Watercolor: A Luxury Family Vacation in the Florida Panhandle

The elite village of Watercolor is beautiful vacation town on the white sandy beaches of the Florida Panhandle. The brick streets are lined with bike trails and fabulous two and three story homes, each with unmatched class. Watercolor is surrounded by water, lined by crystal clear ocean on the south side, a boat house and vast lakes on the north side. But the biggest trademark is the surprising number of elegant fountains popping up at every turn. Between the fountains and flowers, it is a true pallet of color; at Watercolor.

Located on Hwy 30A (a beach front highway that stretches from Destin, Florida nearly to Panama City) Watercolor is situated neatly between a Grayton State Park and the Resort town of Seaside. Each resort township on the 30 mile stretch of 30A has its own flavor, and Watercolor is no exception. The bike trails and brick streets shaded with trees every 15 feet make any flat bike ride with the kids seem like something "dreamy" out of the 1950's...except everyone has a little more money (okay, a lot more.)

The homes are trimmed with every amenity, not one without old south plantation shutters and high ceilings. Though homeowners pride themselves in making their home uniquely theirs (adding a lot of personality and individual flair), a color scheme of earth tones and rustic great taste reign on every quaint street.

The water is by far the best part of Watercolor. Whether you want to head to the beach with your kids, or walk to the boathouse for upscale fishing experience, you will not escape the water. The most charming feature of Watercolor by far; fountains. Water spouts spring up on every street, among flowers and rocks. Most of the longer or larger fountains are tiled with bright blues and greens, complimenting the fresh outdoor charm, reflecting the blue sky. Sidewalks are lined with pools of water that stretch 50 feet or more on some streets. The shallow manmade steams are a delight for children, offer a constant feeling of serenity and win the prize for the best photo background of all time!

Watercolor is the ultimate place for a private, un-commercialized family vacation. Though, you almost sure to catch a small wedding party on the shore, or 40 year old sorority sisters in groups reading, shopping or attending yoga, your family will be at home...barefoot, on bicycles and surrounded by the sound of ocean winds and water. Yes, even with 4 or more kids in tow, you still experience peace. Now THAT is a vacation!

Be sure to check out the associated links of this article for a complete slideshow of pictures - to glimpse the reality!