Business

Summer 2011 has been a season of remarkable recovery for the tourist destinations of Northwest Florida. Bed-tax collections in the area are breaking all-time records, according to the Northwest Florida Tourism Council (NWFTC).

“All across Northwest Florida the evidence is clear that tourists who love our pristine beaches and unique inland communities have returned in record numbers to enjoy what has been a beautiful vacation season,” said NWFTC Chairperson Dawn Moliterno, the executive director of Visit South Walton.

The second edition of our "Sowal Insider" column is about to hit newsstands in Nashville Lifestyles Magazine.

It's nearing twilight and the McCullough clan of  Portland, Fla. prepares to send its crew off to man the night's run of the Capt. Wil-B, the family's shrimp boat.

This ritual takes place six days a week. Fuel has already been loaded into the boat's tanks from a fuel truck that visits the dock. Crushed ice to chill the catch is in chests ready to take to the boat, and the crew members have a supply of food to provide a meal through the long night ahead.

Crowds gathered well before the doors of the Santa Rosa Beach Walmart opened June 15. The parking lot filled and cars were parked along West Hewitt Road. Vendors were there to hand out giveaways.

It was crazy, but exhilarating as the doors opened, says Harry Millsaps who works as a greeter there.

Harry is well known in South Walton as a Realtor, South Walton Fire District fire commissioner, Tourist Development Council Advisory board member and volunteer for many causes.

Ice cream and the beach just go together. Kids of all ages pack creameries in SoWal for the icy-cold, sweet goodness. It's not uncommon to see lines out the door.

True ice cream fans will try any kind, even cayenne-flavored. Keep reading for a list of spots in SoWal to get your cream fix.

Win  a gorgeous fresh water pearl “Jelly Bean” bracelet from La Vie Est Belle - the gallery in Seaside features the iconic fine pearl and leather designs of Wendy Mignot.  This Easter, one of their lucky Facebook fans may find the beautiful bracelet in their basket.

I have been following the "Beaches Of South Walton" re-branding process and went to the 2-hour presentation yesterday at the workshop at the Walton TDC (it was given in the morning and the same in the afternoon).

Comments both negative and positive were received with open ears. Most of what was presented about the new campaign, including the images, is still under development.

We're so happy our friends in Nashville love SoWal Beaches and love SoWal Style. Thanks to SoWal Partner Nashville Lifestyles Magazine for cranking up beach season with the first installment of our SoWal Insider column.

Who made it inside this issue? Sunshine Shuttle, Walco Ecotours, Amavida Coffee, Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse, Central Square Records, Crush, For The Health Of It, and more friends! Get your copy at Sundog Books in Seaside.

While it may be too early to make a reservation at Hotel Viridian, on March 11 patrons can enjoy dinner at V, the restaurant destined to be a springboard for rest of the Downtown Seagrove hotel project.

“This project has been in the making for over five years,” says co-owner and veteran restaurateur George Hartley.

“My partners and I consider it a beacon of hope for the community – and a true blessing that we’re able to see our vision realized.”

Every time a rumor swirls about the opening of a new Mexican restaurant that will give diners the opportunity to devour “real” tamales and enchiladas, current Mexican restaurants are compared and dissected for authenticity.

One of those is Don Pedros Café and Bakery, which has managed to attract a loyal following with good food, reasonable prices and generous portions.