The Scenic Highway 30A corridor in Walton County, Florida, is renowned not only for its picturesque beaches and vibrant communities but also for its exceptional educational institutions. Serving the families of this coastal region, the local schools offer a blend of academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and community involvement.

🏫 Public Schools Along 30A

South Walton High School (SWHS)

Located in Santa Rosa Beach, South Walton High School stands out as a beacon of academic achievement. For the 11th consecutive year, it has been designated as an “A+” school by the Florida Department of Education, reflecting its commitment to excellence . The school boasts a 99% graduation rate and offers a robust curriculum that includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Dual Enrollment programs, and specialized academies focused on career and technical education .

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Emerald Coast Middle School

Serving grades 6–8, Emerald Coast Middle School provides a comprehensive education with a focus on preparing students for high school and beyond. The school emphasizes academic rigor, personal development, and community engagement.

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Van R. Butler Elementary School

Catering to grades K–5, Van R. Butler Elementary School is situated directly along the west end of Scenic 30A. The school is known for its strong academic programs and active involvement in the local community.

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Dune Lakes Elementary School

Dune Lakes Elementary School is a notable elementary school located in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, in the heart of the scenic 30A region, along Highway 98 on the East end of 30A. Part of the Walton County School District, Dune Lakes serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade and is known for its close-knit, supportive community and strong academic programs. (My daughter Savannah went to Dune Lakes for first and second grade. She had a great experience but ultimately the school was too large for her, consisting of about 10 classes per grade. I still believe it's an excellent choice of schools, just not for a child with extreme social anxiety.)

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Seaside Neighborhood School

This charter school, serving grades 5–12, is located in the heart of Seaside, Florida. It offers a unique educational experience with a focus on project-based learning and community involvement. To get into Seaside Neighborhood School, prospective students must participate in the annual lottery enrollment process, submitting a complete and accurate application by the designated deadline. Preference is given to certain applicants, including children of school employees, board members, and siblings of current students, as well as Walton County residents. (We applied to Seaside for 5th grade but didn't win the lottery)

🏫 Private and Charter Schools

Seacoast Collegiate High School

An alternative high school option, Seacoast Collegiate High School provides students with opportunities to engage in college-level coursework and earn college credits while completing their high school education.

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The Ohana Institute

Located in Rosemary Beach, The Ohana Institute serves students in grades K–12. The name "Ohana," which means "family" in Hawaiian, reflects the school's deep commitment to fostering a tight-knit, supportive community where students are treated as individuals, not just as learners in a traditional system. The Ohana Institute's educational philosophy centers around personalized learning, which focuses on tailoring the curriculum to each student’s strengths, needs, and interests. Rather than adhering to a one-size-fits-all model, the school allows students to progress at their own pace, ensuring that they are fully engaged and challenged in their learning experience. (My oldest daughter goes to school here and loves it! She is very engaged in art and music...Ohana has rock bands each kid participates in, after school art clubs and more.)

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Gateway Academy

Located in Miramar Beach, Gateway Academy serves students in grades preK3–8. Gateway Academy exists to partner with families to prepare students to impact the world for Jesus Christ, through Biblical teaching, academic excellence, and a Christ-centered environment.

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Magnet Innovation Center

An alternative high school option, The Magnet Innovation Center (MIC) is an educational facility located in Inlet Beach, Florida, designed to foster creativity, innovation, and collaboration among students. This center is a part of the Walton County School District and serves as a hub for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, with a particular focus on project-based learning and hands-on experiences.

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📚 Educational Excellence in Walton County

Walton County has garnered recognition for its educational achievements. In 2025, the Florida Policy Institute ranked the county as the top in the state for education, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence and student success .(swh.walton.k12.fl.us)

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Whether you're considering relocating to the 30A area or are already part of this vibrant community, the schools along Scenic Highway 30A offer a supportive and enriching environment for students to thrive.