A Weekend in South Walton: WaterSound, Seagrove, Seaside, WaterColor

There aren't many places where you can pack in as much fun or relaxation in one weekend as you can in South Walton. With new flights added all the time, and quick access by car from much of the South, it's easy to find yourself at the beach for a weekend getaway. But there's so much to do in just one weekend, so we put together a sample itinerary to add to your inspiration.

6 p.m. on Friday:  Hop off the plane or out of the car and head for The Big Chill in WaterSound to unwind. A communal atmosphere, live music and a variety of delicious dining options make it the perfect spot to kick off your shoes and get into beach mode. Looking for some good old-fashioned Americana? The burgers at Duos will certainly cure your craving, while the barbecue nachos at Local Smoke are piled high and hard to resist.

9 p.m. on Friday:  Head to Seaside for a peaceful stroll on the beach. It's a perfect way to end your first night in town.

First thing on Saturday:  Roll out of bed and take an early-morning walk on the beach. That's why you're here after all, right? Sink your toes into the sand and savor the simple moment. 

9 a.m. on Saturday:  Make a pit stop at Dough Sea Dough in Seagrove for coffee and fresh donuts before heading back to stake out your ideal spot for relaxing on the beach for the rest of the morning. 

Noon on Saturday:  Bike or walk over to Seaside's Central Square to grab lunch at Wild Bill's Beach Dogs among the famous Airstream Row food trucks. A juicy grass-fed beef hot dog is the perfect on-the-go meal to eat as you head over to explore the art galleries and boutiques across the square.

Spend the afternoon exploring the local shops and galleries in The Shops of Ruskin, making sure to stop by the famed Modica Market where you can grab a quick snack or cold beverage.

8 p.m. on Saturday:  Get ready for the best seafood the Gulf has to offer at FOOW in WaterColor, the flagship restaurant of St. Joe Club & Resorts. With a spotlight on regional cuisine, a spectacular view and a recent renovation, it's the perfect spot to get the most out of your Saturday night.

First thing on Sunday:  Grab brunch at Great Southern Café in Seaside, where you'll find Chef Jim Shirley's updates on Southern favorites like Grits à Ya Ya – applewood-smoked bacon, portobello mushrooms and spinach over smoked Gouda cheese grits, spiced shrimp and sweet potato hay. (Yes, just close your eyes and imagine it.)

Spend one more morning at the beach, and save some room in your memory for that feeling of digging your toes into the sugar-white sand.

Noon on Sunday:  Stop by for the perfect last lunch in town at The Perfect Pig in Seagrove. Enjoy a roasted cracklin' pork sandwich with gruyere and caramelized onion and fig sauce or a bacon Caesar salad, and soak in the last little bit of the beach before you head back to the real world.