Blue Mountain Beach, located along Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton, Florida, offers a peaceful coastal lifestyle. Known for its 65-foot elevation - the highest point on Florida's Gulf Coast - and rare coastal dune lakes, this small community balances natural beauty with modern amenities. Here's what makes it stand out:
- Natural Highlights: Features three rare coastal dune lakes (Draper Lake, Big Redfish Lake, and Little Redfish Lake) and is bordered by the expansive 15,000-acre Point Washington State Forest.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy beach access, kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking trails like the 14.8-mile Longleaf Greenway Trail.
- Dining and Shopping: From casual spots like Red Fish Taco to fine dining at Café Tango, plus local gems like Blue Mountain Creamery and Justin Gaffrey Gallery.
- Real Estate: Home values average $1.6M, with options ranging from cozy beach cottages to luxury gulf-front estates. Rental demand is strong, with three-bedroom homes averaging $4,400/month.
Perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to busier 30A neighborhoods, Blue Mountain Beach combines coastal charm with a laid-back vibe.
Natural Features and Outdoor Activities
Beach Access and Coastal Dune Lakes
Blue Mountain Regional Beach Access, located at 2365 South County Highway 30A, serves as the main entry point to the area's stunning coastline. It offers convenient amenities like parking, restrooms, seasonal lifeguards, and ADA accessibility. For a quieter option, Seagrade Road Access at 590 Blue Mountain Road provides limited parking, including one ADA-compliant spot. Meanwhile, Blue Lake Road (726 Blue Mountain Road) and Gulf Point Road (446 Blue Mountain Road) are pedestrian and cyclist-friendly access points along the scenic Timpoochee Trail.
The area is also home to three rare coastal dune lakes: Draper Lake, Big Redfish Lake, and Little Redfish Lake. These freshwater lakes, found only in select locations worldwide, sit within two miles of the Gulf. After heavy rains, they breach the sand barriers, creating a unique brackish habitat that attracts species like redfish. For a closer look, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards from local spots like Big Daddy's Bike Shop or mobile vendors such as Surf Sup Paddle Board Rentals. The Timpoochee Trail bridge offers breathtaking views of Draper Lake, making it a favorite for walkers and cyclists.
If you’re up for more adventure, Point Washington State Forest is just a short distance inland.
Point Washington State Forest
Venturing beyond the beach, Point Washington State Forest offers a network of trails that wind through diverse landscapes. Just a few blocks north of Blue Mountain Beach, this forest features over 27 miles of trails that meander through ten distinct ecosystems, including longleaf pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and wet prairies. The Longleaf Greenway Trail, a 14.8-mile route, is easily accessible from the Blue Mountain Beach parking area via Highway 83, making it a convenient choice for hikers and mountain bikers alike.
Other popular trails include the Western Lake Trail (4.9 miles) and the Black Creek Trail (8 miles). Along these paths, you might spot rare wildlife such as the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, gopher tortoises, bald eagles, or even Curtiss sandgrass, which boasts its largest population in the world here. To explore the forest, day passes are available for just $2, while an annual pass costs $45. Don’t forget to pack water and wear sturdy footwear, as many trails feature loose or packed sand, adding a bit of challenge to your adventure.
Living in Blue Mountain Beach | The Local’s Guide to 30A’s Best-Kept Secret
Restaurants and Food Options
Blue Mountain Beach is a haven for food lovers, offering everything from casual bites to refined dining experiences. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch by the water or planning a memorable evening meal, there's something to satisfy every craving.
Casual Restaurants
Red Fish Taco is a standout for Mexican-inspired seafood dishes. Their redfish tacos and taco salad come highly recommended. MJ, a Google reviewer, shared:
The redfish taco salad was the best salad and redfish we've ever had. Cooked perfectly!!
. They also provide catering services for groups ranging from 10 to 110 people, requiring just 8 hours' notice. It's a convenient choice for beach parties or family get-togethers.
Johnny McTighe's Irish Pub combines a family-friendly atmosphere with hearty fare. As Scenic 30-A's only Irish pub, it serves up pizza, wings, cheesesteaks, and classic fish and chips. To keep the little ones entertained, the pub also features arcade games, blending Irish-inspired meals with American favorites.
Blue Mountain Creamery has been a local treasure for over 20 years. This family-owned shop offers handmade ice cream, yogurt, and sorbet. For early risers, their Shake Shop opens at 7:00 AM, serving Charlie's Donuts and Lucky Goat coffee - just the thing to kickstart your day at the beach.
Fine Dining and Bakeries
For a more refined dining experience, Café Tango delivers a menu blending international flavors with Southern coastal influences. Its intimate setting makes it perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions.
Blue Mountain Bakery is the go-to spot for artisanal baked goods, offering fresh pastries, breads, and sweets. With 85% of their ingredients certified organic, it's easy to see why this bakery is a neighborhood favorite. Conveniently located at the heart of Blue Mountain Beach, it's accessible by foot or bike, and they also accept preorders for special events.
