Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
Airport, Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS-Northwest Florida Regional)
61 min drive
Room options
About the neighborhood
Santa Rosa Beach
Located in Grayton Beach, this vacation home is within a few miles (5 km) of popular sights such as Blue Mountain Beach and Seaside Beach. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a patio, and a sofa bed.
Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. Airport (ECP) - 45 min drive
Restaurants
Black Bear Bread Company - 20 min walk
Scratch Biscuit Kitchen - 6 min drive
The Red Bar - 3 min walk
Bud & Alley's Waterfront Restaurant & Bar - 7 min drive
Pickles - 7 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.
Down By The Sea - Gulf and Lake Views, Heated Community Pool, Grayton Beach!
What You Will Love About Down By The Sea
Perched near the shimmering shoreline of Grayton Beach, Down By The Sea is a cheerfully refreshed four-bedroom, four-bath coastal retreat designed for relaxed gatherings and memorable beach vacations. Welcoming up to fourteen guests, the home captures the charm of classic 30A living with beautiful Gulf views from the columned front porch and breezy upper balcony. From these inviting outdoor spaces, you can take in the rare sight of Western Lake meeting the Gulf—one of the world’s few coastal dune lakes—while enjoying gentle sea breezes and peaceful coastal scenery.
Inside, the first floor opens into a bright and inviting great room where the living, dining, and kitchen spaces blend seamlessly beneath rustic wood ceiling beams and warm hardwood floors. Recently updated furnishings, freshly painted interiors, upgraded lighting with dimmers, and wall-mounted Smart TVs in every bedroom create a fresh, comfortable setting for relaxation. A spacious wraparound sofa and a queen sleeper sofa dressed in soft seafoam slipcovers offer plenty of seating while large glass doors frame scenic outdoor views and fill the room with natural light.
The fully renovated gourmet kitchen is a highlight of the home, beautifully designed with an oversized quartz island, custom cabinetry, a Wolf gas range, and premium Sub-Zero appliances. Whether preparing a casual breakfast before heading to the beach or hosting a coastal dinner with friends and family, this well-equipped space makes cooking a pleasure. The adjacent dining area features a handsome hardwood table with eight cross-backed chairs illuminated by a warm Edison-style chandelier, while a custom-built cabinet with an undercounter Sub-Zero beer and wine refrigerator provides a stylish entertaining station.
A guest bedroom on the main level includes both a queen and a full bed and is conveniently located near a hall bath with a glass walk-in shower, offering comfortable accommodations for guests who prefer to avoid stairs. Upstairs, three additional bedrooms each feature king beds and private baths for added privacy. The spacious primary suite includes a twin daybed with a twin trundle and opens through French doors onto the balcony, where you can enjoy Gulf breezes and scenic views morning or evening. A conveniently located laundry room on the second floor adds ease for longer stays.
What You Will Love About Grayton Beach Cottages
Down By The Sea is part of the charming Grayton Beach Cottages community, a peaceful neighborhood that perfectly complements the relaxed spirit of this beloved coastal village. Guests enjoy access to a refreshing community pool, ideal for cooling off after a sunny day on the beach or enjoying a leisurely swim before heading out for dinner along 30A.
The home’s location within the neighborhood places you just moments from a scenic pathway leading toward the rare coastal dune lake and the sugar-white sand beyond. The easy walk to the beach is one of the features guests appreciate most, allowing spontaneous beach days, sunset strolls, and quick trips back home for lunch or a break from the sun. The surrounding cottages and quiet streets create a welcoming coastal atmosphere that feels both charming and peaceful.
What You Will Love About Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach is one of the most beloved and colorful communities along Scenic 30A, known for its laid-back personality, artistic spirit, and historic charm. Just steps away, the village offers a collection of vibrant cottages, local restaurants, live music venues, and eclectic shops that capture the authentic character of the Gulf Coast.
Spend an evening enjoying fresh seafood and lively entertainment at the legendary Red Bar, savor coastal flavors and stunning Gulf views at Chiringo, or browse the unique artwork and coastal gifts at Zoo Gallery. Beach lovers can easily explore the nearby shoreline, while outdoor enthusiasts can venture into Grayton Beach State Park to discover scenic trails, wildlife, and the rare beauty of Western Lake.
Scenic Highway 30A also connects a series of charming coastal communities nearby. Seaside offers iconic pastel architecture and a lively town square filled with food trucks and boutique shopping. WaterColor invites leisurely bike rides through beautiful parks and trails, along with waterfront dining experiences. Just down the road, Blue Mountain Beach is loved for its relaxed atmosphere, rolling dune landscapes, and local favorites like ice cream shops and casual cafés. Each nearby town adds its own flavor to the unforgettable 30A experience.
What You Will Love About Ocean Reef
Your stay at Down By The Sea is professionally managed by Ocean Reef Resorts, a trusted name along the Emerald Coast for more than four decades. Ocean Reef is dedicated to creating seamless and memorable vacations, offering attentive service, expert local knowledge, and reliable 24/7 guest support throughout your stay.
Guests also enjoy exclusive perks through Ocean Reef Resorts, including discounts on golf, tennis, bike rentals, beach gear, and a variety of local activities and experiences. With thoughtful service and a commitment to exceptional hospitality, Ocean Reef helps ensure your time at Down By The Sea is effortless, relaxing, and filled with lasting coastal memories.
FIRST LEVEL - Spacious great room with queen sleeper sofa, large flat screen smart TV, and new 60% faster internet modem - Well stocked kitchen with new appliances and free standing ice maker - Dining area - Queen and Full bedroom with smart TV, full hall bathroom with walk-in shower
SECOND LEVEL - King bedroom with daybed/trundle, smart TV and private bathroom with walk-in shower, deck access - King bedroom with smart TV, private bathroom with walk-in shower - King bedroom with smart TV, private bathroom with tub-shower combo - Laundry room
*The community pool is typically heated during fall, holiday weeks, and spring break, but is based on the daily temperature and HOA discretion.
*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 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find a flat-screen TV with Netflix. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a sofa bed, and a dining table.
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
General
Unit size: 2,214 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 indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
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 carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector.
Property is also known as
1394
Frequently asked questions
What's there to see around this vacation home?
This vacation home is situated in Grayton Beach, just steps from Grayton Beach and South Walton Beaches, and within a short walk of Seagrove Beach West. You'll also find Grayton Beach State Park and Blue Mountain Beach within a short drive.
Will I be able to park at Down By The Sea - Gulf and Lake Views, Heated Community Pool, Grayton Beach!?
No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.
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.
What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Down By The Sea - Gulf and Lake Views, Heated Community Pool, Grayton Beach!?
Couples will appreciate amenities at this vacation home, including Netflix and a kitchen in each house, and some feature beach view.
Does Down By The Sea - Gulf and Lake Views, Heated Community Pool, Grayton Beach! have a hot tub?
No, but guests can enjoy a heated pool at this vacation home.
Does this vacation home offer breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.
Does Down By The Sea - Gulf and Lake Views, Heated Community Pool, Grayton Beach! have connecting rooms available?
No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this vacation home.
Where 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 21.8 mi away. Another top airport is Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS), which is around 25.7 mi away.
Can I book a room with a balcony at Down By The Sea - Gulf and Lake Views, Heated Community Pool, Grayton Beach!?
Yes, every house at Down By The Sea - Gulf and Lake Views, Heated Community Pool, Grayton Beach! comes with a patio and some offer beach views.
Down By The Sea - Gulf and Lake Views, Heated Community Pool, Grayton Beach! Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
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. 21 out of 24 reviews
10 - Excellent
21
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 24 reviews
8 - Good
2
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 24 reviews
6 - Okay
1
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 24 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.6/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Taylor B.
Sep 14, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Taylor B.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brad K.
May 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect stay in Grayton!
Stayed here for a week with my family, three kids (aged 6-2) and we could not have been happier. Easy 100 yard walk to the beach along boardwalk, nice pool, functional house for everyone. We loved everything about our stay and have already started to plan a trip back!
Brad K.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sister W.
Jul 20, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
House was great, location was perfect, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay!
Rental was seamless and communication was amazing.
Sister W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Cory S.
Jun 8, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Beach Getaway
The property was great.. Very convenieint to the beach. It had everything you could need in the kitchen, grill, etc... AND could easily walk to the Red Bar in less than 5 minutes. I was concerend about being on a public beach, but it was great.. I would definately stay here again.
Cory S.
10/10 Excellent
Stephanie M.
Jan 16, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Merry New Year!
While staying at Down By the Sea, we thoroughly enjoyed our time. Easy access to the property, plenty of space for everyone, and CLEAN! We will definitely be back ASAP!
Stephanie M.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2020
10/10 Excellent
Camille M.
Nov 26, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Best location
The house had everything you needed and the perfect location. We immensely enjoyed our stay.
Camille M.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2020
10/10 Excellent
Kathy A.
Oct 10, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Location
A well designed home for a family or a large group. Well stocked & maintained. Perfect location-easy beach access & quick walk to restaurants & shops. Nice deck & porch. Highly recommend
Kathy A.
10/10 Excellent
Margaret S.
Sep 27, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Family Vacation
Great location in Grayton Beach the house accommodated seven adults and one baby comfortably.
Margaret S.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020
10/10 Excellent
David H.
Aug 15, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Sand delight at Grayton
Would like a vacuum available
David H.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020
10/10 Excellent
Regan W.
Mar 10, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Great property.
Easy to reserve.
Regan W.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020
10/10 Excellent
Chelsea H.
Mar 9, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome place
Awesome place!!
Chelsea H.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020
10/10 Excellent
Patrycja G.
Mar 9, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful, well equipped retreat
Steps away from the beach, with outdoor shower, two lovely patios this home provides plenty of vacation space. For the rainy day there is a nice selection of board games, puzzles, books and videos. Decor is very soothing. Kitchen is so well equipped, clearly well thought through beach house. Thank you so much for sharing it with us!
The owner provided
Patrycja G.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2020
10/10 Excellent
Kelly H.
Sep 17, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely stay
Great property. Convenient to beach and stocked with all you need (although bikes and beach chairs would be awesome.!) Property manager responded quickly to requests. Western lake is so fun for little ones. Thanks!
Kelly H.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2019
10/10 Excellent
Justin S.
May 9, 2019
Another great stay
Great house, great beach
Justin S.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2019
8/10 Good
Trey G.
Aug 14, 2018
Great house and amenities
Overall great experience
Trey G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018
10/10 Excellent
Kristi H.
Jul 24, 2017
Great vacation home!
Everything in this house very well thought out! Great layout, the rooms are a good size (and bigger than what they look like online). Plenty of towels in each bathroom...I have stayed in other houses where they alott only one towel per person! The under the counter ice maker is such a nice perk when taking coolers to the beach, and the air conditioning is top notch in this house. Other small things that just makes the whole stay better...great water pressure for showers, clothes dryer works quicker and better than the one we have at home for beach towel turnover, great location and direct access to the walkway to the beach, reserved full size parking for four cars and even more spaces in front of the house. We will definitely stay in this house again!!
Kristi H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017
8/10 Good
Debbie W.
Jul 2, 2017
Very nice accommodation.
Good location with kids. House was perfect for a large family.