Nominations for 2026 Perfect in Walton County Awards Are Now Open

WALTON COUNTY, Fla. – June 30 – The nomination period for the 2026 Perfect in Walton County Awards is now open until Friday, Aug. 15. During this time, anyone can nominate their favorite businesses, events and activities using the online form only available at perfectinwaltoncounty.com.

"The Perfect Awards are such a powerful way to showcase and promote the outstanding businesses that are the heart of our community," said Matt Algarin, Walton County tourism director. "When our residents and visitors vote for their local favorites, they're not just recognizing great service—they're helping these businesses thrive and telling the world what makes Walton County extraordinary."

Nominations can be submitted in as many or as few categories, but only one online form per email address will be accepted. Every nomination counts. Visitor-facing businesses are encouraged to ask their guests, customers, followers, friends and family to nominate them in any of the thirty categories. Social media graphics are available to use HERE.

To qualify, businesses and individuals must primarily be in and serve Walton County. Additionally, those providing beach services (such as photographers, yoga instructors, bonfire organizers, chair vendors, etc.) must hold a current vendor permit from the Walton County Code Compliance Department. Please review the contest rules HERE.

The top five businesses with the largest number of nominations in each category will advance to the final voting round, which will be held online at perfectinwaltoncounty.com from Sept. 2-19. The top three businesses with the highest number of votes in each category will be honored as Diamond, Platinum or Gold winners at the Perfect in Walton County Awards presentation in January 2025. These winners will be promoted in print and online by Walton County Tourism throughout the year. To see a complete list of last year’s winners, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/2025-perfect-walton-county-awards/.

The 2026 categories include:

Activity/Shopping

·         Best Art Gallery/Studio

·         Best Event

·         Best Golf Course

·         Best Kids Attraction

·         Best Nature Locale

·         Best Retailer

·         Best Shopping Area

·         Best Tennis Facility

Accommodations

·         Best Boutique Vacation Rental Company (Less than 50 units)

·         Best Hotel/Resort

·         Best Rental Management Company (More than 50 units)

Food & Drinks

·         Best Breakfast

·         Best Casual Dining

·         Best Coffee House

·         Best Craft Beer/Spirits Selection

·         Best Fine Dining

·         Best Happy Hour

·         Best Lunch

          Best Personal Chef/Catering Service

·         Best Sweet Treats

·         Best Wine Selection

Services

·         Best Beach/Event Services Provider

·         Best Fishing Charter

·         Best Local Musician/Band

·         Best Outdoor Adventure Activity

          Best Photographer

·         Best Spa/Salon

Venues

·         Best Meeting/Conference Space

·         Best Live Music Venue

·         Best Wedding Venue

For more information about the Perfect in Walton County Awards program, please contact Industry Relations Specialist Lisa Foster at Lisa@WCFLTourism.com or (850) 333-2728.