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Shopping and Recreation
Blue Mountain Beach perfectly reflects its coastal charm by offering a mix of shopping and recreational activities. Whether you're into biking, discovering local art, or diving into water adventures on the Gulf or coastal dune lakes, this area has something to keep you moving and entertained.
Bike Rentals and Timpoochee Trail
For an active day out, Blue Mountain Beach provides plenty of rental options and scenic routes. Big Daddy's Bike Shop, located at the High Point Center, has over 400 rental bikes, catering to various preferences. They even offer free local delivery for bike and beach gear rentals, so you can get everything you need without leaving your vacation spot.
The Timpoochee Trail is a must for biking enthusiasts. This 18.5-mile paved path runs alongside Scenic Highway 30A, connecting Blue Mountain Beach to nearby coastal communities. Make sure to follow local helmet laws and trail etiquette for a safe ride.
If you're curious about electric bikes, Emerald Coast E-bikes is worth checking out. They provide American-made e-bikes with a range of up to 60 miles per charge. Rentals start at $70 per day or $240 per week, and the company boasts a perfect 5-star rating from 42 reviews, with users often praising the easy booking process.
Art Galleries and Shops
Art lovers should visit the Justin Gaffrey Gallery at 21 Blue Gulf Drive, where you’ll find stunning contemporary paintings and sculptures inspired by the local landscape. This gallery has become a cornerstone of the art scene in Blue Mountain Beach.
For a broader shopping experience, head to Lola's on 30A at 3788 W County Hwy 30A. This boutique offers a carefully curated selection of gifts, jewelry, designer clothing, and home décor, all crafted by local artisans. Traveling with a pet? Stop by Furry Fanatics, which features all-natural pet food, home-baked treats, and unique accessories. They even offer grooming services and are conveniently located next to the 30A Vet clinic.
Water Sports and Fishing
Once you've explored the art and shops, it's time to hit the water. Big Redfish Lake, one of South Walton's rare coastal dune lakes, is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. 30A Bike Rentals makes it easy by delivering paddleboards and kayaks directly to Eastern Lake. For ocean or dune lake adventures, Big Daddy's also has ocean kayaks available.
Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of options, from beach and bay fishing to fly fishing for species like Tarpon and Redfish. Shallow Water Expeditions offers guided trips, starting at $600 for a 4-hour excursion for 1–2 anglers.
"I'm a big believer that time is your most valuable asset, my time on the water is best served with the guides I fish with at Shallow Water Expeditions!"
– Roy Seiders, Founder of YETI
Before booking a charter, double-check that fishing licenses are included, and remember that tipping the guide typically starts at 20% of the trip price.
Real Estate and Housing
Blue Mountain Beach Housing Types: Price Ranges, Sizes, and Features Comparison
Blue Mountain Beach isn't just a vacation hotspot - it’s also a sought-after place to live. From charming beach cottages to stunning gulf-front estates, the area offers a variety of residential options. The average home value here is $1,639,055, with a median sale price of $1,150,000, marking a 2% increase compared to last year. Most homes range from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet and typically feature 3–4 bedrooms.
What sets this market apart is its low density, thanks to its location near 18,000 acres of protected forest. As Richard Stafford, a Real Estate Broker at Tommy Sholes Inc., puts it:
"We have lower density because we're bordered by 18,000 acres of protected, undeveloped forests."
This natural buffer provides residents with a peaceful and private environment while keeping the beach and Highway 30A conveniently close. Currently, there are 112 active listings, with a 9.6-month supply of housing inventory. Homes tend to stay on the market for an average of 105 days. Despite this, the market remains competitive, with well-priced homes often attracting offers above the asking price.
For buyers, securing mortgage pre-approval is essential, along with preparing for the typical 20% down payment. Vacant lots present another option, with prices starting around $250,000 near Point Washington State Forest, while prime gulf-front lots can climb to nearly $3 million. Rental opportunities are also strong, with three-bedroom homes renting for about $4,400 per month and luxury condos commanding over $10,000. These options underscore the area’s appeal to both homeowners and investors.
Luxury Homes
The luxury market in Blue Mountain Beach is defined by its high-end features and exclusive communities. Upscale homes often come with outdoor showers, granite countertops, hardwood floors, wet bars, and private pools. Many are located in gated neighborhoods that provide amenities like putting greens, shuffleboard courts, fitness centers, and expansive community pools.
Condominium complexes like Adagio offer standout features, including an 8,000-square-foot pool and spa, while Bella Vita is celebrated for its Mediterranean-style architecture and lush landscaping. Gulf-front estates can reach prices as high as $17,999,000, offering breathtaking views from the area’s 65-foot elevation - the highest point along the Gulf of Mexico.
For those seeking new construction, options range from $900,000 to $5.5 million. These homes come equipped with modern conveniences, high-end finishes, and smart home technology. They also adhere to Florida’s updated hurricane-resistant building codes introduced after 2003, ensuring both luxury and safety.
