A Must Visit: 30A’S Coastal Dune Lakes
*Image Courtesy of Florida State Parks
Florida’s emerald coast is a sight to see! With white sandy beaches and glimmering ocean vistas, it's no wonder 30A attracts so many vacationers every year. When thinking about Florida’s scenic coastline, you likely picture palm trees, a warm, tropical breeze, and the clear Gulf Coast waters, but have you heard of coastal lakes? While you may be familiar with many of Florida’s natural features, the coastal dune lakes on 30A are often overlooked, but they are truly too cool to miss and are certainly worth a visit on your next vacation! Looking for a place to stay? We’ve got you covered! Click here to view our properties on 30A.
Coastal dune lakes are a unique geographical landmark found only in a few places around the world. This short, but mighty, list includes Madagascar, Australia, New Zealand, Oregon, and of all places, Walton County! If you can believe it, Walton County boasts 15 named coastal dune lakes along its 26-mile coastline. Estimated to be over 10,000 years old, Walton County's coastal dune lakes were formed by winds that redistributed sand, creating shallow basins. Most of these lakes have an average depth of about 5 feet.
*Photo Courtesy of 30A
The coastal dune lakes are fed by a range of water sources, including streams, rainfall, and storm surges. They have a periodic connection to the Gulf of Mexico, which is known as an outfall. This connection serves as flood control by releasing lake water into the Gulf when they are too full. Depending on tides and weather, saltwater and marine organisms can flow back into the lakes. With a unique outfall and chemical composition, each lake can be very fresh or very salty.
The lakes near and around 30A offer a variety of activities. Along Camp Creek Lake, neighborhood boardwalks provide breathtaking views. With footpath access to a beautiful white sand beach and towering dunes, this scenic path may be the perfect fix when you need a quiet stroll on your vacation. You can also check out more 30A coastal lakes, including Allen Lake, Oyster Lake, Big Redfish Lake, Little Redfish Lake, and Eastern Lake. Do keep in mind that some of these areas are intertwined with private communities so be sure to check for public access points before you explore!
In terms of recreational activities, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing are among the popular pastimes on the lakes. You can enjoy unique views and excellent birding spots at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Grayton Beach State Park, Deer Lake State Park, and Camp Helen State Park. If you’ve brought your Florida fishing license, you can even go fishing! The boat ramps at Lake Powell, Western Lake, and Eastern Lake provide easy access for boat-filled adventures.
*Photo Courtesy of 30A
The coastal dune lakes are a hidden treasure showing that there is more to Florida than just beautiful beaches and ocean views (even though we really love those things too!) These lesser-known gems add something truly special to your vacation. Who would've thought Walton County holds some of the world's rare ecological wonders? Click here to discover which of my rental properties is right for you and your family. All of these getaway options are close to the Dune Lakes. These natural marvels will certainly make you love the Emerald Coast even more, and Walton County will become a place you'll never forget!