Here’s a sampling of what’s happening as well as some deals.

Numerous cities across the nation are participating on First Night 2009. In the South, this includes Fayetteville (Ark.), Austin (Texas), Cocoa (Fla.), Delray Beach (Fla.), St. Peterburg (Fla.), Charlotte (N.C.), Raleigh (N.C.), and in Virginia: Alexandria, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Harrisonburg, Williamsburg and Winchester.

• Don’t miss out on Big D NYE 2009. The event features parties and a very large firework display. After all, this is Texas.
• Experience New Year’s Eve in the Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin, along the Beaches of South Walton in the Florida panhandle.
• If you are thinking about Panama City Beach, Fla., don’t miss the Beach Ball Drop at Pier Park. While the festivities begin at 5:30 p.m., it’s probably best to arrive early. You can read my take on Pier Park here. If you are in the market for some hotel deals, be sure to check out ALL the hotel listings available in Panama City Beach, and let me tell you there are some good ones.
• Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Celebration (Fla.) with during their New Year’s Eve Bash featuring entertainment, food and more.
• Ring in the New Year during Gatlinburg’s (Tenn.) 20th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks that includes party favors and live entertainment.
• Start 2009 at one of West Virginia’s State Parks. Events are scheduled for Cacapon Resort State Park in Berkeley Springs, Canaan Valley Resort State Park in Davis and North Bend State Park in Cairo.

photo credit: Fireworks..an aftermath!, flickr, creative commons by light play

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Scheduled for December 14, the event features over 20 boats gussied up with lights and other decorations. Sponsored by the Destin History and Fishing Museum (worth visiting when you have the chance), the activities along HarborWalk Village begin at 5 p.m. (however, it is highly recommended to show up before 5 p.m.)

During the Holiday on the Harbor, you can expect an evening filled live music, arts and crafts for the young ones, and even an appearance by Santa Claus.

For this holiday season, don’t limit yourself to lights on the land when there’s so much to see on the water as well.

photo credits: both photos are from Holiday on the Harbor, courtesy of Destin Area Chamber of Commerce

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After paying a $1 entry fee (remember, I was on a bike; it’s $4 for a car), I was taken aback by the park’s natural beauty. I know that I have talked up a blue streak about how pretty and old Florida like this area is, but it really doesn’t sink in until you’re at Grayton State Park.

Since it was getting chilly and the sun was beginning to set, I didn’t get to spend as much time as I wanted here, but enough to take in the scenery.

There are trails accessible to hikers and bikers, fishing opportunities (fresh and salt), as well as kayaking, canoeing and even Yolo boarding on Western Lake. Or you don’t have to do anything at all except for enjoying the surroundings.

You can even stay overnight in cabins, or bring your camper to enjoy the full-facility campground.

photo credits: personal collection

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So braving the cold and donning a stylish gray bike hat, it was time to hit the bike paths.

For those who aren’t familiar with the area, 30-A is about 20-miles long. At first, that may seem like a lot, but since the communities are close to each other and there is always something new to see, it’s not that bad at all (even in the cold.)

From Redfish Village, I took a left and headed toward WaterColor. This community is perhaps best known for WaterColor Inn and Resort (home to Fish Out of Water restaurant.) The AAA four diamond property has received many accolades and is a great place for families. Actually, this whole area is. In addition to the resort, there are also vacation property rentals available. WaterColor is home to the Telluride MountainFilm tour that happens typically around the first of November, coinciding with Beaches of South Walton’s AutumnTides celebration. Also at WaterColor, you’ll find a small shopping area with shops, boutiques and eateries. It’s a fun place to spend a couple of hours just wandering around.

And wandering around was just what I had in mind, which I glad I did. If I hadn’t park my bike, I wouldn’t have discovered the Odgen Satellite Museum. Now this is an offshoot of Ogden Museum of Southern Art/University of New Orleans that opened  in July 2008. Here, you’ll find changing exhibits that highlight southern artists and their works.

