day trip to 30a

Plan your summer vacation to Florida’s Highway 30A

May 6, 2024 • 10 min read

One of Florida's best-kept secrets: the laidback beachside towns of the Emerald Coast along the 30A © Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

If you’re from Southeastern USA , you know what 30A is. If you’re unfamiliar, let me paint you a picture: 30A is a series of darling beach towns along a 24-mile scenic highway overlooking the white sands and turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. 

The true beauty of this place is how you can seamlessly wander between towns (by bike is a must) and experience all of their different vibes, from the dreamy Dutch-inspired lanes of Rosemary Beach to the peaceful, laid-back stretch of Grayton Beach. That, my friend, is the vacation destination of your childhood – or my childhood, at least.

If you’re a first-timer on 30A but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered.

Want to check out more of Florida's beaches?  These are the best

The best beach towns of Florida’s 30A

You’ve got plenty of options when it comes to choosing a town to stay in. From west to east, they are as follows: Dune Allen Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, Seaside, Seagrove Beach, Watersound Beach, Seacrest Beach, Alys (pronounced like “Alice”) Beach, Rosemary Beach and Inlet Beach. Every town has a distinct personality (and loyal fans).

There are a limited number of hotels along the highway, like the glamorous Pearl Hotel in Rosemary and Watercolor’s gorgeous resort . But really, the area is largely made up of rentals. Try to book your accommodation through local rental companies, like official town sites or 360 Blue . Yes, you may find the same rental places on bigger sites, but you’re also running the risk of higher fees.

Here’s a deeper look at some of the highway’s best towns.

Vibe: This is not only one of the best beaches on 30A – it’s also one of Lonely Planet’s top beaches in the US . It’s one of the oldest communities on the highway and has less of that new development feel and more of that laid-back, hippie vibe that feels so timelessly beachy. Turn off the paved highway, and the roads are sandy, and the houses are adorable beach cottages. The beach is part of Grayton Beach State Park , where dunes protect several coastal dune lakes.

Do : Take some time to explore the state park. It has a woodsy 4.5-mile trail that snakes around the lakes. You can explore those by kayak, canoe or paddleboard. You can even stay in one of the (very simple) cabins if camping is more your speed. On the first Friday of the month, Grayton’s art galleries stay open late and participate in the 30A Art Walk, where you can meet the artists and enjoy drinks and live music.

Eat : No matter where you land on 30A, you have to go to the Red Bar . Other seafood favorites include Chiringo and Stinky’s Fish Camp . Blue Mountain Beach Creamery has the best ice cream on the highway.

Vibe : If you’ve ever watched The Truman Show , you’ll recognize the pastel cottages and brick lanes of Seaside, but it’s no longer the sleepy town from the 1998 film. This is one of those places where the town itself is the main attraction, and there’s plenty going on here, especially in the main square. But also take some time to explore the quieter lanes away from the main bustle.

Do : Wander in and out of the shops here, like Central Square Records , Sundog Books , Modica Market for gourmet southern groceries and The Art of Simple for beautiful homeware. Also, stay out after dinner for movie nights in the main square’s amphitheater.

Eat : Bud and Alley ’s has kind of taken over the waterfront, with a seafood restaurant, pizza bar and taco bar – but the best table in town is on their waterfront rooftop, with unobstructed beach views and a frozen drink. An honorable mention goes to The Great Southern Café for a nice-casual lunch or dinner, and It’s Heavenly next door for ice cream.

Vibe : Yes, there’s a Seaside, a Seagrove and also a Seacrest, and it’s very confusing. Seagrove has plenty of more budget-friendly accommodation – and more accommodation in general. 

Do : As it’s largely residential here, the best thing to do here is enjoy the gorgeous beaches.

Eat : When it comes to 30A restaurants, Seagrove has so many staples. Café Thirty-A has been around since 1995 (that’s old for 30A!) and is a go-to for casual fine dining. Old Florida Fish House brings the coastal vibes, sitting right off the highway on Eastern Lake. There will probably be live music when you go. Goatfeathers is another beloved seafood restaurant, but I like to stop by their market to pick up some fresh Gulf seafood and cook it myself.

Vibe : The poshest, swankiest, most exclusive beach of the bunch. So exclusive, you won’t see very many people out and about, but don’t let that discourage you from wandering through if you’re not staying here. Admire the mostly stark-white architecture with Grecian and Moorish influences, private courtyards, glamorous pools and cobblestone streets – perfect for cycling through with your jaw down to your handlebars. 

Do : Walk or cycle the hidden, peaceful nature trail at the furthest end of the town from 30A.

Eat : There are not many options in Alys, but George’s is one of the best seafood spots on the highway. Go for dinner and enjoy your crab cakes on their patio. Or you can sip palomas during the daytime and watch the bikers roll past.

Vibe : Simply: charming. Dutch-inspired architecture, hidden alleyways framed by scrub oak trees, woodsy courtyards, fabulous restaurants and an adorable town square. 

Do : Meander in and out of the shops in the town square, like The Hidden Lantern for your next beach read or Ex Voto for their custom antique jewelry. If you’re staying in Rosemary, you also have access to four pools (one indoor), the fitness center and the tennis courts.

Eat : Grab your morning coffee from Amavida (they have a few locations along the highway). Rosemary has some excellent fine dining, like Pescado ’s rooftop bar, which has incredible views up the coast. There’s also Gallion’s , where you’ll find stellar seafood but also butter candles and tomahawk steaks.

Vibe : Inlet is right on the cusp of 30A, but this was my family’s go-to when I was a kid. Massive beach mansions sit on many of the once-empty lots, but there’s still an off-the-beaten-path feel. The beaches tend to be less busy, so you’ll have a bigger stretch of sand to yourself.

Do : There’s no real “town” in Inlet, so the best thing to do is enjoy its open beaches. Or bike a bit further down the road towards Panama City Beach to Camp Helen State Park for swimming, kayaking, nature trails and more.

Eat : Shades Bar and Grill is the spot for beachy bar food and beer. Or cross Hwy 98 and pick up a sweet breakfast from the Donut Hole – and go early because the line gets long and they start running out of certain flavors. Their old-fashioned sour cream cake donuts are simply marvelous.

When should I go to 30A?

Having visited during every season, I can’t stress enough how wackadoodle this place gets during the US spring break season (mid-March to early April). Accommodation is pricey, the crowds are out of control, and restaurant reservations are the most competitive. 

Summer is peak fun, with 4th of July celebrations, outdoor concerts, farmers markets and events like movie nights in Seaside’s amphitheater happening more frequently. And don’t discount the colder months (November to February. Holiday lights, sunny bike rides, easier-to-get reservations, sweater-on-the-beach weather – you can’t go wrong.

Book a late spring (May to June) or even a fall trip (September to November), and you’ll still be able to enjoy that fantastic Florida sunshine with lower rates. But be warned, there may be a few storms. These typically blow over quickly, so you can be back on the beach in no time.

How much time should I spend on 30A?

30A is the perfect weekend getaway for southerners, but if you’re coming from further afield, I’d recommend at least five days to fully explore the highway and get in some beach time. If you only have a weekend, get to know one or two towns. For example, you could base yourself in Rosemary and venture over to Alys or Inlet for some meals and beautiful bike paths.

Is it easy to get in and around 30A?

Yes and no. If you’re flying, Northwest Florida Beaches Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach is your best option – it’s just a 30-minute drive from the easternmost end of the highway. There are direct flights here from many major US cities like Atlanta , Nashville , Charlotte , Dallas and Washington, DC . There’s also the Destin Ft Walton Beach Airport, which has direct flights from major cities, but it’s a bit further out – about a one-hour drive to Seaside.

Driving in (especially during the summer), you’ll hit bumper-to-bumper traffic along the highway. But once you’ve parked and settled in, you probably won’t need to use the car for the rest of your trip. 

Pro tip : Stock up on groceries (probably from Publix) before you check into your accommodation so you won’t have to hop back in the car again. 

Most people bring or rent cars, but theoretically, you could catch a rideshare or shuttle to where you’re staying and not need a car for your entire stay. This is because 30A is highly walkable and bikeable. If you don’t have your own bike, that’s very normal. There are rental shops in every town, like Bamboo Bicycle Company in Rosemary and Seaside Transit Authority Bike Rentals. Some accommodations also come with golf carts – or you can rent one – which is another popular way of navigating the traffic.

My favorite thing to do on 30A

When I’m not relaxing on the white Gulf sands, I’m probably on a bike. This place is truly special because of how bike-friendly it is – for every car you see, there are seemingly ten bikes. You can cycle the whole highway on the smooth, paved bike path, but I really love pulling off into a different neighborhood and cycling aimlessly, admiring the beautiful homes and enjoying the salty Florida air.

How much money do I need for 30A?

These estimates reflect peak summertime prices – you will find much better deals in the fall, winter and spring, excluding spring break.

• Rental house or condo that sleeps four: $250+ per night
• Upscale hotel room: $700+ per night
• Taxi from the Panama City Beach airport: $40+
• 3-day bike rental: $53
• Coffee: $4.50
• Sandwich (aka, a Pub Sub from Publix): $8.50
• Cocktail: $12
• An upscale seafood dinner for two: $100+

Is 30A a pricey place? Yes. Is it splurge worthy ? Also yes, if you know how to spend your money. But the main reason to come here (for the gorgeous beaches) is completely free to enjoy.

Parking is limited

Check that where you’re staying has on-site parking. It’s a headache in busier towns like Rosemary and Seaside, as well as beach access points. The best option is to ride your bike to the beach and lock it up on one of the racks.

Check for rental perks

Ask your rental agency if your accommodation comes with chairs or an umbrella. It’s one less (kind of major) thing that you don’t have to worry about packing. Bonus points if there’s a wagon that you can cart it all to the beach in.

Yes, you can drink on the beach here

As long as you’re of legal drinking age, non-glass open containers are allowed on 30A’s beaches (with one exception: you cannot drink on beaches in state parks).

Make your restaurant reservations early

Always make your reservations a few weeks out as a rule of thumb, but this especially applies to spring break season, summer, Thanksgiving week and the Christmas holiday period (the week between Christmas and New Year’s draws a big crowd).

Believe it or not, people do live here year-round

30A is known as a vacation spot, and there have been issues in the past with spring breakers and other vacationers behaving too rowdily. Remember that there is a local community who lives here, and as with any destination, always be respectful to their home.

Planning a trip to Florida? Here’s more of our expert advice:

These places  should be on your itinerary From beaches to theme parks, don’t miss Florida's  top experiences Here’s when the Sunshine State  gets the most sunshine  (and other great times to visit) Check out these  budget-friendly tips  before you book

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Beginners guide to 30A — one of the best-kept beach town secrets in the US

If you don't live somewhere in the South, you may have never heard of the beaches of 30A. The area certainly experienced a surge in popularity and visibility during the pandemic. However, it still flies under the radar for many tourists.

Whether you've heard of it, the South's secret beach playground is a place you'll absolutely want to learn more about.

Related: Guide to getting started with points, miles and rewards credit cards

What is 30A?

Known as the "Emerald Coast," it's a collection of small, unique, beautiful Florida beach towns nestled quietly between the busier areas of Panama City and Destin along County Road 30A. The beach communities of Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Aly's and Santa Rosa Beach sit in this area.

You won't find many tourist traps, big hotels or massive condo units in 30A. Instead, you'll find a much calmer approach to beach life with more families than college kids and more local shops with cult-like followings than chains.

Also, the 30A towns have all the shrimp, grits and fantastic views your stomach and soul could possibly want.

Whether you've been intrigued by 30A for a while or are hearing about it for the very first time, once you visit, you may join the legions of families who return for a full week year after year.

Here's what you need to know to plan your first trip to this scenic portion of Florida's Emerald Coast.

Where is 30A?

The 30A name comes from an actual road in South Walton County (County Road 30A) that spans roughly 20 miles along the Florida Panhandle coastline. It's roughly in the middle of the stretch between Destin and Panama City.

The closest airport is Panama City's Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), 35 miles from Seaside in the 30A area. It's a small, modern airport that's easy to get in and out of without hassle.

However, the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is another viable option, as is Pensacola International Airport (PNS), about a two-hour drive away. Regardless of which airport you choose, you'll likely want to rent a car to explore the area at your own leisure.

Related: Tips for visiting Destin

Beach communities within 30A

From west to east along road 30A, you'll find: Dune Allen Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, Seaside, Seagrove Beach, WaterSound Beach, Seacrest Beach, Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach and Inlet Beach.

Some also consider Carillon Beach — technically just off U.S. 98 — an honorary member of 30A. I've also seen Sandestin and others included in the line-up, so the parameters of 30A may depend a bit on who you ask.

Aside from a specific line-up of town names, here's the very important thing to know about 30A: Each community has its own very distinct personality.

Related: These are Florida's best beaches

It seems to be common to prefer one community over the others. I've often heard people say things like, "My family only goes to Watercolor" or "Rosemary Beach is by far the best part of 30A."

Every area has its own fan base. Sometimes only a few hundred yards separate one little community from the next. So, while there aren't extremely distinct geographical areas in many cases, there are different vibes, layouts, architecture and price points.

Related: Best beaches in Florida

Where to go in 30A

It's not a big area. However, there are many layers and nuances to 30A. Here's a stab at what a few of the communities within the area are like for those planning a first trip.

Santa Rosa Beach

This is a laid-back, mostly golf cart-friendly, architecturally diverse part of 30A. You'll see fancy four-story homes and smaller A-frame-style beach houses all on the same street.

There are public beaches in Santa Rosa with free parking, bike paths and plenty of street-ready golf carts (aka low-speed vehicles) available for rent.

You'll find plenty of houses to rent in Santa Rosa on sites ranging from Vrbo to Marriott Homes & Villas. For us, it served as a very easy entry point to vacations in 30A.

Some good places to eat in Santa Rosa include Goatfeathers (which also has a to-go seafood market), Cafe Tango and Local Catch Bar & Grill . Cafe Tango even offers small group catering and family-sized meals to go; this can come in handy when you don't feel like cooking for your crew but don't want to corral everyone for dinner out.

Related: Best Airbnb home rentals in Florida

Grayton Beach

One of the oldest communities in the area, Grayton Beach has attracted vacationers from the inland towns of northwest Florida and Alabama for more than 100 years.

I've heard people describe Grayton Beach as the soul of 30A, a "crunchy" town or even a "funky little beach town full of free-spirited folks."

In Grayton, you'll find hand-painted peace signs along the streets and a prominently placed VW van. You'll also find Red Bar — an insanely popular institution. Unfortunately, the original Red Bar burned down in 2019, but a new one opened in the same spot in the summer of 2020.

There are obviously drinks and music here, the food is solid too. The crabcakes (available on Friday and Saturday nights) are popular, and I can personally vouch for the shrimp po'boy.

The cabins within Grayton Beach State Park are relatively basic, but starting at just $110 per night, they are also more affordable than many area lodging options .

Related: Best state parks in Florida

If you've ever seen "The Truman Show," you've seen at least some of Seaside. It's a picturesque town so well-planned and photogenic it may seem fake … which made it perfect for that film.

It's real, though. It's perhaps slightly more upscale than Santa Rosa Beach, but it's still pretty approachable and extremely walkable. However, you'll have to pay for a cabana or beach chair to access the main beach area.

Airstream trailers serve the role of food trucks here, and there are plenty of places to sit outside and enjoy your food. Come with a fully charged smartphone, as several of these trucks require you to order and pay on your phone.

Bud & Alley's Taco Bar was a pretty good spot. Other popular options in the area are The Meltdown on 30A (think grilled cheese heaven) and Shrimp Shack .

I visited a two-bedroom cottage on Tupelo Street — directly across from where Jim Carrey went around and around the gazebo. If it's representative of the houses for rent in the area, you are in for a treat if you stay in Seaside.

Related: The 9 foods in Florida you have to try

Prominence, which is very close to WaterSound, is a master-planned community featuring adorable rental homes and cottages, a golf course, a lake and multiple pools.

This area also has a number of restaurants, food trucks, dedicated outdoor spaces and a stage for live music, yoga and more.

In the Big Chill area (formerly known as The Hub), you will find Macho Taco, Super Freeze ice cream, Hooked Sea to Table, Nectar Coffee and Wine and Duos Bar, as well as other shops and spots, to grab a bite.

Prices for some vacation home rentals here can be more reasonable than in Rosemary or Alys. It can be a good happy medium for those who want some community amenities without blowing the entire year's vacation budget just on the home rental.

Alys Beach is … fascinating.

I can all but guarantee if you aren't familiar with the area, you'd never guess Alys was located in the Florida Panhandle.

Alys is a secret hidden in plain sight. Whether by design or coincidence, even the name's pronunciation will give away whether you've been there or not. (Alys is actually pronounced Alice.)

The buildings are all white, and the Alys Beach website states that the area has "… its foundation in Moorish and Mediterranean flairs, with architectural styles founded in the beauty of Bermuda, and with courtyards inspired by homes in Antigua, Guatemala."

I'd give some nods to Mykonos, Turkey, Portugal and basically everywhere else in the world that's beautiful and exotic. While you can — and should — walk around Alys Beach and explore, it has a very "members only" atmosphere.

You can't get on that beach if you're not a resident or guest, and the area was wildly devoid of people just milling about.

If you are hungry while in Alys, George's at Alys Beach gets high marks for its lunch and dinner offerings. Even Charlie's Delights doughnut shop in Alys gets positive reviews.

Rental cottages in Alys are insanely beautiful, but they also start at about $1,000 per night and go up from there. On the plus side, your Instagram feed (and maybe even the next issue of Architectural Digest) will thank you for the photos you capture while in Alys.

Rosemary Beach

Rosemary Beach is somewhat of a mixture of the vibes of Seaside and Alys. It's such a good choice that it's even listed as one of the best places to visit in the U.S. in TPG's round-up.

It's beautiful but not quite as starkly uniform as Alys. It has bit more visible life and diversity mixed into the "Forrest Gump"-esque, tree-lined, cobblestone streets. You won't find the omnipresent golf carts like in Santa Rosa Beach, but you will see many bicycles (so drive slowly when coming into town).

There are charming restaurants and shops up and down the streets of Rosemary Beach. However, the actual beach here seems to require getting a beach rental chair that lines the sandy shores.

Related: The best Florida vacation destinations for each type of traveler

Where to stay in 30A

Most of the lodging in 30A consists of home and cottage rentals. Some rentals are available via a nationwide vacation home rental site, and local companies manage some with mini-monopolies in their area.

For example, good luck finding an Alys Beach cottage on Airbnb — you'll have to book directly.

In Seaside, those charming cottages on tree-lined streets around Tupelo would be hard to beat as long as you don't need front-row ocean views.

In Prominence, there are various ways to book homes and cottages, though many are under the management of Panhandle Getaways . Regardless of how you book, a home rental is a great option for the area.

Related: How to book a home rental using points

During our visits, we first had a private pool at our Santa Rosa Beach home rental — a great amenity to add to the nearby public beach.

The five-bedroom home could easily fit two or three families. It starts at about $600 per night in the offseason and then goes to around three times that amount per night during the peak season.

Spring and summer break rates in 30A will double or triple the offseason rates, and longer minimum stays will also often be in effect.

Here's the link to the specific home rental we used , Beachside Betty.

On a recent trip to Prominence, we booked a four-bedroom home via Panhandle Getaways for $700 per night all-in during early August.

Our original home was actually sold, and they moved us to a different home in the same area. It didn't have a private pool like the Santa Rosa Beach house did the previous year. Still, it came with a golf cart, was walkable to a neighborhood pool and was very close to the hub area with shops and restaurants.

In that neighborhood, your house has to come with a low-speed vehicle (aka golf cart) in order for you to use one. In fact, these vehicles are becoming an increasingly hot topic in the area, so be sure to check up on the latest rules and allowed areas if having one is on your wish list.

There are more traditional hotels and resorts in the area, such as the Watercolor Inn, where standard rooms start at $500 to more than $600 in peak season.

Rates fall around $350 or more per night in the cooler offseason months. While you can't use traditional hotel points at this resort, you can book via Chase using your Ultimate Rewards points at a value of up to 1.5 cents each if you have the Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Another option is The Pearl , which has similar rates to WaterColor Inn. It's in Rosemary Beach and includes complimentary beach chairs already set up for you next to the ocean.

If you want to use your traditional hotel points, you're pretty much out of luck in the heart of 30A because chains aren't really welcome. However, you can stay pretty close to the area in a chain hotel.

There is a Hilton Sandestin bookable for 70,000 to 80,000 Hilton points per night . It's not technically on 30A. However, this property is only about eight miles from Santa Rosa Beach.

Also in Sandestin, you'll find a Residence Inn and Courtyard bookable with Marriott points at the Marriott Category 4 and 5 award levels.

While it's not at all in 30A, there's also a new Hyatt Place on Panama City Beach nearby with a resort-style pool and lazy river.

If you are looking to redeem a stash of Marriott points, there are several lovely Marriott home rentals sprinkled about the area.

Just know that homes seem to come and go from one program and platform to the next , so things may change from when you book to when you check-in.

Related: Best Florida hotels

Tips for visiting 30A

Most people book homes in the area for a full week, from Saturday to Saturday. If you also have to follow this same travel pattern, know that traffic coming in and out of the area is at its peak during those Saturday timeframes.

You may want to get into the area a day early and just rent a hotel room in a nearby city to avoid some of the airport, grocery store and other congestion as everyone else is arriving and departing simultaneously.

If you have some date flexibility, prices can drop substantially outside the peak summer months. During the pandemic, the area's popularity expanded, and rates are now higher than they were a few years ago.

This makes early May, late August, September and even early October great times to visit. However, be aware that late summer and fall are during hurricane season for the area.

If you are OK visiting in the cooler winter months when high temperatures usually don't get out of the 60s or 70s, home rentals are a fraction of the price of the summer season.

You may benefit from having a golf cart (aka low-speed vehicle) rental if they are allowed in the 30A community you choose. Bike rentals are also very fun and popular in the area.

It's a great idea to reserve bikes and golf carts well in advance. Also, triple-check that the golf carts are allowed where you want to stay and visit.

Additionally, while you are double and triple-checking things, know that sometimes the neighborhood advertised by the home rental isn't always 100% accurate. Some homes near the fancier neighborhoods try to get away with saying they are actually in those neighborhoods, especially in the initial search results.

Read all the details about the booking and double-check the location by communicating with the owner and/or property management company if you are in doubt.

Public beach access varies from community to community. It's easy and free in places like Santa Rosa Beach, but other spots require fees. In some places, you're not even allowed to go if you're not staying there.

While you're in 30A, visit some of the other communities outside of the one you book. This way, you can sample some different areas and maybe find a place you'd like to stay next time.

Related: Credit cards that give you more than $1,000 in value every year

Bottom line

More travelers have heard of Destin and Panama City than the 30A area sprinkled between those two tourism juggernauts.

I'm not here to knock Destin or Panama City, as they also offer beautiful white sugar sand and captivating blue-green water. However, I like my vacations a bit slower-paced and more laid-back than what those two well-known beach towns can offer.

For us, 30A was a shocking, wonderful Floridian surprise on our first trip. We already took a second trip there and are actively considering a third.

It was the easy-to-access domestic beach getaway that we didn't know much we needed until we found it.

I've taken beach vacations (thanks to points and miles) in destinations like French Polynesia, the Maldives, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

Still, I feel confident in saying that the beaches in 30A stack up to those big names quite nicely. The beaches of the Emerald Coast are beautiful, special and worth visiting at least once.

Of course, as the regulars already know, you'll probably come back after you visit once.

