South Walton Community Council | SoWal.com - Guide For The Beaches Of South Walton & Scenic 30A
LIST OF EVENTS IS NOT FINAL AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Registration will begin in mid-September
Sunrise Meditation- Come join Julie Wilcox on a guided inner journey to bring us Back to (Our) Nature. The Morning Sunrise ritual will be 45 minutes and include gentle yoga stretch, breath exercise and sitting mediation; all preparation to receive the nurturing and sustaining influence of nature. Invite rejuvenation and exhilaration as you begin your day with Julie at 6:30 am (just before sunrise) on the beach in front of the obelisk next to Bud & Alley's in Seaside. Wear warm loose clothing and bring a towel, blanket or cushion to define your space in the sand.
Choctawhatchee River Safari - Explore the waterways of Choctawhatchee River and Bay. Expect to see alligators, turtles, birds of prey and other fascinating wildlife. Meet at Point Washington boat ramp on Tucker Bayou at north end of Highway 395. Maximum 6 participants per tour. FIXED PRICE $30.
Tracking the Wild Critters - Ever wondered what animal makes those tracks in the sand? Or what animals eat and how they find each other? Take a guided hike through Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and learn how to find animals in the wild and to identify tracks made by raccoons, mice, alligators and other animals. Enter the park through the Highway 98 entrance and follow the road to the beach parking area. LIMIT 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Fall Wildflowers and Forest Ecology: A hike through Point Washington State Forest
Take a fun and informative hike through the varied natural habitats of the Point Washington State Forest. Identify the blooming fall wildflowers that grow amid the native plant communities of sand hills and flat woods, and learn firsthand the vital role of fire in keeping these habitats healthy. The hike is led by naturalist Christian Wagley and horticulturist Snookie Parrish. Meet at Eastern Lake Trail parking area, on east side of Highway 395, about 1/2 mile north of Publix Supermarket. LIMIT 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Labyrinth in the Sand - The labyrinth is a guided, reflective walk using a labyrinth on the sands of Grayton Beach State Park. The labyrinth represents an orderly path that can quiet the mind, offer insights, and provide a sense of wholeness and well-being. Come with an open mind and heart. Led by Anne Hornstein of Destin, a facilitator of adventures using movement, music, art, writing and drama to assist participants in exploring their creative spirits and improving their brain power. Meet at beach behind beachside pavilion in Grayton Beach State Park.
Western Lake Kayak Tour - Take a leisurely paddle around Western Lake and into the lake outfall as you learn about the unique features of coastal dune lakes. This is an easy trip suitable for beginning kayakers. Tour led by Brooke Saari, the Sea Grant Marine Science Agent for Okaloosa and Walton County Extension with the University of Florida IFAS program. You must furnish your own kayak. If you want to rent a kayak, please call Big Daddy's at (850) 622-1165 in advance to secure a rental. Meet at the boat ramp inside Grayton Beach State Park. MAXIMUM 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Coffeen Nature Preserve Hike and Tour - At Four Mile Village near Sandestin is the Coffeen Nature Preserve, noted for its beautiful forest and lake and for the Sand Pine Military Trail where one can view remnants of the military presence dating back to 1944 when the U.S. tested captured German V-1 rockets here. Participants will enjoy the special treat of visiting areas of the preserve normally not open for visitation. Led by Susan and Bruce Paladini, caretakers of the preserve. Enter Four Mile Village on south side of Hwy 98, just east of Sandestin, and follow signs to the parking area. MAXIMUM 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Hogtown Bayou Sunset Paddle - Wrap up the weekend with a wonderful paddle into twilight! Begin paddling at dusk and wind your way along Hogtown Bayou as night falls. Enjoy the dark night sky, views of marsh and open bayou and wildlife. Learn about some of the natural features of the bayou including sea grasses, birds and an endangered fish species that calls the bayou home. You must furnish your own kayak. If you want to rent a kayak, please call The Kayak Experience at (850) 837-1577, or Big Daddy's in advance to secure a rental kayak. Meet at Charles Cessna Landing on Highway 393 north. MAXIMUM 15 PEOPLE; beginner to moderate skill levels required.
Gator Watch at Topsail State Park- Explore the world of the Florida alligator at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. A park ranger will guide you to the banks of a lake where you can see a large gator lair and learn more about these ancient creatures. The tour starts at 5:45 at the day entrance parking area on CR 30A. From the day entrance you'll catch the trolley to the trailhead. From there, you will make a short hike to the lake. Afterwards you will walk back to the day entrance parking lot so there is some hiking involved. You will also be walking in the dark so it is a great opportunity to see some of the night inhabitants of the park. Please wear closed toe shoes as some of the hiking is through the woods! Bring binoculars, insect repellant and a flashlight. The tour will last approximately an hour and a half and is limited to 12 participants.