Returning back to my bike (and helmet), it was time to go to Seaside. You probably best know Seaside from Jim Carrey’s movie, The Truman Show. It heralded as the first of New Urbanism – the sense of community and the ability to get anyway via foot or bike.

Seaside’s shopping area is larger than WaterColor’s, and includes places like the Sundog Books & Central Square Records , the Seaside Store and more. A must visit is Modica Market, which is quaint, family-owned gourmet grocery store filled with all types of treats and necessary items.

Across the street, you’ll find Pickle’s Beachside Grill, which is a great place to have lunch. I recommend the burgers. If you are still in the shopping mood, something a little unique is Perspicacity, a open-air style market. Of course, no visit to Seaside is complete without eating at Bud and Alley’s (highly recommend the grilled shrimp and grits.)   Now, if you can’t make it for a meal, be sure to join them for a sunset cocktail of your choice and the “ringing of the bell.”

At Seaside, rentals are available or you can stay at the Inn by the Sea and indulge in with their breakfast (PDF file).

Hopefully this give you a taste, well, enough to whet your appetite to come and explore the Beaches of South Walton’s communities on your own. You never know what you might discover.

photo credits: personal collection

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Perhaps I should’ve mention that I’m quite the klutz and when I heard that Yolo boarding was stand up paddle board, I thought to myself, “Maybe the water won’t be too cold.” However, everyone who had done it before assured me that I wouldn’t fall in. In fact, I was told that if I had walking around sense, I wouldn’t fall off. Out loud, I agreed with them, but silently I was preparing myself that I might get wet.

The outdoor adventure was taking place on Western Lake, a 200-acre  coastal dune lake. If you aren’t familiar with coastal dune lakes, these are very rare. In fact, there are only four other places around the world that have them. The Beaches of South Walton claims 15  – the most in one location.

Back at the dock, I got my quick instruction on Yolo boarding, and of course, those who have done it before had no problem pushing off, crouching and paddling, and then standing and paddling. I still did not trust myself and decided I would go kayaking first. To me, sitting down in the kayak posed less of a threat of falling into the water.

This is the time I need to be honest – I never kayaked before. I’ve always been interested, but never have had the opportunity. Until now.

After going in around in circles a few time, and running into the brush on both sides of the expansive lake, I finally got the hang of it. I was soaked, but didn’t care. I was actually moving in the right direction. Even better, since the lake was so smooth I could rest for a little while and let the current take me. The best part was going under the bridge.

There was a actual destination that I was heading to, which was to a coastal dune that you could actually hike on.  It may just be one of the best kept secrets on 30-A. The landscape and views are incredible. When you are walking along the trail, it’s very easy to forget that 30-A is  behind you.

But what about Yolo boarding (and exactly what does Yolo mean?) Well, I’ll answer the second question first. Yolo stands for “You Only Live Once,” and yes, I did try it. And no, I didn’t fall off.

Now, I admit that I was somewhat of a chicken and couldn’t fully stand up on the board. My arms were sore from kayaking and I didn’t want to chance it. Once I got the hang of it (yes, I went around in circles again), I could see how Yolo boarding can become addictive.

For those who know what they are doing (and once I get the hang of it), many take the boards out to the Gulf from Western Lake. Who knows, this spring/summer, I just might be telling you about my adventure paddling into the Gulf.

photo credit: personal photos

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Like at Redfish Village, located in Blue Mountain Beach along 30-A/Beaches of South Walton.

I could go into elaborate detail about the condos, the pool area (heated pool, by the way), or the shops (definitely get a chicken box from Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken and a cup of joe or a sinful, calorie laden speciality coffee drink from PJ’s Coffee) but that’s only part of what hooked me. What completed my special beach experience was the village’s setting.

One thing that a lot of people don’t know about this area is how it’s graced with nature beauty that you won’t find in any other part of Florida. I’m not saying that parts of central Florida, the Everglades and Keys aren’t beautiful, but it’s a different kind of beauty that’s special to those areas. When people think about the Florida Panhandle, they tend to automatically think “beach.” While that reaction is appropriate, it’s just part of what can be found here.

