Located a little more than four hours away from New Orleans, the Beaches of South Walton want to get the message out: despite the oil disaster – the water is clean and the beach is still a good place to relax.
The 26-mile stretch of picturesque beach communities lies on northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. There are 15 beaches to choose from, and all have been monitored intensively for signs of tar balls and oil. For those who need to see oil-free waters to believe, the website, www.bswupdate.com, posts daily memos on the quality of South Walton beaches, complete with pictures.
Still not ready to jump into the water? Swimming isn’t your only option, says Dawn Moliterno, executive director of the Beaches of South Walton Tourist Development Council.
“When people ask how they can help, I tell them to keep traveling. While the beaches are our primary attraction, there are so many other activities that keep visitors coming back year after year.”
Some August activities include: the Le Grand Cirque performances at the Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, an acrobatic group featuring more than 40 performers from throughout the world that will perform until Aug. 15; a free performance of The Tempest in Rosemary Beach on Aug. 4; and free performances of Charlotte’s Web at the Seaside Repertory Theatre Aug. 1-9.
Information, (800) 822-6877, www.beachesofsouthwalton.
