are we there yet ?
WaterColor Inn and Resort
WATERCOLOR INN AND RESORT
WATERCOLOR , FLORIDA
Photo by Larry Holloway july / august 2024
14
By Linda Holloway
Planning a family beach vacation becomes even more important when you realize from the time your children are born until they are sporting a cap and gown is approximately 18 years . From tiny toes in the sand to competitive games along the shore , beach vacations are the number one family memory-maker . We found the ideal beach destination to create those important vacation traditions , simply tagged WaterColor Inn and Resort .
WaterColor Inn is situated along the beaches of South Walton , overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico . The Inn has recently undergone a major expansion adding more family-friendly amenities . Nestled within a 500-acre community , boasting 1,400 feet of sugar-white sand , and bordered by picturesque pine forests alongside Western Lake , the WaterColor Inn is the flagship of South Walton ’ s WaterColor community . The Inn offers 60 Gulf-facing rooms , plus seven one and two-bedroom family suites . This Forbes Four-Star and AAA Four-Diamond boutique Inn transports visitors from the typical hustle of crowded properties to a destination with incredible activities for kids and a relaxing vibe for adults .
The new seven family suites are conveniently located on the hotel ’ s first floor , making them ideal for larger family getaways .
Each suite comes equipped with a kitchenette , microwave , and mini refrigerator , as well as a personal “ Treat Suite ,” which is everyone ’ s favorite . Here , you will find complimentary sodas , fruit , ice cream , coffee , and snacks . The bunk bed suite is a family favorite — complete with a television and a porthole for natural light . Each family suite features a private , furnished terrace that is a few steps from the new 2,800-square-foot zero-entry pool , ideal for the younger set . The large cabanas are so comfortable that they are perfect to lull babies to sleep . This area features food and beverage service from the on-site restaurant , Gather Kitchen + Bar .
We lodged on the 4th floor , where the king-size mattress was unbelievably comfortable — complete with luxurious Egyptian cotton linens . The sofa bed is perfect for children . I admit to visiting the Treat Suite more than once . The amenities are endless with complimentary house-made biscotti , jam , and scones upon arrival . The nightly housekeeping service comes with freshly- baked cookies , along with the recipe ; there is even a departure gift . The staff is impeccable and always eager to help . Our private balcony came with Adirondack chairs and a direct view of the famous white- sand beach below .
They tell me there is a scientific reason for the white sand , thousands of years in the making , but you will soon forget about the scientific details because words cannot compete with the five senses … it must be experienced . Here is where kids are