Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
Airport, Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
59 min drive
Room options
About the neighborhood
Santa Rosa Beach
Located in Grayton Beach within 2 miles (3 km) of Blue Mountain Beach, this vacation home is within a few miles (5 km) of other popular sights such as Seaside Beach. The vacation home includes a private pool, a kitchen, and a balcony.
Grayton Beach State Park - 3 min drive - 1.6 miles
Seaside Beach - 6 min drive - 3.5 miles
Getting around
Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. Airport (ECP) - 45 min drive
Restaurants
Black Bear Bread Company - 3 min drive
Scratch Biscuit Kitchen - 6 min drive
The Red Bar - 4 min drive
Mimmo’s - 6 min drive
Hurricane Oyster Bar and Grill - 3 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Above The Dunes - 30A, Private Pool, Gulf Trace in Grayton, Short Walk to Beach!
What You Will Love About Above the Dunes
Above the Dunes welcomes up to 15 guests in 3,400 square feet of beautifully designed living space, creating an ideal setting for a beach getaway with family and friends. With four bedrooms and private guest quarters spread across all three levels, everyone has room to relax while still enjoying time together. The open Great Room brings everyone to the heart of the home, where the living, dining, and kitchen areas flow seamlessly toward the screened veranda and sparkling pool beyond. Stylish furnishings, colorful artwork, and warm coastal touches give the interiors an inviting yet polished feel.
The gourmet kitchen is ready for everything from quick beach snacks to festive group dinners, featuring stainless steel appliances, a gas range, an under-counter ice maker, and generous seating at both the dining table and breakfast bar. The bedroom layout is especially appealing, with a king guest suite on the first floor, a spacious primary suite upstairs with a sitting area and private balcony, an additional queen suite, and a bunk room that is perfect for younger guests. On the top level, the tower room adds even more space to unwind with a queen sleeper sofa, wet bar, large TV, and access to a rooftop deck where you can take in gulf views in the distance.
One of the standout features is the private pool area, which wraps around the back of the home and creates a true secluded retreat. Surrounded by tropical palms, live oaks, and flowering oleanders, the lush pool patio invites long afternoons of lounging, swimming, grilling, and dining outdoors. A screened veranda, open balcony, and rooftop deck all overlook this enchanting setting, giving you multiple places to gather and soak in the coastal breeze.
What You Will Love About Gulf Trace
Gulf Trace is one of Grayton Beach’s most exclusive and peaceful neighborhoods, offering a private, tucked-away setting just moments from the shoreline. Here, you can enjoy a quiet residential atmosphere that feels wonderfully removed from the crowds while still keeping the beach close at hand. From Above the Dunes, the sugar-white sand is only about 100 yards away, making it easy to move from poolside relaxation to sun-soaked beach days whenever the mood strikes.
This charming community is known for its serene natural surroundings and laid-back coastal character. It is the kind of place where you can begin the day with a walk to the beach, return home for lunch by the pool, and spend the evening gathered on the veranda or rooftop deck under the stars. The combination of privacy, beauty, and beach access makes Gulf Trace especially memorable for reunions and group vacations.
What You Will Love About Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach is one of the most beloved destinations along Scenic 30A, known for its artistic spirit, relaxed charm, and breathtaking natural beauty. Staying here puts you close to gorgeous beaches, local restaurants, friendly beach bars, boutique shopping, and all the delightful diversions that make South Walton so special. Whether you are heading out for fresh seafood, browsing nearby shops, or exploring the scenic coastline, Grayton Beach offers the perfect balance of fun and laid-back elegance.
Its central location along 30A also makes it easy to enjoy neighboring beach communities while still returning to the unique character that makes Grayton Beach such a favorite. The area feels effortlessly welcoming, with a mix of coastal beauty and local flavor that keeps guests coming back year after year.
What You Will Love About Ocean Reef
When you stay with Ocean Reef Resorts, you can feel confident knowing your vacation is in trusted hands. With decades of experience along the Emerald Coast, Ocean Reef provides professional management and dependable 24/7 guest support to help make your stay smooth and carefree from arrival to departure.
Ocean Reef guests also enjoy valuable perks that add even more to the experience, including discounts on golf, tennis, and area rentals. Combined with attentive service and a collection of exceptional vacation homes in sought-after locations, Ocean Reef makes every beach getaway feel effortless, comfortable, and unforgettable.
FIRST FLOOR - Gourmet kitchen with gas stove, griddle, and under counter ice maker - Living room with large flat screen TV, sofa sleeper - Dining room - King bedroom with TV, private bathroom (shower only) - Screened porch overlooking the pool - Half bath
SECOND FLOOR - Twin/full bunk room with TV, private bathroom (shower only) - Queen bedroom with TV, private bathroom (tub/shower) - Master king bedroom with TV, private bathroom, two vanities, tub/separate shower
THIRD FLOOR - Bonus Den with sleeper sofa - Wet bar - Balcony access
*add $50.00 per day to heat pool (available Oct-April if needed)
*Boats, golf carts, storage trailers, and recreational vehicles are not permitted.