30 Amazing Things To Do In 30A Florida!

by waynekask | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog , Gulf Coast | 0 comments

Last Updated on March 31, 2024

Are you looking for the best ways to enjoy the Florida panhandle’s most scenic highways? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Traveling along East County Highway 30A is one of my favorite things to do. 

White sand beaches, crystal clear waters, great restaurants serving fresh seafood, live shows, and outdoor activities for the whole family make this a perfect place for a road trip or family vacation.

Let’s dive into the top things to do in 30A.

30 Things To Do In 30A

Find all the best places on 30A, from the tennis courts and sugar-white sands of Seaside to the biking trails and fine dining of Santa Rosa Beach.

Things To Do In 30A: Seaside

Paradise awaits in Seaside, Florida, United States.

Palm trees, turquoise waters, vibrant farmers’ markets, and gorgeous vacation rentals make this a prime spot for a beach vacation.

1. Visit The Truman Show House

One of the most popular things to do in Seaside is visit the Truman Show House.

Introduce your kids to the iconic movie during one of your family movie nights, then head over to 31 Natchez Street. (The owners have kept the movie address number 36 on the fence).

Heading over to see the house will be a fun adventure through a charming neighborhood.

If you drive, expect traffic to be slow. Alternatively, nab some bike rentals and pedal over.

2. Check Out Airstream Row And The Town Center Square Downtown Seaside

Airstream Row is famed for its food trucks.

This is a great place to come for grilled cheese, crepes, hot dogs, donuts, snow cones, and mouth-watering BBQ.

Fuel up on food, and/or shop in the farmers market every Tuesday and Saturday morning (from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)

While you’re in the town square, be sure to stop in at Sundog Books for new books with unique covers.

The Great Southern Cafe serves up fabulous food, while Fusion Art Glass offers amazing pieces of art.

Photo credit – Buds and Alleys

3. Grab Some Food On The Rooftop At Bud & Alley’s

While we’re on the theme of food,  Bud & Alley’s  is another great spot to enjoy delicious food. 

But one of the best parts of this restaurant is that it is located right in the heart of Seaside, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

Indulge your taste buds on the rooftop terrace while drinking in views of the deep sea and Seaside’s beautiful scenery.

4. Catch The Sunset At Van Butler Regional Beach Access

Relax on the soft sands of  Van Butler Regional Beach Access  while the sun descends into the ocean.

This public beach is a popular spot between Seaside and Watercolor.

The large parking lot tends to fill up during the day but empties out toward evening.

There’s no better place to watch the sunset than the crackly hum of a bonfire and marshmallow roast.

Tip:   Make your stay extra special by finding a rental property near here.

Things To Do In 30A: Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach is chock-full of family-friendly options, green spaces, and fun things to do (like eating ice cream).

5. Relax At Grayton Beach

Powdery soft sand, rolling sand dunes, and a beautiful creek make the Grayton Beach Access a feast for the eyes.

If you get a beach permit, you can drive right onto the sand, which is super fun.

However, you can also make use of the free shuttle. It is quick and kept clean.

There is a shower and foot wash available on the boardwalk.

6. Eat At The Restaurants

Live music and mouth-watering food await at Grayton Beach’s top eateries.

If your belly is rumbling, consider heading to any of the following restaurants:

The Red Bar: This casual eatery is set in an old general store and offers live music and food with a Southern flare.

Chiringo: Enjoy Spanish-style dishes served in a bright and colorful setting with views of the ocean. 

AJ’s: This seafood shack offers a weekend brunch, regular live music, sports viewing, and a full bar.

Beach Camp Brew Pub: This brewing facility offers more than beer on the beach. Enjoy their cocktails, seafood, and barbecue.

7. Grayton Beach State Park

No trip to Grayton Beach would be complete without visiting its main attraction, Grayton Beach State Park.

This park is famous for its beach, but there is plenty more to see and do here.

Hike one of the many nature trails, and enjoy water sports on Western Lake.

Turn it into an overnight by booking a spot in one of the park’s cabins or their campgrounds.

Things To Do In 30A: Blue Mountain Beach

A fresh coastal breeze, blue lupine flowers, delicious ice cream, and melt-in-your-mouth barbecue make Blue Mountain Beach a worthy stop on any 30A road trip.

8. Visit The Beach

One of the best things to do in 30A is visit the beach at Blue Mountain Beach.

The sand is powdery white, and the water is clean, clear, and variegated turquoise.

Float in the warm waters with the expansive sky stretching overhead, or catch some waves. Bliss.

9. Grab A Cold Treat At The Blue Mountain Beach Creamery

Make sure you have money in your wallet before you head to the Blue Mountain Beach Creamery.

You’re going to want plenty of greenbacks at this cash-only joint.

Order a traditional ice cream or a more unique flavor of Blue Mountain’s deliciously creamy homemade ice cream.

It is smooth and explodes with flavor. Even if there’s a line, it’ll be well worth the wait.

10. Johnny McTighe’s Irish Pub

Exceptional food awaits at Johnny McTighe’s Irish Pub.

This pub offers hearty and delicious Reuben sandwiches, juicy and tender cheesesteaks, battered onion rings, crispy tater tots, and amazing lobster bisque.

Head over for delicious eats, time at the bar, or rousing fun in the game room.

It’s sure to be a  great way to spend a few hours.

Things To Do In 30A: Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach is the largest beach neighborhood in South Walton County.

It is incredibly diverse and offers everything from golf courses and fine dining to ax throwing (I bet you weren’t expecting  that ).

11. Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar

Oysters, oysters, get them here! Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar is the best place to enjoy fabulous coastal cuisine, live music, and ocean views from the bar top.

Feast your eyes on the views, delicious seafood, and southern hospitality.

Whether you opt for oysters, lime shrimp, snapper specials, or burgers, you’re sure to come away delighted.

12. Ed Walline Regional Beach Access

Spend a day or an evening at Ed Walline Regional Beach Access.

This fabulous wide beach offers great amenities and beautiful sand. There is a lifeguard on duty during the season.

It can get busy, but there is a decently large parking area, picnic shelters, showers, and nice bathrooms.

It’s also the perfect spot for a beach bonfire.

13. Gulf Place Town Center – And Artists At Gulf Place

The beach meets the country at Gulf Place Town Center.

Shop for glassware, enjoy a cocktail by the sea and fill your belly at a number of marvelous restaurants.

Beautiful beaches, eye-catching sunsets, and mellow nightlife make this a wonderful spot to enjoy with your significant other or the whole family.

Don’t miss a visit to the Artists At Gulf Place.

Eight vibrant galleries feature local artwork ranging from pottery and jewelry to photography, sculpture, and painted vintage windows.

14. Dune Allen Regional Beach Access

Enjoy the beauties of the Emerald Coast by spending time at Dune Allen Beach.

Head down the boardwalk to reach 220 feet of delightful sand.

Swim, surf, soak in the sunshine, or go all out and have a picnic. Beach days don’t get better than this!

This beach access opened in 2019 and features parking for cars and golf carts, modern restrooms, and a lifeguard station.

15. Stinky’s Fish Camp

Gumbo, fish tacos, and down-home digs await at Stinky’s Fish Camp.

You’ll have a party on your plate and cheerful surroundings.

If you can afford to wait for an inside table, you’ll save yourself some sweating.

However, even the outside tables are worth it in order to eat here.

Creative seafood, water-front eating, superb staff, and family-friendly surroundings–what more could you want?

Photo credit – Wikimedia

16. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is an incredible park you won’t want to miss.

Old-growth pine forests, rare coastal dune lakes, abundant wildlife, and towering sand dunes make this state park well worth a visit.

Visit secluded beaches, enjoy fishing and camping, swim in the dune lakes, and view deer, otters, and birds.

If you’re into camping, the facilities here are prime.

17. 30A Axe Throwing Company

Test your aim and Viking battle cry at the 30A Axe Throwing Company.

This axe-throwing pub is a perfect spot to enjoy fun times with friends and family.

Play games, throw axes (of course), sip natural wines, try craft beers, and munch on small-plate appetizers.

This is one of the most unique things to do in 30A. You’ll make memories to last a lifetime and have a blast.

18. Point Washington State Forest

Take a break from the heat of the beach with some time in the forest.

Zoom between trees on an ATV, hike beneath leafy boughs, and explore to your heart’s content.

This free state forest offers loop trails perfect for biking, hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

You can also camp here, though the bathrooms are a bit rustic.

19. Eden Gardens State Park

Immerse yourself in history at Eden Gardens State Park, home of the 1897 Wesley House mansion.

Take a guided tour through the home, admiring antiques and family heirlooms, wander through the beautiful gardens, or fish in Tucker Bayou for no extra cost.

If you want to make a day of it, consider taking a picnic along to eat among the moss-draped live oaks.

20. Watercolor Trails Loop

Walk, run, or bike along the Watercolor Trails Loop for a spectacular day in nature.

This 8.8-mile loop trail is an amazing way to sight-see through the beach communities of Seaside and Watercolor. 

The trail is dog-friendly and consists of a combination of gravel, dirt, pavement, and boardwalk paths.

Keep in mind that this loop can get busy in the summer months.

21. Cerulean Park

Enjoy a day of family fun in Cerulean Park.

This lovely park has over 3 miles of walking trails around Western Lake, complete with gardens, bridges, and docks.

The paths meander through beautiful flowers, past cute cottages, and areas with lake views.

The long stretches of green grass are perfect spots to play a rousing game of frisbee, soccer, volleyball, wiffleball, spikeball, and cornhole.

22. The Wine Bar- Watercolor

Enjoy charcuterie boards paired with delicious wine at The Wine Bar in Watercolor.

The snapper dip is super tasty, especially paired with Southern Bell and The Brut.

You also won’t want to miss the coconut cream pie.

This informal wine bar offers a massive selection of vintages, plus creative American dishes, superb cheeses, and fabulous service and vibes.

If you’re looking for one-off things to do in 30A, you don’t have to search hard to find top-notch cafés, beaches, farmer’s markets, and restaurants.

23. Seacrest Beach- Visit The beach

“Casual upscale” are two words used to describe Seacrest Beach.

This destination is a perfect place to relax, enjoy gorgeous surroundings, and spend time on Alys Beach.

Swim, enjoy the sand, and then meander through the charming shops and restaurants.

The architecture is striking. Just walking through here feels luxurious.

Wind down, relax, or go all out and rent your own cottage with a private pool.

24. George’s At Alys Beach

Chill on a breezy porch or in a bright dining room at George’s at Alys Beach.

This wonderful restaurant serves up incredible fish, refreshing drinks, and tasty desserts.

Order whatever you’re craving, whether that’s seafood, meat, vegan, or vegetarian options.

The flavors are sure to please, and the food will taste even better in the upscale cottage surroundings.

One reviewer called this the best restaurant on the panhandle. Why not see if you agree?

25. 30A Farmer’s Market In Rosemary Beach

Discover the best products and produce available at the Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market.

I love exploring the local wares at these open-air markets.

Tupelo honey, beeswax candles, grass-fed beef, cheddar jalapeño bread, small-batch jams and mustards, fresh-caught seafood, and kombucha are only a few of the products for sale here.

There are also personal care products, essential oils, and treats for your pets.

Wander, smell, taste, and sip your way through the abundance of colors, aromas, flavors, and textures every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

26. Cafe 30A – Seagrove

One of the best things to do in Seagrove is visit Cafe 30A.

This classy café has an island vibe and a mouth-watering menu that is updated frequently.

Their innovative food includes things like banana beignets, quail and grits, and delectable crab claws.

This place gets busy, so get a reservation if you can to ensure a spot. Otherwise, consider sitting in the bar area.

27. The Big Chill 30A – Watersound

The Big Chill 30A near Watersound is a one-stop shop for amazing fun.

Shop, listen to music, eat tasty food, have a picnic, or even watch a movie–all in one central spot.

Set your kids loose on the dance floor, dancing to the kid’s DJ while you enjoy whiskey, burgers, tacos, and ice cream from Mr. Freeze.

You’ll love the atmosphere, food, drinks, music, and movies for kids.

In the evening, you can eat barbecued meat by the fire.

If you enjoy biking, paddling, or boating, these are all activities you can enjoy on 30A.

28. Ride Bikes Along 30A

Don your helmet and hop on your bicycle because it’s time for a bike ride along 30A.

Trails here are in abundance, but one of the top ones to cycle is the 19-mile Timpoochee Trail.

This multi-use path connects Inlet Beach and one of the rare dune lakes at Dune Allen Beach.

Beach-hop from Dune Allen to Seacrest to Alys Beach, enjoying the scenery and slower travel style.

29. Paddle Or Kayak On The Dune Lakes

Another amazing thing to do in 30A is to explore the Dune Lakes via paddle boards or kayaks.

The rare dune lakes are nestled among sand dunes, offering unparalleled opportunities for birding, salt and freshwater fishing, and paddle sports.

Note that no jet skis are allowed on coastal dune lakes (except for Lake Powell in Bay County).

Topsail Hill Preserve doesn’t allow any boats, kayaks, or canoes except on Campbell Lake.

30. Take A Boat Tour

Get out on the water on a boat, whether it’s your own rig or a charter, 100-foot yacht, or flat boat.

South Walton County offers amazing boating opportunities, whether you plan to explore grassy shallows or try your hand at fishing.

Additional Things To Do Near 30A

Are you looking for additional things to do inland of 30A?

Morrison Springs County Park is 50 minutes from Seaside and features a 250-foot-wide natural spring.

Swim in the crystalline water and enjoy the boardwalks.

The Village of Baytowne Wharf sits beside the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay.

This charming community is a fun place to explore, celebrate International Talk Like a Pirate Day, or visit the Beer Fest.

Other spots to visit include Camp Helen State Park and the Emerald Coast Theatre Company on Grand Boulevard.

Where To Stay In 30A

Photo credit – Expedia

Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse

Stay in a delightful guesthouse minutes away from the Seaside Center.

This guesthouse offers a combination of apartments and standard and deluxe double and queen rooms.

Guests loved the cozy rooms, delicious free breakfasts, and quick access to nearby restaurants, cafes, and shopping opportunities.

Book the Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse  

WaterColor Inn & Resort

The WaterColor Inn & Resort is an incredible hotel bordering Grayton Beach State Park.

It’s also quite close to Deer Lake State Park.

When not staying in your comfortable, well-appointed room, make use of the free kayaks, canoes, and bicycles to explore the great outdoors.

The Inn features great amenities, including three swimming pools, beach access, room service, and an on-site restaurant and bar.

Book the WaterColor Inn  

Beachful Bliss

The Beachful Bliss vacation home is perfect for families, featuring 4 separate bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and three bathrooms.

Additional amenities include air-conditioning, free parking, free wifi, and a refreshing outdoor swimming pool.

This rental is located at Santa Rosa Beach.

It is less than two miles from Ed Walline Public Beach Access and Blue Mountain Beach, while Fort Walton Beach Park is 24 miles away. 

Book the Beachful Bliss  

Things To Do In 30A – Frequently Asked Questions

How to spend a day on 30a.

If you’re wondering how to spend a day in 30A, the hard part will be choosing which beautiful beaches, state parks, and eateries to visit.

The area is a veritable feast for the eyes, whether you want to paddle among sea turtles in the Gulf, explore Point Washington State Forest, bike the Timpoochee Trail, or eat seafood at Bud & Alley’s.

What Is 30A Known For?

Florida’s 30A is known for its charming beach towns, eclectic local shops, and picturesque white sands.

This area, known as the Emerald Coast, is famous for its turquoise water, mom-and-pop businesses, fabulous artwork, and spectacular scenery.

The coastal dune lakes, Grayton Beach State Park, The Big Chill, and The Truman Show House in Seaside are all popular attractions.

Old Florida vibes, new-urbanism-designed communities, and amazing restaurants all make 30A a prime destination.

Is 30A Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! The area surrounding 30A features a fabulous collection of charming Florida beach towns—this calm and vibrant stretch runs between Panama City Beach and Destin.

Seaside, Watercolor, Rosemary Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Alys, and Santa Rosa Beach are some of the communities in this area.

Whether you’re interested in swimming, dining, shopping, visiting art galleries, fishing, biking, or paddling, 30A has something for you.

Things To Do In 30A: Final Thoughts

There are tons of magnificent and fun things to do in 30A, no matter your preferences, budget, or time constraints.

Which of these things make your 30A bucket list?

You may be interested in these related posts:

17 Amazing Things To Do In Seaside Florida!

Shell Island Florida- The Complete Visitor’s Guide!

17 Awesome Indoor Activities In Panama City Beach

Highest Rated Sunset & Dolphin Cruises In Panama City Beach

The Best Public Beaches In Destin, Florida (& More)!

10 Best Things To Do In Miramar Beach, Florida

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The Ultimate Guide To Florida's 30A—The South's Best-Kept Beach Secret

Including where to eat, stay, and play along these scenic beach communities.

At first, beachgoers landed on Scenic Highway 30A the same way sand settles on the seashore: slowly and without much fanfare. But then a wave began to build and—bam!—all of a sudden, this unassuming stretch of roadway, just 24 miles long, was one of the most popular destinations in the South. These picture-perfect towns are welcome sights for weary Southern travelers, some of whom have been driving for hours amid crumpled potato chip bags, empty sippy cups, and restless children in car seats. A greeting of powdery-white sand, clear cerulean water, and a decidedly sunny disposition instantly gets you in vacation mode.

The beaches of 30A are Florida's best-kept secret. Wander from one town to the next, and your view of this Southern coast will constantly change. Here's our beginner's guide to the beloved destination and its scenic communities.

Where Is 30A?

Perched on the northwest Gulf Coast of Florida, the beaches along Highway 30A are easily accessible from nearby Southern states. (The area is also referred to as the Florida Panhandle.) The namesake 30A comes from the actual local road in South Walton County, known as County Road 30A, where the beach towns sit. It spans roughly 20 miles along the Florida coastline and is located smack in the middle of the stretch between Destin and Panama City. The closest airport to 30A is the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City. Another nearby option is the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS).

Get to Know the Communities of 30A

The scenery along this stretch of South Walton road is enough to make you want to pull over and take a second look, but its collection of communities will make you want to stay the night (or even the week).

Check out our guides to its beloved beach communities below, or read on to see where to eat, what to do, where to shop, and where to stay on 30A :

• Grayton Beach
• Rosemary Beach

Plus, other popular communities such as WaterColor and Seagrove. All of 30A's towns feature charming accommodations, local food options, diverse shopping, family-friendly activities, and incomparable water views that will captivate you. Here are our best recommendations.

Where To Eat on 30A

From classic Southern fare to bustling rooftop bars to seafood dives, the restaurants scattered along 30A will satisfy (and fill up) everyone, from the most fastidious foodie to the pickiest nibbler. NEAT, a bottle shop and tasting room in Alys Beach, will expand your cocktail palate—and teach you how to make your own at home—while the simple, fresh ingredients at Grayton Beach's Chiringo will transport you around the world with internationally-inspired beach fare.

For a snack to tote to the water, Seaside's Airstream Row has five excellent options to choose from. Take in the morning rays at Black Bear Bread Co. (pictured) in Grayton Beach, and enjoy the pastel swirls of sunset at Pescado ' s rooftop in Rosemary Beach. Whatever you choose, you can be sure that you won't go hungry on 30A .

What To Do on 30A

Beyond the obvious long days on the beach, 30A is bursting with outdoor activities to help you make the most of the sunny Gulf weather. Rent classic bikes at one of many rental agencies up and down the highway, or go for an easy-breezy electric bike from Pedego 30A to roll across the sand or the streets with no problem. Take to the water with kayak or paddle board rentals from Yellowfin Ocean Sports , and the more adventurous can hit the waves in the spring and summer with Austin Magee's Surf School.

Where To Shop on 30A

Visitors have their pick of clothing shops, toy stores, bookstores, and more. Beau Interiors in Grayton Beach can be the place you go to furnish your dream beach home or the place you go to make your inland home feel like a beach home. Seaside's Sundog Books (pictured) will supply you with the beach read you've been searching for—make sure to check out the record store upstairs—and unique boutiques across the area—including The Art of Simple and Patchouli's —offer plenty of gifts and goodies to take home. When you're going to 30A, forgetting to pack a bathing suit isn't such a bad thing.

Where To Stay on 30A

On 30A, accommodations typically mean home or condo rentals. The WaterColor Inn & Resort, in the community of the same name, is a luxury oceanfront option with its own restaurants and shopping in addition to its 60 guest rooms; and The Pearl in Rosemary Beach (pictured) offers recently refreshed accommodations that are beyond dreamy. In Grayton Beach, book a room at the charming Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse .

Other small inns and B&Bs are scattered across the communities of 30A, but for long stays or big groups, a rental is the best option.

Grayton Beach: The Relaxed Village with Nowhere to Be

If a typical beach town is laid-back, then Grayton Beach is fully reclining—in a hammock, with an ice-cold margarita in hand. In fact, this beach village even comes with an unofficial slogan: "Nice dogs, strange people."

Read more for recommendations: Grayton Beach, Florida: What to Do in This Tiny Beach Town with a Groovy Soul

Seaside: The Happy Town with an Old Soul

The 1998 cult-classic film The Truman Show , shot in Seaside, features a town so idyllic that it could exist in a movie. This place, however, is absolutely real—from the pristine amphitheater lawn to a charming string of food trucks to the crisp white, Instagrammable Seaside Post Office.

Read more for recommendations: The Perfect Beach Town: Our Favorite Things to Do in Seaside, Florida, This Summer

Alys Beach: The Worldly Sophisticate

Four gleaming minaret-style towers welcome visitors to Alys Beach and a stretch of the scenic highway flanked by towering palm trees. In case the sophisticated surroundings tempt you to put on airs, remember that this beach town was named after its original developer's wife. That's like naming your firstborn after your mama, and we all know it doesn't get more relatable—or Southern—than that.

Read more for recommendations: Dreaming of a Caribbean Getaway? Alys Beach, Florida, Is Basically That—But Way Closer

Rosemary Beach: The Charming Spot with a Quiet Side

With the same sugar-white sand and thoughtfully planned layout as its due-west counterparts, Rosemary Beach makes a play for the distinction of "miss congeniality." In between boogie boarding and bike rides, don't be surprised if you stumble upon a nicely shaded, secluded bench. In fact, you might find yourself sitting a spell. This place has that kind of effect.

The town itself is bursting with restaurants and shops to explore, but make sure to hit Edward's Fine Food & Wine for deviled eggs and crab cakes, as well as La Crema Tapas & Chocolate for a whimsical dessert.

Read more for recommendations: The Best Things To Do In Rosemary Beach On Florida’s Highway 30A

WaterColor: A Cheerful Family-friendly Community

Tucked between Seaside and Grayton Beach State Park's Western Lake, WaterColor—a resort town centered on the waterfront WaterColor Inn & Resort —combines resort amenities with the homey comforts of a residential community. Shops like The Blue Giraffe provide off-sand entertainment, and a selection of restaurants, from the resort's celebrated Fish Out of Water to casual off-site spot The Wine Bar, promises days of fresh, vacation-perfect meals without repeats. (Unless you return for an encore, of course.)

Read more for recommendations: 12 Best Things To Do In WaterColor, Florida

Seagrove: An Old Florida Feel That Can't Be Beat

Surrounded by a thick grove of trees—the source of the community's name—Seagrove's stretch of beach houses and sand marks a relaxed departure from the picture-perfect planned communities of Seaside and Alys Beach. The Cowgirl Kitchen Market & Cafe and The Perfect Pig have foodie takes on classic beach fare that make this stretch of 30A a must-visit, and a mindful yoga class at Balance Health Studio can give you a new perspective on your whole vacation. And don't forget the beach: Passing under a cluster of vines to get to the ivory sand feels like stepping into another world.

