Tourism revenue in South Walton up again for July

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WALTON COUNTY, Fla.— Oct. 3, 2017 – Tourism numbers hit an all-time high in July for Walton County, with $5.13 million in Tourist Development taxes collected, the first time a collection of over $5 million has ever been recorded.

This continues a trend of bed-tax revenue improving year-over-year for each month of the financial year so far, bringing the total revenue collected $19.36, over 9% ahead of the same period last year.

“There’s a growing awareness of South Walton on a national scale,” says Visit South Walton Executive Director Jay Tusa, “these numbers represent not just the value of the South Walton brand, but also reflect the thousands of jobs made possible by tourism in our area.”

The July report indicates taxes collected on short term rental sales in South Walton. The Tourist Development tax, or bed tax, is a four percent tax collected on short term rentals, which is funded by visitors to the area.

Bed taxes provide a good indication of visitor demand, as they are influenced both by the number of visitors and the average daily rates of short term rentals. The revenue supports tourism marketing and beach operations including cleaning and maintaining beaches, destination improvements, the South Walton lifeguard program, South Walton Turtle Watch and public beach and bay access points.

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About South Walton:

Located along a 26-mile stretch of white sandy beaches in Northwest Florida, South Walton encompasses 16 distinct beach neighborhoods, each with its own visual style, amenities and charm. South Walton is home to four state parks, one state forest, and more than 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. Renowned for natural scenic beauty, turquoise waters and sugar sand beaches, South Walton was named one of the “Secret Florida Beaches” by Travel + Leisure, but is easily accessible as a drive to destination or by flying to nearby airports Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) or the Destin – Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS). An upscale, yet casual place to unwind, South Walton is the place to recharge and build lasting memories. Learn more at VisitSouthWalton.com or follow Visit South Walton on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or Instagram.