Grayton Beach: A Hidden Gem on Florida's Emerald Coast

Discover the serene beauty of Grayton Beach, Florida – where pristine shores, clear waters, and a welcoming community create the perfect coastal escape.

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Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach, nestled in the heart of Florida's Emerald Coast, is a charming and serene destination that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This quaint beach town is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a vibrant local community that welcomes visitors with open arms. One of the standout features of Grayton Beach is the Grayton Beach State Park, which offers over 2,000 acres of natural beauty. Here, you can explore hiking trails, paddle through coastal dune lakes, or simply relax on the unspoiled shoreline. The park's diverse ecosystems are home to a variety of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. The town itself is a delightful mix of old Florida charm and modern amenities. Stroll through the streets and you'll find an array of unique boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Dining in Grayton Beach is a treat, with local seafood being a highlight. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh catches while taking in stunning sunset views. Grayton Beach is also known for its vibrant arts and music scene. Throughout the year, the town hosts various festivals and events that showcase local talent and culture. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, immerse yourself in nature, or explore a charming coastal town, Grayton Beach offers a little something for everyone.

Local tips in Grayton Beach

Visit Grayton Beach State Park early in the morning to enjoy the park’s trails and lakes without the crowds.
Rent a bike to explore the town and nearby trails – it's the best way to see all the local sights.
Check out the local art galleries and boutiques for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Book beachfront dining in advance, especially during the peak season, to secure a spot with the best views.

California Highway 1 National Historic Landmark Road Trip (U.S. National Park Service)

Beautiful Florida sunset on the beach image - Free stock photo - Public Domain photo - CC0 Images

Vintage Images | Free Photos, PNG Stickers, Wallpapers & Backgrounds - rawpixel

File:SR Beach Grayton Beach SP04.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Santa Rosa Island trespass violations to be enforced > Eglin Air Force Base > Article Display

When is the best time to go to Grayton Beach?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Grayton Beach State Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Grayton Beach State Park on Florida's stunning Emerald Coast.

Grayton Beach West Side

Discover the pristine beauty and tranquility of Grayton Beach West Side, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts in Florida.

Unmissable attractions to see

Grayton Beach State Park

Experience the pristine beaches and diverse ecosystems of Grayton Beach State Park, a natural paradise on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Paradise Adventures

Discover thrilling water sports and unforgettable boat tours at Paradise Adventures, the ultimate destination for adventure seekers in Panama City Beach.

Eden Gardens State Park

Discover the tranquil beauty of Eden Gardens State Park, where ancient oaks meet vibrant gardens and rich history in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Visit South Walton - Visitor Information Center

Experience the best of South Walton at the Visitor Information Center, your go-to spot for local insights and coastal adventures.

Wesley House

Explore the historical charm and natural beauty of Wesley House, a serene tourist attraction in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Coleman Beach Pavilion

Experience the beauty of Coleman Beach Pavilion in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida - a perfect coastal escape with stunning views and recreational activities.

Truman Show House

Visit the iconic Truman Show House in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, and immerse yourself in a piece of cinematic history amidst beautiful coastal scenery.

E Ruskin Beach Pavilion

E Ruskin Beach Pavilion: A serene beachfront landmark in Santa Rosa Beach, offering stunning views and a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Grayton Beach West Side

Explore Grayton Beach West Side, a serene coastal paradise in Santa Rosa Beach, offering stunning scenery and unforgettable sunsets.

Essential places to dine

Great Southern Cafe

Discover authentic Southern cuisine at Great Southern Cafe in Santa Rosa Beach—where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

The Red Bar

Discover The Red Bar in Grayton Beach - where vibrant atmosphere meets delicious food and live music.

Hurricane Oyster Bar & Grill

Discover fresh seafood delights at Hurricane Oyster Bar & Grill in Santa Rosa Beach – where local flavors meet coastal charm.

Bud & Alley's Waterfront Restaurant & Bar

Discover coastal dining at its finest at Bud & Alley's Waterfront Restaurant & Bar in Santa Rosa Beach—where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views.

AJ's Grayton Beach

Experience vibrant seafood dining at AJ's Grayton Beach in Santa Rosa Beach, where fresh flavors meet lively entertainment in a picturesque coastal setting.

Beach Camp Brewpub

Experience the perfect blend of coastal cuisine and craft beer at Beach Camp Brewpub in Santa Rosa Beach.

Chanticleer Eatery

Experience the best of American cuisine at Chanticleer Eatery in Santa Rosa Beach—where fresh flavors meet warm hospitality.

Fish Out of Water

Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking Gulf views at Fish Out of Water in Santa Rosa Beach.

Grayton Seafood

Experience fresh coastal cuisine at Grayton Seafood in Santa Rosa Beach—where every dish tells a story of the sea.

