Photos: Florida’s sweet 16 gems of the Panhandle sparkle in South Walton

Taking a ride through Point Washington State Forest with Arnett’s Gulfside Trail Rides.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

A stand-up paddleboarder off the beach at WaterColor.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

Many of Mary Hong’s glass pieces are made by painting on canvas and then adding glass salvaged from a variety of sources.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

Riding fat-tired bikes is popular with beachgoers, including this couple at Grayton Beach.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

Fall color in Point Washington State Forest.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

Seaside’s architecture displays a variety of styles and is an example of new urbanism.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

In Seaside, not all fine dining involves white tablecloths.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

Residential buildings at WaterColor are designed with a beach-house feel.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

The Red Bar is one of Grayton Beach’s funky gathering places.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)

Picture-perfect sunset at Grayton Beach.  (Phil Marty / Chicago Tribune)