Discover Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach is a sleepy little town located off Scenic Highway 30A, featuring everything from coastal cottages to multi-million dollar beachfront homes. Western Lake, the second largest coastal dune lake in the area, borders the Grayton Beach neighborhood. When the lake fills with fresh water, it breaks through to meet the Gulf of Mexico, allowing saltwater to enter and creating unique brackish conditions. Coastal dune lakes are rare natural features found in only four countries worldwide and two states in the US. The Little Red Fish Lake, Alligator Lake, and Western Lake are all coastal dune lakes that wind through the Grayton Beach neighborhood or the Grayton Beach State Park.

Dining and Shopping

Grayton Beach has a few small areas of commerce that perfectly capture its laid-back charm. Along Scenic 30A, you'll find beachy relaxed restaurants and artfully designed eateries offering coastal cuisines.

The Red Bar is a local favorite located at the end of Grayton Beach, bordering the public access to the beach. They offer live music and great food. Chiringo is an open-air casual beach restaurant. Hurricane Oyster Bar and Grill and AJ's Seafood Restaurant, both near Hwy 283, are popular amongst locals and visitors alike. Black Bear Bread Co. offers wonderful pastries, coffee, breakfast, and lunch items, or you can enjoy some simple but good pizza or shakes at Grace Pizza.

There's also a collection of artistic shops along Hwy 283, which is a cross road to Scenic 30A. There is also shopping at the core of Grayton Beach by the beach, The Zoo Gallery features a collection of local and unique art and fine jewelry. A special feature of this small community is the large collection of wild cats that the businesses have spayed, neutered, and continue to feed—furry friends that add to Grayton's unique character.

Grayton Beach is known for its motto of "nice dogs, strange people," but the "strange" really just means wonderfully eclectic! I'd say it's a relaxed artistic vibe on the beach—nothing too serious, and lots of R&R going on.

Beach Access and Regulations

For visitors planning beach activities, be aware that you'll need a permit to ride all-terrain vehicles on the beach, to bring dogs to the beach, or to have bonfires. A new law has passed requiring bonfires to be contained rather than built directly on the white beach sands.

Grayton Beach State Park

The Grayton Beach State Park requires a small cash fee to enter. There are walking trails through the sand live oaks, magnolias, and pine trees. The park offers kayak and paddleboard rentals to visitors for fun in the sun on Western Lake. Access to the coastal dunes and beach from Grayton Beach State Park is available as well. The dunes are protected from foot traffic, but the beach is plentiful and not as crowded as other public beaches.