Beach access: still confused

Seems like you have a handle on it. Relax and enjoy.

We’re in the middle of our move here after years of visiting. A couple weeks ago, we went to Ed Walline and was shocked to see people essentially penned in (or maybe out would be a better term) like cattle for their beach access. This was the first time I’ve seen that there. I’ve seen the signs at Dune Allen though.

We just mosied past them and put our umbrella close to the water with no-one questioning us. In layman’s terms what are the rules? I’ll follow the rules but don’t want anyone to come up with their own version either.

Thanks, Randy

Yeah. This was a confusing concept to grasp when we moved here. Although there are numerous beach access points along 30A, most of the actual beach is private; owned by the beachfront property owner or association. Some owners and associations are more aggressive than others in exercising their property rights (i.e. signs, security, etc). Consequently, residents and visitors tend to crowd the areas with the most "public" beach (i.e regional access, state parks, etc). My advice is to embrace the crowds, be courteous around others, and respect the beach.

Yeah. This was a confusing concept to grasp when we moved here. Although there are numerous beach access points along 30A, most of the actual beach is private; owned by the beachfront property owner or association. Some owners and associations are more aggressive than others in exercising their property rights (i.e. signs, security, etc). Consequently, residents and visitors tend to crowd the areas with the most "public" beach (i.e regional access, state parks, etc). My advice is to embrace the crowds, be courteous around others, and respect the beach.

My advice is sit anywhere you want along the water's edge. If someone bothers you call Walton County Sheriff's office.
+1 850-651-7410

Let the person know they should produce most recent survey to show the deputy when they arrive.

If a beach vendor hassles you call Walton County Code Enforcement +1 850-622-0000.

Thanks all. I’m into hassle free living but obviously cannot be avoided at all costs. My intent is not become a PITA.

Sad, but a lot of locals don't go to the beach or really care about it. They came here because they were looking for money, or a better life, which rarely go hand in hand.

If you don't die for the beach, don't move here. And if you would kill to be at the beach then don't lose that.

?. Not quite a helpful answer I was looking for. Why someone moves here is their decision not mine nor yours.

?. Not quite a helpful answer I was looking for. Why someone moves here is their decision not mine nor yours.

We used to be a community of Beach lovers and it was much better.

My sole purpose behind the move was beach and sun. No one will deter my plans.. I don’t have that many years to waste worrying.

My sole purpose behind the move was beach and sun. No one will deter my plans.. I don’t have that many years to waste worrying.

You go girl!

Our neighbors moved back to the Ville from Blue Mountain in 2015 because of the crowds. When to go to the grocery. Since then, the beach ownership has gotten worse. We stay in a beach community and use our own chairs. Their contract with beach chairs gives us about 25 feet on either side of the beach walk way. We also can set up behind their umbrellas. So even with the 'exclusive' places there are restrictions. Ellen

We’re in the middle of our move here after years of visiting. A couple weeks ago, we went to Ed Walline and was shocked to see people essentially penned in (or maybe out would be a better term) like cattle for their beach access. This was the first time I’ve seen that there. I’ve seen the signs at Dune Allen though.

We just mosied past them and put our umbrella close to the water with no-one questioning us. In layman’s terms what are the rules? I’ll follow the rules but don’t want anyone to come up with their own version either.

Thanks, Randy

Welcome to South Walton Florida! It's a great place to live, work, raise your family and enjoy the beautiful beaches, towns, restaurants and shops, and the extensive natural surroundings from beach to bay. As locals we never tire of exploring our preserved state parks and forests which make up more than 40% of South Walton lands. Including some of the most beautiful beaches anywhere. Be sure to visit our state park! Also, locals who love the beaches learn where and when to get out and enjoy it.

Walton County is in the legal process of making our beaches open to everyone. It's a battle and not sure how long it will take but we will prevail. Meanwhile, explore the public beach accesses and make sure to visit Grayton Beach State Park and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.

We do live in a very popular and sometimes overwhelmingly crowded tourist destination. Seasonal tourism is nearly year round these days. Lots of changes over time but hardcore locals are very resilient and adapt their habits accordingly. Good luck!