Read more for recommendations: 11 Best Things To Do In Seagrove, Florida

More Beach Towns To Visit

But, wait: Highway 30A is much more than just these few favorites. Take a drive and explore in-between beaches, from Blue Mountain Beach to WaterSound Beach and beyond. With plenty of cottages to rent and seafood dives to hit, you won't dare miss out on everything that Florida's Highway 30A has to offer.

Get To Know The Beaches of Florida's 30A

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Things to Do on 30A for Endless Florida Fun!

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Experience the best of Florida’s Emerald Coast with this complete guide for things to do on 30A !

There’s nothing quite like cruising down Florida’s most beautiful highway on a bright sunny day with expansive views of the emerald-green ocean.

And that’s exactly what awaits you on a trip down Scenic Highway 30A!

With plenty of sunshine, palm trees, and family-friendly attractions, what more could you ask for? 

In this post, we’re giving you the full scoop on the best things to do on 30A, including things to do on 30A when it rains.

Whether you tour the entire coastline or only have time for a stop or two, you can plan an amazing vacation filled with beach days, tasty eats, local shops, and more. 

Table of Contents

What is Scenic Highway 30A?

Scenic Highway 30A is a historic Florida highway that’s located along the Gulf of Mexico.

Often referred to as the Emerald Coast after its clear, blue-green waters, 30A is home to incredible beaches, picturesque beach towns, and tons of fun outdoor activities. 

A lesser-known vacation spot unless you’re an avid traveler or from the South, the communities along 30A each have a huge fan base of vacation-goers who tend to return to the same place year after year.

You won’t find any huge condos, chain restaurants, or major retailers along 30A, however.

Instead, you’ll find a much calmer approach to life with cottage rentals, quaint shops, and locally-owned restaurants.

Traveling this coast is a popular tourist activity because of its natural beauty, soft, white sand beaches, and charming towns that greet you along the way.

Not sure what to wear when vacationing in Florida? Check out my favorite, affordable vacation looks to help inspire your Florida outfits!

Scenic Highway 30A is located on Florida’s Panhandle between Destin and Panama City Beach. 

It is a 20-mile stretch of roadway that passes through several small beach communities – some located only a few hundred yards from one another.

From west to east along road 30A, you’ll find: Santa Rosa Beach, Dune Allen, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, Seaside, Seagrove Beach, WaterSound Beach, Seacrest Beach, Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, and Inlet Beach.

If you’re traveling to Florida’s 30A area from out of state, the closest airports are Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach, and Destin – Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) .

Many visitors find great value in flying into these airports on a variety of airlines including Delta, United, American, and Allegiant.

Plus, because they are smaller airports, you can usually avoid heavy airport crowds and secure car rentals with ease.

When should you visit 30A?

I usually recommend that travelers visit the Emerald Coast in the spring and early summer, preferably in the months of April through June.

Florida is sunny and comfortable from April through June, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s-80s.

This weather is ideal for the beach and swimming in the ocean – with the right Florida beach gear of course!

The summer season is incredibly busy, and you’ll likely experience heavy traffic, crowded beaches, limited parking, and longer wait times at restaurants.

In the winter months up through the middle of March, temperatures are cool making it less desirable to spend time on the beach.

Oh, and psst…if you’re taking a trip to the Emerald Coast, we have plenty more posts to help you plan your trip!

• 23 Iconic & Fun Things To Do in Seaside, Florida
• 33 Best Things to Do in Destin with Kids While on Vacation
• Best Breakfast in Destin, Florida: 13 Must-Try Spots!
• Destin Florida Beaches: The 8 BEST Spots to Enjoy
• Destin Harbor Boardwalk (Best Things to Do + FAQs)

Fun Things to Do on 30A Florida

There is no shortage of incredible activities to experience on your trip down scenic Highway 30A.

Grab our Florida packing list , and let’s get exploring!

1. Head to the beach!

With sugar-white sand and clean, emerald-colored water, a trip to the beach is a 30A must-do.

Whether you’re looking to lay out in the sun, enjoy water sports, or have a bonfire on the beach, there’s something for everyone when exploring the Emerald Coast.

Some of the very best beaches on 30A include:

• Santa Rosa beach – Family-friendly, turquoise waters, swimming, and hiking. 
• Blue Mountain Beach – Private beach, shallow waters, surfing, and boat rentals. 
• Crystal Beach – Drop-in yoga, paddle boarding, and bike baths. 
• Seagrove Beach – Laid back, shading trees, and sugary sands. 
• Dune Allen Beach – Towering sand dunes, campgrounds, and tranquil coastal lakes.

When planning your 30A beach day, be sure to look over our list of things to bring to the beach for the ultimate day of convenience and relaxation!

2. Visit the state parks

Highway 30A also gives you full access to some of the most amazing state parks that the country has to offer. 

Florida state parks are wonderful to explore under sunny weather, with shading tree tops, outdoor activities, and plenty of fascinating wildlife. 

Whether you’re camping, hiking, or enjoying a relaxing picnic, visiting a state park is a great way to immerse yourself in nature. 

Some of the best state parks near Highway 30A include:

• Grayton Beach State Park – Hiking, birdwatching, snorkeling Sea Turtle Reef, swimming, paddle-boarding, and biking. 
• Camp Helen State Park – Lounging, swimming, hiking, fishing, picnicking, and visiting their historic site. 
• Deer Lake State Park – Picnicking, fly fishing, wildlife sighting, hiking, & swimming. 
• Eden Gardens State Park – Visiting Wesley House, hiking, kayaking, paddling, saltwater fishing, & canoeing. 
• Point Washington State Forest – Bicycling, hiking, and birdwatching.

3. Explore the beach towns

Part of what makes a trip down Highway 30A so appealing is the charming beach towns along the way.

All of these towns have a relaxed, small-town feel that perfectly fits the vacation vibe. 

Try to peel yourself away from the beach for at least a few hours to head into town and get exploring!

Seek local artisans, photo opportunities, delicious food, and more. 

Some of the best towns to visit, with their unique draws and some of the best shopping on 30A, include:

• Seaside – Visit Sundog Books , the Seaside Post Office, and the “Truman House.”
• Santa Rosa Beach – Explore art galleries, local breweries, and art workshops. 
• Inlet Beach – Shop for fun souvenirs at The Blue Giraffe and eat at Cafe Thirty-A . 
• Seacrest – Visit Colorfield Gallery , tour the Peddlers Pavilion , and explore the town by bike. 
• Grayton Beach – Take an art class and go souvenir shopping around town before watching the sunset at the beach. 
• Rosemary Beach – Check out the adorable cobblestone streets, Barret Square, and The Hidden Lantern

4. Grab a bite

Florida is well-known for its food diversity and 30A is no exception.

It focuses on fresh seafood from the coast, Southern specialties, and Latin & Spanish influence. 

Plus, there are dozens of unique and tasty food trucks along the coast, making food trucking one of the best things on 30A!

(Be sure to check out The Meltdown for the best grilled cheese in your life – located in Seaside’s Airstream Row.)

With no chain food restaurants in sight, sample as much local cuisine as you can while exploring 30A!

Best Restaurants on 30A Florida

Here are some of the best restaurants in 30A for you to enjoy:

• Best seafood on 30A – Old Florida Fish House & LaPlaya
• Best dinner on 30a – Sandbar
• Best happy hour on 30A – Havana Beach Bar & Grill
• Best sushi on 30a – Shaka Sushi
• Best pizza on 30a – Nick’s Slice of Brooklyn
• Best Italian food on 30 A – Angelina’s Pizzeria & Pasta
• Best bars on 30A – The Wine Bar & The Red Bar
• Best brunch on 30A – Donut Hut
• Best Mexican food on 30 A – La Cocina
• Best beer on 30A – Beach and Brew 30A
• Best donuts on 30A – Khave & Cream in Seagrove Beach
• Best dessert on 30A – La Crema Tapas & Chocolate in Rosemary Beach

5. Take a sightseeing bike ride

Biking your way through 30A is one of the things that 30A is most known for.

After all, biking allows you and your group to experience the unique shops and charming attractions that you might otherwise miss if you were driving by in a car – and all without having to find a parking spot!

One of the most popular bike trails along scenic Highway 30A is  the Timpoochee Trail .

This 18.6-mile trail (you can do all, or only parts of it) parallels the entire length of Scenic Highway 30A from Dune Allen to Inlet Beach and is safe, wide, and relatively flat.

Luckily, there are plenty of bike rental shops available along the coast to complement its popularity.

Where you are staying overnight, or which area you plan to spend the most time in will likely determine where you choose to rent bikes from.

6. Meet the wildlife 

The wildlife of Florida’s coast is too special not to see.

While you won’t want to get up close and personal with an alligator, there are some wonderful and safe wildlife encounters that you can experience. 

Popular wildlife experiences on 30A include:

• Watching the butterflies in the butterfly gardens at Cerulean Park in Watercolor, Florida.
• Go on a dolphin cruise in the Gulf of Mexico (we recommend Destin, FL for this).
• Snorkel at Sea Turtle Reef located off the beach in Grayton Beach State Park.
• Take a tour of Shell Island (in Panama City) to feed the birds and watch the dolphins
• Go wildlife spotting in a state park and see deer, birds, squirrels, and more. 

Things to Do in 30A When It Rains

While Florida vacations are usually all about fun in the sun, rain does happen once in a while.

But don’t fret!

There are tons of rainy-day activities to enjoy along 30A. 

Try these weather-friendly attractions when hiding from the rain or trying to beat the Florida heat :

• Visit a museum like Wonderworks Museum located in Panama City Beach.
• Visit the multiple indoor shows and attractions at the Destin Harbor Boardwalk .
• Take an art class at The Shard Shop located in Santa Rosa Beach.
• See a live show from Emerald Coast Theater Company in Miramar Beach.
• Go bowling at Rock’it Lanes in Panama City Beach.

Best Places to Stay on 30A Florida

When you’re visiting the Emerald Coast, you have plenty of options for where to rest your head.

And some of them are pretty darn cool!

Here are the best places to stay in 30A:

Beach house rentals on 30A

If you want to stay right on the beach, it’s possible!

There are plenty of beach houses, Airbnbs, and condos on 30A for rent.

This option is ideal for families or large groups, giving you the option to make yourself right at home.

I love having a full kitchen when I’m traveling so that we can pack beach lunches and eat-in when we’re sick of restaurant food. 

Explore Blue Tide condos , Airbnb 30A offerings, and other 30A rentals on the beach. 

Camping on 30A

For nature lovers, camping along the Emerald Coast is a real treat.

This is the best choice for wanderers with a real sense of adventure!

Camp your way up the coast stopping in campgrounds including Grayton Beach State Park, Henderson Beach State Park, and Point Washington State Park.  

Best hotels on 30A

After a long drive, sometimes we just need some air conditioning, room service, and neatly tucked sheets.

If this is more your speed, the majority of hotels on the 30A are in Destin and Panama City Beach .

Great, family-friendly options include:

• Hyatt Place Panama City Beach – Ocean views, live music, & a pool with a lazy river!
• The Sandpiper Beacon Beach Resort – Family-friendly, water-slides, suites, condos, & townhouses. 
• Hampton Inn & Suites Panama City – Beachfront Gulf views, great location, & beach access. 
• Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort – Golf course, tennis courts, 11 pools, & several more amenities!
• Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort – Beautiful grounds and rooms, 4 pools, 4 golf courses.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Destin – Free breakfast, huge outdoor pool, close to the beach and Harborwalk Village.

Final Thoughts: Things to Do on 30A

That wraps up all you need to know to fully experience scenic Highway 30A.

We hope this advice helps you plan an incredible, sun-filled vacation!

If you’re a local or have visited before, let me know if we missed any fun activities in the comments down below. 

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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30-A Visitor’s Guide

Somewhere between 1497 and 1513, historians tell us, Europeans first beheld the great natural beauty of Florida. Juan Ponce de Leon named the region Pascua Florida or flowery Easter. Five-hundred-plus years later, stewards of Florida’s natural beauty are focused on sustainability, preserving what Mother Nature has provided, for all to enjoy. 

Known as the Crown Jewel of the Southern Riviera (the Southern Riviera is the 200 mile stretch of pristine coast that stretches from Gulf Shores, Alabama to St George Island, Florida)  Scenic 30-A runs through long-leaf pine flatwoods, along the white sand beach  and sea oat-covered dunes, past freshwater  coastal lakes  and saltwater inlets, over sand hills and coastal uplands, along wetlands and marshes, through hardwood hammocks and coastal scrub. Our area is known for the shimmering brilliance of the Gulf of Mexico and her white sand beaches. But it is the beauty of our landscape and its native plants and animals that are second to none…

• Don’t miss the centuries-old live oaks at  Eden State Gardens  in Pt. Washington State Park, and the craggy, many-trunked scrub oaks in  Old Grayton Beach .
• Look for the huge, fragrant white blooms of Southern Magnolia in early summer throughout the woods, at the crest of  Old Seagrove , and next to the obelisk beach walkover in  Seaside .
• Admire the graceful arc of slash pine reflected in Western Lake.
• Discover the tough little sand pine that grows all along the Gulf Coast, but nowhere else in the world! Look closely at the sharp-toothed edge of the stem of a palmetto frond that gives Saw Palmetto, a palm tree that grows its trunk underground, its name.
• Wildflowers bloom year-round along Scenic 30-A. Watch for the lavender blossoms of wild rosemary and Gulf Coast lupine in the spring.
• In the fall, the roadsides turn gold with goldenrod, woody goldenrod, golden asters and camphorweed. Sea oats, the grasses that hold the dunes in place, are a federally protected species
• Enjoy the beauty of the plants, but please, don’t walk on the dunes or pick the seed heads. Please do enjoy and protect the beauty of our beaches, dunes, scrub and woodlands.

Taking the Scenic Route Along 30-A

From where it departs and connects with US 98, Scenic 30-A is comprised of 18.5-miles, plus 9.4 miles of connector roads—83 and 283—from the Gulf of Mexico to US 98, and 395 from the Gulf of Mexico to the Choctawhatchee Bay. “Taking the scenic route” by car, bicycle, or on foot, you’ll journey past four state parks, 27 miles of greenway trails, 11 rare coastal dune lakes, 12  beach communities . And you’ll behold miles of stunningly beautiful beaches. Scenic 30-A is a tourist attraction of major proportions. It is an exciting and eclectic mix of hot Caribbean colors and soft pastels, with architecture to match each beach community’s aesthetic, whether it be Old Florida’s traditional 2-3 story homes, or the cottages of Seaside with white picket fences and pedestrian pathways to New Urbanism, or its miles of greenway trails connecting state parks, preserves and residential areas.

Remarkably, all of Scenic 30-A’s famous beaches are certified as Blue Wave Beaches, akin to the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval when it comes to cleanliness and safety. Scenic 30-A’s shimmering sugar-fine sands combined with shades of turquoise-blue and emerald-green waters are breathtakingly beautiful, sun up or sundown. Scenic 30-A’s beaches are naturally beautiful—no dredging and filling has replaced the crystalline grains of sand that squeak when you walk on them. Beach nourishment, the formation of sand dunes, and other educational programs to Keep Off the Dunes, are critical to protecting the Gulf Shores and Scenic 30-A’s reputation as the tourist destination known for its world-class beaches.

When Gulf breezes blow, a unique combination of sea oat grasses and coastal scrub vegetation trap the sugar sands, causing dunes to form. One of the most dazzling dunes—rising 25 feet above sea level— is at Topsail Hill Preserve. Traveling west along Scenic 30-A and just off US 98, you’ll come to Topsail, home to the endangered Choctawhatchee Beach Mouse, herons, egrets, white-tailed deer, fox, coyote, raccoon and gopher tortoises. Sea turtles come ashore late spring and summer to nest. Topsail is also home to 14 natural wild plant communities. Trailer Life magazine rated Topsail Hill RV Resort in the top 1% in the US.

Old Florida Architecture Along 30-A

Along Scenic 30-A, you’ll see numerous examples of Old Florida architecture–shingles, shutters, and shakes–overhangs that provide shade, and porches that suggest Southern hospitality. There are 12 distinct beach communities along the route and one just off the route on US98 (from west to east): Dune Allen Beach , Santa Rosa Beach , Blue Mountain Beach , Grayton Beach , WaterColor , Seaside , Seagrove Beach , WaterSound Beach , Seacrest Beach , Rosemary Beach , Inlet Beach and Carillon Beach (just off Scenic 30-A, on US98).

Scenic 30-A has 11 coastal dune lakes , known by kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts for their beauty and tranquility. Dune lakes are formed by the wind and found almost exclusively along the Gulf Coast. Classified as “critically imperiled” because of their extreme rarity, dune lakes are biologically diverse–saltwater combined with freshwater—an important source of freshwater to migrating birds and other beach organisms—and any alteration to their drainage is a threat. Conservationists say the dune lake system’s intrinsic value is “incalculable.”

Elegant, coastal pine forests and the century-old community of Grayton Beach border one of the largest and most scenic of the dune lakes, the 220-acre Western Lake. Army Major Charles T. Gray and his wife Elizabeth built a home there in 1885. It later burned down. In 1913 Grayton Beach became a resort community when the Butler family settled in, adding rental cottages and a General Store that— come Saturday night— became a dance hall. Even as it grows at a furious pace, with upscale shops, beach-y kiosks and restaurants that range from the fun ‘n’ funky new and improved Picolo’s/Red Bar to the Grayton Beer Pub, Grayton Beach has maintained it’s small-town flavor. Grayton Beach State Recreation Park’s 2,228 acres opened in 1968. Sea turtles nest in the summer and shorebirds are numerous. Wildflowers include lupine, gaillardia and golden aster. Tread Softly signs dot the landscape of rolling, sea oat-covered dunes and glistening-white sandy beaches that taper into the blue-green Gulf.

Development is taking placing all along Scenic 30-A, adding a sense of vitality and anticipation.  Zoning with an emphasis on place-making, conservation and responsible development,  Check out the master planned community of WaterColor . With its eye-pleasing palette of periwinkle blue and celadon green ceramic tiles in waterfalls, koi fish ponds, fountains, and numerous recreational opportunities, both WaterColor the community, and the small, 60-room WaterColor Inn, are fine examples of vernacular architecture. WaterColor blends right into the hustle and bustle of Seaside, which most consider the cultural and commercial center of Scenic 30-A.

Noting its numerous prestigious architectural awards, Time magazine described Seaside as the most astounding design achievement of its era. With a postage stamp-sized post office and a Town Center that boasts its own stage on the green, Seaside also has an artists’ colony and a full calendar of cultural events to put it on the map as a Must See. Picturesque as a postcard and the film location for The Truman Show, Seaside is a busy little success story—visitors flock to its shores in droves. The Seaside Institute sponsors significant intellectual and philosophical exchanges here and abroad on what makes a community vital.

Journeying on to Old Seagrove and Seagrove Beach , you’ll sense a slightly slower pace, but Seagrove is booming with residential and commercial development. Turning left at the corner of Scenic 30-A and 395, you’ll come to the Eastern Lake Bike/Hike Trail in Pt. Washington State Forest . Three greenway trails loop through sandhills, cypress ponds, wet prairies and titi swamps. Look for deer, coyote, alligator, and the gopher tortoise, a species of special concern. Pt. Washington State Park is a wonderful example of sandhill ecosystems. Rare species include flatwoods salamander, white-topped pitcher plant, and the world’s largest stand of Curtiss Sandgrass.

Across 98, follow the signs to Eden State Park and Eden Gardens-former Wesley-family mansion, and a splendid example of Panhandle architecture: two stories, equal number of rooms, each story divided by a centray hallway–and perched on piers for greater air circulation and flood protection. Moss-draped oaks, camellias and azaleas in season, this genteel home filled with lovely antiques offer visitors an historic view of the “real” Florida.

Backtracking to Scenic 30-A, turn left on 395 and follow the road around the bend to a small gem of a park, Deer Lake State Park, a 172-acre tract acquired by South Walton County Ecosystem. You’ll find the Chochtawhatchee Beach Mouse, the Red Cockaded Woodpecker, and other rare plant and animal species. The reflection of the Gulf of Mexico in Deer Lake is like nothing you’ll see anywhere else on Scenic 30-A. A spectacular view combines the huge expanse of the emerald-green water of the Gulf of Mexico with a sliver of shimmering sugar sand, and, next to it, the deep blue of Deer Lake. A photo opportunity if ever there was one!

Continuing on down Scenic 30-A, you’ll see WaterSound, an exquisite coastal community under development.   Then it’s on to Camp Creek Lake and the 18-hole Camp Creek Golf Club and full-time community of WaterSound Origins.

Scenic 30-A winds it way to Rosemary Beach , another planned community reminiscent of the Southwest—white stucco, bell towers, and upscale restaurants and shops. Scenic 30-A re-connects with Us 98 at Inlet Beach , the latest thriving community on Scenic 30-A,  a short distance from the charming community of Carillon Beach –beautiful homes, great shopping and brightly colored artist cabañas–and Panama City Beach, Fun City for Spring Breaker’s and Families.

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Spring Break Time ⛱️🌴👙 #30A

Spring Break Time ⛱️🌴👙 #30A ...

It’s always craft cocktail time ✨🍹#prettydrinks #prettyviews #prettyeverything #30A @fonville.press @alysbeach

It’s always craft cocktail time ✨🍹#prettydrinks #prettyviews #prettyeverything #30A @fonville.press @alysbeach ...

We can’t wait! 🍔🍔🍔🍔🍔 #beachlife

We can’t wait! 🍔🍔🍔🍔🍔 #beachlife ...

We take our #sandcastle building serious around here! #project #boystrip 📸@othermamasbs 🌴

We take our #sandcastle building serious around here! #project #boystrip 📸@othermamasbs 🌴 ...

Living in the moment… We’re digging the vibe @30ave #livemusic 🎵

Living in the moment… We’re digging the vibe @30ave #livemusic 🎵 ...

🙌The best new spot on 30A! ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ beer. atmosphere. service. grub Glad you’re here! @idyllhoundproper @30ave

🙌The best new spot on 30A! ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ beer. atmosphere. service. grub Glad you’re here! @idyllhoundproper @30ave ...

Cold Brew is legit! ☕️👊🏻 Welcome to the hood @turbocoffee_30a @greenwaystation30a #discover30a #coffee #foodie

Cold Brew is legit! ☕️👊🏻 Welcome to the hood @turbocoffee_30a @greenwaystation30a #discover30a #coffee #foodie ...

Life is good everyday ✌️ Bring your floatie.🍩 #discover30a #bestbeachesintheworld #sunday #goodvibesonly @thebeachgroup_

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September you can stay forever 🙌 #discover30a #sunsets #bestbeaches

September you can stay forever 🙌 #discover30a #sunsets #bestbeaches ...

Bring on the weekend fun! 🐟🎣🐠⁠ ⁠ The annual CCA South Walton Kids Fishing Tournament takes place on Saturday, August 26th at Grayton Beach, Florida. Sponsored by the Coastal Conversation Association Florida, the fun begins at 12:00 p.m. this Saturday⁠ ⁠ Link in bio for registration information!⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #weekend #beachlife #weekendvibes #activitiesforkids #fishing #discover30A #graytonbeach @graytonbeach⁠ #beachday #saturdayvibes #floridalife

Bring on the weekend fun! 🐟🎣🐠⁠ ⁠ The annual CCA South Walton Kids Fishing Tournament takes place on Saturday, August 26th at Grayton Beach, Florida. Sponsored by the Coastal Conversation Association Florida, the fun begins at 12:00 p.m. this Saturday⁠ ⁠ Link in bio for registration information!⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #weekend #beachlife #weekendvibes #activitiesforkids #fishing #discover30A #graytonbeach @graytonbeach⁠ #beachday #saturdayvibes #floridalife ...

