1. Turtle Watching- from May through October, catch sea turtles nesting along the coast. Take your flash light and head down to the beach after dark; you may be able to catch a sea turtle nesting. If you’re so lucky, be sure not to disrupt her!
2. Eden State Gardens in Point Washington- This beautiful turn-of-the-century mansion is surrounded by azaleas, camellias and Spanish moss-covered live oaks. Guided tours of the Wesley Mansion are offered Thursday through Monday. $3 vehicle entry fee and $3 per person fee to tour the Wesley Mansion apply.
3. Jolee Island-Kids are encouraged to explore the pirate ship-shaped playground in this rustic five-acre nature park, while parents meander through the nature trails. Located at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.
4. Timpoochee Trail- Hop on your bike and set out on this 18-mile paved path. The trail winds through nine of the area’s 15 distinctive beach communities, state parks and coastal dune lakes. A real treat for the nature-lover!
5. Outdoor Concerts and Performances-From “Moonlight and Movies” in Rosemary Beach and “Friday Night Flicks” in Sandestin to a theatrical performance by the Seaside Repertory Theatre under the stars in Seaside, it’s easy to find free and inexpensive entertainment on warm summer nights in the Beaches of South Walton.
Tags: beach towns, blue mountain beach, eco-tourism, Eden, museums, state parks, turtle watching