible and has a large area for parking. It features a two-story viewing pavilion for those who love to capture sunset beach photos and watch for dolphins playing in the Gulf of Mexico. You will find this access just across the street from Gulf Place, which offers shopping, dining, and family friendly entertainment.
- Gulfview Heights Regional Beach Access – 3 miles east of 393/30A intersection
Just three miles down the road from Gulf Place, you will find Gulfview Heights Beach Access Point. It’s conveniently located near Goatfeathers and offers parking, showers, restrooms, and picnic tables.
- Blue Mountain Regional Access – between Grayton Beach and Santa Rosa Beach
Tucked between Grayton Beach and Santa Rosa Beach, make time on your trip to explore Blue Mountain Beach, a cozy community that features local vendors and eateries. The Blue Mountain Beach Access point is in the heart of the community and offers restrooms and a parking area for the public. It also includes a lifeguard station during peak season.
- Van Ness Butler, Jr. Regional Beach Access – between Seaside and Watercolor
This ADA accessible regional beach access point is located just off Western Lake Drive. It has ample parking and is in the ideal location to shop and stroll around Seaside and Watercolor after a day of fun in the sun!
- Grayton Dunes Beach Access – behind The Red Bar in Grayton Beach
Grayton Dunes Beach Access is ADA accessible and offers showers and restrooms in addition to street parking. It’s located just behind The Red Bar, near the Western Lake outfall and Grayton Beach State Park. This means the freshwater lake will occasionally open into the Gulf of Mexico and turn the water a brackish color, which is a unique feature to the area. There’s also a beach shuttle during the season that picks up and drops off vacationers, so parking isn’t a big issue.
- Walton Dunes Beach Access – located in Seagrove Beach
Walton Dunes Beach Access is located approximately one mile south of Scenic 30A on Beachfront Trail (east side of Eastern Lake). It is a serene place for nature enthusiasts and offers roadside parking as its only amenity.
- Inlet Beach Regional Access – located at the end of South Orange Street
This spacious public beach access features a generous parking lot and restrooms. There are also lifeguards during peak season. It’s the largest access in Walton county and features three boardwalks. Just to the east, you will find Camp Helen State Park and Lake Powell, both worth the additional exploration if you are a history and/or nature enthusiast. As a bonus, there is an artificial reef just offshore at the Inlet Beach access point that is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving.
With the number of public beach accesses in Walton County, these are just a few of our favorites. Pack your swimsuit, head to Scenic 30A, and start exploring the wonders of nature that surround us. My Vacation Haven offers plenty of local havens so you can be near your favorite beach access and experience the 30A lifestyle, no matter the time of year! Our rates are the lowest of the season, so call or book direct now!
*Photo Credit: 30a.com
