What are 30A visitors saying?
The following comment was shared on “The Best of 30a” Facebook page by a guest who said they won’t be returning anytime soon because “although they love 30A, they don’t love it enough to be treated poorly.”
“We are looking for a beach town that allows visitors to use all the beach and spread out. We stayed in Blue Mountain and loved it. But, we were disappointed in the tiny area of public beach space. We were all sitting so close together, and then the beach chair dictator at Ed Walline Beach kept calling code compliance on canopies that were too large, and placed in the wrong spot, or chairs being in the wrong space.”
Posted by a frequent 30a visitor who took the time to write the following letter to a Walton County Commissioner:
Hello! My family and I are visiting from the panhandles of Oklahoma and Texas. We’ve been blissfully traveling to the Walton County area for our family vacations since 2017. We’ve noticed a disturbing trend in increased unwelcoming behavior from apparent beach front property owners. It is my understanding that many of the beach front properties in this area are now considered private due to HB631 and it is now being aggressively enforced by lifeguards, property managers, and hired security. This leaves access for tourists like us and locals who do not live beach front small sections to enjoy the sand between our toes. How is this feasible with the influx of tourism? How is it feasible for the local economy when tourists cease coming to the area because of the unwelcoming atmosphere and inconvenience? What will happen when other counties across Florida start imposing the same policies for their beach front property owners?Obviously I do not have a vote in this fight as I am not fortunate enough to reside in this beautiful area, but I’m hoping that my concern encourages you to consider the negative ripple effect this is causing. Heartbreakingly, my family and I have decided this is our last family vacation to this area until the issue is resolved. I fear that many others feel the same way. I appreciate your time and for sharing this community with your fellow Americans, again, I know I have no vote but I hope you consider my concerns. Sincerely, LO (initials only)
Comments taken with permission from social media sites to gain an understanding of what our 30A guests have to say regarding the beach situation.
