30A Vacation Rental Stays Raise $2,002 to Support Big Redfish Lake

In support of Big Redfish Lake, one of the area's 16 globally rare coastal dune lakes, the 2026 Earth Day Travel Package generated a $2,002 donation for the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA) to support the protection and monitoring of the lake. During the month of April 2026, each stay generated a $26 donation for the CBA. These contributions along with the team's Earth Day initiatives, directly support conservation, monitoring, and restoration projects at Big Redfish Lake, helping protect this rare ecosystem for years to come.

What Makes Big Redfish Lake So Unique?

Coastal dune lakes are among the rarest geological features in the world. They exist only in New Zealand, Australia, Madagascar, and right here along Scenic Highway 30A. Big Redfish Lake is a standout example—where freshwater from rainfall and groundwater naturally interacts with saltwater from the Gulf through an intermittent outfall. This ever‑changing salinity creates a dynamic habitat that supports a diverse and sensitive ecosystem. When the lake is open, anglers can catch freshwater bass as well as saltwater species such as Pompano in the same lake.  Because these lakes are so uncommon, every effort to protect them is meaningful.

Planting Shoreline Grasses: Restoring the Lake’s Natural Stability

One of the ways to protect the lake is to help prevent erosion and provide shoreline habitat for birds and marine species. Through our partnership with the CBA, we planted native shoreline grasses along Big Redfish Lake’s boundary of the lake. These plants are essential to the lake’s long‑term health because they:

• Reduce shoreline erosion
• Filter stormwater runoff before it reaches the lake
• Provide habitat for birds, fish, and small wildlife
• Reinforce the dune system, which protects both the lake and nearby beaches

By reintroducing native vegetation, the team helped strengthen the natural defenses that keep the lake resilient.

Removing Microplastics & Debris: Small Items, Big Consequences

We also walked the shoreline, removing microplastics, litter, and larger debris that threaten the lake’s ecological balance. Microplastics pose a serious risk because they:

• Break down extremely slowly and accumulate in the food chain
• Harm wildlife such as fish, turtles, and shorebirds
• Degrade water quality
• Introduce toxins into the environment

Every piece collected—no matter how tiny—helps safeguard the lake’s future.

Why Protecting Coastal Dune Lakes Matters

Coastal dune lakes are rare and highly sensitive to disturbances. Pollution, erosion, and habitat disruption can quickly throw their delicate systems off balance. Keeping these lakes clean helps:

• Protect vulnerable and endangered species
• Maintain healthy water quality
• Preserve natural storm buffers
• Support recreation for paddlers, anglers, and nature lovers
• Ensure these ecosystems remain intact for future generations

Caring for these lakes means preserving a vital part of Florida’s natural heritage.

How You Can Help Protect Big Redfish Lake

You don’t have to wait for a cleanup event to make a difference. Simple actions go a long way:

• Reduce plastic use — choose reusable bottles, bags, and containers
• Pack out what you pack in — leave no trace when visiting natural areas
• Join local cleanups — volunteer with CBA or community groups
• Support conservation organizations — donations and volunteer time matter
• Share what you learn — awareness inspires action

Every mindful choice contributes to a cleaner, healthier coastal environment.

A Continued Commitment to Conservation

These Earth Day initiatives reflect a long‑standing dedication to preserving the natural beauty that defines South Walton County. Through hands‑on stewardship and guest‑supported conservation programs, we remain committed to protecting these extraordinary places year‑round.

Visit Big Redfish Lake

Guests staying at Sanctuary at Redfish enjoy direct access to this one‑of‑a‑kind coastal dune lake. 

Start planning your stay by viewing our premier vacation rentals online or call our friendly, local vacation specialists at (850) 837‑1071 between 9 AM and 5 PM CST. And remember—booking direct always guarantees the best rate.

See you @ the lake!

Published on Thursday, June 25, 2026