*Note – This property may have date restrictions that apply. All reservations submitted online are a request until receiving an email confirmation from Ocean Reef Resorts. For more details, please review our Minimum Night Stay under Rental Policies. An e-signed rental agreement is required prior to arrival.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 4.5 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a washing machine, and a sofa bed.
Similar properties
Pearl by AvantStay | Idyllic Seaside Getaway w/ 2 Large Decks & Lush Garden
Seagrove Beach
Pearl by AvantStay | Idyllic Seaside Getaway w/ 2 Large Decks & Lush Garden
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
General
Unit size: 2,902 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a smoke detector.
Property is also known as
1377
Frequently asked questions
What can I see near this vacation home?
This vacation home is situated in Grayton Beach, just steps from South Walton Beaches and Grayton Beach. You'll also find Grayton Beach State Park and Blue Mountain Beach within a short drive.
Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home; however, the accommodation features a private pool.
Does this vacation home offer breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.
What is the closest airport to this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. Airport (ECP), which is about 22.6 mi away. Another top airport is Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS), which is around 24.9 mi away.
Above The Dunes - 30A, Private Pool, Gulf Trace in Grayton, Short Walk to Beach! Reviews
Reviews
9.2
Wonderful
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 14 out of 18 reviews
10 - Excellent
14
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 18 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 18 reviews
6 - Okay
2
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 18 reviews
4 - Poor
1
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
6/10 Okay
Megan M.
Apr 14, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Fun trip
The pool alarm on the door was my only grievance…Other than that lovely place! But being a mom &Owning a pool I get the alarm :)
Megan M.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
8/10 Good
Zach K.
Oct 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location, private neighborhood and beach.
We had a wonderful stay with 4 adults and 5 kids. Plenty of room. Very private backyard and were 1 of maybe 3 families on the beach at any given time. The ice maker and upstairs air conditioner went out while we were there but the maintenance crew came out promptly while we were at dinner and fixed the AC. The under counter ice maker needed to have a part replaced but that was fine as the refrigerator also had an ice maker. Overall was a great trip.
Zach K.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lynn W.
Oct 4, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Loved Grayton Beach!
We loved everything about our stay. The house was a short walk to the beach. We were there off season, but the beach was not crowded which was great. We rented bikes and could easily get to breakfast and lunch places. The house worked really well for us. My husband and I stayed in the downstairs bedroom which had a King bed and a nice bathroom, and it worked well for us since we were usually the first people up and did not have to worry about waking anyone up if we were in the kitchen. Additionally, we let the kids have the second floor which gave them some privacy. The master bedroom was upstairs which was huge - a nice space for my teenager and his friends to hang out. They also loved the balcony off the third floor. My husband used the third floor to work - there was a desk that worked well. My daughter came from FSU, just a two hour drive which was another reason why we picked Grayton Beach. The pool was great entertainment for the kids, it was perfectly shaded this time of year (September) and there was part sun and part shade. They spent a lot of time on the pool deck. And my husband and I loved having early morning coffee in the shaded part. There was a lot of cabinet space in the kitchen - it was nice to store food in a small pantry rather then keep everything on the counter.
Lynn W.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Shelby M.
Jul 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent week
We couldn’t have asked for a better location. It was a 5 minute, easy walk to the ocean.
You can tell the house is getting some age but cleanliness was great. We would come back again!
Shelby M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lucy M.
Mar 31, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great beach house in a great location
We really enjoyed our stay at “above the dunes”. The property was in a quiet, but family friendly neighborhood and was very close to the beach. The backyard was like our own little private oasis. Unfortunately, the pool could not be heated (we asked!), which made it pretty much unusable in the spring, as it doesn’t get a whole lot of continuous sun. The interior of the house accommodated our two families (4 adults, 5 kids) very comfortable. The property management team from Ocean reef were incredibly responsive and helpful.
Lucy M.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
6/10 Okay
Amanda H., Wheaton, IL
Oct 16, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Beach but House just Ok
This was our 3rd vacation in the Gulf Trace community, we love how private this area is and the beach is just beautiful. First, the house was the perfect size for my family of 6 + 2 Grandparents. The primary bedroom/bathroom is HUGE. We loved the multiple decks. The backyard and pool was gorgeous but the pool only gets a little sun during the day. I think the thing disappointing about this house was; we booked it December 2022 and it was advertised as having an optional heated pool. A week before our trip I called to make sure it would be turned on and to pay the fee and I was told that property no longer had a heated pool. The pool was freezing, we hardly went in it at all the whole week which was a huge bummer. Also, because of the tree's in the backyard it was pretty dirty with leaves on the bottom. Ocean Reef did send their pool company out the next day and it looked a lot better but it was just too cold to use. A few other relatively minor things; the kitchen faucet was extremely loose and dripped water constantly, we didn't feel the dishwasher did that great of a job--the buttons all rubbed off so we couldn't tell what setting it was on, the remotes all had low batteries and we couldn't get the tv to work in the upstairs look out room. One morning we woke up to ants all over our food sitting on the counters. Overall, we had a great trip, the beach was amazing but I think this house could use some "routine maintenance".
