Tourism continues to grow in South Walton, Florida. Tourist Development Tax collection showed a 3.17% increase in November 2022 compared with the previous year, with the total collections for November 2022 being $1,983,158.10

The Tourist Development Tax (TDC) has been essential to the growth, maintenance and preservation of South Walton’s beach communities.

Raised through a five percent tax on short-term rental units, this funding supports the operations of our beach parks, including cleaning and maintaining beaches as well as lifeguards and other necessary personnel who protect these beautiful spaces.

Tourist Development Tax collection on short-term rental accommodations north of the Choctawhatchee Bay totaled $21,965.20 for November 2022. Collections for November represent a 34.67% increase compared with the previous year.

The Tourist Development Tax, or bed tax, is a two percent tax collected on hotels, condos, and other short-term rentals north of Choctawhatchee Bay. The bed tax provides valuable information about visitation and demand trends in North Walton County. The mission of the Walton County Tourism Department is to direct, manage and promote activities that will strengthen the Walton County brand in the tourism marketplace. Through these efforts, it can increase the region’s economy by enhancing our visitors’ experience while creating economic prosperity in the area.

Tourism Department is proud to present the progress it has made in its strategic plan, followed by new and continuing goals, objectives, and potential tactics for the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan.

The tourism economy in Walton County supports our community. If you are curious about how tourism impacts our local economy, click here to learn more.