Big Redfish Lake - One of 30A's Rare Coastal Dune Lakes

What Makes Big Redfish Lake Unique?

Big Redfish Lake is one of 15 named coastal dune lakes in Walton County. These lakes are fed by rainfall, groundwater seepage, small tributaries, and occasional storm surge, and they periodically open to the Gulf through natural outfalls. This creates a dynamic mix of fresh and salt water that influences water chemistry, clarity, and ecological health.

General Water Quality Characteristics

Big Redfish Lake in Blue Mountain Beach is known for its clean, naturally tea‑colored water, a signature trait of 30A’s rare coastal dune lakes. The color comes from tannins, not pollution, and the lake’s water quality remains high thanks to its mix of freshwater from rainfall and the Florida aquifer. When water levels rise, the lake occasionally opens to the Gulf, creating a brackish blend of fresh and saltwater that supports a healthy, diverse ecosystem. Although visitors sometimes mistake the darker water for murkiness, it’s actually a natural, centuries‑old ecological process that keeps the lake thriving. The lake's salinity levels may shift as the outfall opens and closes. 

Environmental Pressures Affecting Water Quality

Like all dune lakes, Big Redfish Lake is sensitive to both natural and human‑driven changes. Luckily, this lake receives lots of TLC from the residents and properties circling this lake. In partnership with Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance, water quality testing is conducted month to monitor natural changes such as water levels and salinity, which can be altered dramatically due to rainfall, drought, or storm events. These shifts are normal and affect water quality readings. The monthly data provides great insight into water quality trends and proper management of the lake. 

Ecological Importance of Big Redfish Lake

Big Redfish Lake provides critical habitat for fish (mullet, redfish, bream), various species of birds (crane, osprey, heron, egrets), whitetail deer, racoons, and plant species that rely on the lake’s unique mix of fresh and salt water. Some of these plants such as the tall dune grass were once thought to be an invasive species due to their tendency to “take over” an area of land. It was later discovered that not only are they native to the local ecosystem, but vital to the food chain of coastal dune lakes. These tall grasses provide a protective habitat for a variety of species, including juvenile fish and crabs.  

Recreation on Big Redfish Lake

One of the joys of the area's coastal dune lakes is the breadth of recreational activities these lakes provide residents and visitors alike. Paddling is one of the most popular activities. Whether renting a stand up paddle board or using a kayak or canoe, paddling the lake is both scenic and relaxing. Traversing the lake, paddlers will encounter many species of birds as well as mullet jumping to take in oxygen. This high-leaping behavior is often used to fill a specialized throat organ with air for respiration, particularly in warm, shallow water. Fishing is another popular sport on the lakes. Due to the high salinity levels due to its proximity to the Gulf, Big Redfish Lake is home to both fresh water fish as well as salt water species such as pompano when the lake is open. For those who wish to swim in the lake, swimming is at your own risk as there are no lifeguards or alerts if alligators or other predators are in the area. 

How You Can Help Protect Big Redfish Lake

The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA) actively monitors and manages its dune lakes through many efforts such as water quality sampling programs, outfall management, conservation ordinances, and various public education and stewardship initiatives. The county emphasizes protecting these lakes from pollution, erosion, and harmful development practices. Among the 15 coastal dune lakes in Walton County, Big Redfish Lake is a small to mid-size and ranks as the third saltiest.

Like all dune lakes, Big Redfish Lake requires ongoing protection. Visitors and locals can help by removing trash, debris and fishing line they find along the shore or within the lake. It is also important to respect the existing vegetation around the lake that provides a home for marine species and prevents shoreline erosion. Visitors to the lake can also support water quality monitoring and conservation efforts of the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance by making a donation this local non-profit organization. These small actions help preserve one of the rare ecosystems in the world for local species and future visitors.

Book Your Big Redfish Lake Stay

To experience Big Redfish Lake, travelers may select from a variety of well-appointed vacation rentals at either Sanctuary at Redfish or Sanctuary by the Sea. These gated communities in Blue Mountain Beach along Scenic 30A offer a private, secluded experience with enjoyable amenities. Large pools, hot tubs, firepits, grilling stations, and a fitness center are just some of the amenities available to guests.  Most importantly, guests enjoy direct access to Big Redfish Lake as well as miles of white sand beaches at the outfall.

Located minutes from Grayton Beach, Seaside and WaterColor, these secluded vacation residences provide a relaxing and natural vacation complete with modern conveniences. Begin planning your stay by viewing these properties online or calling one of our friendly vacation specialists at 850-837-1071, 9a.m.-5p.m. CST. Remember to always book direct with Newman-Dailey for the best rate guarantee. 

Sanctuary at Redfish           Sanctuary by the Sea

See you on the lake!