Location: Grayton Beach, Beaches of South Walton, Florida North West, Florida, USA View Map
Accommodations: Cottage, 2 Bedrooms + No additional sleeping rooms avail, 1 Bath (Sleeps 2-5)
Keywords: cottage, beach house, cabin
Enjoy a rare opportunity to stay in one of the most historic homes in Grayton Beach -- The Smith House. Originally built as a 1-room cottage in 1925 by Tuff Smith, he used cypress boards that washed up on the shores of Grayton after the ship that was transporting the lumber caught fire and sank.
In March of 2009, the Smith House was purchased by members of a long-time Grayton family who have lovingly renovated the home, adding all the modern conveniences while maintaining its true southern “old Grayton” charm. Featuring vaulted ceilings and exposed beams, the house is decorated in vintage Florida style. Interior walls are fashioned from sinker cypress (giant cypress logs salvaged from the bottom of the Choctawhatchee River), the grain of each board a natural work of art. The kitchen, which includes granite counters, an ultra-quiet dishwasher, a new oven, a new refrigerator, and everything you would need to cook a gourmet meal, is top of the line. The bathroom has been overhauled with a double vanity sink, and a new double-bunk room (with 2 extra-long bunk bed sets) has been added. The house has flat-screened TVs (with DVD players) in both bedrooms and the living room, as well as free wireless internet service, and an iPod player.
The best part of the house is probably the large screened porch, which includes 2 comfortable sitting areas, a rustic cypress dining table that easily seats 8, and a comfortable day bed for relaxing. Located just off the screened porch is a spacious enclosed outdoor shower, with hot and cold water. The side-yard consists of a large brick-paved patio with a picnic table and Weber charcoal grill.
After spending the day on the beach, you may want to use the complimentary beach bikes to explore the adjoining beach towns in the late afternoon. In the evening, you have an easy walk to the world-famous Red Bar restaurant as well as several other outstanding dining opportunities.
The Smith House is the perfect vacation retreat for your family. You will want to come back year after year!
** The owners of the Smith House have a second rental cottage in Grayton, Stella Luna. Stella Luna is just up the street from the Smith House and will rent as either a 2 bedroom/2bath (sleeping 2-5; VRBO #380525) or as a 3 bedroom/3bath (sleeping up to 8; VRBO #361156)
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning : Central Air & Heat
- Linens Provided
- Washer
- Dryer
- Off Street Parking : for 3 vehicles
- Beds
- Queen Bed : In the 1st bedroom
- Bunk Bed (2) : In the 2nd bedroom, both bunk bed sets are XL
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV (3)
- DVD
- CD Player
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : All appliances new in 2009
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher : ultraquiet
- Microwave
- Ice Maker
- Outdoor Features
- Charcoal BBQ Grill : Charcoal provided
- Deck/Patio : Large brick-paved deck
- Communications
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : Free
- Other Amenities
- Fabulous hot & cold water enclosed outdoor shower, 3 Beach Bikes, 3 beach chairs, beach towels, Playmate cooler, umbrella, and a large wagon to carry everything to the beach
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Kid Friendly
- Minimum Age Limit for Renters : Must be 25.
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Windsurfing
- Biking
- Fishing
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Antiquing
- Restaurants
- Hiking
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Other Activities
- Charter Boat Fishing right from the beach in Grayton - A truly unforgettable experience and you'll catch your limit every time! Stand Up Paddle Board rentals within walking distance - Once you try it, you'll want one of your own!
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
$175 - $250/night; Summer & Spring weekly rentals run Sat. to Sat.
Winter ... Nov 12, 2011-Mar 2, 2012 ... $1050/week ($150 nt)
Spring .... Mar 03, 2012-May 18, 2012 ... $1325/week ($215 nt)
Summer ... May 19, 2012-Aug 17, 2012 ... $1550/week ($250 nt)
Fall .... Aug 18, 2012-Nov 9, 2012 ... $1200/week ($195 nt)
Winter ... Nov 10, 2012-Mar 1, 2013 ... $1050/week ($175/nt)
Thanksgiving & Christmas/New Years use Spring Rates
Taxes of 11.5% and Cleaning Fees not included
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Map & Owner's Profile
Smith House Special - March 3-10 for $1000
Year Purchased: 2009
The Unique Benefits at this Cottage
Address: 267 DeFuniak Street, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
There is so much to do in Grayton, from swimming, fishing, surfing, or kayaking in the Gulf to playing in the "pass" at Western Lake. Fabulous restaurants are a short walk away, and there is also a little convenience store and wonderful shops and galleries just down the street. Miles of white sand beaches surrounded by State Parks on all sides, and miles of bike paths along 30A. Grayton is the epicenter of South Walton!