And Redfish Village does a great job introducing you to the natural side of 30-A.

It couldn’t be in a better location – near Point Washington State Forest, Redfish Lake and numerous hiking/walking/biking trails. If that’s not enough, located behind the pool area is a boardwalk  that leads you an incredible and peaceful view of a rare coastal dune lake (more about those later.)

If you’re looking for that special beach experience for yourself and/or a little taste of ‘Old Florida,’ then Redfish Village is the destination point for you. From private access to the beach to complimentary bike rentals to an open green space, suitable for activities – everything is there for you to create your own unique and special experience.

photo credit: personal collection

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This past weekend, I was back down heading back down south to my favorite place, the Florida Panhandle. This time I was going to be exploring the Beaches of South Walton, located along 30-A.

On this particular journey, my stop would be at Redfish Village, located in Blue Mountain Beach.

However, since I was back at the beach (can’t say that enough), I wanted to take my time and enjoy every minute. So, I decided I would stop places that caught my attention.

One such place was Gulf Place in Santa Rosa Beach. Much like the other communities that line the Beaches of South Walton, you find a variety of accommodations that can house anywhere from two people and more. There is also a handful of shops and restaurants that are reflective of the spirit of the area.

If you find yourself in the area, definitely stop in Miss Lucille’s Gossip Parlor. Just the name alone will put a smile on your face. It’s your typical breakfast/lunch/ coffee/drinks/dessert type of place. However, you don’t grab and run. No, you take time to sit and enjoy your food and/drink. 

Another place that caught my attention was Smiling Fish Cafe, and honestly when I walked through to door to get a peek, I was mentally kicking myself for already eating lunch. The smell inside was incredible, and from the looks of the dishes on the various tables, so was the food. Smiling Fish Cafe serves lunch (PDF file) and dinner (PDF). You can choose from a fried shrimp sandwich ($9.95) or the beach burger ($8.75). They have quite the options with their signature lunch salads that include Panko fried shrimp Caesar ($10.95) or Thai shrimp pasta salad that features gulf shrimp ($10.95). Dinner options include appetizers such as Creole barbecue shrimp ($8) or roasted corn and crab soup ($6.) For entrees, why not select the grilled gulf shrimp ($22.50) or the white beans and grouper ($19.50.) If you have room left over, be sure to get dessert, such as a slice of key lime pie ($5.)

Definitely don’t miss the Artists at Gulf Place. Located behind the restaurants and shop, sort of in an open space, around eight artists have set up shop selling everything from decorative items to art work to jewelry. I dare you to walk away empty handed!

photo credits: personal photos

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• From one popular beach destination to another, this time on the Gulf Coast as hotels, attractions and restaurant in Panama City Beach, Fla., are offering all types of packages and deals for the winter season: 

