Grayton Beach is located in Walton County on Florida's Emerald Coast. It’s known for its beautiful water and laid-back vibe. While it’s not a destination that surfers will drive miles for, it does offer some fun waves, especially when conditions are right. The beach is accessible with a short walk from the parking lot, making it easy to get to. Just be cautious of the four-wheel-drive trucks on the beach.
The surf at Grayton Beach can be quite enjoyable, especially on smaller days. It works from waist to overhead high (about 1 to 2.5 meters). The wave breaks mostly left and right and is generally better when the swell is coming from the South, South-SouthEast, or South-SouthWest. The beach break is on soft sand, which means it's friendly for beginners, but you should be comfortable paddling back out, especially when the swell picks up. Wind from the North to North-East is preferable, and the best tides tend to be low to mid. When the conditions align, you can catch some decent waves here, particularly in the fall and spring.
With about 15 coastal lakes in the area, the surf around Grayton Beach can vary greatly. The local crowd is pretty mellow, and you won’t find yourself fighting for waves. The vibe is low-key, making it a nice spot to relax and enjoy some time in the water. If you’re looking to bring different types of boards, you have options ranging from shortboards to funboards and longboards. Overall, it’s a chill spot for surfers of all skill levels, but best suited for those looking for a casual session rather than a serious surf trip.