beachLIFE 2020 Issue 14 | Page 19

SEAGROVE WATERSOUND In 1996, on the east end of 30A, a colorful cluster of homes nestled between Alys Beach and Camp Creek Lake became formally known as Seacrest Beach. This planned community is arguably one of the most kid- friendly destinations on 30A with its neighborhood pool, bike trails and the Peddlers Pavilion. Peddlers, also known as the Village of South Walton, has everything a young child could want—bike rentals, funky sandwich huts, picnic tables, live music, souvenir stores and an ice cream shop. A boardwalk also overlooks the Gulf and offers lunch baskets and a happy hour. Guests have access to the complimentary beach shuttle that picks them up at their home and drops them off at the beach. Seacrest is an exceptionally bike-friendly community with the Timpoochee Trail immediately connecting locals and visitors to Rosemary and Alys Beach. The Cape Cod architectural influences of this community are everywhere. Neighborhoods lie tucked away behind acres of rolling dunes. Asymmetrical rooflines, cedar shake siding and the quintessential SEACREST Cube McGee didn’t discover Seagrove. He is, however, responsible for developing a vision for what it would eventually become. With the area’s gorgeous beach and groves, he foresaw a dream destination for vacationers. The Seagrove Village Market opened in 1949 as a dime store for those passing by to use the payphone—a rarity in those days. Sparkling emerald green waters, sugar-soft sand and an alluring sense of seclusion were the community’s selling points. It was so secluded, in fact, that there was even a rumored nude beach for sunbathers who couldn’t abide tan lines. Today, Seagrove lures travelers from around the world. The community features a variety of award-winning restaurants—both casual and upscale—while The Seagrove Village Market remains the longest-running business on 30A and functions as a casual grab-and-go restaurant serving “deep-fried love.” light grey color schemes are all hallmarks of its homes.  WaterSound was created in the early 2000s by the St. Joe Company as an elegant, gated community divided into a handful of districts and joined by a communal meeting spot known as The Gatehouse. Kayakers and standup paddleboarders cruise the coastal dune lakes throughout the year. The Beach Club features unobstructed Gulf views, two expansive resort-style pools and poolside dining. A central feature is the town center, locally known as The Hub. Here, families can enjoy free daily entertainment, fast-casual restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. Part of Seaside’s irresistible charm is its emphasis on simplicity and sustainability. Bicycles and pedestrians are everywhere, while many of the streets remain unpaved. Perhaps most significantly, the architectural sensibilities have inspired other 30A communities, combining the innovative with the traditional.