Beginner’s Guide to 30A Florida: A Hidden Gem
The best time of year to go to 30A is definitely during the fall, somewhere after hurricane season but before the winter. In the summer it gets very hot and even though it is a hidden gem, it still gets very crowded. April to the beginning of June is a great time to go as well although spring showers happen often!
30A is just a name in reference to the Scenic Highway 30A. Along this scenic highway, there are plenty of beachside towns that all offer something different with their atmosphere and food options. These towns are great places for a family trip or a couple’s getaway.Β
A Beginner’s Guide to 30A
If you are flying into 30A to visit, the closest airport is going to be the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP). Besides that, there are a bunch of smaller airports nearby that could also be an option, especially if you plan on renting a car. Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is another great airport to fly into and is only about a 40-60 minute drive depending on where you are going in 30A.
Alys Beach
Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach is definitely one of my favorite beach towns because it is where I got married. Besides offering incredible wedding venues, it is also great for families. The Dutch-inspired architecture makes it one of my favorite spots for photography. Rosemary Beach is basically its own beach community with local shops, incredible restaurants, and bike paths all over. This makes it easy to bike wherever you want to go. Their rentable houses are so cute while offering great amenities including a full kitchen. The homes are perfect for those traveling in a big group. The Pearl is a hotel on-site that is perfect for a couple’s getaway. Each house is only a few minutes walk to Rosemary Beach or even Inlet Beach. Plus on the weekends they have a farmers market in the middle of Rosemary’s town.Β
Alys Beach is definitely my second favorite spot just because its architecture reminds me of Greece with its all white architecture. It is the one place, besides Rosemary Beach, that also makes you feel like you aren’t in America when visiting. It is just a short drive from Rosemary Beach but offers an entirely different vibe to it. Alys Beach is definitely more suited for a girl’s trip or a couples retreat. The rental homes are like Rosemary Beach as it is more of a beach community than a boutique hotel. Alys Beach also has beach access, local shops, and plenty of relaxing scenery.Β
Suggestions: Enjoy lunch or dinner at George’s at Aly’s Beach, donuts at Charlie’s Delights, and a glass of wine at NEAT Tasting Room and Wine Bar
Santa Rosa Beach is another charming beach town on 30A that offers beautiful views of the surrounding water and upscale dining. It is also home to Gulf Place which is a new urban development designed with nature in mind. It has nature trails, outdoor patios, and large greenery spaces. It is the only town in 30A that consists of vacationers and full-time residents. Santa Rosa Beach is definitely a more laid-back part of 30A with live music and local cuisine making it a local favorite. You can get around here mostly by golf cart and is a great first trip to 30A especially if traveling with young kids. They offer a range of accommodations including vacation homes or hotels.
Seaside is another great beach community for those traveling as a family, especially with young kids. It is definitely a bit more upscale than Santa Rosa Beach but nothing in comparison to Alys Beach. Another picturesque town that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and leads straight to the sugar-white sand. Its functional outdoor living makes it easy to walk everywhere you need. The best part of Seaside is the Airstream trailers which are all different types of food trucks. They line up in the middle of town and offer many amazing bites to eat. Seaside also has options for accommodations including vacation homes and resorts. I would suggest WaterColor Inn because it is its own community within the community.Β
Suggestions: breakfast at the Great Southern Cafe, shop at the Central Square Records Shop, and have a drink at Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant and Bar.
Grayton Beach is located next to Seaside and is known as the first established community in the South Walton surrounding area. Grayton Beach is a small village that showcases creativity and delicious dining. The Grayton Beach State Park has been ranked as one of the nation’s top 24 beaches. Although on the smaller side compared to the other beach communities, it is perfect for those looking to get away from the crowds. The village also has many local craft shops.Β
Suggestions: enjoy dinner and live music at The Red Bar, supposedly the best seafood at Grayton Seafood, and a beer at Beach Camp Brew Pub.
Dune Allen Beach is a beach town that is perfect for those who love nature and outdoor activities. Dune Allen Beach is home to five coastal dune lakes. This beach community is more known for its tranquility and its touch with nature. You will find hiking and biking trails, campsites, and even local coffee shops. You get a little taste of nature here. There are plenty of vacation homes here to rent, as well as, plenty of resorts to stay at. The Sandestin is its own lively resort community making it a perfect spot for families.
Suggestions: lunch at Sticky’s Fish Camp, go camping at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, and have baked goods at Cava and Cakes
Miramar Beach is known to be South Walton’s most fun beach town. This beach town is the best place for those that like diversity in activities. They have anything from beach volleyball to the Silver Sands Premium Outlets, golf courses or tennis courts, and plenty of delicious dining spots. There are a few resorts located in Miramar including Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa and Majestic Sun by Vacasa. You can also find plenty of vacation homes on VRBO or AirBnB.Β
Suggestions: dinner, drinks, and live music at Pompano Joe’s, go to the Underwater Museum of Art, and rent beach chairs for a fun-filled beach day at La Dolce Vita.
Tips for Traveling to 30A
- Sometimes booking vacation homes on AirBnB or VRBO doesn’t allow you to have full access/amenities of the community. Make sure you know these rules before booking. (Rosemary beach is one of them)
- The winters here actually do get pretty chilly and can be super foggy.Β
- You don’t need to rent a car because once you are in a community you can easily walk around or bike ride. However, if you want to experience multiple communities in one trip, you might need a car to drive to each town. I would also suggest renting a golf cart if you have young kids or a big family.Β
- Beach access depends on the community, some are free, some are included with your accommodation, and some cost a price to enter.Β
- Last but not least, enjoy the food and laid-back but fun atmosphere. If you are looking to get wet and wild you might want to go to Panama City Beach instead of the 30A communities.
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