Located just west of Seaside along scenic 30A, WaterColor is a thoughtfully planned community with a laid-back, upscale feel. Unlike the more lively atmosphere in neighboring Seaside, WaterColor has a quieter, more serene vibe, where nature takes center stage. This planned community was designed to seamlessly blend luxury, nature, and Southern charm.
The Natural Beauty
What sets WaterColor apart is its close connection to nature. The community is set between the sugar-white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and the lush forests and coastal dune lakes that define this part of Florida’s Emerald Coast. One of the standout features of WaterColor is Western Lake, one of the largest and most beautiful coastal dune lakes in the region. The lake winds through the community, and you can often spot paddleboarders or kayakers gliding across the calm waters. For me, the contrast between the glassy lake and the turquoise Gulf waters is part of what makes WaterColor so captivating.
Walking or biking around WaterColor, you’re surrounded by towering pine trees, well-maintained parks, and nature trails. The community is designed to blend in with its natural surroundings, so you never feel far from the outdoors. For someone who loves to spend time in nature, WaterColor offers a perfect balance between beach days and peaceful moments in the shade of the forest.
The Beach
The beach at WaterColor is as pristine as they come, with powdery white sand and warm, clear waters. The community’s private beach access makes it feel more exclusive and peaceful, with plenty of room to stretch out. WaterColor guests and residents have access to the WaterColor Beach Club, which is right on the Gulf. The Beach Club feels luxurious yet relaxed, with multiple pools, comfortable lounge chairs, and food and drinks delivered right to your spot. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an entire day without needing to leave the beach.
The views of the Gulf from WaterColor are nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re catching the sunrise with a morning jog along the shore or watching the sun set over the horizon, the beach here feels almost untouched. What I love most about WaterColor’s beach is the calmness. It’s not as crowded as some of the other beaches along 30A, so you can truly relax, swim, or just enjoy the sound of the waves.
WaterColor Inn & Resort
For anyone looking for a getaway, the WaterColor Inn is one of the most beautiful beachfront resorts in the area. It has a boutique feel, with only 60 rooms, and offers some of the best Gulf views you can find. The inn is known for its comfort and understated luxury. Staying here is all about being immersed in nature while still enjoying high-end amenities. One of the highlights is the Fish Out of Water restaurant, which offers delicious, locally sourced seafood with stunning Gulf views.
The Neighborhoods and Architecture
WaterColor’s neighborhoods are charming, with a mix of Southern-style homes and cottages. The architecture is inspired by traditional Florida homes, featuring wide, inviting porches, tall windows, and natural materials like wood and stone. Every home feels unique, yet they all complement the natural surroundings. Biking through the tree-lined streets is one of my favorite ways to explore the community—it’s quiet and peaceful, with beautifully landscaped yards and hidden parks to discover along the way.
Each of the neighborhoods in WaterColor has its own personality. Some areas are more tucked away, offering more privacy and a closer connection to the natural surroundings, while others are closer to the beach or the town center. The entire community feels very well planned and cohesive.
Recreational Activities
One of the biggest draws of WaterColor is the abundance of recreational activities. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, there’s no shortage of things to do. Kayaking or paddleboarding on Western Lake is an absolute must—there’s nothing quite like gliding through the still waters, surrounded by the natural beauty of the coastal dune ecosystem.
There are also plenty of nature trails that weave through the community, perfect for walking, running, or biking. The Boathouse offers rentals for kayaks and paddleboards, and it’s easy to spend an entire day just exploring the lake. For those who love tennis, WaterColor has beautiful clay tennis courts, and there’s also a golf course nearby if you’re looking to hit the links.
The WaterColor Bike Barn is another great feature, as biking is one of the most popular ways to get around the community. With miles of trails and roads, it’s easy to hop on a bike and ride from your house to the beach, the pool, or into nearby Seaside. It adds to the overall laid-back and eco-friendly vibe that WaterColor is known for.
Community and Family Vibe
One thing that stands out about WaterColor is how family-friendly it is. The community is filled with families who either live there year-round or vacation during the summer months. The Camp WaterColor facility is a big hit with kids, offering multiple pools, a lazy river, and a waterslide. There are plenty of activities geared toward children, from outdoor movie nights to arts and crafts. The community was clearly designed with families in mind, which adds to its welcoming, safe, and inclusive atmosphere.
Yet despite its family-oriented vibe, WaterColor doesn’t feel chaotic or overly busy. It’s the kind of place where both families and adults can enjoy a peaceful, relaxing vacation. The blend of upscale living with a strong sense of community makes it unique compared to other beach towns.
Exploring 30A from WaterColor
One of the best parts about staying in WaterColor is its proximity to other communities along 30A. You can easily bike into Seaside or even take a quick drive to places like Grayton Beach or Alys Beach. The whole 30A stretch is filled with incredible beaches, dining options, and boutique shops, making WaterColor a perfect home base for exploring the area. But what I appreciate most about WaterColor is that while it’s close to the action, it feels like a peaceful escape—like your own little slice of paradise along the Emerald Coast.
WaterColor is a place where luxury meets nature, offering a peaceful, beautiful escape from the everyday world. Whether you’re lounging at the Beach Club, kayaking on Western Lake, or biking through the serene streets, it’s a community that feels connected to both the land and the water. The thoughtful design, beautiful homes, and range of activities make it a perfect place for families, couples, or anyone looking to relax and recharge along Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast. It’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