Housing Types Comparison
Blue Mountain Beach caters to a variety of budgets and lifestyles with its diverse property offerings. Single-family homes, for example, average 2,566 square feet and have a median sale price of $1,275,000. Beach cottages, with their retro or Florida-style designs, offer a cozier option, typically spanning 1,200 to 1,800 square feet.
| Housing Type | Price Range | Average Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condo/Townhome | $600,000–$2,500,000+ | 1,100–3,500 sq ft | Gated access, community pools, fitness centers |
| Beach Cottage | $700,000–$900,000 | 1,200–1,800 sq ft | Florida-style architecture, cozy layouts |
| Single-Family Home | $800,000–$3,000,000+ | 2,566 sq ft | Private pools, larger lots |
| New Construction | $900,000–$5,500,000 | Varies | Modern amenities, smart home tech |
This variety ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a cozy retreat or a luxurious estate.
Conclusion
Blue Mountain Beach offers a mix of natural beauty and peaceful living that’s hard to find elsewhere. With its 65-foot elevation and rare coastal dune lakes, it provides a stunning backdrop for water activities and relaxation alike.
This neighborhood stands out with its small-town charm, attracting those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist spots. Surrounded by natural buffers and supported by local businesses, it maintains a welcoming and authentic vibe.
For outdoor lovers, Blue Mountain Beach is a dream. It offers direct access to 15,000 acres of forest and the 19-mile Timpoochee Trail, all while being just steps from restaurants, shops, and the beach.
The housing market here reflects its appeal. From cozy beach cottages to luxurious gulf-front estates, properties are in high demand, often selling above asking price. Whether you're searching for a vacation home or a permanent residence, the area’s strong sense of community and rental opportunities make it a smart choice.
Blue Mountain Beach combines natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a true sense of community - without the crowds that often come with beach living. It’s a place where coastal living feels just right.
FAQs
What makes the coastal dune lakes at Blue Mountain Beach so special?
Blue Mountain Beach boasts a true natural treasure: Big Redfish Lake. This rare coastal dune lake is one of South Walton’s most striking features, and it’s part of an exclusive group of lakes found in only a handful of places around the world. What makes these lakes so special? It’s their delicate mix of fresh and salt water, created when a sand berm separates the lake from the Gulf of Mexico. When heavy rains or high tides occur, the berm can break, allowing water to flow between the lake and the Gulf. This creates a fascinating blend of fresh and brackish water that’s constantly changing.
Big Redfish Lake is an ideal getaway for those seeking tranquility. Whether you’re paddling a kayak, gliding on a paddleboard, or simply taking in the crystal-clear waters, the lake’s serene atmosphere is hard to resist. Its ecosystem is equally captivating, supporting a wide variety of wildlife that’s sure to delight nature lovers. Whether you’re planning a visit or dreaming of making this area your home, Big Redfish Lake is a shining example of the natural beauty that defines Blue Mountain Beach.
How does Blue Mountain Beach's real estate market compare to other neighborhoods along 30A?
Blue Mountain Beach is one of the more budget-friendly options along the 30A corridor. Homes here average around $1.2 million, with monthly rents typically near $4,200. To put that in perspective, nearby communities like Grayton Beach, WaterColor, and Seaside come with higher price points - averaging $1.8 million ($5,000 rent), $2.5 million ($6,000 rent), and $3 million ($6,500 rent) respectively. For anyone looking to enjoy the 30A lifestyle without breaking the bank, Blue Mountain Beach strikes a great balance between affordability and charm.
The 30A real estate market continues to attract buyers, thanks to limited land availability, steady tourism throughout the year, and its reputation for stunning architecture. Blue Mountain Beach, with its comparatively lower prices, appeals to both buyers and investors. It offers strong rental opportunities while granting access to the same gorgeous beaches and lively community atmosphere that make the area so sought after.
What are the top outdoor activities to enjoy in Blue Mountain Beach?
Blue Mountain Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of ways to enjoy its natural beauty along the iconic 30A. On the Gulf’s stunning shoreline, you can dive into crystal-clear waters for a swim, bask under the sun on the soft white sand, or take a leisurely stroll and soak in the coastal views.
For a more tranquil experience, the rare coastal dune lakes, like Little Redfish Lake and Big Redfish Lake, are perfect spots to try paddleboarding or kayaking. These serene waters provide a unique opportunity to explore ecosystems that are as peaceful as they are fascinating.
If you prefer to stay on land, the Timpoochee Trail is a fantastic option. This scenic path is perfect for biking or hiking, weaving through the neighborhood and connecting to nearby gems like Point Washington State Forest. Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife, from shorebirds to playful dolphins.
Whether you’re gliding across calm waters, discovering nature on the trails, or simply enjoying the sunshine, Blue Mountain Beach offers endless ways to embrace the outdoors.