A landmark in Grayton Beach and a world-famous restaurant and bar. Live jazz band each night. Fabulous food in a fun atmosphere. http://www.theredbar.com 850-231-1008
Casual beach restaurant and bar. Live music. Great sushi. Friendly people. www.shortyssurfside.com 850-468-0417
Upscale (but also casual) fine dining with an Italian flare. A local's favorite. http://www.boragorestaurant.com 850-231-9167
Get a wholesome and delicious breakfast here...served with a hug! Vintage Florida Style! Beautiful outdoor garden. Live music for Sunday Brunch and on special nights in the Backyard of Love. http://www.hibiscusflorida.com 850-231-2733
Grayton's newest addition serves up coffee and pastries in a homey atmosphere. Come in and enjoy the ambiance, play a game of backgammon, use the free wifi, or chat with the many locals who are quickly making Grayt Coffee House their home away from home. 850-231-1090
Steak, Seafood, Prime Rib. Live Music. http://pandorasgraytonbeach.com 850-231-4102
Rent bikes, kayaks, or fishing equipment here! http://www.yellowfinoceansports.com 850-231-1717
http://www.graytonbeachcharters.com 850-855-2534 Enjoy a half day fishing trip on the Gulf of Mexico with Captain Scott. You leave and return from Grayton Beach and catch your limit every time.
South Walton has its own unique brand of Stand-Up Paddle Boards, Yolo Boards, designed by 2 locals who love the water and the beach life. There is a rental office in Grayton Beach, where you can rent by the hour or day or take a lesson. You Only Live Once (the YOLO motto), so take some time to try this unique way to access the water. 850-419-6188 www.yoloboard.com Collapse
Daily passes and various fitness classes available. http://www.graytonbeachfitness.com 850-231-7075
A wonderful shop full of fine and funky hand-crafted works. Find something for yourself or buy a gift for someone special. Great prices and unique items. http://www.thebluegiraffeon30a.com 850-231-5112
The first of the new urbanist towns, Seaside has great restaurants, shopping, music, concerts, and theater. Quaint and walkable.
Marked hiking trails will take you through the various ecosystems of Grayton Beach State Park and around one of our coastal dune lakes.
Local liquor store has everything you need to make your beach stay complete! Big selection of 100% cotton Grayton Beach T-Shirts! 850-267-1158
Excellent source for natural and organic foods, vitamins, and supplements. Wonderful massage therapy. Tasty juice bar. http://www.shopforthehealthofit.com 850-267-0558
Best bike rental and repair in Sowal. They deliver! http://www.bigdaddysrentals.com 850-622-1165
The most incredible bakery ever, using REAL and local ingredients. The breakfast items - cinnamon rolls, scones, etc. - are the best thing you have ever put in your mouth! And they make home-made breads, pies and cakes, too. Tasty lunch specials. Mon - Sat 10-5 www.lalobasbakery.com 850-267-0400
Where all the cool people shop! 2 locations near Grayton! 850-267-0582
Where all the other cool people shop! 2 locations near Grayton. 850-534-4565
Owner's Map of Grayton Beach
As a 5th generation Walton County native, I spent every summer of my childhood on the sands of Grayton Beach. My husband & I are lucky to have raised our 2 sons here as well. We love the charm and authenticity of Old Grayton, the fabulous beach and lake, the friendly locals, and the quirky nature of our town. We are honored to own the Smith House and hope you will love it as we do.