Amanda H.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Charlene B.
Apr 15, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfection in florida
We had an amazing time at Above the Dunes. The house had everything you would need including beach toys and bugie boards- floaties for the pool. Just a 2 minute walk to the white sand beach. Quiet community- also a short walk to shopping and eating. Loved it !
Charlene B.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Susan C.
Jun 14, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home
Above the Dunes is a beautifully decorated, spacious home and only 2 minutes from the beach! A lot of attention to detail and room to spread out fir more than 1 family. The pool was gorgeous and enough shade to enjoy it on a hot day after a day at the beach, which isn’t crowded at all and we were there in June! Only disappointment was there was no access to the garage to store our beach gear.. I would definitely recommend Above the Dunes to anyone looking for a more secluded area on 30 A but easy access to everywhere.
Susan C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
10/10 Excellent
Lisa and Alan E.
Mar 28, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Great family house
Great family house that is very close to the beach. Lots of room to spread out and all luxury bathrooms. We loved Grayton Beach... quiet with no high rises. Lots of restaurants and shops nearby. Totally recommend this house.
Lisa and Alan E.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2021
10/10 Excellent
Sally H.
Sep 13, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
A Wonderful Time
My family of adults had a wonderful time. The house and grounds were beautiful. Everything was very clean and the kitchen was well stocked for cooking. A short walk to an uncrowded beach but we enjoyed the pool just as much. Will definitely come back!
Sally H.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2020
4/10 Poor
Becca S.
Apr 7, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice place but would never stay again
The property is really nice and has plenty of space. It's in a great location and is a 2-3 min walk to the beach. Unfortunately, our trip had some issues that really impacted our family and the company who manages the property didn't do much for us.
When we arrived for our stay the pool was not heated. We paid the additional per day fee + tax to have the pool heated so we were really dissapointed when we got there and it was not usable. We called the company and they sent someone out to fix the issue. The propane was out. It was refilled and turned back on but that took 2 days of pool time away for us when the weather was warm enough to enjoy it. Unfortunately the rest of the days were cooler and rainy so it was bad timing all around. We were refunded for the 2 days we lost.
The Internet was also out when we arrived. I called the next morning and they sent some one out to fix it for us. They told us it was fixed and we left for lunch without checking it ourselves. We got home from lunch and there was still no internet. I called again to let them know that it wasn't working and they said they were sending someone. The person never came. I had to text the maintenance guy directly to find out what was going on. I called the company again and they said it couldn't be fixed until Tuesday and there was nothing they could do. They also did not offer a refund of any kind for this and stated it wasn't their fault so there's nothing they could do.
That's 2 days without a pool and internet + 2 additional days with no internet.
The manager said he would check back in with me later in the week. I never received a call back.
There are so many beautiful places to stay in Destin / Santa Rosa area. This is the first time we've had such issues with no real attempt to make things right or compensate us for what happened other than the refund for the pool which would be expected since they did not provide what was paid for. I would stay somewhere else if you don't want to risk it.
Pro - The property management associates were very nice and all the representatives we spoke to were friendly.
Cons - The follow through and communication didn't happen and unfortunately we weren't able to resolve the issues in a timely manner and were not kept aware of what was going on. I had to place multiple calls to follow up and figure out the status of our requests.
Becca S.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020
10/10 Excellent
Jill M., Roswell
Dec 17, 2017
Unforgettable Thanksgiving family vacation!
I cannot say enough about Above the Dunes. It was so awesome, that we are already planning another stay. The home and grounds are breathtaking. The owner spared no detail. There are 2 master bedrooms. One is on the main floor, and the other on the 2nd. Both are beautifully decorated, but the one on the 2nd floor, oh my, huge and gorgeous. It has a balcony over looking the pool. The pool was very relaxing. We had it heated for our cool November nights. My 3 year old son loved the 3rd floor. It has a wrap around balcony, big screen t.v. , and plenty of room to play. Every morning I took him up there, so we could watch the sunrise. You could see in in every direction. I’ve never gushed over a home before, but this one takes the cake. It was super clean and very spacious. You will not be disappointed! My mother in law is still talking about our memorable vacation, and wants to know if I’ve already booked Above the Dunes for next year. I wanted to add that the management company, Rivard was very attentive and great to deal with. Book now. You will not be disappointed. (And I’m pretty hard to please)