Rainy Day Activities in South Walton

The beach is a wash and the sun is taking a vacation - what to do on a rainy day in South Walton, Florida when the kids are restless and you're looking for indoor activities?

Hopefully it won't be cloudy and rainy for your entire trip. It's "sunny Florida" after all! But we do have plenty of rain, especially those afternoon thunderstorms in the Summer. Here are our latest ideas for things to do indoors on a rainy day in SoWal. Also be sure to check the SoWal Events Calendar for things to do where you can stay dry - there is always plenty of live music on the calendar.

Alys Shoppe is a resort lifestyle boutique featuring a carefully curated collection of unique apparel, accessories, and home decor. In the heart of Alys Beach, the Alys Shoppe features chic apparel and accessories for men and women from designers around the world. The luxury boutique also carries classic Alys Beach logo designs on tees, hats, pullovers and more. There is excellent shopping, dining and frequent events at Alys Beach Town Center.

For those who love the arts and love to learn, The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County often hosts workshops and has member galleries across SoWal to browse, showcasing the incredible talent that thrives in our community.

Greenway Station in Seagrove is anchored by The Lodge 30A, an excellent hotel for your stay, surrounded by shops and eateries. There's even a nature trail next to the lodge that's a wonderful opportunity to see SoWal nature up close. Be sure to visit one of the most popular shops in South Walton - Coast Hippie right on 30A with beach gear and apparel by local designer Jessica Judkins Burch.

Justin Gaffrey Gallery - Justin is a self-taught, locally and nationally known artist who challenges himself and the norms of art on a regular basis while also pushing the boundary at any chance he gets. Justin’s home in Blue Mountain Beach includes the Justin Gaffrey Gallery where he displays his contemporary works, as well as acrylic pieces for loyal fans. The former chef and restaurateur built the home himself, proving his creativity knows no bounds.

Experience ultimate luxury at Serenity by the Sea Spa, inspired by our beautiful seaside setting, Hilton Sandestin’s award-winning spa is a harmonious blend of atmosphere, services and products that leave guests feeling truly refreshed. Featuring 14,500 square feet of absolute serenity.

Right next door to the ultra-popular Stinky’s Fish Camp, Stinky’s Bait Shack is also a super-casual place to shop, enjoy some snacks while you wait for your dinner table next door. One of South Walton’s most favorite local bars, the Bait Shack offers a full liquor bar paired with a wide variety of beer & wine. Pull up a chair, sip on a cold one, and listen to some reel true fish stories. Throughout the year you'll find local and visiting musicians rocking the Bait Shack stage, making it the perfect beach bar for everyone to enjoy on a sunny or rainy day. 

Located in WaterColor Town Center on the Gulf side just steps from the Gulf, WaterColor Store has everything you need for a week at the beach. Shop merchandise with the WaterColor logo, such as tees, Turkish towels, Yeti water bottles, beach bags, hats, kids swim, and more. Fabulous finds such as comfy dresses and beach ready swimwear, tunics and covers encompass chic resort style. The welcoming store also carries jewelry, accessories,and home décor.

Is there anything more quintessentially comforting on a drizzly day than curling up with a good book (or album)? I like to read for awhile then drift into a little impromptu nap myself. Sundog Books and Central Square Records upstairs, are virtual Seaside institutions. The classic independent bookstore recently turned 30! They are simply the go-to SoWal source for finding regional titles and browsing for bestsellers. Once you find the perfect read, head home and snuggle in with words and music. Located at 89 Central Square in Seaside and open every day from 9 am to 9 pm.

Grand Boulevard at Sandestin has excellent dining and shopping and Boulevard 10 Theater, offering 10 screens. 

We hope you'll enjoy these rainy day options on our SoWal List on your next overcast day, but remember a walk on one of SoWal's many trails or along our world class beaches are also refreshing and freeing. Sure you might get a little wet, but that's why you have a clothes dryer at home! Listen to the frogs, breathe in the salty ocean breeze, and just enjoy the panhandle's natural beauty.

SoWal Insider Tip - if it's raining too hard or you're just feeling lazy, join us on the SoWal Forum - you can find out anything you want to know about South Walton, Florida - including plenty more ideas on what to do on a rainy day on Scenic 30A!