Property Photos
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- - Grayton Beach, Florida Vacation Cottage; Enjoy Beach, Restaurants & Biking
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- Kitchen - Grayton Beach, Florida Vacation Cottage; Enjoy Beach, Restaurants & Biking
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- Living Room with Vaulted Ceiling - Grayton Beach, Florida Vacation Cottage; Enjoy Beach, Restaurants & Biking
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- Living Area
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- Queen Bedroom
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- Double Bunk Room
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- Bathroom
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- Screened Porch - Seating Area
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- Screened Porch - Additional Seating & Dining Area
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- Screened Porch - Comfy Day Bed
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- Brick-paved patio & seating area
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- Pristine Grayton Beach
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- Kayaking on the Gulf in Grayton
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- Yolo boarding in the Gulf
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- Grayton Beach Sunset
Traveler Reviews (48)
Perfect Holiday Stay
Guest: Kay in Texas
(Garland, Texas)
Date of Stay: 12/29/11
Review Submitted: 01/04/12
Grayton Beach is a great place to spend a relaxing time after a hectic Christmas, and the Smith house was the perfect retreat. Owners could not be nicer or more accomodating. Everything you need is there for staying in or exploring. Location is perfect for staying in Grayton or heading to Seaside. I highly recommend the Smith House.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, age 55+.
A little bit of paradise!
Guest: New Adventures
(Pensacola Fl)
Date of Stay: 12/18/11
Review Submitted: 12/23/11
December at the beach was delightful, because we stayed at the historic Smith House in Grayton Beach. Modern conveniences, but in a house that takes you back in time. Maybe it was the daybed on the porch to read in while the rain hit the metal roof or the bikes available to ride to the beach but it is a special home. Yes the pictures are correct and the description. Very clean and well maintained and delightfully decorated. The owner could not have been a more gracious host! I would I would absolutely recommend the Smith House to anyone. The history of the house is also interesting. If ambiance is important this is your house!
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, romantic getaway, adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, families with young children.
Absolutely loved The Smith House
Guest: beachlover
(Peoria, IL)
Date of Stay: 10/23/11
Review Submitted: 11/08/11
We had a wonderful time staying at the Smith House. We got lots of use out of the bikes and beach chairs. We enjoyed just walking or riding around Grayton Beach. Also rode the bikes to Seaside. Being able to walk to the beach and the two restaurants (Red Bar and Shorty's) was a big plus. As for the house....it was perfect for us. Can't think of one thing that was lacking. Kelly and Billy did a remarkable job at renovating the house but keeping its original character. The screened porch and outdoor shower were fun. You know it's a great place when you find yourself having to leave, but already planning your next trip. We'll be back!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, age 55+, sightseeing.
Historical coastal cottage set in natural landscape provides refreshing retreat
Guest: Kelly
(Ocean Springs, Mississippi)
Date of Stay: 10/19/11
Review Submitted: 10/24/11
We called the Smith House home base for our eco-adventure vacation with coastal luxuries . This cottage is fabulous and is situated in a natural landscape surrounded by sand live oak and saw palmetto. This refreshing environment complimented the personality of the Smith House. I loved the look and smell of this cypress cottage. It was wonderful to experience historic Walton County. I enjoyed reading about the history of the cottage and the history of Grayton Beach while I lounged on the front porch. It is in a great location. We were able to bike or walk to most all of our destinations. The hiking and biking trails that surround the area were easy to locate. Sunset on the beach was also an easy and short walk just to the south. Restaurants, bars, and retail were easy to access by foot, bike, or car. A special thanks to the owners for providing information on restaurants as well as hiking, biking, and kayaking information for the area. We really felt like we had the local connection.
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, romantic getaway, adventure seekers, age 55+, sightseeing, families with young children.
EXCELLENT PROPERTY!!!
Guest: Suzie
(AL)
Date of Stay: 10/01/11
Review Submitted: 10/11/11
My husband and I recently stayed at 'The Smith House' and had a wonderful time! We loved the history of the property and were very impressed with the TLC that has gone into the restoration. I loved that the present owners included history about the original owner and keeps 'The Smith family' very much a part of the home today! I also loved that the home looked natural in its setting with earthy paint tones and alot of natural wood inside. Very shady lot with alot the trees! The home is comfortable with everything needed provided! It is conveniently located within walking distance to the beach and local restaurants! We had fun riding the bikes to Seaside for Breakfast and through all the backroads of Watercolor! Beautiful! The owners are extremely helpful and nice! Thank you! It was very nice to have our own little retreat to return 'home' to in the evening after shopping or dinner. No parking garages or noisy neighbors. Just peace, quiet & relaxation which is exactly what we needed! The beach and weather was perfect also! I truly feel the original owner is smiling down knowing what good hands his home is in now and how many people are able to enjoy it :-)
Recommended for:
Great "get away"!