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Sunday smiles with the best lil 🥕carrot marg @rawandjuicyalysbeach #alysbeach @alysbeach #30a #beachlife #yummy

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Bring your furry friends and meet #local Marcia for her incredible healthy 🐶treats! @hotdog.dogtreats Origins Farmer’s Market every Sunday 9-1 #yum 🐶 @watersoundorigins @30afarmersmarket @30A

Bring your furry friends and meet #local Marcia for her incredible healthy 🐶treats! @hotdog.dogtreats Origins Farmer’s Market every Sunday 9-1 #yum 🐶 @watersoundorigins @30afarmersmarket @30A ...

OPENING SOON Book Your Escape   Have you heard? Camp Creek Inn is opening on July 12! Get ready to unwind in comfortable accommodations that blend elegance with a welcoming atmosphere and enjoy exclusive access to all of The Club’s luxurious amenities. Practice your game at Camp Creek Golf Course, known for its scenic fairways and well-maintained grounds, explore the sprawling pool complex or soak in the sun at the nearby Beach Club. 
Don`t wait to secure your spot, as availability is limited. Book now and get ready for an unforgettable getaway. #discover30a #watersoundbeachclub #watersoundbeach @watercolorinn @watersoundclub @thebeachgroup_

OPENING SOON Book Your Escape   Have you heard? Camp Creek Inn is opening on July 12! Get ready to unwind in comfortable accommodations that blend elegance with a welcoming atmosphere and enjoy exclusive access to all of The Club’s luxurious amenities. Practice your game at Camp Creek Golf Course, known for its scenic fairways and well-maintained grounds, explore the sprawling pool complex or soak in the sun at the nearby Beach Club. 
Don`t wait to secure your spot, as availability is limited. Book now and get ready for an unforgettable getaway. #discover30a #watersoundbeachclub #watersoundbeach @watercolorinn @watersoundclub @thebeachgroup_ ...

Happy Saturday! Let’s go play in the sand! ☀️🪣🌴 #discover30a #beachlife #saturday #sandcastle #getoutside #swim #paddle #yolo #sup

Happy Saturday! Let’s go play in the sand! ☀️🪣🌴 #discover30a #beachlife #saturday #sandcastle #getoutside #swim #paddle #yolo #sup ...

• Post published: May 27, 2021
• Post category: USA

The Ultimate 30A Travel Guide | Emerald Coast, FL

Looking for the best 30A travel guide? You’ve come to the right place!

30A is a well-known spot in the panhandle area of Florida, with some of the most beautiful beaches and quaint towns I’ve ever seen! The area of 30A got its name from County Road 30A, which is the coastal stretch of road from Destin to Inlet Beach. Most people think of the South Walton area when mentioning 30A, which includes quite a few picturesque beach towns away from the super touristy hustle and bustle of Destin.

Keep reading for my 30A travel guide to help you plan your perfect beach vacation!

This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission if you book through my links, at no extra cost to you.

SEE ALSO: The Best Things to Do in Dahlonega, GA

30A Travel Guide: Trip Overview

• PTO/Vacation Days Needed: 0-1

How to Get to 30A, Florida

There are two nearby airports to choose from:

• Panama City Airport (ECP) : This is the closest airport, about 20 miles from the heart of 30A.
• Destin/Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) : A little further away (45 miles from the heart of 30A) but you’ll likely find cheaper flights to this airport

Once you land, I recommend using Uber or Lyft to get to from the airport to 30A. I do want to note – I was there in May 2021 and there was a Uber & Taxi shortage going on at VPS, and no rental cars available. I ended up having to take a shuttle that took quite a while to arrive in 30A, as it dropped people off in Destin first. Just a warning! Hopefully this shortage does not last long.

Where to Stay in 30A

30A is made up of a few charming beach towns, such as Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Watercolor, Alys Beach, Grayton Beach, and Seagrove Beach. In my opinion, they all pretty much have similar vibes, but Seaside seems to have the most action going on (and is the filming location of The Truman Show!), Alys Beach is the fanciest/most expensive area, and Watercolor is the best spot to stay for families with kids. Don’t stress too much about which town you choose to stay in. No matter which area you pick, you will be just a quick bike ride away from most of the other 30A beach towns!

I recommend renting a VRBO – there are plenty of awesome beach-front options for all budget levels. If you’re planning on visiting in summer, just make sure to book enough in advance since that’s the busy season.

For instance, check out this awesome VRBO that I found – this cute house in Seaside sleeps 8 people and has epic ocean views! It’s also conveniently walking distance to several bars and restaurants (including Bud & Alleys!)

The Ultimate 30A Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do in 30A

1. hang at the beach.

Perhaps the most obvious of my list, but one of the best things to do in 30A is to simply hang at the beach! The beaches in 30A are world-class. I’m talking fluffy white sand and crystal clear, turquoise water. It’s beautiful! If you flew here and didn’t bring a beach chair, there is pretty much always a beach chair company renting them out at each section of the beach here. You can normally rent two beach chairs + umbrella for about $60/day or so. Make sure to tip your beach attendant!

2. Cruise on your Bike

One of my favorite parts about 30A is that everything (for the most part) is pretty bike-able. There is a bike path that runs parallel to the road, so you can bike around from town to town. There are a few great bike rental shops to choose from, but 30A Bike Rentals is a popular choice!

3. Sunset at Bud & Alleys

Not only is Bud & Alleys one of my favorite restaurants in 30A, but it’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset! This two-story restaurant in Seaside has a beautiful view from the upper level. I recommend making a dinner reservation beforehand, but then showing up early for sunset and try your chances at the first-come-first-serve seating area on the upper level to grab happy hour drinks with a view!

4. Beach Bonfire + Charcuterie

Light Me Up Beach Bonfires

I can’t write a 30A travel guide without mentioning one of my favorite things to do! Having a beach bonfire is one of the best ways to spend an evening in 30A. You can technically apply for a fire permit beforehand and make your own beach bonfire, but I highly recommend instead doing it through Light Me Up Beach Bonfires . They are seriously awesome! They’ll set up everything for you: from obtaining the fire permit, building the fire, and having an attendant there to keep it going – so you can sit back, relax and enjoy! They have a table and chairs set up, as well as a smore’s station, bluetooth speaker, and sparklers! All you have to do is bring snacks and drinks. Which leads me to my next recommendation…

Graze30A Charcuterie

What pairs perfectly well with a sunset beach bonfire? An epic charcuterie board! I highly recommend ordering a perfectly-curated charcuterie board through Graze30A. It’s SO delicious and makes for a great complement to an awesome evening. You can DM them on their Instagram page (@graze30a) or Facebook to order.

5. Paddleboard at Grayton Beach State Park

This is one of the most unique experiences in my 30A Travel Guide. While most people spend their days beach-side (you can also paddle board on the ocean), paddle boarding at Grayton Beach State Park offers a nice little change of scenery. Here you can cruise on the waters of Western Lake – a coastal dune lake within the state park. It’s the second-largest dune lake in Northwest Florida! There are a few paddle board rental companies to choose from, for instance: Adventure 30A , which rents them for $60/day and will deliver it to you.

6. Boat to Crab Island in Destin

Ok so this activity is not necessarily in the “South Walton” area of 30A, but I definitely wanted to include it in my 30A travel guide because it is SO much fun! About a 45 minute drive from the heart of 30A, you’ll reach Destin. Destin has become super touristy over the years, but there’s still some fun to be had. Taking a boat to Crab Island is one of them!

Crab Island isn’t technically an “island” but rather a big sandbar right offshore. In the summer, you’ll find tons of boats parked out here and people hanging out and partying (this is definitely not a family-friendly spot!). You’ll find little boats cruising by that are selling fun floats, drinks in a pineapple or coconut, merch vendors selling t-shirts and coozies, and a few food boats as well. It gets pretty wild out here, but it’s a super fun time!

I recommend hiring a pontoon boat charter so that you can sit back, relax, and have fun without worrying about anything! This one has great reviews and is only $325 for a private charter that holds up to 12 people!

If you want to keep the party going after Crab Island, (since you’re already in the Destin area) – I recommend heading to the Destin Harbor and getting some drinks at AJ’s! This bar is huge and has awesome views from the upstairs area. You can also rent one of these cool light-up tiki boats that cruise through the Destin Harbor at night too!

There are a bunch of cute restaurants to choose from when you’re in 30A! I recommend the below:

Seaside Food Trucks: If you’re looking for something casual in a scenic area, bike over to the food trucks in the heart of Seaside. You can eat in the grassy park area right behind the trucks, or take your food across the street to the beach!

Bud & Alleys : This is the place I mentioned earlier that has a great sunset view. It’s located right across from the food trucks in Seaside. This is a don’t-miss spot when you’re in 30A!

Cowgirl Kitchen : This is a great choice for breakfast or lunch! There’s a location in Rosemary Beach as well as Santa Rosa Beach

George’s at Alys Beach : This spot has delicious healthy options in the Alys Beach area

Black Bear Bread Co : The hottest bakery in town. Go here for coffee and a pastry! They also serve their bread as an appetizer option at Bud & Alleys.

Donut Hole : One of the most popular breakfast spots in the panhandle! Although the name suggests otherwise, they actually have a full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu (but I highly recommend ordering a doughnut too!) There’s a few locations throughout the area.

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The Very Best Things to Do in 30A

Nestled between the popular tourist destinations of Panama City and Destin, Florida, lies a stretch of Gulf Coast beach along scenic Highway 30A in Walton County Florida. This area, known popularly as “30A,” features beautiful white sandy beaches, picture-perfect beach villages, rare coastal dune lakes, and some great eating. 

Though much smaller than either Destin or Panama City, there is still a wealth of great things to do in 30A.  

30A highlights

• 30A is a scenic stretch of coastline in Walton County, Florida, known for its white sandy beaches and picturesque beach communities.
• Seaside is a notable spot along 30A with shopping, dining, and the famous grilled cheese food truck, The Meltdown on 30A.
• The Timpoochee Trail provides an 18-mile bike path that allows visitors to explore the different beach neighborhoods without the hassle of traffic.
• For entertainment and dining, The Big Chill (formerly The Hub) in Watersound is a popular evening destination with a variety of food options, shops, and events.

30A makes a wonderful family vacation destination. It also makes a great romantic getaway destination for couples. 

Need help planning your trip to beautiful 30A? Check out our list of essential travel planning resources .    

Plan your 30A vacation with this FREE printable travel planner .  

Spend a day at one of the beautiful beaches on 30A 

The beautiful white sugary beaches along 30A are not to be missed. So, pack your sunglasses, sunscreen, snacks, and other beach day essentials and enjoy an afternoon or even a full day at the beach. 

Depending on where you stay in 30A, a great beach spot might be just steps away or you may have to go a little out of your way. You can certainly save money at 30A by renting accommodations away from the beach side of the highway. 

Your hosts will be able to direct you to the closest public beach access. But you don’t have to stick to the nearest beach. You can find public beach access in many places along 30A. 

Take a walk along the beach at sunset 

Don’t miss the sunset on the beach at 30A. The light is magical. In fact, you’ll probably see couples and little families out on the beach in their coordinating outfits getting pictures taken for their Christmas cards. 

Seriously. Practically every night. 

Grab your sweetie, a beach blanket, and a cup of coffee, and make it an evening date. 

Head to Panama City, Florida, for some adventure

Panama City Beach is just a 30-minute drive from the 30A area. It’s a great place to try a bit of adventure.

You could try scuba diving (no experience needed).

Or try the scream machine thrill ride out on the water.

End your day with a sunset catamaran sail .

Rent a paddleboard or kayak and get out on the lake 

In addition to the beautiful Gulf coastline, 30A features some lovely coastal dune lakes.  Coastal dune lakes are a pretty rare geological feature that occurs in only a few places in the world, including Walton County Florida. 

Western Lake can be found between Grayton Beach and WaterColor. Small motorboats are allowed on Western Lake, and paddle boarding and kayaking rentals are popular. 

There are several equipment rental places along 30A, including those that offer free delivery. Western Lake is partly surrounded by Grayton Beach State Park where you can also find trails and picnic areas.  

Spend an evening at The Big Chill (formerly The Hub) 

Head down 30A to Watersound and spend an evening at The Big Chill which used to be called The Hub. You’ll find a wide variety of great eats like burgers, BBQ, seafood, ice cream, smoothies, etc. 

There are also some fun shops to look through. You might find the perfect 30A souvenir to take home as a remembrance of your trip. 

Check the events calendar to keep up with fun events like family movie nights, live music and more. 

Bike the Timpoochee Trail 

Bike rentals in 30A are quite popular. Because the highway is so narrow, traffic can get rather congested around the most popular spots like Seaside’s Central Square, especially during peak travel season 

Instead of dealing with traffic in your car, explore 30A on a bike . You can follow the 18-mile  Timpoochee Trail to explore all of the lovely beach neighborhoods along Highway 30A.

Head to Seaside for some shopping 

Seaside’s Central Square is a popular spot along 30A. Full of great shops and wonderful lunch spots (see below for our favorite), it’s a great way to spend an afternoon. 

We recommend stopping in at: 

• Central Square Records —Audiophiles will enjoy browsing through the bins at this independent record store. Who knows? You might find that copy of  Queen II  on vinyl you’ve been wanting. 
• Sundog Books —Just downstairs from Central Square Records you’ll find the family-owned Sundog Books. A great place to pick up your next beach read. 
• The Seaside Style —Great shop to pick up Seaside logo merch and even items referencing the Jim Carrey film  The Truman Show  which was filmed in Seaside. 
• Art of Simple —fun gifts and home décor items. 

Parking can be difficult to find near the popular Central Square.  Convenient paid parking is available on Smolian Circle. 

Or you can drive outside of Seaside and park at the free lot on Highway 283 in Grayton Beach and ride the free shuttle . Shuttles run every 10 to 15 minutes until quite late in the evening. 

Grab lunch at The Meltdown on 30A 

As long as you’re in Seaside, why not grab the best grilled cheese of your life ? You’ll find The Meltdown on 30A food truck along “Airstream Row” at Central Square facing Highway 30A. 

The picture doesn’t do it justice. Bad lighting. My apologies.

But this sandwich ( French Onion is my Jam ) was so amazing that I had to go back later in the week and get it again. I dream about this sandwich. Okay, not really, but you get the idea. 

My family also recommends the Cuban McConnell and This Little Figgy . And you can get any sandwich on the menu with gluten-free bread . 

Take a day trip to Destin

Explore more of the Gulf Coast by heading over to Destin for a day trip.

There are some really fun things to do there. For example, you could try a banana boat experience .

Or go on a large jet ski boat ride dolphin tour .

You could also try a tiki sunset cruise .

Stroll through Rosemary Beach 

Toward the Eastern end of Highway 30A, you’ll find the lovely Rosemary Beach community . The cobblestone streets and architecture put one in mind of old European towns. It’s a great place to just walk around and enjoy looking in the shops. 

There’s limited parking around Barrett Square, but if you can find a spot grab it quickly! You’ll find great Rosemary Beach souvenirs at Rosemary Beach Trading Company in the center of town. 

If you’re a book lover like me, you’ll love wandering through The Hidden Lantern. It’s a beautiful store with a great selection of books.  

Enjoy dessert at La Crema Tapas & Chocolate 

Oh hey. And as long as you’re at Rosemary Beach, stop by La Crema Tapas & Chocolate for a wonderful dessert. 

We highly recommend the chocolate fondue (delicious!), the salted caramel ice cream , and the fruit tarte . There is a gluten-free option for the fondue, and you can choose either dark or milk chocolate. Adding peanut butter is available for an upcharge.  

While I enjoyed trying the sipping chocolate, I didn’t think it was worth anything close to the $6 I paid for it. 

Pick up some donuts at Khave & Cream 

For a delicious morning treat, head to Khave & Cream in Seagrove Beach for some wonderful donuts. You can purchase individually or splurge on a box. 

Or put your life in the hands of the staff and let them choose a variety of donuts for you. I highly recommend the apple-filled bear claw. It’s enormous and delicious! 

Plan to get there early, especially during peak summer travel season or you might miss out. Though we didn’t try the coffee or ice cream (kicking myself), I have heard good things. 

Splurge on a romantic sunset dinner at Surfing Deer 

If you’re looking for some fine dining for a splurge-y date night dinner out, then I recommend you give Surfing Deer a try. 

The food is excellent, and they have a good selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options for diners with special dietary needs. 

Everything we ordered was EXCELLENT.  We had basil pesto pappardelle, and the filet, and shared the coffee-roasted heirloom carrots. Hubby also ordered the s’mores brownie sundae for dessert and I managed to grab a few bites before it was gone.  

Yum!  

You can eat in the beautiful main dining room or enjoy a meal out on the patio. We chose the patio when we made our reservation so we could enjoy the sunset. 

I made our reservation for just right about sunset, and I kind of wish now I had made it for 15 to 30 minutes earlier. The light on 30A in the 20 minutes or so before sunset is just beautiful. 

Final thoughts on what to do in 30A 

No matter how you like to spend a beach vacation, you’ll find a lot of wonderful things to do at 30A. From outdoor adventures on one of the coastal dune lakes to shopping in Seaside and wonderful dining in Seagrove, you’ll never be bored. 

And if what you crave is a relaxing day in the sand listening to the waves roll against the shore while you get lost in a great beach read…well you most certainly can do that too. 

What’s your favorite thing to do at 30A?

More articles to help you plan your beach vacation 

• Don’t forget to pack these beach day essentials  
• Travel planning resources 

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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The Ultimate Guide to The Best Things to Do on 30A in 2023

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Table of Contents

Planning a trip to Florida’s Gulf Coast and want to know the best things to do on 30A for an ultimate beach vacation?

As a Floridian , who spends countless hours on the water, these beach towns have so much to offer. I fell in love with beaches along Scenic Highway 30A, and now I’m sharing my absolute favorites with you.

Don’t try and cram everything into one day, though! The beauty of 30A is in its leisurely atmosphere — take your time to savor all the amazing things to do on 30A!

What is 30A?

Scenic 30A is a highway that runs along the Gulf of Mexico. This Florida highway is 24 miles long and passes near several small beach communities, including:

• Santa Rosa Beach
• Rosemary Beach

Scenic Highway 30A is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious vacation homes and resorts. It’s also popular for outdoor activities, making it a premier beach vacation destination.

Click the +/- icon to zoom in or out for more 30A map details.

Start Your Day with 30A Coffee Shops

Amavida Coffee and Tea

One of 30A’s most well-loved coffee shops is  Amavida Coffee & Tea   in Rosemary Beach. Stop for some brunch and delicious coffee or loose-leaf tea. I recommended the frozen white mocha! If you’re staying more towards the eastern end of the 30A area, Amavida also has a location in Seaside.

Fonville Press Market + Cafe

The newly reopened  Fonville Press Market + Cafe  in Alys Beach is a jack of all trades (and master of all!). This bright, airy spot is a combination of a coffee shop, diner, market, and cocktail bar. Their best items are their flatbreads and craft lattes.

Relax at the Beautiful 30A Beaches

I’m from Tampa Bay and spend considerable time on some of the best beaches in the US, including St Pete Beach , Pass-a-Grille , and Clearwater Beach .

Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Blue Mountain Beach, are some of my favorite beach locations. For all my favorite locations, you’ll want to read my article on the top beaches on 30A .

Some are free and open to the public, like much of Santa Rosa Beach. Others are located within state parks and attract a small entry fee, like the beach in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. There are quite a few stretches that are strictly private, too, like Rosemary Beach.

Whichever of the beautiful beaches you visit, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and much more!

Take a Boat Tour

The Gulf of Mexico awaits exploration, and taking a boat tour is one of the best things to do on 30A!

I highly recommend taking a  dolphin tour on a speedboat cruise in Destin. You can see the wildlife up close while enjoying the beautiful turquoise Gulf of Mexico waters.

Alternatively, if you have the time, kick the relaxation up a notch on a tiki tour to Crab Island . The destination is a sandbar off of the Destin Harbor. It’s one of the highest-rated tours especially for couples or groups. Just make sure to bring your own beverage. You can also get a quick bite at one of the “floating” restaurants on the sandbar.

Bike the Timpoochee Trail to Neighboring Beach Towns

The  Timpoochee Trail  is a paved bike trail that spans 18.5 miles. It connects many of 30A’s beach towns, from Dune Allen to Inlet Beach. 

You can go for a short bike ride or make it a full-on day trip with your whole group. Make a pit stop at the various beach accesses and a lunch break at one of the many eateries along the trail.

My personal favorite cities within biking distance of each other are Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and Seaside. Each town is uniquely charming and worthy of exploration! Many of the local hotels provide bikes, so it’s you may not have to rent one.

🌴 Pro Tip: The 30A communities are very bike-friendly and my preferred way to travel in between villages; it’s a great way to get around!

See Where The Truman Show was Filmed

Among the idyllic beach communities of 30A, Seaside is arguably the most picture-perfect of them all. Perhaps that’s why it was chosen to be “Seahaven,” the setting for the Truman Show.

Just wandering around the neighborhood, you might notice places that will be very familiar to fans of the film. There’s Modica Market, the gazebo at the Tupelo Street Roundabout, the Coleman Pavilion, and several other spots. Truman’s house is even still there!

If you are looking for fun free things to do , bring your beach blanket and a picnic to the Seaside Amphitheater. It’s in the center of it all, with Merchants of Seaside surrounding its grassy field. Come and enjoy jazz on the lawn and other live music events.

Explore the Rare Coastal Dune Lakes

Aside from the beaches, 30A’s most distinctive natural features are its coastal dune lakes. Walton County has 15 of these lakes nestled among rolling sand dunes. It’s rare to have so many clustered in one place like this! Many of the dune lakes are great for kayaking, fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Where to Stay on 30A

Looking for a luxury boutique hoatel? I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at  The Pearl  in Rosemary Beach. This hotel is upscale with a charming, Caribbean flair. It has just 55 rooms, some of which have Gulf views.

Note that kids are not allowed at the pool. The hotel also is not directly on the beach. However, it does have its own private beach with lounge chairs and service.

WaterColor Inn & Resort

Another place I can vouch for is  Water C olor Inn & Resort . It’s a bigger and much more family-friendly option. There is a kids’ camp to keep the little ones occupied. 

In addition to the classic rooms, there are vacation homes on-site that you can stay at. Plus, WaterColor Inn has a stretch of private beach.

Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse

A more affordable option is  Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse  in Grayton Beach. This cozy bed & breakfast has a down-home, Old Florida vibe. There are 13 different kinds of accommodation options to choose from, including apartments with full kitchens! Breakfast at the on-site cafe is included with your stay.

Spend Time in Beautiful Rosemary Beach

When you step into Rosemary Beach, you’re greeted with cobblestone streets, European architecture, and an incredibly quaint atmosphere. You’d be forgiven for thinking the town has stood the test of time — it’s one of 30A’s newer towns!

Make a few stops at the local eateries, shop at the eclectic boutiques, and (if you’re staying in town) visit the beach!

Shop the 30A Farmers Market & Local Shops

The 30A Farmers Market has four locations:

Stop by for farm-fresh produce, homemade jams and sauces, seafood right off the boat, and a wide assortment of health products.

Beyond the 30A Farmers Market, there are tons of local shops you should visit.   The Blue Giraffe  in WaterColor has a vibrant selection of art, jewelry, and decor. For playful yet stylish women’s fashion, head to  Disco  in Rosemary Beach. As for books, every shelf inside   Sundog Books  in Seaside is filled to the brim.

Eat at the Best 30a Restaurants

The 30A area in Florida’s Gulf Coast is known not only for its beautiful beaches but also for its vibrant culinary scene. Here are a few of my favorite go-to places, from casual beachside eateries to upscale dining.

