Stretching between Grayton Beach and WaterColor along the Emerald Coast’s Scenic Highway 30A, Western Lake is a paradise within a paradise. It’s like coastal dune lake inception!
Coastal dune lakes are geologic features created by wind, sand, and a combination of fresh water and saltwater. Although common in South Walton, coastal dune lakes are rare in the rest of the world. As one of the larger coastal dune lakes on 30A, Western Lake is a picture-perfect oasis that beckons to 30A locals and visitors.
Although the pristine sandy beaches and warm Gulf waves are the main attraction of the Emerald Coast, your vacation would not be complete without a visit to Western Lake. Why? Western Lake is not only a scenic destination, it also provides a variety of opportunities to make great vacation memories. It is a shallow, 214-acre lake that may be accessed from Grayton Beach or Grayton Beach State Park. There is no fee to access the lake and public boat ramp from Grayton Beach; however, there is a park fee for accessing the lake through the state park.
Western Lake offers something for everyone, from small kids to adults to entire families. Whether you paddle board, kayak, swim, or fish, there’s plenty of fun to be had! Small motorboats are allowed on part of the lake, which allows visitors to check out stunning views and have a fun time under the sun. Some people even try water skiing on the lake! Others prefer a more relaxing ride, opting to take a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard out on the water.
Additionally, seasoned and novice fishermen alike enjoy fishing on Western Lake. To fish on the lake, you must have a Florida fishing license. Some fish you might catch include bream, bass, catfish, redfish, and speckled trout. Try fishing from a boat, a paddle board, or the edge of the lake.
Many others like to take a refreshing dip in the cool water. Some even refer to Western Lake as Grayton Beach’s all-natural kiddie pool. How awesome is that! Grab the kiddos and head on over. They are sure to have fun splashing in the shallow water, and you can relax knowing they’re having a good time and making lifelong memories. Be careful though – because of the unique ecosystem, a wide variety of wildlife calls the lake and the surrounding area home, including alligators. There are signs reminding visitors to keep an eye out for these scaly guys, so be sure to stay vigilant!
Boating, fishing, or swimming not your thing? Don’t fret! You can still take advantage of Western Lake. You can hike and camp in Grayton Beach State Park, allowing you to enjoy the views of Western Lake and the nearby Gulf. Campsites are available for tent and RV camping, or you can rent a camp cabin. Imagine waking up in the oasis that is Grayton Beach State Park, watching the sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico and Western Lake, and then going for a nature walk around the lake and checking out the unique biodiversity? Sounds like a dream!
Planning a 30A vacation soon? Don’t forget to check out Western Lake!
