For many, a vacation is a special time to make memories with family and other loved ones. At Paradise Properties, we know that sometimes our family members happen to have four legs and fur. That’s why we offer several dog-friendly vacation rentals, so you can take your dog on your dream vacation to the Florida Panhandle. The Panhandle is one of the best dog-friendly vacations in Florida, including Panama City Beach and 30A, and we’re here to be your guide. Continue reading to learn more about our dog-friendly rentals in the 30A area and some of the exciting things you can do with man’s best friend on your trip.
Dog-Friendly Vacations in Florida
The Florida Panhandle is a great spot to take a vacation with your pooch. Many consider Panama City Beach to be the most dog-friendly destination in Florida. Miles of beaches are sure to keep you and Fido occupied, and Panama City Beach even has a nationally-rated dog-friendly beach known as Dog Beach at Pier Park. At Dog Beach at Pier Park, dogs must be kept on a leash, but they have 400 feet to play along the Gulf of Mexico.
Beyond romping in the sand and taking a dip in the Gulf, there are plenty of other dog-friendly activities to keep you and man’s best friend entertained. Hiking is a great option; Timpoochee Trail is one of South Walton’s top attractions, and leashed dogs are welcome to enjoy the walk. On the Timpoochee Trail, you’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of the coast, pass through state parks, and explore 30A’s quaint beach communities. While you’re walking through the charming towns, stop at a dog-friendly restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal with your pup.
Dog-Friendly Rentals in Panama City Beach & 30A
Finding dog-friendly lodging in the 30A area can be difficult; many hotels and resorts don’t offer dog-friendly accommodations. However, when you work with Paradise Properties, your dog-friendly home away from home for your trip is easy. We offer a wide selection of dog-friendly accommodations near 30A; whether you’re looking for a condo rental on the beach or a vacation home, we have you covered.
Our dog-friendly lodging can be found in some of the Florida Panhandle’s top vacation destinations. For example, we have dog-friendly vacation rentals in Panama City Beach, Seacrest Beach, Inlet Beach, Grayton Beach, and more. Browse our selection today to find the dog-friendly vacation rental that’s perfect for your Florida getaway. You can book your stay online or by calling 850-588-7136. You can also instantly chat with us.
There’s one attraction you can only find in Florida and one other state in the U.S. can you guess it? No, it’s not Disney theme parks; it’s even rarer: coastal dune lakes. This rare natural phenomenon can be found throughout Walton County and is well worth checking out when you vacation along 30A.
So, you’re probably wondering, what is a coastal dune lake? Where can I go to see them? The team at Paradise Properties has the answers. With vacation rentals in many of the towns along 30A, we’re quite familiar with Florida’s coastal dune lakes and can provide you with everything you need to know.
What is a Coastal Dune Lake?
Coastal dune lakes are lakes comprised initially of freshwater, but when water levels capacity, the freshwater spills out of the lake and the sand dunes and flows into the sea, or in the case of 30A’s coastal dune lakes, the Gulf of Mexico. Once the water gushes out, a channel directly connects the Gulf to the lake, allowing saltwater and freshwater to mingle. Eventually, the dune is repaired, but not before saltwater and freshwater mix back in the lake.
Coastal dune lakes only occur in a few locations in the world. Along with Walton County, you can only find coastal dune lakes in Oregon, Madagascar, New Zealand, and Australia.
Where Can I See a Coastal Dune Lake in Florida?
You can only find Florida’s coastal dune lakes in Walton County. With 15 named coastal dune lakes, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to check out coastal dune lakes on your vacation to 30A. Here’s a list of some of our favorites.
Western Lake: Located in Grayton Beach State Park, near our vacation rentals in Grayton Beach, Western Lake is a shining example of a coastal dune lake. Like most coastal dune lakes, Western Lake is very shallow, but you can enjoy kayaking or paddling on a stand-up paddleboard.
Campbell Lake: Another coastal dune lake ideal for paddling, Campbell Lake is a near 100-acre spot in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. However, please don’t bring your own kayak; the park requires you to rent one of theirs. Campell Lake is also a great spot to try kayak fishing, as anglers commonly catch saltwater species here.
Powell Lake: Mighty Powell Lake is the largest coastal dune lake in the U.S. Located in Camp Helen State Park, Powell Lake is an excellent spot for kayaking, fishing, and bird-watching. Don’t be scared off by the lake’s brownish color; minerals and falling leaves create the brown color, but it is still sanitary.
Lodging Along 30A
You can discover Florida’s amazing coastal dune lakes while staying in a 30A vacation rental from Paradise Properties. With locations throughout the area, you’re sure to find something suitable for your travel needs. To book your stay, please check availability online or connect with a reservationist at 850-588-7136.
There’s so much to explore along 30A, from gorgeous state parks to unique shopping opportunities and so much more. However, one thing not to be missed is the Timpoochee Trail. This 18.5-mile trail runs parallel to Scenic Highway 30A from Dune Allen to Inlet Beach and is an excellent way to get some exercise while having fun doing it. Whether hiking or biking, the Timpoochee Trail is a pleasurable way to enjoy all of the beauty that 30A has to offer.
An Insider’s Guide on Timpoochee Trail
Are you thinking about checking out Timpoochee Trail? The team at Paradise Properties is here to help. We’ve created a helpful guide on the Timpoochee Trail, so you can be prepared and make the most of your adventure.
Exploring the Timpoochee Trail: Hiking or Biking?
Before you set off on the Timpoochee Trail, you’ll need to decide whether you want to hike or bike. The trail is paved, smoothed, and mostly flat, so it is optimal for both hiking and biking. However, due to the trail’s length, most people choose to bike. In either case, remember that the trail is 18.5 miles one way or 37 miles there and back. If you need a bike, there are tons of bike rental companies nearby.
Where to Park
There are plenty of places to park along the Timpoochee Trail, but most people choose to park in Dune Allen, where the trail begins. However, if you find yourself in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park beforehand, you can park and embark there, as it is not far from the start of Timpoochee Trail.
What to Expect
When on Timpoochee Trail, you can expect to take in an abundance of beauty. You’ll walk or ride past state parks, rare dune lakes, numerous beaches, and quaint beach neighborhoods. Plenty of spots provide beach access along the trail, so pack a towel and swim gear if a detour to the beach sounds like fun. You can also expect the route to get quite busy; Timpoochee Trail is a popular destination, so be prepared to share the path with plenty of other hikers and bikers.
Timpoochee Trail Highlights
You’ll experience many fun and fascinating things as you make your way on Timpoochee Trail, but there are some highlights you should be aware of before you start your venture. To start, Timpoochee Trail runs near Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Grayton Beach State Park, and Deer Lake State Park. All three of these state parks are packed with natural beauty and are well worth exploring. You’ll also see several dune lakes, unique geographical features only found in a few places in the world. You’ll also pass through Seaside, a colorful neighborhood you might recognize from “The Truman Show.”
Of course, there’s plenty of other amazing things you’ll experience on your adventure. There are countless restaurants and shopping opportunities, pristine beaches, and more.
Pristine 30A Vacation Rentals
You can stay close to the Timpoochee Trail at one of Paradise Properties’ 30A vacation homes. We have vacation rentals in Inlet Beach, Grayton Beach, Seaside, and more. To book your stay with us, please check availability online or give us a call at 850-588-7136.