A classic beach town that many generations have come to visit.

As you approach from the east, Inlet Beach is the first of South Walton’s 16 beach neighborhoods that you’ll encounter. What catches you initially is that feel of a classic beach town – truly a place that many generations have come to visit. Classic beach cottages line the charming side streets off 30A. Flip flops are encouraged as part of your daily attire. And with the area’s largest regional beach access complete with a picture-perfect boardwalk, lifeguards, restrooms, and accessible parking, Inlet Beach is the perfect welcoming point to the sugar- white sand and turquoise Gulf water.

However, it’s not all about leisurely days at the beach here. When you’re ready for a little break from gazing at the Gulf, there are plenty of opportunities for exploration and fun. Get out on a paddleboard or kayak with an assist from 30A Beach Paddle Surf. There’s also plenty of water fun back at the beach, where you’ll find one of South Walton’s incredible snorkeling reefs about 250-300 feet offshore.

After “wandering in the wild” for a while, ease back into civilization with some pampering treatments at Rolland’s Beauty Bar. Add some culture to your day over at The Blue Giraffe, a whimsical art gallery and shop owned by a mother-daughter duo. For a nice blend of relaxation and exercise, you can join one of the sessions at MYST Yoga.

If the therapy you prefer is more of the retail variety, Inlet Beach is also home to local boutiques such as former Artist of the Year Marisol Gullo’s Not Too Shabby boutique with high-end art and home furnishings, and Willow + Mercer, which offers in-demand designer fashions. Over at 30A Olive Oil Co., you’ll find some of the tastiest, one- of-a-kind oils and vinegars for your kitchen. And BECASA has the latest in coastal clothing to keep you comfortable as you cruise around.

For accommodations, there are plenty of well-appointed beach homes and cottages with everything from classic to modern styling. Condominiums, townhomes and villas of various sizes add further flexibility for finding a nice little vacation nest here.

The restaurants of Inlet Beach all tend to share the laid-back personality of their home neighborhood. Kick off your day with an early feast at Big Bad Breakfast or some warm, sweet treats from The Donut Hole. Around dinner time (or whenever), discover why Cuvee 30A was honored for Best Wine List in the recent Perfect in Walton County Awards.

Inlet Beach evenings are ideal for finding a good patio with a few friends. Amici 30A Italian Kitchen offers an award-winning happy hour seven days a week. Shades Bar & Grill is a relaxed neighborhood spot for live music where all guests feel like locals (and many of them are). If your idea of nightlife is kicking back on the beach, have 30A Dawn Till Dusk Bonfires or Beach Brothers Beach Service handle all the permits and set-up for a festive fire under the stars...and end your perfect Inlet Beach day with an equally perfect evening.

Visiting Inlet Beach for the first time? CLICK HERE to check out our First Timer's Guide.