Guest: Mike & Cyndi
(Franklin, TN)
Date of Stay: 09/24/11
Review Submitted: 10/06/11
What a great "get away" for us, being in Grayton Beach & most especially, staying at the Smith House! We both fell in love with the house & this very special & unique part of FL. The week went by much too quickly. It was so nice to have met you on the beach & have a moment to chat. Loved hearing more about the history of the house. What you & your husband have done with it is truly remarkable - so warm, charming, inviting & relaxing, yet so true to its history & the "old Florida" feel & times. Our hats are off to you both! Also, there was everything in the house that you could possibly need - my husband says the only thing missing was the toothpaste! We did make it to Morrison Springs one day - what a beautiful place! And we had a very delicious lunch at the Red Bay Grocery. We enjoyed every morning on the lovely & very comfortable screened in porch, watching the day slowly come to life. The patio & grill area is great too but the one special touch that we enjoyed very much was the outdoor shower! Loved taking a shower outdoors & under the canopy of trees! The wagon, beach chairs, umbrella & cooler were very much appreciated on our trips to the beach. We truly enjoyed your recommendations of Cafe Tango, the Hibiscus Cafe & the Red Bar - we also enjoyed the Great Southern in Seabreeze for a great breakfast & casual dinner, served on the large porch. Oops! I didn't mean to take up so much space, but guess it shows just how much we enjoyed our time here! Thanks so much for sharing this very special place. Mike and Cyndi - Franklin, TN
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, romantic getaway, age 55+, girls getaway, sightseeing, families with young children.
Return Renters
Guest: Jennifer
(Nashville)
Date of Stay: 08/20/11
Review Submitted: 09/04/11
This was our 2nd time to stay at the Smith House. We LOVE it so much. It is by far the best vacation rental we have ever seen. We feels so at home while we are there. It is very obvious that Kelly has gone above and beyond to make this house extra special!! Not only is the Smith House wonderful but Grayton is amazing as well. It is the most relaxing beautiful place with so many wonderful things to do. We will definetly be back for many more times to come because I cannot imagine any place better to spend my vacation!!
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, romantic getaway, tourists without a car, adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, sightseeing, families with young children.
Great place to stay
Guest: SmithHouse
(Birmingham, AL)
Date of Stay: 08/05/11
Review Submitted: 08/10/11
My wife and I stayed at the Smith house in Grayton and we were very impressed with the house. It is build for a couple, or a couple with children. Grayton is on the 30A stretch and this entire area is a must see. White sand beaches and great restaurants. The Smith house has everything you need - kitchen, washer, dryer, comfortable beds, TV's, etc. Kelly and Billy, the owners, even had some Aloe Vera for my sunburned shoulders. I highly recommend staying at the Smith house if you like the 30A area.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, adventure seekers, age 55+, sightseeing, families with young children.
Charming Cottage
Guest: Ruthie
(Tennessee)
Date of Stay: 07/16/11
Review Submitted: 08/09/11
My family and I stayed at the Smith House for a week in July. The house is well appointed with everything a prospective renter might need (paper products, laundry soap, basic kitchen items, towels, beach chairs, umbrella, beach wagon, etc.) We were so happy not to have to worry about bringing all of these things with us! Kelly has thought of everything. Upon arrival we found the home to be clean and inviting with fresh cut palms in vases and the fans running and a few lights on. It is beautifully decorated and instantly comfortable. There is plenty of living space for entertaining inside and outside on the large screened in porch. We would not hesitate to stay at the Smith House again. Thanks Kelly for doing such a good job!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, families with young children.
IT doesnt get ANY better than this!
Guest: sap
(Little Rock, AR)
Date of Stay: 07/23/11
Review Submitted: 08/01/11
The owners are so wonderful, kind and helpful...and that is before you even arrive! Upon your arrival, you will find your home away from home, as everything has been so thought out for your needs. We LOVED the quaint character of this house, yet it included lots of extra's like an outdoor shower, lovely patio area and huge porches! The interior was very welcoming with a modern kitchen and "lived-in" feel. Please dont interpret that to mean that anything was shabby but rather you felt as if you were in your own home while staying here. Also provided were beach chairs, umbrella and a cart to tote it all in...so great for those of us that dont actually live on the beach! We truly enjoyed our stay at The Smith House and felt as if the owners were friends rather than people we were renting from. This is definitely the place to stay when going to Grayton Beach!!
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, romantic getaway, tourists without a car, age 55+, girls getaway, sightseeing, families with young children.
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #262496
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