The Citizen

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The Citizen in Alys Beach is a sleek spot to sip a cocktail while you enjoy a seasonal seafood menu. The Calabrian shrimp, served with focaccia, is a local favorite. The flounder fish & grits is also amazing.

If you can never get enough oysters when you visit a seafood restaurant, stop by for oyster happy hour, from 3–5 pm. You can dine in the main area, the bar, or the raw bar.

Stinky’s Fish Camp

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On the other end of Scenic Highway 30A, in Santa Rosa Beach, Stinky’s Fish Camp is one of the area’s premier restaurants. This down-home eatery is great for creative, Southern-style seafood. Try their crawfish pie, oyster log, or buffalo frog legs. 

Stinky’s Fish Camp has live music most evenings, as well as Taco Tuesdays and Sunday Brunch.

George’s at Alys Beach

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Refined but not stuffy — that’s George’s at Alys Beach. The menu at this casual fine dining restaurant is primarily American. However, there are also global inspired items with a regional coastal flare.

I recommended their lobster quesadilla and jerk-crusted snapper. Pair your lunch or dinner with a craft cocktail or a glass from their extensive wine list.

Great Southern Cafe

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Great Southern Cafe in Seaside is a breezy, beloved spot for locals and travelers alike. They’ve got a huge menu of “new-fashioned” Southern cuisine. The New Orleans-style seafood gumbo is a classic. If you’ve got a big appetite, try the Great Southern Seafood Plateau — it comes with oysters, shrimp, lobster tails, and jumbo lump crab!

La Crema Tapas & Chocolate

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La Crema Tapas & Chocolate is a fun, Spanish inspired eatery in Rosemary Beach. It’s a perfect spot for dessert or a light meal, as well as wine! The small plates they offer are a mix of sweet and savory. From chocolate fondue and molten lava cake to seafood paella and lobster-stuffed mushrooms, you’ll leave 100% satisfied!

Hang Out at The Big Chill 30A

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Formerly known as The Hub,  The Big Chill 30A   is an entertainment complex in Prominence. There are seafood restaurants, BBQ joints, ice cream stands, and bars. There are also tons of shops, from chic boutiques to a Build-a-Bear Workshop. 

The Big Chill 30A houses a 25-foot Jumbotron that is the centerpiece for many events, such as the weekly Family Movie Night during the summer. Local bands play live music at the amphitheater here, too.

See the Butterflies in Cerulean Park

Cerulean Park  is one of the most beautiful parks in the area. It’s located at the heart of WaterColor and borders Western Lake, a coastal dune lake.

Visit for a stroll, bike ride, or picnic, as a kaleidoscope of butterflies flutter around among the flowers and trees. Cross the picturesque footbridge across Western Lake to relax at the gazebo or walk along the nature trail.

Explore the Local State Parks

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park   has lots of competition when it comes to state parks along 30A, but it’s still one of the best. It stretches from the forested inland all the way to the dune-filled beach.

There are awesome campsites for both tents and RVs. There are also well-maintained hiking and biking paths and a tram that takes you to the beach.

Eden Gardens State Park

Nature is often the star of the show at state parks, but  Eden Gardens State Park  is a bit unique and a must-see on the Emerald Coast if you like state parks. There is a small admission fee of approximately $4 per vehicle.

The main attraction is the Historic Wesley House. Built in the Victorian style and renovated with an antebellum elegance, the manor houses lots of antiques from the 1700s to 1800s. The historic home is situated in an amazing grove of live oaks and maintained gardens. The history behind the manor’s owners is quite interesting — consider taking a guided tour!

Morrison Springs County Park

Morrison Springs County Park is a popular recreational area known for its crystal-clear freshwater springs, which are a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The springs at Morrison Springs County Park are located in a natural basin. The water in the springs is a constant 65 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a refreshing place to cool off during the hot summer months. There are boardwalks too view the springs if you prefer not to swim.

In addition to swimming and diving, the park also offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and camping facilities. The park has a campground; as well as picnic pavilions and grills throughout the park for visitors to use.

Morrison Springs County Park is open year-round, and there is no admission fee to enter the park.

Deer Lake State Park

Deer Lake State Park is a beautiful coastal park known for its pristine beaches, unspoiled coastal dune lakes, and diverse wildlife. It’s a hidden gem with newly opened amenities, clean restrooms, covered picnic tables & grills, and a lengthy boardwalk.

In addition to the beach, Deer Lake State Park offers hiking and biking trails that wind through the park’s natural sand dunes and pine forests. The trails offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a wide range of bird species.

Deer Lake State Park is ideal for family vacations since it also offers picnic areas, a playground, and a boardwalk that provides access to the beach. The park is open year-round, and there is a small admission fee of $3 per vehicle to enter the park.

Try Local 30A Breweries

30A is somewhat synonymous with wine — there are so many wine festivals throughout the year! — but you shouldn’t overlook the beer scene, either.

The industrial-style  Idyll Hounds Brewing Company   in Santa Rosa Beach is one of South Walton’s finest. That’s not just me saying that; they actually have an amazing lager called So Wal’s Finest! 

Grayton Beer   is another location, offering a wide range of local brew options on 22 taps. This could even be one of the first places you see when you visit 30A — they have a secondary taproom at the airport in Panama City Beach.

Take a Day Trip to Destin or Panama City Beach

Destin has a lot going on! But when I’m looking to do a day trip, I prefer to spend time on a tiki boat tour or have a little adventure with water sports from the  Destin Harbor Boardwalk .  

Destin has plenty of shops if you want to explore the city. While in the city, end your day with Creole-inspired Gulf seafood at  Louisiana Lagniappe with yummy dishes like pecan grouper and hush puppies. You’ll get a beautiful harbor view too!

Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach’s compact nature makes it great for exploring on an  e-bike tour . This five-star highly rated tour provides hidden gems from a local’s perspective and shares their suggestions on tourist hotspots like  Ripley’s Believe It or Not!  

Pineapple Willy’s is a fun place for a casual bite to eat. This eatery is on the beach, has po’boys and daiquiris, and usually live music.

Play Golf or Tennis

Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort  in Miramar Beach has four championship courses, totaling 73 holes (that’s right, not 72!). Another great option is  Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club . It’s home to an 18-hole championship course and a 6-hole short course.

One of 30A’s largest tennis facilities is the  R osemary Beach Racquet Club . There are eight courts, as well as an observation deck.  WaterColor Tennis Center  is smaller, with five courts, but it also has two pickleball courts.

Visit Local Art Galleries

Walton County celebrates  Art Month  in May. Whether or not you’re visiting during that time, you can add visiting galleries to your list of things to do in 30A. 

The  Justin Gaffrey Studio Gallery   is both a gallery and a studio space for the namesake local artist. The gallery showcases his artwork, noted for having a unique “sculpting with paint” style.

J. Leon Gallery   is one of the newer fine art galleries in the area, showcasing pieces from many local artists. It stands out by doubling as a ceramic studio, offering classes. 

Have a Perfect Evening with a Beach Bonfire

What’s better than watching the sunset on the beach?

A beach bonfire that you don’t have to set up and clean up yourself. Many beach bonfire companies along 30A will put together the bonfire for you and provide chairs, speakers, and food. This is ideal for a romantic date night or roasting marsh mellows with the kids.

Sunset Bell at Bud & Alley’s

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To wrap up this list of the best things to do in 30a, I recommend enjoying the sunset with crab cakes and a drink at  Bud & Alley’s .

You can also try their gourmet pizza at their Pizza Bar or fish tacos at the Fish Bar. At this casual beach spot, a vintage bell tolls as the sun disappears beneath the horizon. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly things to do on 30a.

Bike rentals to explore Timpoochee Trail to nearby beach towns is one of the top things to do in 30A. Another great activity is taking one of the dolphin tours . If you like a bit more adventure, you’ll want to check out the Baytowne Zipline at  Baytowne Adventure Zone  in Miramar Beach.

What’s the best way to get around 30A?

Bike rentals are your best friend and one of the top fun things to do on 30A. The towns were intentionally designed to be bike-friendly, so rent a bike and get going!

Is 30A expensive?

Scenic Highway 30A is pretty expensive. It’s a tourist area, so even for locals, everything is priced at “tourist prices.” However, you can certainly enjoy 30A on a budget, if you plan right. If you’re looking to purchase a home, you’ll be paying a premium to live in this iconic destination with celebrities homes.

Is San Destin in 30A?

San Destin is not technically located on 30A, but it is located in close proximity to the 30A area. San Destin is a resort town located in the Florida Panhandle, just to the west of the 30A. While San Destin is not part of the Highway 30A beach communities, it is a popular destination for visitors to the area, and many people choose to stay in San Destin while exploring the nearby 30A beaches and communities.

What airport do you fly into to go to 30A?

If you’re on the east end of 30A, Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) is the closest airport. ECP tends to be the best option for most of 30A based on distance. However, if you’re staying on the far west section of Highway 30A, the closer airport is Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS).

Final Thoughts on Things to Do on 30A

In conclusion, there are plenty of fun things to do on 30A to have an incredible vacation. From the stunning beaches and state parks to the unique restaurants and shopping experiences, there is something for all types of vacationers. Even someone like myself, who lives in a beach vacation destination, I still can’t wait to take a trip to scenic highway 30A.

Since I prefer a more relaxed but upscale vacation, I prefer staying at The Pearl Hotel or WaterColor Inn . However, there are many other great options, so don’t feel you need to spend a bundle to have a memorable family vacation.

Interesting Florida Articles to Read Next

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The 11+ Best Things to Do in 30A Florida

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30A is a stretch of coastline that runs through several small beach towns in the Florida panhandle. This picturesque area is known for its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and charming seaside communities. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, there are plenty of fun things to do in 30A!

We loved our little 2-day trip here! I wish we would’ve had more time to explore each of the beach communities. Initially, we planned on flying here but changed our mind at the last minute and decided to turn it into a fun little road trip making a pitstop in Ocala on our way back.

The drive from Tampa to Santa Rosa Beach was 6 hours (check out my long drive tips ). It went by pretty quickly! This is one of my new favorite weekend getaways from Tampa .

Looking for convenient transportation?

🚗 Rentalcars can make the process of car renting faster and easier, so you can have the best traveling experience.

Table of Contents

Why is it Called 30A?

The name “30A” refers to the scenic highway that runs along the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Panhandle. The 24-mile highway connects multiple beach communities along the coast, including Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Grayton Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach.

The road offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding natural beauty. It has become a beloved destination for those seeking a relaxing beach vacation. The various communities along the highway each have their own unique charm and character, making 30A a diverse and exciting destination for travelers of all ages and interests!

When is the Best Time to Visit 30A?

The best time to visit 30A depends on your preferences, as each season offers something unique. The peak season for tourism is during the summer months, from June through August. The weather is warm and sunny and the water is perfect for swimming and water sports! However, this is also the busiest time of year, and crowds and prices can be high.

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere and cooler weather, you may want to consider visiting 30A during the spring (it’s a great Florida spring break destination ) or fall. The shoulder seasons, which run from March to May and September to November, offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices. You’ll still be able to enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities but with a more laid-back vibe.

Winter is the least popular time to visit 30A, but it can still be a great time for outdoor activities like biking and fishing. The weather during the winter months , from December to February, is cooler and sometimes rainy, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the low 60s.

Regardless of when you decide to visit, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly. Check out my Florida packing list as a base guide!

We visited mid-April and the water was just about at the perfect temp, not too cold, but great for a cool down.

Fun Things to Do in 30A

Check out all of the beaches.

The beaches along 30A are one of the biggest draws of the area! With sugar-white sand and crystal-clear water, they offer a relaxing and beautiful experience! Here are the most popular beaches along 30A and what you can expect at each:

Grayton Beach:

Grayton Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The state park here is home to some of the most pristine and undeveloped beaches in the area, as well as scenic trails and diverse wildlife.

Seaside Beach:

This beach is known for its picture-perfect scenery, with pastel-colored beach houses and a stunning white sand beach. Not to mention its lively town center with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s a popular spot for families, and there are plenty of amenities nearby.

Rosemary Beach:

This upscale beach community features luxury homes, high-end shops and restaurants, and a bustling town center with plenty of activities and entertainment. It’s a quieter beach compared to some of the others in the area, making it a great spot for a relaxing day in the sun.

Santa Rosa Beach:

This family-friendly destination is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The town has a laid-back and charming atmosphere. It also has a vibrant food scene, with many seafood restaurants serving up fresh catch from the Gulf of Mexico!

Capture the beautiful moments on a private photoshoot . 

🚲 Get the most out of the beach day and explore Santa Rosa beach’s beauty on an E-bike with the guided instructions

Alys Beach:

Known for its unique architectural style, the town features white stucco buildings with turquoise accents, and its narrow streets are lined with palm trees and beautifully landscaped gardens. Alys Beach is also known for its luxurious amenities, including a private beach club and pool, tennis courts, and an amphitheater that hosts concerts and events throughout the year. Alys Beach is a popular destination for those seeking a luxurious beach vacation.

Rent a bike

One of the best ways to explore 30A is by bike! Renting bikes from YOLO Board and Bikes is an excellent way to get some exercise and take in the beautiful scenery along the way. The bikes are actually electric, so technically you can get as much or little exercise as you want while exploring 😉

The 30A bike trail is approximately 19 miles long and runs parallel to the scenic highway. The trail is flat and easy to ride, making it suitable for all skill levels.

The bikes are comfortable and well-maintained, and they come with helmets, locks, and baskets. They also do pick up and delivery to wherever you are staying (it’s free if you rent for two days or more).

There are plenty of places to stop along the way, including beaches, state parks, and restaurants. Taking the bikes out and exploring the scenic coastal roads and quaint neighborhoods is easily one of the best things to do in 30A!

Take a boat tour

If you’re looking for a fun and adventurous activity to do on your 30A vacation, I highly recommend taking a boat tour with Destin Boat Rentals. Their Crab Island 4-hour Adventure Tour is a fantastic way to spend a day on the water.

The tour takes you to Crab Island, a popular spot for boaters and swimmers, where you can enjoy a variety of activities at this epic sandbar. Along the way, you’ll also get to visit their adventure park, which features an inflatable obstacle course, as well as go snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding!

The tour is very family-friendly. You are able to bring a cooler with food and drinks, or you can snag your lunch from one of the vendors at Crab Island. We were blown away by the BBQ spot! It was the only food option, so my hopes weren’t high, but we were more than satisfied with the ribs and wings that fell off of the bone.

If you’re traveling with a group and want a private boat tour to Crab Island, check out this half-day pontoon rental .

Visit the State Parks

30A is home to several state parks that offer a variety of outdoor activities. Grayton Beach State Park costs $5 per vehicle and offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of the area. The 2,000 acres of park includes crystal-clear waters, sugar-white sand beaches, towering sand dunes, and plenty of wildlife.

In addition to the beach, the park offers visitors several outdoor activities to enjoy. There are trails that wind through the park’s sand dunes and forests, as well as a boat ramp for kayaking or fishing in Western Lake. The park also has picnic pavilions, grills, and restroom facilities for visitors to use.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park costs $6 per vehicle and covers over 1,600 acres. It’s home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, foxes, turtles, and various species of birds. One of the highlights of this park is the three-mile stretch of secluded beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

The park also offers several hiking and biking trails, including the popular Campbell Lake Trail, which takes you through a scenic pine forest to the edge of a coastal dune lake.

Those are the two most popular, but Deer Lake State Park and Camp Helen State Park are also nearby!

Go Shopping

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, 30A has plenty of cute shops and boutiques to explore. The Hidden Lantern Bookstore is a must-visit spot for book lovers. It’s located in Rosemary Beach and has a great selection of books, as well as gifts and stationery. Seaside Beach is also a great spot for shopping, with charming boutiques offering clothing, art, jewelry, and more.

Check out the seven best shopping spots in 30A .

Enjoy local fare

There are plenty of delicious food and drink options along 30A. Be sure to get some of their delicious local seafood! Here are some of the best spots to grab a bite or a drink at:

• Bud and Alley’s : This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Be sure to try their spicy pineapple mezcalita, and their all meat no filling crab cakes which are a fan favorite.
• The Meltdown : The Meltdown is a food truck located in Seaside’s Airstream Row that serves gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Actually depressed I was unable to try one of these before leaving 30A.

• Fonville Press : Fonville Press is a café and bookstore with a casual atmosphere. They serve coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and salads. We had a flatbread which was so flavorful!
• George’s : George’s is a waterfront restaurant known for its seafood and upscale American fare. It’s a little on the pricier side, but has a lovely atmosphere for a nice dinner out.
• The Citizen : The Citizen is a cozy restaurant and bar that serves coastal and creative local fare. Prices are moderate.

Santa Rosa Beach

• Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar and Hurricane Oyster Bar and Grill: These restaurants serve up delicious seafood and some of the best oyster shooters in the area. Shunk Gulley is located right across the street from the beach and has a rooftop area as well.
• Vue on 30A : As the name suggests, Vue on 30A offers stunning views of the coastline. They serve seafood and American cuisine, with prices on the higher side.
• Mimmo’s 30A : A cozy Italian restaurant offering classic Italian pasta dishes, wood-fired pizza, and seafood. The restaurant has an intimate atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Rosemary Beach

• Pescado : Also located in Alys Beach, Pescado is a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. They specialize in seafood and coastal cuisine, with prices on the higher side.

For breakfast or dessert, The Donut Hole also seems to be a right of passage, and I understand why. There were so many options and they were delicious! Not to mention the prices were so cheap.

Check out some of the adorable coffee shops

Speaking of breakfast, there are plenty of cute coffee shops in 30A. These are located throughout the area, offering a range of delicious coffee drinks and bites! One of the coffee shops we visited and enjoyed was Sunrise Coffee Co in Santa Rosa Beach.

It’s right across the street from the beach. It features a laid-back atmosphere while serving up a variety of hot and cold brews. Speaking of which, their coconut creme brulee cold brew was delish!

Another coffee spot we checked out was Badass Coffee in Santa Rosa Beach, which specializes in Hawaiian coffee blends and offers a variety of iced drinks perfect for sipping on a hot day. We actually loved this spot when we visited Maui and loved checking them out again on the east coast. This time we got a frozen coffee, and ya’ll! It was dangerously good.

Lastly, we stopped by Beachy Bean Coffee Co , a cozy waterfront coffee shop that offers locally roasted coffee and a variety of tasty treats to enjoy with your drink. Their rose latte was beautiful and yummy, but their cinnamon toast crunch cold brew was unmatched!

We also heard great things about Black Bear Bread Co and Amavida Coffee , but there were unfortunately only so many coffees we could sip in a day! Nonetheless, my coffee lovers will not be short of great coffee shops to choose from in 30A.

Visit the farmer’s market

If you’re a fan of locally sourced produce and artisanal goods, you won’t want to miss the 30A Farmers Market in Rosemary Beach. This market is held every Sunday, year-round, from 9 am to 1 pm in the heart of the Rosemary Beach community.

With over 30 vendors, visitors can find a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade jams and jellies, artisan breads, handmade soaps, and much more. The market is a great place to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying the beautiful outdoor setting of Rosemary Beach!

Have a beach bonfire

One of the more unique things to do in 30A is have a bonfire on the beach! In Tampa Bay this isn’t allowed, so my interest was piqued when I saw this is something common for 30A!

Setting up a safe and enjoyable bonfire can be time-consuming and complicated. Fortunately, there are companies like Native Fires 30A that can take care of everything for you!

Native Fires 30A is a locally owned and operated company that specializes in creating beautiful and safe beach bonfire experiences. They provide everything you need for a memorable evening on the beach, including a fire pit, firewood, chairs, and even s’mores supplies!

Their team takes care of all the details. From obtaining the necessary permits to ensuring that the fire is safely contained. All you have to do is show up and enjoy the cozy warmth of the fire and the beautiful beach surroundings.

Check out a local brewery

30A is home to some fantastic breweries! Both of the most popular breweries in 30A are located in Santa Rosa Beach. Grayton Beer Company has a tap wall of 20+ unique beers. They are family and pet friendly and have games like darts, cornhole, and life-sized Jenga. Idyll Hounds Brewing Company offers everything from sours to stouts and has live music and food trucks on select days.

Where to Stay in 30A

There are plenty of options for where to stay along 30A ! Kick Ash 30A Beach Bungalow is a 2 bed 2 bath adorable home located in Santa Rosa Beach. This location was perfect for us since it was located centrally in between PCB and Destin and we had planned on going to Destin for the boat tour.

The rental comes equipped with all of your beach essentials, is pet friendly, offers games like cornhole, and has a grill for cooking out. This location is perfect for couples traveling together, families, and pet owners traveling with their furry friends. It was the perfect home away from home for our vacation! Book here.

If you’re looking for a hotel stay, The Pearl is one of the most iconic places to stay in 30A. This luxury boutique hotel is located in Rosemary Beach and offers stunning ocean views, an on-site spa, and multiple dining options. The hotel’s rooms and suites are beautifully appointed and feature plush bedding, elegant decor, and all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Are you ready to experience the best things to do in 30A?

As you plan your getaway to 30A, prepare for an unforgettable trip filled with sun, sand, and endless charm. From the serene beaches to the vibrant beach towns, each moment offers a new adventure waiting to be discovered. Your adventure awaits along Florida’s Emerald Coast!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:

Best restaurants in Anna Maria Island

Fun things to do in AMI

Sarasota visitors guide

Destiny Snyder is a passionate travel blogger and content creator based in the Tampa Bay area. Originally from a small town near Toledo, Ohio, Destiny's love for exploring new places began when she moved to Florida in 2017. She enjoys uncovering hidden gems, sharing insider tips on the best things to do, places to eat, and coffee shops to visit in every destination. With her blog Guided by Destiny and niche sites Sunkissed in Tampa and Sunkissed in St. Pete, Destiny aims to make trip planning stress-free and fun for her readers.

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• Aug 28, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to 30A (from someone who lived there!)

Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast of Florida, Highway 30A offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, charming communities, and breathtaking natural beauty. Stretching for 28.5 miles through the picturesque South Walton County, this scenic route is a paradise for those seeking a laid-back coastal getaway.

We were lucky enough to call this gorgeous part of the country home for ~10 months and we felt like every day was a vacation living there!

This guide has a little something for everyone- from the popular (for a reason!) spots along the coast to some of our favorite hidden gems. Keep reading if you're planning a trip to 30A!

In this 30A Guide

Where is 30a in florida.

Getting There

Best Things to Do

Where to Eat

Best Time to Visit

Packing List

Is 30A Worth Visiting?

Highway 30A winds its way along the Gulf of Mexico, connecting a string of charming coastal towns and communities, each with its own unique character and allure. This scenic route is situated in the northwest part of the Florida Panhandle, extending from Santa Rosa Beach in the west to Inlet Beach in the east. It meanders through the heart of South Walton County, renowned for its turquoise waters and sugar white sand.

Getting to 30A

Reaching Highway 30A is a straightforward journey, whether you're arriving by air or by car. Here are some options to consider:

By Air: The most convenient airport for most places on 30A will be Destin-Fort Walton Beach (VPS). It's a small airport with mostly regional flights, so depending on your destination of origin, you may not be able to snag a direct flight into this airport.

There are also larger airports in Panama City Beach, approximately 20-25 miles from different points along 30A, and Pensacola, approximately 40-45 miles from points on 30A. From the airport, you can rent a car, arrange a shuttle service, or use rideshare apps for convenient transportation to your chosen destination on 30A.

By Car: If you're embarking on a road trip, several highways connect to Highway 30A, making it easily accessible from various directions. If you're coming from the west, Interstate 10 is a common route that leads to the area. If you're traveling from the east, State Route 98 offers a scenic drive along the coastline. As you approach Highway 30A, watch for signs guiding you toward this picturesque route.

