First Timer's Guide to WaterColor

Visiting WaterColor for the first time? Here’s what you need to know:

WaterColor is home to one of South Walton’s most picturesque coastal dune lakes, Western Lake. These ecological gems can only be found in a handful of locations around the world, and their calm waters are perfect for enjoying a leisurely ride atop a stand-up paddleboard or kayak.

Picturesquely situated on 499 acres, WaterColor offers boundless outdoor fun. Whether you explore Cerulean Park or Marina Park, or rent bikes to explore Point Washington State Forest or nearby Grayton Beach State Park, connecting with nature is a must.

While exploring WaterColor’s serene landscapes and charming community, we encourage all visitors to vacation responsibly. Please dispose of waste appropriately, be respectful of private property and shared spaces, and support local businesses during your stay. You can learn more about how to vacation responsibly in South Walton here.

WaterColor’s natural setting also makes it the ideal venue for the annual Mountainfilm on Tour, a two-night outdoor film festival dedicated to educating, inspiring, and motivating audiences about issues that matter. Each fall, WaterColor also hosts the Harvest Wine & Food Festival, where you can sample local culinary creations and more than 250 wines.

During peak seasons like spring break and major holidays, WaterColor welcomes visitors from across the country. To help maintain a safe, family-friendly environment, WaterColor enforces a few important community guidelines. These include a curfew for unaccompanied minors, wristband requirements for pool and beach access, and rules around beach setup and community amenities. Personal beach gear is allowed with restrictions, and outside food and drinks are not permitted at the Beach Club or Camp WaterColor. For the most current information on curfews, beach access, and other neighborhood policies, be sure to visit the WaterColor neighborhood site.

Deciding where to stay? Accommodations in WaterColor are architectural wonders. The AAA Four-Diamond Hotel WaterColor Inn, designed by David Rockwell, was awarded “World’s Best” by Travel+Leisure and offers incredible views of the sugar-white sand and turquoise water South Walton is famous for. The architectural stylings and wide porches of the rental homes in WaterColor make them perfect for large families and multi-generational family vacations.

The WaterColor Inn is also home to the award-winning FOOW restaurant. With panoramic views of the Gulf, a meal on the outdoor patio at FOOW is unforgettable. Afterwards, a stop at the Wine Bar is a must, especially after spending the day exploring the parks and shopping at the local boutiques. Sip and savor award-winning wines (don’t miss the amazing daily happy hour) while sharing a gourmet cheese plate or a brick oven-fired pizza.

However you choose to vacation, a visit to WaterColor offers a relaxing small-town feel with upscale amenities and a world-class beach, perfect for relaxing and connecting with loved ones.