Crackings. - Grayton

Experience an unforgettable breakfast at Crackings in Grayton Beach – where delicious flavors meet friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.

Chiringo

Experience coastal dining at Chiringo in Grayton Beach - where fresh flavors meet laid-back vibes in a picturesque setting.

Borago Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Borago Restaurant in Santa Rosa Beach - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Roux 30A

Discover the flavors of coastal cuisine at Roux 30A in Santa Rosa Beach - where every dish tells a story.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Modica Market

Experience the culinary charm of Modica Market in Seaside, Florida, where local flavors and gourmet delights await every visitor.

Grayton General Store

Discover local flavors and community spirit at Grayton General Store, the heart of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, where every visit feels like home.

Central Square Records

Explore Central Square Records in Santa Rosa Beach for an eclectic selection of vinyl records, music gifts, and local crafts in a vibrant atmosphere.

Store ALOHA

Explore Store ALOHA, the ultimate souvenir destination in Santa Rosa Beach, offering unique beach-themed treasures and local crafts.

Duckies Shop of Fun

Explore Duckies Shop of Fun in Santa Rosa Beach, where every corner is filled with delightful toys and games for all ages.

Retail Therapy of Santa Rosa Beach

Explore the ultimate shopping destination in Santa Rosa Beach, featuring unique gifts, stylish clothing, and local artisan treasures.

Mercantile - Seaside, FL

Explore Mercantile in Seaside, FL - a trendy women's clothing store offering unique apparel and accessories in a charming coastal setting.

Captured Clothing

Discover unique men's fashion and vintage finds at Captured Clothing, Santa Rosa Beach's eclectic treasure trove for style seekers.

SURF STAR

Discover Surf Star in Santa Rosa Beach, the ultimate destination for beachwear, surf gear, and delicious treats that embody coastal culture.

Old Florida Outfitters

Explore Old Florida Outfitters for beachwear, fishing gear, and stylish clothing that elevate your coastal adventures in Santa Rosa Beach.

The Zoo Gallery

Explore The Zoo Gallery in Santa Rosa Beach for unique gifts and local art, capturing the creative spirit of Florida's beautiful coastal town.

BOTE Grayton Beach

Explore the ultimate outdoor sports store at BOTE Grayton Beach, offering top gear and apparel for water adventures on Florida's stunning coastline.

Focus Lifestyle Boutique

Discover unique fashion treasures at Focus Lifestyle Boutique in Santa Rosa Beach, where style meets coastal charm.

Shops of Grayton

Experience the charm of locally crafted art and unique shopping at the Shops of Grayton in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, the perfect destination for tourists.

30A Store at Seagrove Beach

Explore the vibrant 30A Store at Seagrove Beach for the finest beach apparel and accessories that reflect the coastal lifestyle.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar

Experience the best seafood and live music at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar in Santa Rosa Beach, a true gem of Florida's coastal dining scene.

The Red Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Red Bar, Grayton Beach's favorite spot for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music.

Hurricane Oyster Bar & Grill

Discover the taste of the sea at Hurricane Oyster Bar & Grill in Santa Rosa Beach, where fresh oysters and seafood await you.

Bud & Alley's Waterfront Restaurant & Bar

Experience coastal dining bliss at Bud & Alley's Waterfront Restaurant & Bar, where stunning views and fresh flavors meet in Santa Rosa Beach.

AJ's Grayton Beach

Experience the best of seafood dining and live music at AJ's Grayton Beach, a must-visit destination in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Beach Camp Brewpub

Discover the perfect blend of craft beer and coastal cuisine at Beach Camp Brewpub in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Local Catch Bar & Grill

Experience the best of American and Southern cuisine at Local Catch Bar & Grill in Santa Rosa Beach, where fresh seafood meets coastal charm.

Chanticleer Eatery

Discover the flavors of America at Chanticleer Eatery, where fresh ingredients meet delightful dishes in a cozy beachside setting.

Outcast Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of American and seafood cuisine at Outcast Bar & Grill in beautiful Santa Rosa Beach, where good food meets stunning views.

Crackings. - Grayton

Discover the charm of Crackings, a beloved breakfast spot in Grayton serving delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients and friendly service.

Chiringo

Experience the vibrant beachside atmosphere at Chiringo in Grayton Beach, Florida, where delicious food and refreshing cocktails await.

Pickle's Burger and Shake

Experience the best of burgers and shakes in Santa Rosa Beach at Pickle's Burger and Shake, a family-friendly dining hotspot.

Johnny McTighe's Irish Pub

Discover the authentic taste of Ireland at Johnny McTighe's Irish Pub in Santa Rosa Beach, where friendly faces and great food await.

