What's New In South Walton In 2014

SANTA ROSA BEACH, Fla., Dec. 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Though perennially a destination rich in culture and beauty, Visit South Walton, a 26-mile stretch of Northwest Florida's Coast featuring 16 distinct beach neighborhoods, has a number of new and noteworthy attractions in 2014.

Just 41^st in State population, Walton County outshined destinations like Orlando and Miami, ranking in the top 10 counties for visitor spending  (based on bed tax collections) in Florida.  

South Walton, with an 86% repeat factor, stands out because of its small-town Southern charm and un-cookie-cutter nature.  It boasts topographic beauty with coastal dune lakes, azure waters and sugar-white "Best Beaches on Earth for Families." Its down-home but upscale character stems from its artist community, kitschy galleries, architecturally-unique neighborhoods, and farm-to-table dining philosophy. 

In 2014, South Walton welcomes a new level of luxury to Rosemary Beach: The Pearl. Technologically advanced, the 55-room resort provides guests complimentary iPads for dining reservations, room service, and concierge assistance. It's also the first U.S hotel to offer in-room Apple TVs.

Havana Beach Bar and Grill features a mahogany bar replica of La Floridita, Hemingway's Cuba haunt, and locally procured Gulf Coast Americana cuisine.

Lauded for its "100-mile-radius" cuisine, this month South Walton garnered more Florida Trend "Golden Spoon Awards" winners than any surrounding county. 

• Grayton Bar & Grill – Best New Award
• Bud & Alley's – Hall of Fame Award
• Fleming's – Best Brand Award
• Vin'tij
• Fish Out of Water

Recognizing its local talent, the 2014 South Walton Artist of the Year program expanded to showcase more mediums. 

• The 2014 South Walton Artist of the Year – Mary Hong, who specializes in non-traditional mosaic glasswork
• Performer of the Year – Mike Whitty
• Photographer of the Year – Chandler Williams
• Painter of the Year – Juan Adaro
• Designer of the Year – Stephanie Carter

About South Walton:
Located along a 26-mile stretch of Northwest Florida's Coast, South Walton encompasses an unparalleled strand of 16 distinct beach neighborhoods, each with its own traditions, charm and visual style. South Walton is renowned for natural scenic beauty, turquoise waters and sugar sand beaches, including one of Travel + Leisure magazine's "Best Beaches on Earth" for families in 2013. An upscale, yet casual place to unwind, South Walton is the place to rejuvenate and build lasting memories. It is here that visitors find their perfect beach. Learn more at VisitSouthWalton.com, on Twitter and Facebook.

SOURCE Visit South Walton