Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a 7,157-acre (29 km2) National Wildlife Refuge located in five separate units in Baldwin and Mobile Counties, United States, directly west of Gulf Shores, Alabama on the Fort Morgan Peninsula. The refuge serves as a resting and feeding area for migratory birds and as a sanctuary for native flora and fauna. The refuge is one of the largest undeveloped parcels of land on the Alabama coast. Established in 1980, Bon Secour (the name, in French, means "safe harbor") is smaller than most other national wildlife refuges, and is divided into Sand Bayou, Perdue, Little Point Clear, Fort Morgan, and Little Dauphin Island.
Mobile Bay Ferry
Take a ferry ride across the bay to Dauphin Island. The trip between Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan at Mobile Point provides wonderful views of the two historic forts that have long guarded the entrance of Mobile Bay. The trip takes approximately 40 minutes and is a great way for passengers to view birds, sea life and other boats and ships.
Waterville USA
Waterville USA or simply known as Waterville, is a 20-acre (81,000 m2) water and amusement park located a quarter-mile from the Gulf of Mexico in the city of Gulf Shores, Alabama, on Gulf Shores Parkway (Alabama State Route 59). The park opened in 1986, and since then has added numerous water and amusement attractions.
Flora-bama
One of the world's top beach bars, The Flora-Bama Lounge is located uniquely on the Orange Beach, Alabama and Perdido Key, Florida line. This honky tonk has long been a landmark in the community since 1964. The Flora-Bama has millions of "Bamily" members that visit from around the world who know that the reputation, love and the legend is because of them. The Flora-Bama has five stages for live music and features bands of country, rock, dance and beach music. You can relax in any of the areas and select the entertainment of your choice. If you need a little away time the Flora-Bama has several beach-front bars where you can sip on a famous Bushwacker and enjoy the beautiful sunsets on the water.
Water Activities
With 26-miles of shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, easy access to the Choctawhatchee Bay and 15 rare coastal dune lakes, spending time on the water in South Walton is a breeze. Paddle board or kayak on one of the rare dune lakes while soaking up the natural scenery. Charter a deep sea fishing trip with one of the local fisherman or just enjoy the beach.
Hiking and Nature
With four state parks and the 15,000-acre Point Washington State Forest, hit the trails and traverse your way through the scrub oaks and pines all while catching a glimpse of the local birds and wildlife. Beach access is also available at Deer Lake State Park, Grayton State Park, and Topsail State Park. If a truly unique South Walton experience is what you’re looking for, be sure to check out the rare coastal dune lakes that dot the coast. These incredibly diverse bodies of water are a combination of freshwater and saltwater, and are home to their own special ecosystems. With 15 dune lakes to explore, you’d have to travel to New Zealand, Australia, Madagascar or the Pacific Northwest to find them outside of South Walton.
Golf Courses
South Walton is also known for its collection of championship golf courses such as Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club, Watersound Origins. and Camp Creek Golf Club along 30-A. With beautiful natural surroundings, golfers in South Walton are treated to an experience like no other. From the first tee to the 18th, no matter your skill level, there’s a course that suites your game, but still offers a formidable challenge.
Live Music
This area is well known for the 30-A Song Writers Festival held in January each year. Historically, the 30A Songwriters Festival has featured established touring acts in various genres as well as up and coming new singer songwriters emerging on the national stage. Over 175+ artists perform over the four day weekend in 30+ venues, all located along the 30A resort corridor. There are many venues throughout the year where you can go to see live music....The Bay, AJ's at Grayton Beach, The Red Bar, Old Florida Fish House, Stinky's Fish Camp, The Big Chill to name a few.
Shopping
South Walton is a shopper’s paradise. Each of the area’s 16 signature beach neighborhoods are home to well-known luxury brands as well as up and coming designers and unique boutiques.
Art and Culture
South Walton’s unique neighborhoods are home to an amazing collection of talented artists, performers and musicians. The art scene in South Walton is as diverse as the destination itself, showcasing everything from art galleries, digital projection festivals to live music and on-stage theatrical performances. So whether you’re looking to spend the evening soaking up some live tunes from a local musician or want to explore incredible works of art from one of our distinguished artists, the heartbeat of 30-A’s arts and culture scene is always within reach.