North Beach Social

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of North Beach Social, where delicious food and refreshing drinks meet the charm of Santa Rosa Beach.

The Wine Bar - Watercolor

Discover a curated selection of wines, local beers, and artisanal cheeses at The Wine Bar - Watercolor, a must-visit destination in Santa Rosa Beach.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Grayton Beach

Discover Grayton Beach with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Grayton Beach

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun mee/my bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
- Fine. And you?Just fine. How 'bout you?
  [just fine. how 'bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [y'all speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [I ain't get-tin' it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLemme see the menu, please
  [lem-mee see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I don't do meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'm ready to settle up, please
  [I'm ready to settle up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git!
  [git]
- Call the Police!Get the Sheriff!
  [get the sheriff]
- Call a doctor!Get a Doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feelin' poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [I'm fixin' to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browse-in']
- How much is it?How much for that?
  [how much for that?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's a bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can y'all do better on the price?
  [can y'all do better on the price?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
- YesterdayYestiddy
  [yes-ti-dee]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorry
  [tom-or-ree]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the street?
  [what's the street?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [when's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach's history dates back to the late 19th century when Army Major Charles T. Gray and his family became some of the first settlers in the area. In the 1880s, the Gray family established a small community, which would eventually become known as Grayton Beach.
In 1890, Army Major Charles T. Gray and his friend, Army Colonel William Miller, officially founded the village of Grayton Beach. The town was laid out with a simple grid of streets, and a few basic structures were built. The founders envisioned a quiet, peaceful community where residents could enjoy the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.
Throughout the early 20th century, Grayton Beach remained a small, isolated community. The town saw slow but steady growth as more families moved in, attracted by the area's pristine beaches and tranquil environment. Wooden cottages and small businesses began to appear, catering to the needs of the local residents and the few tourists who discovered this hidden gem.
During World War II, the area around Grayton Beach was used for military training exercises. The nearby Eglin Air Force Base, established in 1935, played a significant role in the war effort. Although the military presence brought changes to the region, Grayton Beach itself remained largely untouched by the war.
In 1964, the state of Florida recognized the unique natural beauty of Grayton Beach and established Grayton Beach State Park. The park spans over 2,200 acres and offers visitors a chance to explore the area's diverse ecosystems, including coastal dune lakes, pristine beaches, and dense forests. The establishment of the state park helped to protect the area's natural environment and promote sustainable tourism.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Grayton Beach began to develop a reputation as a cultural and artistic hub. Artists, writers, and musicians were drawn to the area's laid-back atmosphere and stunning landscapes. The community embraced its creative spirit, and local galleries, studios, and cultural events flourished.
Today, Grayton Beach is a beloved destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The town has managed to retain its quaint charm and relaxed vibe despite the influx of visitors. It continues to be a place where history and modernity coexist harmoniously, offering a unique experience for all who visit.

Grayton Beach Essentials

Grayton Beach is located in the Florida Panhandle, roughly halfway between Destin and Panama City Beach. The nearest airports are Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City, about 35 miles away, and Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), approximately 40 miles away. From either airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or arrange a private transfer to Grayton Beach. Driving is a popular option for many visitors, as U.S. Highway 98 and Scenic Highway 30A provide easy access to the beach.
Grayton Beach is a small, walkable community with most amenities and attractions within a short distance. Biking is a popular mode of transportation, and there are several bike rental shops in the area. For longer trips, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available, but may have limited availability during peak times. Renting a car is advisable if you plan to explore beyond Grayton Beach, such as visiting nearby state parks or neighboring beach towns along Scenic Highway 30A.
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Grayton Beach, including at restaurants, shops, and most accommodations. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case of emergencies. ATMs are available in the town, but fees may apply depending on your bank.
Grayton Beach is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in your car. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded spots. Be mindful of local wildlife, such as jellyfish and rip currents, and follow posted warnings and advisories to ensure a safe beach experience.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast in Miramar Beach, about 15 miles away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in nearby towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable, casual beachwear. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Religion: There are no specific religious customs to follow, but respect for all places of worship is encouraged. Public Transport: Public transportation options are limited, so renting a bike or car is advisable. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. Southern hospitality is a hallmark of the region. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and Southern cuisine. Don't litter; always clean up after yourself, especially on the beach.
To experience Grayton Beach like a local, visit the Red Bar, a beloved local institution known for its live music and eclectic decor. Explore the Grayton Beach State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Western Lake, a rare coastal dune lake. For a unique shopping experience, visit the local art galleries and boutiques. Don't miss the sunset at Grayton Beach; it's a spectacular sight that locals cherish.

Grayton Beach: A Hidden Gem on Florida's Emerald Coast

Local tips in Grayton Beach