Grayton Beach is a charming beach town with older homes and tree-lined streets. Grayton Beach was established in 1890 and named after Army Major Charles T.Gray who built a home here in 1885. The beach at Grayton Beach State Recreational Area was designated the "Best Beach in America" in 1994 by Dr. Stephen Leatherman. The State Recreation Area offers hiking, swimming, salt and freshwater fishing, sunbathing, camping, and picnicking.