One of our favorite parts about 30A is that each town has a VERY different vibe- all unique and charming in their own ways. I'll break down the main towns going from East to West below.

Rosemary Beach

It's hard to pick favorites.... but this is probably ours ;) Stepping into Rosemary Beach feels like being transported to a quaint European village thanks to the stunning architecture of the town.

As with all of the towns along 30A, the heart of Rosemary Beach lies its pristine white-sand beaches. But beyond the beach, Rosemary Beach offers a plethora of enchanting attractions. Stroll down the cobblestone streets lined with pastel-hued cottages, charming boutiques, and inviting cafes that exude a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The town center, often referred to as the "hub," is a gathering place featuring green spaces and the focal point of the town, the Pearl Hotel.

Exploring the town on foot or by bike is a delight, as pedestrian pathways lead you through charming streets. Every Sunday is the Rosemary Beach Farmer's Market along the main green space in town- and it's not to be missed!

Rosemary Beach Pros: Charming town with upscale accommodations, dining & shopping. Beautiful architecture

Rosemary Beach Cons: Very few public beach access points, so you need to be staying somewhere with access to one of the private beaches.

Where to Stay Rosemary Beach: The Pearl Hotel . It's 100% worth the splurge. We have stayed in the off-season & peak season and had marvelous experiences each time. The pool is stunning and the rooftop terrace offers one of the prettiest views in town.

Alys Beach is small- but what it lacks in size it makes up for in beauty. While Rosemary Beach evokes European villages with its architecture, Alys Beach feels like a Mediterranean village straight out of Greece. The entire town is comprised of stunning white-washed buildings, cobblestone passageways, and sophisticated cabana-style umbrellas.

Taking a stroll or riding a bikes through Alys Beach is worth doing, for sure. It's worth noting that the VAST majority of Alys beach is privately owned homes, managed by strict HOA type organizations. To that end, you can enjoy the town's shopping and dining- but public beach access points don't really exist here.

Alys Beach Pros: Beautiful all-white town with charming streets to get lost in and good shopping/dining.

Alys Beach Cons: Smaller town with limited options.

You know in the old days when you used to see kids running/biking/playing/just generally enjoying themselves without parents helicoptering around? Seaside may just be one of the last remaining places in America where you still find this... in the best way! Seaside is the perfect destination for families with kids of all ages.

With its pastel-colored cottages, white-sand beaches (of course), and vibrant town center, it has so much to offer! The heart of Seaside is its town square, a lively hub surrounded by quaint shops, art galleries, and an array of eateries to suit any taste (think everything from acai bowls to grilled cheese food trucks to fresh seafood.) Visitors can enjoy the vibrant energy of the Seaside Farmers Market and the outdoor amphitheater, home to outdoor concerts, movie nights, and more.

Seaside Pros: Larger, family-friendly town with a variety of activities for all ages.

Seaside Cons: Fewer public beach access points, tends to get very crowded in peak season.

Grayton Beach

I would describe Grayton Beach as the funky/hippie older brother of the 30A towns. The vibes here are very laid back, and the 'town' is really more of just a small trip of homes, shops, and restaurants near the beach.

Grayton beach is home to some iconic 30A spots- like Red Bar, Black Bear Coffee, and more. We love the charm of this smaller town and especially love popping into the boutique art galleries throughout.

Grayton Beach Pros: Laid back and hippie vibes, good food scene.

Grayton Beach Cons: Not as much to do for kids/young families.

So, Destin is not technically on 30A. It's further West than then entry to the scenic highway. I'm including it here because it tends to get grouped with the other 30A towns due to its proximity.

Destin is a great spot for young families, as it has a number of family-friendly hotels and activities. Young kids love the Harborwalk village with its games and nighttime fireworks and the plentiful water parks just blocks from the beach.

Destin Pros: Great for young families, more public beach access than other 30A towns.

Destin Cons: Not as upscale vibes as the rest of 30A- feels a bit 'tacky touristy' in some spots.

Best Things to Do In 30A

You really can't go wrong when it comes to exploring around 30A. Taking in all the natural beauty is so relaxing! Here are some of our favorites from 30A.

Beach, beach & more beach: The main attraction on 30A is the beach- and for good reason. The water is crystal clear, resembling blue Gatorade. The sandbanks go out 100+ yards from the beach, meaning the water is shallow and there are (usually) no waves. During the summer the water warms to a nice bath-like temperature! Bring some beach chairs and towels and relax for a day on the water.

Biking: One of our favorite weekend activities was always bike rides along the Timpoochee Trail ! The trail travels through beachside communities and state forest lands between Dune Allen and Rosemary Beach. The views along the trail are gorgeous: the sea, marsh lakes, sandy dunes, and charming coastal neighborhoods.

Yoga: If you're at all into yoga, studio thirty a is a MUST on your trip. This gorgeous studio offers heated vinyasa flow classes 7 days a week and they are to die for. The instructors are approachable and kind and make you feel so valued whether you're just popping in or are a studio regular.

Farmer's Markets: After growing up and going to our old town farmers markets in Colorado, Hunter and I both LOVE a good farmer's market. There are regular farmer's markets in Seaside and Rosemary Beach. We especially love the cheese guy & the chips and guac from.

Fishing: There are plenty of options for fishing on 30A. If you prefer to fish off a dock, you can do so from a number of piers, including the massive Okaloosa Pier. Read more about different piers, the gear you'll need, pricing & more here. There are also a number of fishing charter boats that can take you out for deeper sea fishing. We did a charter on HarborWalk Charters . It was a ROUGH day on the seas but we did end the day with 14 beautiful snapper that kept us fed for a while ;)

Bonfires: You can have controlled bonfires in most of South Walton County! This is such a fun way to enjoy an evening on the beach. You can find free beach bonfires, like the one outside of the Royal Palms in Destin every Friday night- but you will need to pay for most. Many companies do fancy bonfires with options to include add-ons like picnics, etc. Here's a fun option, aptly named boujee bonfires .

Where to Eat in 30A

LOVED the food scene during our time in Florida. Yes, you can run into some tourist trap areas with nothing but fried food and drinks in plastic buckets... but there are also plenty of truly delicious options.

Breakfast/Brunch

Black Bear Bread Co. (multiple locations)

Soleil (Destin)

Great Southern Cafe (Seaside)

Raw & Juicy (Alys Beach)

Bud & Alleys (Seaside)

George's (Alys Beach)

La Crema (Rosemary Beach)

Nanbu (Grayton Beach)

Camille's (Destin) *note- the downstairs is a cute cafe right across from the beach with casual lunch fair during the day. The upstairs is an indoor restaurant with amazing sushi!

Pescado (Rosemary Beach)

Old Florida Fish House (Santa Rosa Beach)

Boshamps (Destin)

The Citizen (Alys Beach)

Bitterroot (Destin) *note- this place is not instagrammy- it's in a strip mall- but the food is TO DIE FOR- it's a hidden gem.

Rooftop terrace at the Pearl (Rosemary Beach)

C Bar (Seaside)

The Beach Bar (Miramar Beach)

AJ's (Destin) note: the drinks are garbage- but the live music, dancing, and general vibes are wonderful. Don't come before 11 PM- lol.

Best Time to Visit 30A

It's tempting to say something like "there's no bad time to visit the beach" but in truth, there are definitely better times than others to visit 30A.

Since this section of Florida is located further north, it does get chilly in the winter. While 30A is a popular destination for Spring Break, I also think the weather in spring can be very hit or miss. Spring is the rainiest season and the ocean water has not yet warmed up.

That said, June, July & August you have a better chance of sunshine and warmer water. My personal favorite months are September & October- the weather is still gorgeous- but the summer crowds have dissipated so you can enjoy places without loads of people.

30A Packing List

Come prepared for your beach trip so you don't end up paying insanely marked-up prices at the tourist spots! Check out my 30A packing list on Amazon .

If it's not completely obvious by now, we LOVE 30A. The beaches and ocean water rival those in places like the Maldives & Bora Bora. It's a versatile destination that can be adjusted to suit anything from a romantic couples' retreat to a fun girl's trip to a family vacation with kids.

We look forward to returning someday for vacations and/or to plant some more permanent roots!

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Travel · September 14, 2021

Best of 30A Travel Guide

Looking for the perfect beach vacation within the U.S.? 30A is it! 30A is a collection of small, unique, beautiful Florida beach towns. You may have heard of some of the popular towns including Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Alys Beach. It’s the perfect destination for all types of crowds including families, couples, bachelorette parties, etc.

It quickly became one my family’s favorite travel destinations after our first trip in 2019. If you want to read more about our first trip to 30A, click here . Incredible places to rent, unique charm of each town, and beautiful crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico! What more could you ask for?! If that has you hooked, keep reading to hear about all the 30A must-do activities!

Each town along the coast has its unique style and vibe. The architecture is incredible, the beach is gorgeous, food is awesome, and the shopping is great! 30A is a must-visit if you are considering traveling to Florida. We have only traveled to the area in September to avoid the peak summer rush. Labor Day marks the end of the high season so we choose to visit around then. The water was still warm as were the temps – so we definitely could not complain! Here is a map and a little rundown of each popular spot along 30A…

Grayton Beach : This small historic beach offers white powdery sand, amazing views, and a playground for nature enthusiasts. It’s an eclectic beach town that offers anything from hiking and biking to fishing and funky finds. My favorite Grayton Beach stops are Black Bear Bread Co . and Tribe Kelley Surf Post .

WaterColor : A master-planned community that features beautiful scenery and multiple amenities. This spot offers a bit of everything for the 30A visitor and is my personal favorite. It feels like home away from home! The WaterColor Beach Club is absolutely divine. While you’re here, make sure to step into Beach Happy Cafe to shop and eat!

Seaside : You have probably heard of this iconic beach town with coastal charm and inspired design. Known for the pastel beach houses and airstream row, this is a must see! With everything from multiple unique shops and restaurants, there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to grab an iconic Seaside tee at Seaside Style while you’re there!

Seagrove: This area offers a laid-back classic beach vacation vibe. Not only can you hit up the beach but you can explore multiple trails and state parks. After a little bit of adventure, don’t forget to grab a donut or dine at Café Thirty-A . 

WaterSound: The Emerald Coast’s own all-American style with colors and shapes of an Eastern seaboard town. Stay in a maritime-inspired cottage home or a modern condo with beachfront views. You will not want to miss the WaterSound Beach Club with a 7,000-square-foot pool!

Alys Beach: (Pronounced Alice) The most picturesque spot in 30A! You will feel like you have been transported to Europe with the stunning architecture and stark white facades. If you’re looking for luxury, it doesn’t get much better than this! Grab a drink at Neat , dine at George’s , and most importantly, soak up the scenery! If you are looking for the next perfect Instagram spot – this is it!

Seacrest: This spot is close to everything making it another great spot to stay! Seacrest features The Village of South Walton Beach which includes several shops and restaurants. In my opinion, this is a great spot for families as it has close access to pretty much everything,

Rosemary Beach: Cobblestone streets, winding paths, and romance. This is a wonderful spot for couples as there are many places to dine and relax. It is so beautiful! If you’re there on a weekend, be sure to stop by the Farmer’s Market. Want the absolute best date night? Reserve a spot at the iconic rooftop restaurant, Pescado (18+).

Traveling to 30A:

If you live in any of the southern states, it is easy to drive to. It is only 5 hours from our home in Northeast Florida so we chose to drive. Plus, driving along the entire strip of 30A as you arrive is quite fun! If you are farther away or looking for a quicker trip, there are two airports close by. The most convenient airport is Northwest Florida Beach International Airport (ECP) . Another option is Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) . Both airports are under an hour away making any travel day a breeze.

WHERE TO STAY:

There are numerous spots along 30A to stay including hotels, resort-style condos, homes, and more. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly or luxury, there is something for everyone. If you are traveling with a large group, WaterColor  is probably the best place to stay. If you stay in  WaterColor , you have access to multiple amenities .   WaterColor  offers a beach club, multiple community pools, a town center, parks and gardens, BoatHouse and Marina Park, tennis courts, trails and docks, and even a gym. It’s definitely paradise!

What I enjoyed most about staying in WaterColor was the easy access to all the amenities. We rented this beautiful home through Exclusive 30A that includes 6 bikes and even a golf cart! I sprung out of bed each morning ecstatic to take a quick drive in the golf cart to grab coffee. Therefore, you will notice that most visitors in the area are either riding bikes or trekking along in golf carts. What a beautiful way to experience the outdoors…it was also extremely fun for the littles with us! If you’re looking for the ultimate luxurious stay, I highly recommend the home we chose.

WaterColor Inn was where we stayed for our first visit. I highly recommend booking a stay here as you have quick access to all the local amenities. It is even a great spot to stay if you plan on visiting Seaside often. There is even a dedicated treat room on each floor. Yup, you heard that right! Enjoy coffee, snacks, ice cream, etc. right outside your room. However, the WaterColor Inn is actually going through a major expansion until 2022. Undoubtedly, I am sure it will be fabulous when it is done!

Another area I would recommend staying is Rosemary Beach . The Pearl Hotel  in Rosemary Beach is located in the heart of town allowing quick access to shops, food, and the beach. There is a pool, beach access, spa, bike rentals, and awesome dine-in options! Additionally, there are multiple rentals dotted along the town. I have also heard great things about The Pointe On 30A !

WHAT TO DO:

• Beach:  The beach is a must! Experiencing the light sand and clear water is a luxury in itself. Most of the rentals or hotels along the strip have designated beach access where you can rent chairs and umbrellas. We were able to reserve enough chairs for our family each day. It was such a treat being able to walk to the beach and have your area set up already! This is one of the big reasons why we enjoy WaterColor .
• Pool:  There were so many pools around the area where we stayed. Many hotels have their own pools so finding one won’t be an issue. Swimming is a must to cool down from the heat!
• Bike:  I really enjoyed biking around 30A. There are bike racks everywhere so transporting this way is super easy! We even rented electric bikes from  Pedego  last time we visited. It was so much fun having a little boost while riding. We took our electric bikes around Seaside, through WaterColor, and over to Grayton Beach. The sidewalks to Grayton Beach were open enough for us to let loose on the electric bikes and go pretty fast! Biking is a must if you visit 30A, it is so easy to get around!
• Farmer’s Market:  Seaside has a Farmer’s Market on Saturdays while Rosemary Beach has one every Sunday . Before your trip, confirm which dates and times these markets are because they are fun to browse! It’s an awesome way to give back to the community and find special souvenirs. This time we stopped at the Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market to pick up fresh produce.
• Explore!  You can explore by car, bike, golf cart, kayak, paddle-board, boat, etc. This area really has lots to do for lovers of the outdoors. Not to mention, everywhere along 30A is beautiful so why not explore?!
• Shop: This is one of my favorite hobbies regardless if I am on vacation so of course I had to! There are plenty of shops up and down 30A. A few favorites of mine that I will always step in to browse are Indigo WaterColor , Shop WaterColor , Seaside Style , Fiddle Haus , Disco 30A , Patchouli’s , and Beach Happy .
• The Hub 30A : The Hub is a new spot filled with restaurants, shopping, and events. There is always something happening here! Make sure to check out their schedule to see what they have planned for the week. Fitness classes, football games, live music…you name it!
• Grab the Camera : What the older generations in our party did not understand was the need for so many photos! Haha…we couldn’t keep the cameras away with beautiful scenery at every head turn. If you are in need of new family/friend photos, this is the spot to do it! I love taking photos in stunning Alys Beach . If you are by the beach around sunset, you will not miss a family in matching outfits grabbing their latest group photo!

WHERE TO EAT:

Due to the crowds rolling in at 30A monthly, I highly recommend making reservations before your trip. Meal times get a little hectic during the peak months. Here are some of our favorite stops…

• Scratch Biscuit Kitchen : Add this to your must-try list for breakfast! This new spot was decorated adorable with super delicious bites. I ended up ordering their traditional biscuits and gravy along with their french toast. Everyone loved their meals, including our vegan family member! Go early as this spot tends to get long lines.
• Beach Happy Cafe : There wasn’t a day that went by where we didn’t stop in here for coffee or a quick bite. Coffee was great and their breakfast wraps were yummy.
• Bud & Alley’s:  This is one of the top recommendations for Seaside. We got seated at the window during sunset which was absolutely gorgeous. If you can, snag a seat on the top level deck because people say it’s incredible! We even hit up their Pizza Bar which was quick and super delicious. Next time, I want to try their Taco Bar which looked amazing.
• Black Bear Bread Company:  I am obsessed with this place! It’s a must if you are a coffee or pastry lover. My typical order is their avocado toast and tan line speciality latte with mocha and vanilla. They have a case full of fresh bread and pastries. You MUST get a cookie if you stop by – they are probably the best I’ve ever had!
• La Crema:  Although we didn’t end up eating here, this place was adorable! We stopped to look at this little spot when we were in Rosemary Beach. It is small but I have heard the food is amazing! It will definitely be a stop next time I am there!
• Frost Bites:   Along Seaside there are some airstreams with food like BBQ, grilled cheese, crepes and then frostie treats! This stop was perfect on a hot day. One of the employees recommended mango and vanilla shave ice and it was SO good!
• Perfect Pig:  This multiple location spot is raved about by many. In fact, we hit this spot both times we visited and it didn’t disappoint. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• The Hub 30A : Need a space that satisfies everyone? Hit up the new Hub 30A with options for everyone! Duos was great!
• George’s at Alys Beach:   We hit this spot both times we visited 30A. Everything here is made with fresh, local produce. The food and atmosphere is great.

Other good dining spots include Surfing Deer , Cowgirl Kitchen , Chiringo , The Red Bar , and Seaside Square food trucks . When I visit again, I definitely want to check out  Pescado ,  Neat ,  La Crema , and The Citizen .

To sum up, 30A is undoubtedly a place I will visit again and again. There are enough activities to do and spots to hit in order to make each vacation different. In the future, I would like to do a girls trip (Bachelorette maybe?!) in the area. In conclusion, this is a spot for anyone who wants to escape to the beach. Whether it’s a family reunion or anniversary trip, you are certain to find activities to meet your ultimate vacation goals.

For more 30A content, check out my highlights featuring both our trips on my Instagram or visit the recap from our first trip. I hope you enjoyed this post and your next vacation to 30A ;)!

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First Time Visitors to 30A – Your Trip Guide From Start to Finish

May 27, 2022

So, you’ve arrived in 30A for the very first time. Can you feel that? The slowed-down way of life. Can you smell the citrusy slash-pines dancing on the briny breeze with sweet, salty gusts from the ocean? Can you hear the clinking beach cruisers and squawking seagulls and gleefully screaming children coalescing into a symphonic hum of beach activity? Now set your gaze to the ocean: can you see water so clear and pristine and aquamarine and sands so sugar-white that human imaginations are stretched to their absolute limits to believe the reality of it all?

That’s the magic of 30A. Falling for it is both immediate and everlasting. Because without a hint of hyperbole, your first trip to the Emerald Coast ranks up there with life’s biggest firsts: your first kiss, your first time driving a car, your first time leaving the country. There’s just something about first encounters with 30A.

So, if this is your first trip to 30A, here’s how to ensure it will be far from your last.

A Breakdown of 30A

Stretching 26 miles along the Gulf Coast through Northwest Florida’s Walton County, Scenic Highway 30A is the ultimate artery of adventure and relaxation in Northwest Florida. Hugging the coastline from Rosemary Beach to Miramar Beach, this scenic corridor is home to sugar-white sands, emerald green waters, towering longleaf pines, rare coastal dune lakes, and stunning beach homes and condos .

30A is also home to an eclectic mix of 16 distinct (and distinctly visit-worthy) beach communities, each bursting with small-town charm, immaculate architecture, and coastal congeniality.

From Rosemary Beach to Grayton Beach, Seaside to Seacrest, WaterColor to WaterSound, the character in each of these townships is at once one-of-a-kind yet one-of-its-kin. In other words, each town possesses the same down-to-earth vibe and refined disposition that collectively make 30A so special. But individually, each town also has its own unique personality.

For first-timers, discovering these subtle differences first-hand is one of the best parts of visiting 30A. For lifelong visitors, it’s part of what keeps people coming back to 30A year after year to experience something new each time.

The Must-Experience 30A Staples to Check Out

Just as no trip to 30A is complete without visiting the beach, so too is your first trip to 30A incomplete without hitting a few of its most iconic bucket list experiences —of which there’s a veritable smorgasbord of various musts! Here are a few of our favorites.

Take to the 30A Art Gallery Trail

Sprinkled along Scenic Highway 30A is a delightfully robust lineup of curated art collections and eclectic galleries . (With a natural backdrop as beautiful as the Emerald Coast, it’s easy to see why creatives would be inspired!) From fine art to folk art, contemporary to classic, each of the roughly 40+ art galleries offers something unique and differentiating. The best way for a first-time visitor to experience 30A’s art scene? By checking out the First Friday Art Walk—where, on the first Friday of every month, several South Walton art galleries stay open late and welcome visitors with refreshments, live music, and a chance to meet and mingle with the artists while taking in all the new artwork.

Hit a Local Microbrewery (or Two)

The craft beer scene along Scenic Highway 30A has taken off in recent years. And it’s easy to see why. Nothing beats rolling into a local microbrewery, with sand still on your ankles and salt in your hair, and cheers’ing to a great vacation with a couple of super refreshing session IPAs or crisp, light lagers. In Santa Rosa Beach, Idyll Hounds Brewing Company is one of the top-rated taprooms in the Florida Panhandle. Just down the road, Grayton Beer Company is a dimly-lit, down-to-earth, downright awesome taproom that lives and breathes (and imbibes!) the salt life. Beach & Brew is a Rosemary Beach staple, featuring dozens of regional brews on tap and a rustic-meets-modern taproom dripping with laidback charm. And the Growler Garage is the 2022 Gold Award Winner for Best Craft Beer Selection. No matter where you grab your first pint in 30A, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

Cruise the Timpoochee Trail

The 19-mile Timpoochee Trail that extends between Dune Allen and Rosemary Beach is the lifeblood of 30A. Every day, thousands of locals and visitors take to this gently undulating paved path along the beautiful Emerald Coast. From joggers to walkers to beach cruisers, this paved path that parallels Scenic Highway 30A is the ultimate way to get around in the area.

Visit the Beach (Obviously!)

If you’re visiting 30A, chances are you’re visiting for the beach. And for good reason! The beaches along the Emerald Coast are showstoppers of the highest order. With snow-white sands, impossibly clear waters, gently sashaying dune grasses, and life-affirming sunsets each and every day, the beaches along Scenic Highway 30A are easily some of the best in the entire country. First-time visitors will immediately recognize the 30A difference.

A Few Hidden Gems in 30A

So, you’re ready to branch out into the lesser-known 30A adventures ? You’re in luck. There are a number of great ways to get off the beaten path.

Dive in an Artificial Reef

It doesn’t get much better for snorkelers and scuba divers than exploring one of the 16 artificial reef sites that pepper the 30A coastline from Miramar Beach to Inlet Beach. Composed of steel, concrete, and Florida limestone and installed by the South Walton Artificial Reef Association , these artfully designed reefs (as in, they’re actually arranged into various sea creature shapes) are wonderful ways to get underwater and off the beaten path. For a real treat, check out the Underwater Museum of Art .

Rent a SUP and Go Paddle Boarding

If there’s one thing that beats being beachside looking at the water, it’s being on the water. Luckily, 30A is home to a comprehensive lineup of watersport rental shops where visitors can rent stand-up paddleboards for the ultimate day on the water.

Do As the Locals Do

For first-time visitors hoping to immediately ditch their ‘newbie’ status card in favor of donning local street cred, there’s an easy fix: do as the locals do .

