The Neighborhood

One of the largest coastal dune lakes in Florida, Camp Helen State Park – within nearby Panama City Beach – is an esteemed Florida landmark that has been given the National Recreation & Parks Association’s Gold Medal Award. This 180-acre park is rich in history and outside activities, from hiking to preserving sea turtle nests, kayaking, picnicking, birding, and more. And Camp Helen is an excellent spot to learn about geology at any age, with prehistoric middens and mounds in the area indicating humans inhabited the area over 4,000 years ago. Tour the historic lodge and rainbow cottages, or pop by the visitors center and sign up for an excursion or tour. It’s the perfect day’s outing.

Watersound Fountains is just down the road from Lake Powell, a rare coastal dune located in the 13 acres of protected land surrounding Inlet Beach. Lake Powell is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend their vacation fishing, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddling, or simply relaxing amid the dunes and bird watching.

Cobia Reef was installed in 2017 as part of the South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA) program. This artificial reef is about 970 feet off the shore of Inlet Beach. If you use the Orange Street Regional Beach access and walk about 50 paces to the west, you’ll find two large yellow pole markers that point to where Cobia Reef is located. It’s a great spot to snorkel and fish just off Inlet Beach.

There are many thriving marine ecosystems within the area due to SWARA's efforts. In fact, SWARA helped create the nation’s first permanent underwater sculpture garden, aka the Underwater Museum of Art. Located at a depth of 60 feet and just 0.7 miles from the shore of Grayton Beach State Park, it is a great day trip from Inlet Beach for those who want to snorkel and explore.