Top 14+ Best Things To Do In WaterColor On Florida's 30A
From the powdery white-sand beaches to the dreamy tucked-away bike trails.
Perched on the northwest Gulf Coast of Florida, the beaches along Highway 30A have become a Southern travel destination. Tucked between Seaside and Grayton Beach State Park's Western Lake, WaterColor—a tiny resort town with easy walkability and extensive bike trails—combines beachfront amenities with the homey comforts of a residential community.
Known for 30A's white sand beaches and clear-blue waters, WaterColor is just the vacation town to hit when you need a scenic getaway for the whole family. Here's everything to know for planning your trip to or a day of exploring WaterColor.
Outdoor Activities
Hit the Beaches
30A's beaches are notorious for being made up of powdery white sands and crystal-clear blue-green waters—it is the main attraction that keeps people coming back year after year and almost unmatched amongst anywhere else along the South's coast. Much of WaterColor's beachfront is private, but you can find a public access walkable or in biking distance from the main drag at Van Ness Butler Jr. Regional Access and Santa Clara Regional Beach Access.
Explore WaterColor's Cerulean Park
Even though it is located just yards away from the bustling 30A main road, Cerulean Park is a tranquil escape made up of lush gardens, meandering koi ponds (with charming walking bridges over the long waterways), and even a butterfly garden. Whether biking or walking, it is too beautiful to pass up.
45 Watercolor Blvd W, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Wander Over the "Hidden" Western Lake Bridge
If you head to the quiet backside of Cerulean Park, you'll eventually come across the WaterColor BoatHouse and the nearby scenic walking-and-biking bridges that fan out over the Western Lake, a rare coastal dune lake. It makes for a serene moment away from the hustle and bustle of the main road.
Rent Bicycles
Watercolor has an extensive woodland trail system, and you can explore miles of scenic nature trails that might meander into state park forests, picturesque gardens, and near coastal dune lakes. Rent classic bikes at the WaterColor Bike Barn or one of many rental agencies up and down the highway; or go for an easy-breezy electric bike from Pedego Electric Bikes to roll across the sand or the streets with no problem.
Try Out Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Head out at sunrise or sunset—or in between laying out on the beach—with paddleboards from nearby BOTE Grayton Beach or kayaks from Yellowfin Ocean Sports, and catch a coastal scene like no other. You can head out on one of the serene scenic dune lakes in the area, start from within Grayton Beach State Park, or paddle out on the ocean on calmer days.
Check Out the Nearby Grayton Beach State Park
Highway 30A is home to some of the most stunning dune lakes, which you can fully experience at Grayton Beach State Park. Fish, paddle, or explore the four miles of trails along Western Lake. The coastal forest consists of scrub oaks and magnolias. Or nestle into a sandy spot for a relaxing day on the beach.
More Things To Do
Browse WaterColor's Boutiques and Shopping
Though WaterColor might be slightly smaller than some of its neighboring town squares, it has steadily added more shops and restaurants to create a lively microcosm of things to do when not on the beach or biking on the trails. You can shop licensed t-shirts at the WaterColor Store, resort wear at Indigo, or outdoor beach and fishing necessities at Old Florida Outfitters.
Check Out Seaside's Town Square
Located just a few minutes' walk over, neighboring Seaside's town center is filled with shopping for the whole family, many restaurants to choose from, and other delights, such as the grassy Amphitheater, where kids can play and nighttime events occurs like movie nights and concerts.
Where To Eat
Enjoy the WaterColor Inn & Resort Dining
At the beachfront namesake resort, you'll find many different dining options, including casual spots Beach Cow and The Canteen, cocktail lounge Costa Chica, and Southern coastal spot Fish Out Of Water.
Hit the Cozy Wine Bar
This sophisticated spot in WaterColor's petite town center features patio seating, a charming French bistro-inspired interior, and an adjoining market that stocks all the fixings of a stellar wine and cheese party. The Wine Bar pours wines of all varieties, has a happy hour special every day, and offers food specials a few nights a week.
Start the Day with a Biscuit Breakfast
Scratch Biscuit Kitchen, also in WaterColor's town center, serves up made-from-scratch biscuits on its casual breakfast menu, as well as lunch staples perfect for stopping in after the beach.
Get a Sweet Treat
The Candy Bar, next door to Scratch Biscuit Kitchen, will fix any craving for a sweet beach treat. Shop for sweets, candies, and ice cream.
Where To Stay
WaterColor Inn & Resort
If you're in WaterColor only for a brief time or are traveling with a small group, consider resting your head at the WaterColor Inn & Resort. Managed by St. Joe Hospitality, this 67-room stay offers warm, family-friendly accommodations, with access to WaterColor's many amenities and an atmosphere that marries the comforts of a beach house with the perks of a boutique hotel. The Inn is right on the beach, so you're just steps from sticking your toes in the sand at any given moment.
Rentals
One of the most popular stay options for people visiting WaterColor and the 30A area in general is to rent a home or condo, either via the town rental agency or website such as Vrbo.
