Dune Allen Beach is located at the far western end of Scenic Highway 30A, in South Walton County, Florida. It’s a real gem with a unique personality that sets it apart from other communities along the 30A corridor.
The area is home to three coastal dune lakes, Lake Allen, Lake Stallworth, and Oyster Lake, which are a particular feature of this community. These rare bodies of water are found in only a few places worldwide, and they add a unique ecological aspect to the experience of visiting Dune Allen Beach.
The beach itself is nothing short of gorgeous, with sugar-white sand and emerald-green water that the Gulf Coast is known for. It’s less crowded than many other beaches along the 30A, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a bit of solitude or a quiet family beach day. There are several beach access points throughout the community, some of which offer restrooms and parking.
Dune Allen is where I first wanted to live when I toured the area with family. The area is the least commercialized and the road itself has a very open, sunny vibe in comparison to all the eastern beach towns of 30A. It’s a very unique vibe with one row of beachfront rentals to the south and huge coastal dune lakes to the north. It definitely feels the least crowded as far as buildings and population density are concerned.
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll appreciate the 15,000-acre Point Washington State Forest nearby, with its trails winding through dense woods, marshes, and cypress swamps. It’s a great place for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. You can spot everything from deer to foxes to a wide variety of bird species.
In terms of accommodations, Dune Allen offers a variety of options from private vacation rental homes to quaint beachside cottages, many with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico or one of the dune lakes. You won’t find high-rise condos or crowded resorts here; the emphasis is on low-key, laid-back beach living.
For dining, one local favorite is the Stinky’s Fish Camp, which despite its playful name, serves up some of the freshest seafood around in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. They’re famous for their oysters and daily specials, and the views of Lake Allen are a fantastic bonus. You might also want to check out the Vue on 30a, a fine dining restaurant with breathtaking views of the Gulf.
In terms of shopping, you won’t find the large commercial centers that are common in other areas. Instead, you’ll come across charming local boutiques like the Dune Allen Beach Realty, which not only handles property but also sells locally made gifts and souvenirs.
Dune Allen Beach offers a blend of stunning natural beauty, great dining, relaxed accommodations, and a vibrant arts scene just down the road in Gulf Place. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back beach vacation, with a dash of adventure and culture thrown in.