At the end of the day, 30A sees a lot of first-time visitors, and almost none of them turn out to be one-time visitors. Because this place is truly special. We look forward to your first trip to the Emerald Coast!

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Ultimate 30A Travel Guide

Ultimate 30A travel guide for the first timer….meaning you’re probably trying to figure out “which part” of 30A you should stay in. This is the guide is for you – an in depth analysis of  the 30A beach towns and the best way to find a place to stay! Even if you have been there before but looking for recommendations on where to eat, stay and play this is a great 30A travel guide.

In recent years, 30A has gotten a lot of hype! Or maybe it’s because I moved to Nashville in 2018 and genuinely hadn’t heard of it before. Then I start seeing and hearing everyone talk about 30A – it’s a go to vacation spot for Nashvillians since it’s about a 6 -7 hour drive!

And I understand why – 30A beaches have the most crystal clear blue ocean water in the US with soft, white beaches. One of the best beaches in the US – especially if you’re the type that hates darker water because you can’t see what’s going on. The photos you see of the ocean is what makes you want to go – I was sold immediately and wanted to understand the hype with a trip!

Back up –  What is 30A?

Let’s start with a map to help orient you!

30A is a magnificent strip of about 25 coastal miles in South Walton County, FL – the “highway” name is Scenic Highway 30 – A (alternate route). Let me be clear – THIS IS NOT A HIGHWAY. Okay, it is, in some parts. But in the actual beach towns, it’s a 5 mph 2 lane “road” that golf carts are allowed on and crosswalks every 100 feet. Meaning it’s stop and go traffic, you will move through the cities extremely slowly as the towns are pedestrian, golf cart and bicycle heavy.

30A is also known as the Emerald Coast for it’s almost Caribbean like beach quality combined with perfect soft, white sands. The technical location is in the Florida Panhandle in between Destin and Panama City Beach.

Everyone just says they are going to 30A, but 30A isn’t super specific. It could be 1 of 13 beach towns In the area that are considered part of 30A. Seaside is the original development along the strip – and one of the most family oriented. I will go into detail on each beach later in the post!  

Finding a Place to Stay in 30A

First of all, in general it’s pretty confusing to find a place to stay and/or pick the right beach to stay in, because you can’t generically search for 30A in AirBnB or VRBO because it’s not a city. You have to specifically search by beach, and there are 8 main beaches in the 30A area and you have to specifically search each town.

• Inlet Beach
• Rosemary Beach
• Seagrove Beach
• Grayton Beach
• Blue Mountain Beach
• Santa Maria Beach

Yeah…..that’s a lot of towns to search for a house! I’ll break down the vibes of each town and how to pick one that’s right for your trip further down in this post, but for this section I am focusing on how to search for a house or condo in the area.

There really aren’t a ton of hotels or condos in the 30A area….a few I know of are:

• The Pearl in Rosemary
• The Pointe on 30A (where we stayed)
• Watercolor Resort
• I’m sure there may be a few others, but these are the popular ones!

In addition to VRBO or AirBnB, you can usually find better deals booking on a specific 30A rental agency website. Well, how do you find those? I found this article helpful that listed 8 or 9 main sites, which I will also link below!

Direct Websites with 30A Rentals – 30A travel guide

• Homeowners Collection (Seaside)
• Southern Vacation Rentals (everywhere)
• 30A Beach Getaways
• 30a.com (lists a bunch of additional rental sites + keeps it updated more than me!)

Finding a house to rent in 30A can be time consuming because there are so many different websites. In addition, houses book up WELL in advance for June / July – we started looking in May for a July rental and wish we booked 6 months in advance. There were not a ton of great options left for our date parameters.

One more thing to know about booking….almost all houses are Saturday to Saturday rentals – so if you wanted a weekend getaway you may have to stick to one of the hotels mentioned. Overall, the 30A area is one of the pricier places in Florida.

Why we Picked the Pointe at 30A – 30A Travel Guide

This post is not sponsored by 30A in any way – we paid for our trip. All opinions are my own in this 30A travel guide.

We were 6 adults + 1 child – needing 3 bedrooms. We all wanted our own queen or king beds. Almost EVERY SINGLE HOUSE has bunk bed rooms! NOBODY wanted the twin bunk bed room as grown adult couples. Many of the houses are built for families and cram multiple bunk beds to host more people, but it’s not how we wanted to sleep for a week. Finding a house didn’t have bunk beds in 1 of the rooms was a huge priority, and proving difficult to find 2 months in advance.

The Pointe on 30A is a condo building – but they had up to 3 bedroom condos! The condos were actually quite spacious too! The condo had the exact set up we wanted – 2 bedrooms with king beds and the third bedroom had 2 queen beds. Everyone had their own bathroom and 3 balconies total! Not just a regular bathroom, huge bathrooms with both a shower and tub.

The pool was also really nice, and it was located pretty much in Rosemary Beach. The condo came with 2 free beach chairs an umbrella, and a shuttle to the beach. The amenities paired with the  exact room layout we were looking for, and prime location sold us!

I will say, I think next time we DO want to stay in a house though – we just need to book earlier to find a house with the bedroom layout we are looking for, and not crazy expensive $15k+ for the week! Ideally, a house with a pool and golf cart sounds like the perfect rental, but this was great for our needs for the week!

I did think we would be “in” Rosemary Beach based on the map, but we were a 3 min bike ride outside of it. Not super important, but I do want to note the location is right outside of it and technically Inlet Beach.

Vibes of each Beach Town in 30A / Recommendations on Where to Eat

Describing each beach town below + restaurants recommendations for the ultimate 30A travel guide.

Inlet Beach – 30A Travel Guide

To me, Inlet didn’t really have a town. There’s a strip mall with restaurants on the opposite side of 98 – which is an actual highway. Inlet Beach is a large neighborhood right next to Rosemary Beach and will be your closest bet for ice cream, dinner, live music, etc. I would recommend staying here if you want to be in Rosemary Beach but can’t find a house there– it’s very close and alllllllmost the same thing.

Restaurant recommendations:

• Amigo’s Mexican // Amici Italian – sister restaurants right next to each other and right across the 98 highway from The Pointe. We would walk to get margaritas and my parents loved their tacos!
• Shades Bar & Grill – most down to earth place in the Rosemary Area – casual sports bar + outdoor dining – “American” menu but good with a family / large group!
• Donut Hole – somehow we didn’t stop here but we were supposed to before we drove home! It’s the HUGE blue building on the side of 98 – famous spot for breakfast & donuts of course. They have 2 other locations as well – Santa Rosa Beach and Destin.
• Cuvee 30A – If you’re looking for something fancier, check out Cuvee 30A! This wasn’t our group vibe, but I wanted to throw it on here for an option. I just have a hard time going to a beach vacation then eating in a strip mall, lol. I’m all about views on vacay!

Rosemary Beach – 30A Travel Guide

Laid back, but also affluent? If that makes sense – maybe a little bit of East Coast vibes. Tennis Club, home of the Pearl Hotel, and town area gives off European vibes. The main area of town is a brick road with 4 story homes above the restaurants. The restaurants all have their outdoor seating along the sidewalks. The Farmers Market of 30A is in Rosemary Beach. Overall, it’s very family oriented with live music on the square multiple times a week! I will say – they do not have a ton of family dining and more fine dining options for adults. We travelled to other beaches for more family dinners.

• Pescado (adults only) – rooftop restaurant in town but you’ll be sitting high enough to have a view of the ocean! This was number one on my list, but unfortunately this was a vacation with kids!
• Edward’s Fine Dining – right in the heart of Rosemary Beach town with indoor and outdoor dining!
• Cowgirl Kitchen –   breakfast & 8 – 9 am mimosa or bloody mary happy hour! Definitely come here for breakfast to take advantage of happy hour. Very laid back and casual – we sat outside on the street of Rosemary which is fun! They have another location in Seagrove
• La Crema – Spanish tapas + chocolate! My kind of restaurant. Unfortunately – they were closed due to lack of staff the week we were there.
• Playa Bowls – amazing acai and smoothie bowls! Dragonfruit is my favorite! Perfect afternoon healthy treat.
• Big Bad Breakfast BBB – casual, laid back breakfast that’s actually located at The Pointe on 30A (condos where we stayed).

Seacrest Beach – 30A Travel Guide

Another town on the opposite side of Rosemary Beach! I would 100% try to stay here, because again, it’s right next to Rosemary Beach and a 5 min bike ride max. Seacrest actually has its own town though, with a small square, live music and a few shops and restaurants. There’s even a large pool for everyone staying in the neighborhood!

• LaCo Cocina – Latin Coastal Kitchen…..sounds and looks amazing!

There’s a few other to go places like Charlie’s Donuts, a pizza joint, and a brewery in the town square – but since it’s so close to Rosemary and Alys there are plenty of other restaurants in the neighborhoods next door.

Alys Beach – 30A Travel Guide

This place ya’ll, I don’t even want to look up the price of rental houses LOL. I bet it starts at 20k a week, so not really realistic to stay here on my budget. But it’s SO WORTH WALKING OR BIKING THROUGH! We were staying at the edge of Inlet/Rosemary, and we could bike to Aly’s Beach neighborhood in 10 minutes. Oh, and FYI it’s pronounced ALICE not Aly’s. The entire neighborhood is white houses with different color shutters – blues, pinks, tans – it looks like you’re at the Mediterranean Sea!

• The Citizen – in hindsight, another restaurant I wish I booked. It’s a newer restaurant in Alys Beach and top rated – even the girls at Krewe recommended it to us but we couldn’t get in last minute for a group of 7.
• George’s on Alys Beach – a casual coastal vibe with healthy & seasonal food!
• Raw & Juicy – vegan spot for lunch, juice or coffee! My mom & I split the avo toast & kale caesar salad after we shot pics in Alys.

Watersound – 30A Travel Guide

Small and private, gated community and beach along 30A. If you aren’t staying here….you can’t really go here. I have nothing to report here since I didn’t stay inside the community! What is in walking distance right outside the community that’s open to the public  is The Hub at 30A! 

The Hub at 30A has live music, jumbotron screen for movies, food trucks, drinks and more! A great spot to hangout for the whole family regardless of what beach town you are staying in.

Seagrove – 30A Travel Guide

We drove to the Seagrove area twice for dinner! We drove there after dark, and I didn’t really see a town square or anything, but there might be one! There were a lot of great restaurants though – none with a view of the ocean though.

• Surfing Deer – our favorite dinner! More upscale of a restaurant with a covered patio for outdoor dining. They had both amazing seafood + a filet mignon for the people in our group who didn’t care for fish.
• Old Florida Fish House – came here for the atmosphere, but honestly the food was just ok. It wouldn’t be on my family’s list to go back, even though we loved the huge outdoor space and lighting ambiance outdoors. Highly recommend the grouper if you do go, it was the best fish we ordered! (picture above is Old Florida Fish House)
• Café Thirty A – Tried booking here, but it was already full! Common theme with booking a large party in 30A – get those reservations in 30-60 days in advance of your trip. Looks amazing though and highly rated!

Seaside Beach – 30A Travel Guide

The “coveted” beach with the Seaside sweatshirts! For the way people rave about this place, I think I had too high of expectations going in. Honestly, I was a little underwhelmed. All of these towns are much smaller than you think. Seaside is a town square area with a lawn/amphitheatre as its focal point – and restaurants and shops surrounding it.

Even though it’s small, it’s the original beach town of 30A and actually the largest! It’s great for young families because of the grass area in the town square. One of the most family friendly!

There are food trucks and multiple restaurants, but it’s not nearly enough for the amount of people staying in the area. This was the one night we didn’t make a reservation, and deemed impossible to get in anywhere. Literally, the answer was we are full for the night. Not even a 2 hour wait or anything! We ended up at Bud & Alley’s pizza restaurant – super casual but not exactly the seafood cuisine we were seeking in a beach town. We were seated within 10 minutes though!

• Bud & Alley’s – they have a rooftop deck WITH BEACH VIEWS! FINALLY! Unfortunately, it’s not handicap accessible so it wasn’t an option for us. More casual of a restaurant as well and great for drinks!
• The Great Southern Cafe – one of the highest rated restaurants in 30A – would definitely add to the list!

Watercolor – 30A Travel Guide

Another neighborhood that is amazing to stay in for families and next door to Seaside! Definitely biking distance. We struggled to find any houses available for rent here when we were looking 2-3 months in advance for a summer booking. Since I didn’t stay here, here’s a better overview of Watercolor area here. 

Restaurant Recommendations

• FOOW (Fish Out of Water) – I had mixed reviews from ya’ll on story polls on this one – and I personally found the website confusing trying to book a reservation so I didn’t. Again, in hindsight, this restaurant would have been PERFECT for our group. With our handicap girl on crutches, she didn’t get to see much of the ocean on this trip. This is one of the few restaurants in 30A that’s actually ON the water with a spectacular view. So even if the food was average, we would have been so happy with the atmosphere!

Grayton Beach – 30A Travel Guide

The most laid back, chill and casual beach town of the area. Seems more local and not overran by multi million dollar homes. When we went to the beach at night – there were tons of Jeeps & trucks parked on the beach to watch the sunset and tailgate.

• Churingo – super casual and laid back bar and restaurant – with exceptional tacos and bowls! Our group loved this restaurant and was one of the best nights overall. The rooftop seating does have views of the ocean, however not handicap accessible. This place is so casual you could even wear your bathing suit after the beach!
• The Red Bar – one of the few bars in the 30A area that’s more night life oriented!

Overall Food Recommendations – 30A Travel Guide

Overall, I’d recommend Surfing Deer for an amazing meal, Old Florida Fish House for big groups and families / best outdoor ambiance. I didn’t end up eating at FOOW, but really wish we did. As a first timer, I didn’t realize how rare views of the ocean are. Most of the towns and restaurants are inland – with no ocean views.

The ONLY restaurants I know of with ocean views are at Bud & Alleys, FOOW, Pescado (from far away rooftop), Havana (depending on vantage point, and Churingo (rooftop only). Please add your suggestions if you know any!

What to Do in 30A Travel Guide 

Obviously, the beach!

But what else? The pool? Yes. Eating? Already covered that.

Honestly, a lot of biking around! There are bikes to rent everywhere, and many come free with the place you are renting from. All the beach towns close pretty early – even Kilwin’s Ice Cream closed at 9 pm.

Overall, 30A is a great spot for a relaxing family vacation where you can hang out together at your house at night after dinner. There are many services that will also set up a campfire and smores for you on the beach to have a sunset picnic for a fun activity!

We did end up going to Panama City Beach for a dolphin site seeing tour – which was pretty fun for the whole group! We didn’t see a ton of dolphins, but it was still a great activity. There are some dolphin tours in 30A, but smaller boats with a 6 person max capacity. The one in PCB was a giant boat that held about 50 people – and I felt MUCH safer and less seasick on the big boat compared to a small fishing size boat on the ocean.

30A beaches are also a lovely destination to take family photos with a professional photographer! We loved working with Alyssa Forbes Photography for our family photos at sunset.

Our 30A Outfits – from Sun & Ski Sports

This post however is brought to you by Sun & Ski Sports ! They sponsored our outfits for our trip – everything from our beach sandals and swimwear to our clothing to walk around town. I’ve always shopped Sun & Ski for snowboarding and winter gear, and then I realized they had a ton of great clothing options for the summer months too!

They carry brands you already know and love – Birkenstock, Billabong, Roxy, Columbia, The North Face, Patagonia, Reef, Maaji, O’Neill and many more!! They have 2 stores in the Nashville area (Franklin & Opry Mills) in addition to selling everything online! You can check out their full brand list here. 

The whole family loved their sandals for the beach and riding bikes – Ross tried leather Olukai’s which have major support for flip flops, and Owen went with a Chaco style slide ! I went with Reef leather sandals which have more arch support than any other classic flip flop I own!

I grabbed a Billabong oversized tee for a beach cover up + to wear around town with a pair of pull on Roxy chambray shorts . Ross & Owen had similar Patagonia tees and shorts. Ross went with the signature men’s Columbia PFG sun shirt with a fun pair of Billabong swim trunks, and Owen went all Quiksilver.

I highly recommend checking out Sun & Ski for the whole family for your summer and winter adventures!

I’ll wrap up the 30A guide here, and let me know if you have any questions about 30A and the 30A travel guide! Link to more travel guides here!

Hi, I'm Anna!

Welcome to the corner of the internet where you’ll find boho & bright style, travel adventures, and life in my latest “hometown” – Nashville, Tennessee. My love and I recently bought a house – and we’re taking on the renovations ourselves! You’ll be seeing more home content here – from DIY tutorials to home decor inspiration. We have a LOT of ideas for this house, implementing slowly one room at a time!

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The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

A day trip along scenic highway 30a through south walton, capped off with the freshest catch for dinner yes, please..

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Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

Photo by Shutterstock

If Miami’s love language is spicy, then northwest Florida’s comes through in a syrupy coo. This mellow stretch of Florida (just don’t call it by its passé Panhandle name, please) includes Pensacola Beach, South Walton, and Scenic Highway 30A, among other laid-back beach towns luring visitors with their natural assets. Sure, you’ll come for the dreamy beaches and sparkling coastal dune lakes, but then you’ll try the local seafood and brewery scene and never want to leave.

Here’s what to get up to in northwest Florida this winter.

The day trip (or road trip) to plan your visit around

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach. Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

Whatever you do, don’t miss the chance to at least admire, if not paddle a kayak through, one of Florida’s incredible natural phenomena: coastal dune lakes. These ancient freshwater lakes formed near the coastline by wind are found in only a handful of places around the world: Madagascar, New Zealand, and yes, Walton County.

There are 15 coastal dune lakes in Walton. Western Lake , near Grayton Beach, is a good one to visit, with onsite kayak rentals and a backdrop of coastal wetlands for your paddling pleasure. Cap off the day at a beloved brew pub, Grayton Beer Co., where the shrimp po’ boys are the real deal and served with a selection of 15 local beers.

The best hotels for a truly local stay

The grand-dame property in these powdery-sand parts is WaterColor Inn on Santa Rosa Beach, stretching out between a dune-backed beach and a freshwater coastal dune lake. (We also love biking through the surrounding longleaf pine forests.) The hotel will debut new one- and two-bedroom family suites in spring 2022 as well as a new zero-entry family swimming pool and an indoor/outdoor bar.

In nearby Rosemary Beach, The Pearl Hotel’s turrets and clock tower have also received a fresh coat of paint, and guest rooms and lounges have received a bright, tropical refresh as well. Pour a glass of bubbly on your balcony at sunset or grab a mojito on the breezy rooftop of Havana Beach & Grill. The hotel’s adult-only pool has a sophisticated vibe, and guests have direct access to Rosemary Beach’s private stretch of sand out front.

Hotel Effie , a Preferred Hotel, opened in 2021 on the bay side of Miramar Beach in Sandestin, fronting Choctawhatchee Bay, and has a stunning rooftop pool deck and lounge, Ara, with panoramic Gulf and Bay views.

If you’re not eating seafood here, you’re doing something wrong

Whether you’re settling in to eat at a casual Gulf-front seafood spot or doing a white-linen-tablecloth affair, it’s all about indulging in flopping-fresh Gulf of Mexico seafood along this stretch of Florida’s coastline.

New in 2021 in Destin’s HarborWalk Village, East Pass Seafood & Oyster House serves freshly shucked oysters with harbor views and other Gulf specialties such as local shrimp, amberjack, and blackened red fish.

Classic French culinary techniques meet the Gulf’s bounty at Ovide at Hotel Effie in Sandestin, where multiple James Beard Award–winning chef Hugh Acheson gives Southern fare his spin. (Think pan-roasted snapper with pigeon peas and rice and a Thai chile emulsion.)

Ovide at Hotel Effie serves Southern fare by a multi-James-Beard-winning chef.

Courtesy of Hotel Effie

New and sustained sustainability efforts

To support the health of marine life along the coast of northwest Florida, the South Walton Artificial Reef Association expanded its artificial reefs program in 2021, with more than 700 artificial structures now in place across 16 different underwater locations.

Among the artificial reefs close enough to shore to explore and snorkel, consider visiting Dolphin Reef in Miramar Beach, Turtle Reef in Grayton Beach State Park, and Seahorse Reef in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. From overhead, the artificial reefs have the shape of the animals they’re named after. Every day is different underwater here: you might spot sea turtles, spade fish, nurse sharks, and perhaps even a manatee or octopus on any given outing.

Drawing attention to the migratory path of the monarch butterfly through Walton County, the Watersound Monarch Art Trail opened in November 2021 along Watersound Parkway’s mile-long walking and bike path. Eight curated sculptures pay homage to the magnificent winged things that pass over Scenic Highway 30A every autumn.

>>Next: Florida’s Best Beaches

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The Ultimate 30A Travel Guide for Families

Have you heard of 30A? If you’re from the midwest, chances are, this hidden gem along Florida’s Panhandle is new to you. Growing up in Michigan, snow birds flocked to the likes of Gulf Shores, Alabama or Florida escapes like Marco Island, Naples, and Fort Lauderdale. However, there’s a secret the Southerners are keeping from us: 30A. So scroll down for our complete 30A travel guide for families!

We started coming to 30A just three years ago, but it has quickly become a favorite for our family and we have returned every year since.

A Complete 30A Travel Guide for Families!

30A refers to the highway that runs from Destin to Panama City Beach. Along this route are carefully crafted beach towns known collectively as South Walton . These have all been built within the last 30 years, and even now, there is a TON of construction going on. Each beach town along the way has its own look and feel and architectural vibe, which is no accident. Each has guidelines against high-rises and hotels, making it an ideal location to rent an adorable (and huge) beach house for the week.

With soft white sand beaches and turquoise waters, 30A is one of the most gorgeous stretch of beaches I’ve ever been to. (and I’ve been to Northern Michigan, Australia, Whitsunday Islands, Bahamas, St. John, Mexico, Greece, etc.)

We visited for our first time a few years ago from Christmas to New Year’s and quickly made it our new family tradition for Christmas break. In past years, we have done California’s Hwy 1 Road Trip and Asheville, Charleston , and Savannah .

Our stay in 30A was great for several reasons: -Renting a beach house allows our family to spread out. Here’s the home we most recently rented from Beach Blue Properties . -The area is incredibly family (and dog!) friendly. Big tables at restaurants are the norm & not a problem at all. -Many restaurants offered great happy hours and kids meal selections. -We loved being able to bike from beach to beach, hop in the golf cart to cruise around, & grab a Bloody Mary or Frose to enjoy while also admiring the architecture (you can walk around with it!)

When planning our trip, I found it difficult to really get a feel of the lay of the land through my research online. I hope my travel guide to 30A is helpful in planning your next family vacation!

Here’s where we would recommend to stay, what to do, where to eat along 30A.

30A Towns from West/Destin to East/Panama City Beach

Grayton Beach

This area is great to visit for the brewery. I loved the Rose Gose! I believe there is camping near the state park here, but you won’t find a plethora of beach homes here. It is also quite far from the other towns.

This area has become our favorite over the years! In watercolor, there are a ton of beautiful, large homes to rent. It is also walkable to Seaside, in case you’d like to be close to the action but also have a little peace and quiet. If you are coming on a romantic trip as a couple and do not want to rent an entire home, I would recommend The Watercolor Inn . It has a couple of amazing pools, and a few restaurants, including the Gathering Place which we really enjoyed for New Year’s Day brunch. It is situated directly on the beach for a stellar view of the sunset, and provides amenities such as a spa, access to several golf clubs, and complimentary bikes for cruising around. Watercolor is also great for a few of the boutiques, or eating at The Wine Bar. We stayed in Watercolor this past year and absolutely loved it. Renting a home in this area also gives you access to the three heated pools, including the one at the Watercolor Inn overlooking the beach. This pool also has cabanas for rent, so if your kids need a nap, or the big game is on, this would be a great option without having to leave all the action!

Watercolor Inn hosted a New Year’s Eve strolling bubbles & bites event that we eagerly signed up for. We loved sipping our way through the property and ending on the beach with a bonfire and s’mores.

30A Travel Guide: Where to Eat in Seaside:

1. great southern ..

Grab a cocktail from the bar cart next door and enjoy it in the park while you wait for your buzzer to go off and your table to be ready. Their signature dish is the Shrimp & Grits a Ya Ya. It was fantastic! Cody also loves the lobster tail.

2. Modica Market .

This is the perfect place to grab a big belgian waffle or breakfast burrito to go, or shop for a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach. At times, they also offer wine tasting.

3. Airstream Row.

4. Bud & Alley’s .

The pizza bar was phenomenal and moved into its new location this past year.  It is located right across the street from Airstream Row and Seaside Square. It is perfect for grabbing a bite to eat after watching the sunset on the beach. The prosciutto pizza is a favorite of ours, and apparently Kristin Cavallari’s too, who was saw here one year!

Seagrove/Watersound :

We stayed in this area at the HUB30A our first two years, which is about 3.5 miles from Seaside to the west, and 2 miles from Alys Beach on the east. The HUB is great for families and the large townhomes include access to the pool, which unfortunately isn’t heated in the winter. The HUB on 30A is a collection of food trucks, shops, and restaurants with communal seating, plenty of TVs, and a huge screen for movie nights and big games. There is also a large area for kids to play. We came here at night for BBQ or Tacos or Ice Cream, some drinks, and to watch the NCAA bowl games. We also opted to rent bikes for the week, which we loved! The closest beach access from here is 0.6 miles.

Rosemary Beach

What about you? Have you been to 30A? I’d love to hear which beach town you like best! Please leave a comment below or let me know if you have any questions and I’ll be sure to add these to our 30A travel guide!

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January 26, 2020 at 1:20 pm

Thanks for sharing your experience! We are planning a Florida vacation with our littles and this was very helpful!

January 28, 2020 at 6:30 pm

I’m so happy to hear that! I hope you and your family have the best time!

December 22, 2020 at 7:41 am

Thank you! We are going for a month this winter and I just found your post. Very helpful!!

December 27, 2020 at 9:12 am

Thank you! Have so much fun!

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Best Things to do on 30A (Besides Go to the Beach)

Of course the very best thing to do on 30A in Florida is to spend time of one of the glorious white sand beaches…

but…into every vacation a little rain must fall…

or the kids need a break…

or sunburn happens…(wear sunscreen y’all – the sun is intense on a Florida beach!)

but no matter the reason…

There are many other things to do on 30A including outdoor activities, shopping, and amazing dining.

Here is a list of some of the OTHER best things to do on 30A.

Table of Contents

Ride A Bike

There is not much better than exploring this beautiful area by bike and you will find a multitude of places to rent a bike for your vacation.

In fact, there are so many bike rental places that I am not going to try to recommend one. You will easily find one near you and the prices don’t vary much.

Some of the vacations rental properties even provide bikes!

There are a number of trails in the area but the most popular and most traveled is the  Timpoochee Trail. It’s flat. It’s paved. It runs the entire length of 30A. It is perfect for sightseeing in the area.

There are also trails in some of the other 30A beach communities such as Dune Allen and Rosemary Beach as well as in the state parks in the area.

One of the best things to do on 30A is definitely to experience the amazing beach communities by bike!

Try a local brew

There are some great local breweries on 30A

Check out the Grayton Beer Company or Idyll Hounds Brewery for some interesting locally brewed beers. You will also find selections from these breweries at many of the area restaurants and liquor stores.

In addition to the breweries there are a couple of excellent taprooms such as Beach and Brew and Growler Garage .

Visit a Coastal Dune Lake

As you traverse scenic 30A you will see a number of lakes just inside the dunes. These are called coastal dune lakes and are a rare phenomenon only found in a few places in the world!

Many of the lakes are open to the public for recreational activities such as bird watching, wildlife spotting, kayaking, fishing, and paddle boarding.

You should definitely take the time to visit one of the coastal dune lakes while you are in the area!

See The Truman House in Seaside, Florida

Seaside Florida is a unique planned community that is so perfect that it served as the setting for the film, “The Truman Show.”

You can see the Truman house in the community of Seaside at 31 Natchez Street.

NOTE : There are people who live in this home. They have a sign indicating that their home is the Truman home, but do respect their privacy.

Watch the Sunset

Sometimes it’s the little things that bring the most joy. Pick a beach, any beach and take a walk west along the shore as the sun sets.

Spectacular.

Some of the coastal dune lakes also have stunning sunset views.

Hear the bell ring at Bud and Alleys

Another popular sunset location is the roof deck bar at Bud and Alleys in Seaside.

As the sun sets locals and visitors alike gather on the Rooftop Bar at Bud & Alley’s to celebrate the sunset by sounding the vintage bell.

You will probably need to get there early in order to get a seat.

This is one of the few restaurants in the area with a great beach view.

Enjoy a cruise

You can find various boat cruises in the area. Do you want to see dolphins in the gulf of Mexico, or perhaps view the sunset from a boat while drinking a glass of champagne?

Do you want to visit an unhabited island, go snorkling or even…do all of the above?

There are several cruises to choose from but do note that many of these will leave from the nearby towns of either Panama City or Destin.

You can check out Paradise Adventures for a variety of cruise options.

Sailaway Destin offers a variety of options including private cruises.

Have a beach bonfire

Some of the beaches along 30A will allow you to have a beach bonfire. In fact, this is one of the few areas in Florida that still allow bonfires on the sand.

However, you can’t just go out and light a fire. There are quite a few rules that you must follow in order to have a beach bonfire. Some of these include:

• You must have a beach permit
• The person who acquires the permit must be at the bonfire at all times
• The fire must be burned in a galvanized metal container
• A specific type of wood must be used
• You must take all of your burned material out when you leave…

…etc.

Because of the rules, the easiest way to have a beach bonfire is to hire someone to set the whole thing up for you!

There are several companies in the area that will provide a bonfire experience for your group including 30A Blaze and Light Me up Beach Bonfires.

You can fish in one of the coastal dune lakes, go surf fishing straight off of the beach, fish off of a pier, or go out on a charter boat to fish. There are so many fishing opportunities on 30A!

NOTE: Don’t forget that you will definitely need to get a license for the type of fishing that you intend to do! Check out how to get your fishing license here .

If you are fishing on your own you can pick up bait and tackle at many places along 30A. Some of these include Stinky’s Bait Shack , as well as Bay Baits .

For tours or charters you can check out Shallow Water Expeditions . They have a variety of fishing expeditions. Dead Fish Charters has been named the best charter company in South Walton and is another great choice.

Take a Ride on a Paddleboard

You will quickly discover that paddle boarding is one of the most popular things to do on 30A. People paddle board on the coastal dune lakes, but they also take their boards out on the ocean.

Yes, there are days on 30A when the ocean is almost as calm as a lake!

You can often rent paddle boards right from the beach or can find a company (there are many) and call ahead to reserve one.

Visit a State Park

You might be surprised to learn that there are 5 state parks in the area as well as a state forest! In fact visiting a state park is one of the best things to do on 30A.

Some of the state parks have pristine and less crowded beaches you can visit.

Many have hiking and biking and offer access to one of the coastal dune lakes . Still others have historical features to check out.

Grayton Beach State Park and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park have a variety of camp sites and cabins. This can be a less expensive way to visit 30A, but they do fill up rapidly so you will want to make reservations well in advance.

You will definitely want to go to one of the 30A State Parks while you are staying in the area.

Eat Seafood

I mean, duh. You always want to eat seafood when you are on a a beach vacation! Here are some of the best items to try:

• Grouper sandwich from Seagrove Village Market Cafe
• Oysters from Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar
• Grits A Ya Ya from Great Southern Cafe
• Crawfish pie from Stinky’s Fish Camp
• Buy your own seafood to take home and cook from Goatfeathers Seafood Market

Besides seafood you will find many great restaurants on 30A . Eating out is one of the best things to do on 30A.

Shop the local Farmer’s Markets

Seaside has a farmer’s market on Saturdays at the Seaside Amphitheater from 9-1.

The farmer’s market in Rosemary Beach is held on Sundays from 9-1.

Both markets are held year round.

Listen to Live Music

There are some great places in 30A to listen to live music. Some of these include:

• Shunk Gulley
• AJ’s Grayton Beach
• Stinky’s Bait Shack
• The Red Bar
• Old Florida Fish House
• Redd’s Fueling Station

There are many others! Be sure and check out the websites for a schedule of performances and events.

Also check out events at the Seaside Amphitheater and The Big Chill.

30A is a very active place! Besides all the water sports like paddle boarding, swimming, kayaking, and deep sea fishing you will find world class tennis and golf in the area.

You might even want to try the new sport of foot golf!

There may be tennis courts available where you are staying but if not here are a few of the area courts that allow visitors to play tennis.

Some also offer lessons or tennis clinics.

All will require advance reservations and will have a fee.

The Rosemary Beach Racquet Club has 8 green clay courts.

The Watercolor tennis club has 5 tennis courts and 2 pickleball courts.

The Seaside Tennis club has 5 tennis courts and 3 pickleball courts.

Some people come to 30A just to play golf. There are a number of golf courses in the area, some of which are award winning.

Here is a list of the golf courses on 30A that you might want to try.

Have you heard of foot golf? Neither had I until our latest visit to 30A. The sport is a combination of soccer and golf. Basically you kick a soccer ball into a hole. The person with the fewest kicks wins.

You can play this unique sport at the Watersound Club.

Feel like you are in Europe

It might sound strange to hear that you can have the feel of Europe in a Florida beach town, but there are two beach communities on 30A that have a decidedly European vibe.

The first is Rosemary Beach.

Rosemary Beach has been voted one of “America’s Most Romantic Small Towns” by CNN. The town has cobblestone streets, welcoming patios and courtyards, expansive and green public spaces, and architecture which feels decidedly old world.

Alys Beach is the other. This is an architecturally stunning place.

Alys is quiet and luxurious and beautiful. The attention to detail is amazing. The buildings are mostly painted white with some colorful touches on windows and doors and in the landscaping. You will feel as if you are in Greece, or the white villages of southern Spain.

Learn more about the 30A beach communities in this post!

Visit an Art Gallery

The beauty of 30A must attract artistic souls. You will find a myriad of art galleries on 30A.

Justin Gaffrey may be the most well known artist in the area. His paintings perfectly capture the heart of 30A.

Allison Wickey is another favorite locally based artist.

At Chroma 30A you will find the artwork of Kathleen Broaderick. Her art is both calming and interesting.

A very fun outdoor gallery is the Artists at Gulf Place . This is a collection of 8 brightly colored stalls. You will find jewelry, pottery, photography, sculptures, paintings, t-shirts, and much more! They also have a wine event the third Thursday of every month.

Finding art on the beach is one of the best things to do on 30A. There are many more artists and art galleries besides the ones I have listed.

Take a day trip to Destin or Panama City

If you are willing to venture a little farther afield from 30A you can take a visit to the slightly larger towns of either Destin or Panama City.

It is in these larger towns that you will find outlet shopping, marinas, boardwalks and piers, museums, marine parks and zoos, waterparks, and so much more!

Enjoy your visit on 30A! You might want to spend all day every day on the beach or you can choose some of the other great things to do on 30A.

Posts About 30A Florida

• Everything you need to know about 30A in Florida
• Multi-generation Family Vacation on 30A
• All about the various 30A Beach Towns
• Coastal Dune Lakes on 30A
• State Parks on 30A
• Great Restaurants on 30A
• Seaside, A Perfect Beach Town

Posts About Other Places in Florida

• Great things to do on Anna Maria Island, Florida
• Best Beaches on Anna Maria Island, Florida
• Best Restaurants on Anna Maria Island, Florida
• Florida Keys Road Trip

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6 Fantastic Day Trips from 30A Florida

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30A is a place that I hold near and dear to my heart. It is not only my family’s happy place but also where we own several vacation rentals.

Since it is only an hour and a half away in  Dothan, Alabama , we visit frequently and are quite knowledgeable about the area. Today, I would like to share with you some of my favorite day trips from 30A.

What Is 30A?

Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico and the Florida Panhandle’s southern coast, you’ll find the beaches of  30A . There’s no doubt that visitors are flocking to this area, both for the white sand beaches and the laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. Beloved by families for generations, 30A is a vacation destination where the days revolve around the beach, pool, biking, eating, and quality time with your loved ones.

But, if you are looking to explore the area more, plenty of day trip destinations offer a diverse range of activities for the entire family.

From natural springs to charming coastal villages, here are  six fantastic day trips from 30A  for your family to try! Most are within a one-hour drive from 30A, but all are within two hours. 

1: Experience the Magic of Shell Island 

Located just off the coast of Panama City Beach, Shell Island is a hidden gem that offers pristine, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This 7-mile-long, uninhabited barrier island is only accessible by boat, and you have a few different options for getting there by boat.

This post shares an overview, but make sure to read my  Ultimate Guide to Shell Island  for more great information!

Book a Catamaran Tour to Shell Island

Local tour companies offer guided tours that include snorkeling, dolphin watching, and exploring the island. Our favorite is  Paradise Adventures , and they offer a few different daytime tours that even include inflatables in the bay. They offer both daytime cruises and evening  sunset cruises in Panama City Beach !

Rent a Pontoon Boat in the Grand Lagoon

Another option, probably the most popular, is renting a pontoon boat and heading there yourself. We have personally done this on multiple occasions, and it makes for such a great day! A few reputable companies include  Lagoon Pontoons ,  Paradise Adventures , and Adventures at Sea. 

Hop on the Shell Island Shuttle

The alternative is taking the Shell Island Ferry from St. Andrews State Park. You can  click here for the current Shell Island Shuttle schedule,  which does vary seasonally.  Or you can take the

The downside is that you must carry everything off the boat, which can be cumbersome. The other options allow you to store your snacks, coolers, and towels safely. 

Shell Island Tips

For these boat trips, you typically dock on the bay side and can walk across the island to the white sand coastline and emerald waters. The water you will initially see on the bay side is brackish. However, we have had fantastic luck snorkeling and spotting sea critters there! 

I do want to point out that  Shell Island  is very primitive. There are no bathrooms, snack shops, chair rentals, etc. So, plan accordingly. This is also what makes it so unique. On some occasions, when we have been there, we have not seen another person in either direction. 

READ:  The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Shell Island

2: Underground Adventures at Florida Caverns State Park

Located in Marianna, about 90 minutes from the east end of 30A,  Florida Caverns State Park  offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the state’s only dry cave system. Five days a week, guided tours take visitors through the caverns home to an impressive array of stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological formations. The temperature inside the cave system stays 65 degrees year-round, making it a nice place to cool off in the summer or warm up in the winter.

Florida Cavern Tickets

The Florida Caverns guided tour tickets are sold in person on a first-come, first-served basis at the Florida Caverns Gift Shop. There are also a limited number of  online reservations  available, and I recommend that you only go if you can book your tour in advance. The tours sell out, and I would hate for you to drive that far only to be turned away.

Click here  to learn more about Florida Caverns State Park and see photos from our visit.

While up in that area, consider booking a  Clear Kayak Eco Adventure at Merritt’s Mill !

3: Paddle to Cypress Springs 

Located just up Highway 79 in Vernon, Cypress Springs is a natural freshwater spring with crystal-clear waters and a sandy bottom. The spring is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it ideal for swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing.

The best way to access this freshwater spring is by taking a  kayak or canoe to Cypress Springs , and it makes for a nice half-day outing for families and couples. 

4: A Day of Play at Vortex Spring

If you are looking for a fun way to entertain your older kids,  Vortex Spring  is a great option. Located less than an hour north of Seaside in Ponce De Leon, Vortex Spring is a natural spring popular among divers and snorkelers.

Here, you will find a primitive waterpark with slides, rope swings, and high dives. The spring offers crystal-clear water, but remember that Spring water is cold. The water temperature will be around 70 degrees, which is refreshing in the summer.

To avoid crowds, you’ll want to visit during the week.  Vortex Spring  is a popular hangout for locals on the weekends and can get very crowded. If the activities here don’t interest you, there are a couple of other more natural springs in the surrounding area, including Morrison Springs and Ponce de Leon Springs.

5: Shop and Dine at Harborwalk Village

If you head east on Highway 98 from  30A , you’ll run straight into Destin, Florida.  Harborwalk Village  is a fun coastal village that offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront boardwalk, take a sunset cruise, or even try deep-sea fishing. The village also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including weekly fireworks shows during the summer.  

Harborwark Village can be a short two-hour outing, or you can make a day of it but booking a boat outing from the Destin Harbor at Harborwalk Village. Plan an afternoon  dolphin-watching trip  and then stay for dinner at AJs Seafood and Oyster Bar! 

READ:  Fun Ways To Spend The Day In Destin

6: Follow the Coastline to Gulf County, Florida

Located along Florida’s Forgotten Coast,  Gulf County  is a hidden gem that offers visitors a taste of old Florida. The area is home to miles of pristine beaches and quaint coastal towns like Port St. Joe and Cape San Blas. Visitors can explore nature trails, go birdwatching, or take a scenic drive along the coast. Gulf County is also known for its fresh seafood, including scallops, when in season. You can’t go wrong with a stop at the  Indian Pass Raw Bar .  

This is a fantastic option if you enjoy rolling the windows down and taking a slow drive along the coast! 

Plan Your Next 30A Day Trip

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing day trip destinations to explore from  30A Florida . From pristine beaches and crystal-clear springs to natural cave systems and charming coastal villages, these six destinations offer diverse experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-packed day or a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

These day trip destinations offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the best the  Florida  Panhandle offers. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, add these destinations to your bucket list and experience the magic of the Sunshine State!

And if you are planning a visit to 30A, make sure to read my  30A packing list  blog post so that you don’t forget any beach essentials!

You May Enjoy These Related Posts

• Ultimate Airbnb Hosting Guide
• Gulf Coast Beach Flags
• Panama City Beach Activities
• Our Little Retreats: 30A Rentals

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Carly A. Hill

November 3, 2021

The Ultimate 30A Girls Trip Guide

30A has been a special place for my family for over 15 years so I was so excited to celebrate turning 30 there last week with my best friend and 18 of our girlfriends! Leslie and I have been best friends since we were five and with our birthdays six days apart, we wanted to have all of our best girls celebrate with us. To have friends from all across the country and different walks of life come together was truly the best gift and I’m so grateful they could all make the trip.

So what is 30A you may ask? 30A is a stretch of 28.5 miles that runs along the Gulf of Mexico coastline, composed of white sugar-sand beaches, charming communities and amazing restaurants and shops. Today, I’m breaking down all of the logistics, things to do and eat and our incredible stay. Heard from a lot of you that you are also planning a trip soon so hope this 30a girls trip guide will help plan your perfect weekend!

THE ULTIMATE 30A GIRLS TRIP GUIDE:

Where to stay.

With 18 of us, we needed a house with lots of space and bedrooms and luckily 30A has lots of houses that fit that description! The house we rented through VRBO was big enough to fit 22 people and was seriously a dream beach house. Huge kitchen and main living room, lots of bathrooms, a pool, outdoor area, bikes and golf cart and a quick walk to the beach across the street. We loved our stay and it was in a great location, close by Rosemary and Alys Beach and only about 15 min from downtown Seaside.

WHAT TO EAT

With such a large group, we planned for all of our dinners at the house to be catered and had amazing experiences with all the vendors! I love eating out when in 30A (some favorites in my past guides HERE and HERE ) so we planned for one big lunch out so everyone could experience the fun of Seaside . Sharing our favorites below to make note of for your next trip!

George’s

A few of us arrived earlier on Thursday so we kicked things off at an old favorite George’s in Alys Beach. The food is so fresh and delicious and I love sitting out on their big porch soaking up the Southern weather.

Bruno’s Pizza

With everyone arriving at different times on Thursday night, we ordered lots of pizza and salads from Bruno’s nearby. They were super fast and it was great to have some extra pizza for the weekend for late night snacking.

Friday night was our party night so we kicked things off with a fiesta at the house and a catered Mexican dinner. TaCo.30A was so great to work with and came to the house and set everything up to make for an easy buffet. Best of all, the food was SO good and we had so much food to enjoy all weekend long. Dreaming of that queso!

Great Southern Cafe

One of my favorite restaurants is Great Southern Cafe so it was so fun to have all of us have lunch there on Friday! The food is classic Southern food (I always get the shrimp, grits and hushpuppies!) and was perfect for our large group. They are also known for their mojitos so make sure to grab one or get one to-go as it is open container there!

Heystacks Shrimp Shack

For Saturday night, we wanted to do a classic Low Country Seafood Boil and Heystacks was great. They came to the house before with everything cooked and we kept it warm in the oven before bringing down to eat outside. The food was so good and once again, ended up with lots of leftovers that made it over to my aunt and uncles house the next day before we left!

Black Bear Bread Co.

For Saturday breakfast, we preordered bagels and cream cheese from Black Bear Bread Co. and they were pretty close to a perfect NYC bagel! Highly recommend preordering as it is gets crazy busy there in the morning. Can’t wait to go back on my next visit!

One of my favorite finds of this trip was Graze 30A who put together the most gorgeous cheeseboard for everyone to arrive to on Thursday! Definitely a must with a large group and perfect for kicking a girls trip off with!

Explore 30A

30A is made up of so many cute towns so definitely take the time to walk around and explore them all! I love walking through Seaside and seeing all of the colorful houses, Alys Beach is super chic and feels like Europe and Rosemary Beach has cute shops and stores to explore in. The area is bike and golf cart friendly which makes it ideal for exploring.

Beach Walks and Sunset Cocktail Hour

Every day and evening should start on the beach when in 30A! We loved taking beach walks in the morning and checking out all the gorgeous homes. And nothing beats a 30A sunset so make sure to grab drinks and head to the beach for golden hour and some epic sunsets!

Poolside Progressive

For a fun pool drinking game, we did a poolside progressive with different themed drinks to bring out every half hour. From themed college rival drinks to NYC and Minneapolis themed pitchers, it was a fun way to try lots of different cocktails while out by the pool.

Beach Bonfire

For our final night, we hired Light Me Up 30A to set up a beach bonfire for us and it was the perfect chill night before early flights the next morning. This company is amazing and gets everything set up for you and you can add extras like s’mores, speaker, sparklers, etc. so highly recommend with a large group!

DECORATIONS AND FAVORS

Invite and itineraries.

We used this editable template to email all the girls and also share the itinerary for the weekend. We also printed at FedEx before the weekend and left on everyones beds so they knew what the plan was for the whole weekend!

Monogrammed Water Bottles

To avoid lots of half empty water bottles around the house, we gifted everyone these monogrammed water bottles from Sprinkled With Pink . They have so many cute custom gift ideas ( love this tote !) and a great practical gift. We also gifted everyone a beach towel so they didn’t need to worry about packing one as well!

We didn’t want to go overboard with decorations and Mingle30A did an amazing job with subtle balloons above the dining room table and a fun light up 30. Our moms also surprised us with balloons out by the pool which we loved enjoying during the day!

Face Charts

A fun surprise was creating face charts of everyone on the trip and hanging them at the entrance of the main room. With so many girls from different areas of life, we wanted to make it easy and fun for everyone to remember each others names and how we’re all connected. We included their name, hometown, where they currently live, how they knew Leslie and/or I and then three things to ask them about whether their new puppy or a funny story. Highly recommend for big groups!

Have you been to 30A before or have a trip there soon?

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