Deer Lake Shorebird & Beach Walk - Deer Lake State Park is one of the rare gemsof the Emerald Coast with its undisturbed dunes and swaying sea oats, and the shorebirds running along the sugar white sandy beaches. On Saturday from 7-9 am, come join the park staff and volunteers as they walk along the park's quarter-mile boardwalk for a panoramic view of the beach dune ecosystem. The walk will then head west along the beach to the shorebird nesting area to observe endangered Snowy Plovers and other shorebirds foraging along the way. The walk will end at the natural outfall from Deer Lake, a rare coastal dune lake found only in South Walton County and a few other places in the world.
Historic Point Washington Walking Tour - Members of the Historic Association will lead this tour on a walk about to historic sites, homes and local cemeteries. Meeting first at the Point Washington Methodist Church on Hwy 395N, groups of 10 will form and be provided with a guide to visit locations of historical interest. Lasting for about two hours, docents and historical interpreters will share tales of the lumber mills, ferryboats, churches, schools and Indian settlements. Parking will be available at the church site.
YOLO Boarding - YOLO (You Only Live Once) paddle tour. Take a leisurely paddle around Western Lake and into the lake outfall as you learn the basics of the fastest growing new water sport -- Stand Up Paddling. This is an easy trip suitable for beginning stand-up paddlers. Led by members of YOLO Board, a locally owned stand-up paddle company, you will have an opportunity to tour Western Lake and see it from a whole new perspective -- standing up! If you want to rent a YOLO Board for $15, please call (850) 622-5760 in advance to secure a rental. Meeting place to be determined later MAXIMUM 12 PARTICIPANTS.
NEW FOR 2010 !!
Sandcastles with Mark Flynn - Do your towers collapse, even before the siege starts? Bothered by fallen arches? Do your walls make you feel unfortified? Sand Castle 101 teaches you and your family and friends how to change beach sand into an imposing castle. Your instructor is Mark Flynn, professional sand sculptor and local beach bum. Meet at Ed Walline Park.
"Into The Wild" Bike Tour with Carl Renault - details to come
LIST OF EVENTS IS NOT FINAL AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Registration will begin in mid-September
Welcome Night at Bud & Alley's - Come to the welcome night for the 9th Annual Back to Nature Festival at Bud and Alley's Restaurant in Seaside! Enjoy a strolling dinner with complimentary house selected wine or beer, cash bar, and live music by local musician Jimmy Ward. You will have the opportunity to meet event leaders and fellow nature enthusiasts, register for events, and preview selected items for our silent auction to be held on Saturday. All proceeds from the silent auction and a percentage of proceeds from the strolling dinner go to benefit the mission of the SWCC, to preserve and protect our natural environment. Friday, October 15, 6 pm $25 per person .Sunrise Meditation- Come join Julie Wilcox on a guided inner journey to bring us Back to (Our) Nature. The Morning Sunrise ritual will be 45 minutes and include gentle yoga stretch, breath exercise and sitting mediation; all preparation to receive the nurturing and sustaining influence of nature. Invite rejuvenation and exhilaration as you begin your day with Julie at 6:30 am (just before sunrise) on the beach in front of the obelisk next to Bud & Alley's in Seaside. Wear warm loose clothing and bring a towel, blanket or cushion to define your space in the sand.
Choctawhatchee River Safari - Explore the waterways of Choctawhatchee River and Bay. Expect to see alligators, turtles, birds of prey and other fascinating wildlife. Meet at Point Washington boat ramp on Tucker Bayou at north end of Highway 395. Maximum 6 participants per tour. FIXED PRICE $30.
Tracking the Wild Critters - Ever wondered what animal makes those tracks in the sand? Or what animals eat and how they find each other? Take a guided hike through Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and learn how to find animals in the wild and to identify tracks made by raccoons, mice, alligators and other animals. Enter the park through the Highway 98 entrance and follow the road to the beach parking area. LIMIT 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Fall Wildflowers and Forest Ecology: A hike through Point Washington State Forest
Take a fun and informative hike through the varied natural habitats of the Point Washington State Forest. Identify the blooming fall wildflowers that grow amid the native plant communities of sand hills and flat woods, and learn firsthand the vital role of fire in keeping these habitats healthy. The hike is led by naturalist Christian Wagley and horticulturist Snookie Parrish. Meet at Eastern Lake Trail parking area, on east side of Highway 395, about 1/2 mile north of Publix Supermarket. LIMIT 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Labyrinth in the Sand - The labyrinth is a guided, reflective walk using a labyrinth on the sands of Grayton Beach State Park. The labyrinth represents an orderly path that can quiet the mind, offer insights, and provide a sense of wholeness and well-being. Come with an open mind and heart. Led by Anne Hornstein of Destin, a facilitator of adventures using movement, music, art, writing and drama to assist participants in exploring their creative spirits and improving their brain power. Meet at beach behind beachside pavilion in Grayton Beach State Park.
Western Lake Kayak Tour - Take a leisurely paddle around Western Lake and into the lake outfall as you learn about the unique features of coastal dune lakes. This is an easy trip suitable for beginning kayakers. Tour led by Brooke Saari, the Sea Grant Marine Science Agent for Okaloosa and Walton County Extension with the University of Florida IFAS program. You must furnish your own kayak. If you want to rent a kayak, please call Big Daddy's at (850) 622-1165 in advance to secure a rental. Meet at the boat ramp inside Grayton Beach State Park. MAXIMUM 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Coffeen Nature Preserve Hike and Tour - At Four Mile Village near Sandestin is the Coffeen Nature Preserve, noted for its beautiful forest and lake and for the Sand Pine Military Trail where one can view remnants of the military presence dating back to 1944 when the U.S. tested captured German V-1 rockets here. Participants will enjoy the special treat of visiting areas of the preserve normally not open for visitation. Led by Susan and Bruce Paladini, caretakers of the preserve. Enter Four Mile Village on south side of Hwy 98, just east of Sandestin, and follow signs to the parking area. MAXIMUM 20 PARTICIPANTS.
Hogtown Bayou Sunset Paddle - Wrap up the weekend with a wonderful paddle into twilight! Begin paddling at dusk and wind your way along Hogtown Bayou as night falls. Enjoy the dark night sky, views of marsh and open bayou and wildlife. Learn about some of the natural features of the bayou including sea grasses, birds and an endangered fish species that calls the bayou home. You must furnish your own kayak. If you want to rent a kayak, please call The Kayak Experience at (850) 837-1577, or Big Daddy's in advance to secure a rental kayak. Meet at Charles Cessna Landing on Highway 393 north. MAXIMUM 15 PEOPLE; beginner to moderate skill levels required.
Gator Watch at Topsail State Park- Explore the world of the Florida alligator at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. A park ranger will guide you to the banks of a lake where you can see a large gator lair and learn more about these ancient creatures. The tour starts at 5:45 at the day entrance parking area on CR 30A. From the day entrance you'll catch the trolley to the trailhead. From there, you will make a short hike to the lake. Afterwards you will walk back to the day entrance parking lot so there is some hiking involved. You will also be walking in the dark so it is a great opportunity to see some of the night inhabitants of the park. Please wear closed toe shoes as some of the hiking is through the woods! Bring binoculars, insect repellant and a flashlight. The tour will last approximately an hour and a half and is limited to 12 participants.
Deer Lake Shorebird & Beach Walk - Deer Lake State Park is one of the rare gemsof the Emerald Coast with its undisturbed dunes and swaying sea oats, and the shorebirds running along the sugar white sandy beaches. On Saturday from 7-9 am, come join the park staff and volunteers as they walk along the park's quarter-mile boardwalk for a panoramic view of the beach dune ecosystem. The walk will then head west along the beach to the shorebird nesting area to observe endangered Snowy Plovers and other shorebirds foraging along the way. The walk will end at the natural outfall from Deer Lake, a rare coastal dune lake found only in South Walton County and a few other places in the world.
Historic Point Washington Walking Tour - Members of the Historic Association will lead this tour on a walk about to historic sites, homes and local cemeteries. Meeting first at the Point Washington Methodist Church on Hwy 395N, groups of 10 will form and be provided with a guide to visit locations of historical interest. Lasting for about two hours, docents and historical interpreters will share tales of the lumber mills, ferryboats, churches, schools and Indian settlements. Parking will be available at the church site.
YOLO Boarding - YOLO (You Only Live Once) paddle tour. Take a leisurely paddle around Western Lake and into the lake outfall as you learn the basics of the fastest growing new water sport -- Stand Up Paddling. This is an easy trip suitable for beginning stand-up paddlers. Led by members of YOLO Board, a locally owned stand-up paddle company, you will have an opportunity to tour Western Lake and see it from a whole new perspective -- standing up! If you want to rent a YOLO Board for $15, please call (850) 622-5760 in advance to secure a rental. Meeting place to be determined later MAXIMUM 12 PARTICIPANTS.
NEW FOR 2010 !!
Sandcastles with Mark Flynn - Do your towers collapse, even before the siege starts? Bothered by fallen arches? Do your walls make you feel unfortified? Sand Castle 101 teaches you and your family and friends how to change beach sand into an imposing castle. Your instructor is Mark Flynn, professional sand sculptor and local beach bum. Meet at Ed Walline Park.
"Into The Wild" Bike Tour with Carl Renault - details to come