*Guests can take 50 percent off in-season rates at the Towne of Seahaven, and every third night is free at Origin at Seahaven, Seahaven Beach Hotel and America’s Best Value Inn. Plus, children 12 and under eat free, and grownups buy one meal and get one free at nearby Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant. The “Buy-One-And-Get-One-Free” offers also are available on-beach activities, including parasailing and wave runner rentals. The rates are valid through February 26, 2009.       
*Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort is offering a  “Stay Three Nights, Get One Free” through February 20, 2009, at this beachfront resort located in the heart of town. The hotel offers a new SunSet martini lounge, three restaurants, a fitness center and Pirate’s Den game room.
*Shores of Panama  has a “Stay Two Nights, Get the Third Night Free” package that is good through the end of February 2009.      
*Now through December 31, 2008, stay two nights, and get the third night free in a one-bedroom condominium with private Gulf-front balcony at Pinnacle Port. Also included is free WiFi, DVD rentals, canoe and kayak usage, and more. Use code MHE when booking.       
*Now through the end of Feb. 2009, stay two nights, get the third free in a new one-, two- or three-bedroom beachfront condominium at Cabana Cay. Include your four-legged in family getaways with Cabana Cay’s pet-friendly units that feature full baths, kitchens and private beach access.
*The third and seventh nights are free now through March 1, 2009 on a 2,300 square-foot condominium with an expansive private balcony overlooking the Gulf at Hidden Dunes Condominiums. Plus, guests get 50 percent off an one-time housekeeping fee, a savings of $100.
*Paradise Palms, A Seaside Inn, Panama City Beach, is offering a “Buy One Night, Get One Free” through Feb. 20, 2009.    
*Through February 20, 2009, Days Inn Beach is promoting special weekly rates. Enjoy family-style suites feature WiFi and private gulf-front balconies. *Stay two and get the third free at any of Blowin-N-The Wind Management’s properties. Guests staying 2 nights get the 3rd night free, guests staying 2 weeks get the 3rd week free . Offer is valid through December 31 2008 at The Inn at St. Thomas Square (personal note: highly recommend), Top of the Gulf, Longbeach Resort, Sunbird and Venture Out.
*Guests enjoy savings all around town when they stay at any one of the three By The Sea Resort beachfront resorts: Legacy by the Sea, Beachbreak by the Sea and Beachcomber by the Sea. With the Passport To Play program, guest key cards or parking passes double as discount cards, earning great savings at the hottest area attractions and more. Get a free children’s meal with every adult meal purchased at The Barefoot Beach Club restaurant or at the nearby Calypso Beach Café. Receives 20 percent off admission to ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Park, 20 percent off admission at Gulf World Marine Park, and $1.00 off bowling and skating at Rock’It Lanes. Grownup enjoy up to $10 off at Holiday Golf Club and 15 percent off local spa services.

photo credit: Christmas is Coming!, flickr, creative commons by carowallis

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Obviously, if you’re reading this blog, it must be a southern state, so that should narrow it down for you.

Still unsure?

Well, the answer is Florida. And did you know that nearly half of those 37 beaches happen to be in the Beaches of South Walton. That’s right, the 14 beach communities as well as the three state parks have been certified through the CBC’s Blue Wave Ethic Program – or the past eight years. Yes, eight years. Surprised? Well, you shouldn’t be, because it only makes sense that some of the most beautiful beaches would be environmentally sound.

“We wave our blue flags with pride,” says Tracey Louthain, director of public relations and visitors service with the Beaches of South Walton. She adds that it’s important to to assure travelers visiting the beaches that it’s a clean and pristine environment.

Beaches of South Walton has to apply every year for certification and according to Louthain, it’s quite a detailed process that include testing the sand and taking a water quality sample.

And it doesn’t end with the testing. The beaches have implemented a handful of green-conscious programs, such as the “Leave No Trace.”  This focuses on visitors (and locals) responsibility (PDF file) of taking everything with them after their visit to the beach.

“Leaving that tent or chair overnight has ramifications,” she points out. “Not only is it challenging for the beach maintenance team to groom the beach, but also can have an affect during sea turtle nesting periods. That item may prevent the turtle from laying a nest.”

Back to the beach maintenance team that she mentioned above. The team oversees the health of the beaches 365 days a year. Not only are they responsible for the upkeep of the beach, but also they constantly replant sea oats, which are vital to the endangered beach mouse.

In addition, the Visitors’ Center also provides free recycled garbage bags for visitors to use throughout their stay. At the end of the visit, they can place the bag on the curbside for pick-up. For a green souvenir, you can even purchase a recycled tote bag for a $1. Louthain comments the tote bags are really popular, and not only fun, but useful too.

“This is all a natural extension of the green lifestyle that is practiced at home, and we want it extended to the beach vacation as well.”

From the Blue Wave certification to the eco-friendly programs, it really comes down to the visitors’ experience on the Beaches of South Walton. And the visitors are the only one benefiting either; Louthain says that locals love it.

“They’ve see the impact year around and really support it.”

 Photo credit: All photos are courtesy of Walton County TDC/Beaches of South Walton

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Post from: Southern Byways