Nestled between Seaside and Western Lake of Walton County, Florida is the picturesque town of Watercolor, a 500-acre community with luxury accommodations and elaborately planned parks. Views of the Gulf Coast on this particular stretch of beach are spectacular — the vibrant purple-pink skies of a summer evening look like brushstrokes delicately painted in the sky. 

 

In addition to Watercolor’s beautifully painted canvas, the area is fun and energetic, a perfect place for families to spend the day on the water and enjoy one of the many festivals held throughout the year. A sense of community is what Watercolor is all about, and residents and vacationers alike will go out of their way to make you feel right at home among the sugar-white beaches and cerulean shores.

 

 

The thoughtfully planned community of Watercolor focuses on family and convenience. Homes in this area are large with ample green space, and they’re situated in a carefully designed neighborhood. Pebbled paths connect the palm tree-lined streets, along with bike paths allowing neighbors easy access to restaurants and direct entrance to the beach. Residents enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of WaterColor and appreciate the upscale and elite WaterColor Inn, one of Florida’s top resorts. 

 

If you own a home in Watercolor, or are renting in the area, you have access to the six pools, multiple parks, and waterfront Beach club with a bar, restaurant, and gorgeous sweeping views of the gulf.

 

FOOW embodies the spirit of WaterColor. The Fish Out of Water restaurant provides a lively atmosphere with impeccable service and mouth-watering Southern dishes. FOOW is the perfect place for a great evening out with family and friends. For another impressive dining experience, visit The Wine Bar, conveniently located along the scenic 30A road. Choose from an elegant lunch or dinner on their spacious patio or make a reservation for their dining room. Make sure to order one of the award-winning wines from the wine list as well! If you’re looking for a grab and go option, there is also a wine and cheese shop with a great selection of local, domestic, and international wines, cheeses, and snacks.

 

Beach Happy Cafe is the go-to spot for a morning coffee. Their menu makes you hungry and their service makes you smile! They offer delicious breakfast and lunch options as well as gelato, smoothies, baked goods, beer, and wine. Grab your 30A Beach Happy hat or sweatshirt at this location.

 

For an indulgent boutique shopping experience, Indigo, located in Santa Rosa Beach, offers gorgeous pieces for women from top designer brands and handmade goods. Their collection is breezy, trendy and takes inspiration from countries all over the world.

 

Art in the Park is a favorite local activity for the residents of South Walton County. Held each year in Cerulean Park, this festival brings traveling artists from all over the Southeast to showcase their creative talents. 

 

One of Watercolor’s unique experiences is the Mountainfilm on Tour festival, which travels around the world bringing culturally rich and diverse short films to communities. Residents have two nights to enjoy these thought-provoking films in the stunning Marina Park Amphitheater. Official presenters provide information on each film during the event and lead insightful discussions.  

 

Harvest Wine and Food Festival is a charity auction benefiting children in need throughout Northwest Florida. Over the last 20 years, the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation has donated over $23 million to charities in Florida. The Harvest Wine and Food Festival is held each year in November and brings celebrity chefs, wine connoisseurs, and Grand Tastings to Watercolor beach.  

 

Notable schools in the area include: