On September 20, 2025, Grayton Beach, Florida, hosts the 5th Annual Paddle for Peace, a transformative event by Gulf Therapy. Founded by Amanda Abbott and partnered with Tyler "TK" King of Adventure 30A, this gathering at the Western Lake boat launch on Hotz Avenue blends paddleboarding, community, and mental health advocacy. Paddle for Peace harnesses the Gulf of Mexico’s therapeutic power to promote wellness. The event raises funds to provide paddleboards and connect individuals with mental health specialists, supporting its mission to foster well-being on and off the water.
In a world with stress and mental illness, Gulf Therapy’s initiative offers a natural remedy: saltwater, sun, and sand. The purpose is to promote mental wellness through the therapeutic act of paddleboarding while raising funds to expand access to boards and professional mental health support. Amanda Abbott captures the mission: “If we can help just a couple of people battling depression or mental illness and have them connect with paddleboarding as a release, then we have succeeded.”
The day begins at 8:30 a.m. with check-in at Grayton Dunes beach access on Garfield Street, east of the boardwalk by Western Lake. Participants enjoy coffee and pastries from Black Bear Bread Co. before a 9:00 a.m. opening ceremony, featuring a social circle and guided breathwork to set intentions. At 9:30 a.m., the intentional paddle invites attendees to release burdens, honor loved ones, or set personal goals, paddling the Gulf or Western Lake until 1:00 p.m. From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., live music by The Sunshine Wranglers and The Kennedy's creates a vibrant atmosphere. At noon, lunch will be provided on the beach for participants.
A raffle from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hotz Coffee offers prizes like paddleboards, art, and wellness packages. Pre-registration at gulftherapy.org/paddleforpeace is recommended, as boards sell out quickly. Parking is limited, so drop off boards early and park at the county lot by Hurricane Oyster Bar (1427 County Hwy 283 S), with shuttles available. Supported by Chiringo, the YOLOBoard Tribe, Bote Board, and Grayton Beach Surf Club, Paddle for Peace unites the community for a cause that heals hearts and minds.
Paddle for Peace fosters a sense of tribe, bringing together diverse individuals to support mental health advocacy. The event’s inclusive nature welcomes first-time paddlers and seasoned pros alike, with Adventure 30A providing board rentals to ensure accessibility. Funds raised empower Gulf Therapy to expand its outreach, connecting those in need with local mental health specialists. Sponsors and volunteers are vital to its success—those interested can contact amanda@gulftherapy.org (850.830.6273) or tk@adventure30a.com (844-548-3302). As a 501c3, Gulf Therapy offers tax-free donation receipts and community service hour sign-offs. Paddle for Peace is a celebration of resilience, community, and the Gulf’s healing embrace, leaving participants refreshed and inspired to prioritize mental well-being in their lives.
Paddle for Peace 2025 Essentials
- Date: September 20, 2025, 9am-3pm
- Location: Grayton Dunes beach access, Garfield St., Grayton Beach, FL
- Schedule: Check-in 8:30 a.m., ceremony 9:00 a.m., paddle 9:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., music 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., lunch noon.
- Registration: Pre-register at gulftherapy.org/paddleforpeace. Day-of registration is subject to availability.
- Parking: Park at 1427 County Hwy 283 S; shuttles provided.
- Raffle: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. at Hotz Coffee; prizes include paddleboards, art, and wellness packages.
- Get Involved: Sponsor or volunteer via amanda@gulftherapy.org or tk@adventure30a.com.
- Mission: Fund paddleboards and mental health support for community wellness.