Josh Ervin, Director of Beach Operations
Josh Ervin is a lifelong Walton County resident proudly hailing from DeFuniak Springs. With a deep-rooted love for his community, Ervin is thrilled to continue his public service as the new director of Walton County Beach Operations. His journey in local government includes serving as executive director of the DeFuniak Springs Community Redevelopment Agency and previously as beach maintenance manager for the Beach Operations department of Walton County Tourism, where he worked to improve and maintain the destination for residents and visitors alike.
Outside of work, Ervin enjoys traveling with his family, exploring new places and staying active in the community he’s always called home. He brings energy, experience and a genuine passion for making Walton County shine, one beach day at a time.
Walton County Tourism Wins Bronze Flagler Award
The Walton County Tourism team was honored as the recipient of a bronze Flagler Award in the Resource/Promotional Material — Trade category for the South Walton Meetings Guide at the Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism last summer. The Flagler Awards are an annual, statewide competition recognizing outstanding Florida tourism marketing.
Chef Nikhil Abuvala Named 2025 James Beard Award Finalist, Best Chef: South
Chef Nikhil Abuvala has been named a finalist for the 2025 James Beard Award for Best Chef: South. A longtime fixture of the Gulf Coast food scene, Abuvala’s South Walton restaurants reflect his unique style and personal history. At Roux 30A in Grayton Beach, he offers fine-dining, multi-course tasting menus focused on “breaking bread” and sharing experiences. Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant brings Polynesian-inspired coastal flavors to the Seaside beachfront. Saladita Taqueria, also in Grayton Beach, elevates street-style tacos with creative toppings and braised meats.
Walton County Tourism Team Members Graduate from Certified Public Manager Program
Several Walton County staff members earned certification from the Certified Public Manager program, a nationally recognized program for training and developing public managers and supervisors. Members of the Walton County Tourism team were among the 14 county associates to earn this designation: Tourism Director Matt Algarin, Visitor Information Center Manager Christy Gibson and Beach Operations Manager Paul Hinton.
New Visitor Guides Published: Active, Authentic Walton, Bridal
Walton County Tourism is excited to introduce its newest visitor guides: Active, Authentic Walton and Bridal. Each guide offers a unique way to explore Walton County, whether visitors are seeking adventure, local culture or wedding venues. The Active Guide highlights outdoor recreation and adventure opportunities throughout Walton County. The Authentic Walton Guide focuses on the culture, natural beauty and historic charm of Walton County north of the Choctawhatchee Bay. The Bridal Guide provides inspiration and resources for couples planning a memorable destination wedding. Together, these guides offer a comprehensive look at all the ways visitors can experience Walton County.
New DeFuniak Springs Airport Terminal
DeFuniak Springs recently opened its $8.4 million airport terminal, marking a key phase in the city’s ongoing airport expansion. Funded through a combination of state and federal grants and American Rescue Plan Act funds, the project will eventually include runway improvements, new hangars, an access road and a taxiway. Officials anticipate the expansion will create nearly 500 jobs over the next decade and provide a significant economic boost to the area.
Omaire Fine Art Gallery Opens in Kaiya Resort
The art scene in South Walton welcomes its first international fine art gallery, Omaire Gallery at Kaiya Resort The gallery blends museum and exhibition space with a minimalist, sculpture-hall design and a European-inspired courtyard, offering a serene, transformative experience for visitors. Its inaugural exhibition, Feminine Divine by sculptor Claire McArdle, features marble sculptures inspired by Old Stone Age studies and goddess mythology. McArdle honed her craft in Carrara, Italy, mastering centuries-old techniques among master artisans to create soft, feminine forms from unyielding stone and bronze.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Expands Pickleball Court Facilities
Four new state-of-the-art pickleball courts have opened at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s facility, featuring upgraded lighting and refreshed landscaping. The expansion brings the resort’s total to 10 pickleball courts. Court time is available for $5 per person, per hour, making the game accessible and enjoyable for all. The Sandestin Tennis Center remains a premier destination for both tennis and pickleball enthusiasts, offering world-class facilities, professional instruction and fun for all ages and abilities.
