TCorm42307

Which community in the 30A South Walton Beach area is fun for teens 15 and 18. I heard it was safe and laid back but I also don't want them to be bored. I've heard Seaside has lots of activity. We want to stay directly on the beach so I could use some advice in that area as well. I would like to be close to where my teens want to hangout and I'm not too fond of high rises. We are a family of 4 and may consider letting them each bring a friend, so 4-6 people.

LauraLF

We have stayed in many areas of 30A. Seaside /Waterclor has the advantage of being completely walkable/bikable for shopping, places to eat or just enjoying the many bike paths. Our kids also enjoyed the option of being able to go by themselves to eat and hang out at the many airstream food trucks on the main road in Seaside. We could be at the house in Watercolor and the kids would all ride bikes into Seaside for ice cream or to hang out with all the other kids. Down side is it can get pretty busy through that part of 30A. A little further east is the Alys beach and Rosemary beach areas. These are both really pretty but are geared more towards just hanging at the beach/pool with a few restaurants. There are bike paths all the way down 30A.
My kids are used to going to the beach and "hanging", playing cards, biking around, going for ice cream, but you know best whether that appeals to your kids. We have been taking friends for our boys the last few years and that makes everyone happy. Watercolor has a beach club with beach equipment(kayaks and boogie boards) so there are plenty of activities.
Also, a little east of Seaside is the Watersound community. We have stayed here several times and its really our favorite. Right on the beach, pool, fitness center, small grill for lunch.There is a place on site to rent bikes, kayaks and beach chairs. You will have to drive to go out for dinner but we dont mind that. We usually rent one of the condos(look on VRBO for Watersound) but there are also lots of really beautiful homes.
Further west is Grayton beach, a really cool area with several great restaurants but no resort. You would need to rent a private home in this area.
Finally, if your kids do get bored and need a night out, Panama city is about 30 mins east(movie theaters, lots of restaurants and shopping) and Destin is about 45 min west(movies, putt putt, waterparks etc.)
Good luck-oh, I just noticed when you posted, hope this still helps!!