Have you ever heard of 30A Florida Beach? If not, you're missing out on one of the most amazing places in the South.
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30A Florida Beach is a collection of small, unique, and beautiful beach towns along the Gulf of Mexico, between Destin and Panama City. It's named after the road that connects them, County Road 30A, which spans about 20 miles of scenic coastline. 30A Florida Beach is unlike any other beach destination in the country.
It offers stunning white sand beaches, turquoise water, coastal lakes, state parks, bike trails, art galleries, music festivals, farmers markets, and more.
It's also home to some of the most charming and diverse communities in the region, such as Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Seaside, WaterColor, and Grayton Beach. Each town has its own personality, style, and vibe, but they all share a common love for the beach, nature, and culture.
Also Read: Where Do Locals Eat on 30A?
If you're looking for a relaxing getaway with plenty of things to see and do, 30A Florida Beach is the perfect place for you. In this blog post, I'll show you how to plan the perfect vacation on 30A Florida Beach, from where to stay, what to eat, what to do, and where to shop.
Whether you're traveling solo, with your partner, with your family, or with your friends, you'll find something for everyone on this incredible destination. Let's get started!
Where to Stay on 30A Florida Beach
One of the best things about 30A Florida Beach is that you won't find any high-rise hotels or condos here. Instead, you'll find a variety of cozy and comfortable accommodations, from cottages, villas, and bungalows, to beach houses, condos, and townhomes.
You can choose from different sizes, styles, and locations, depending on your budget, preferences, and needs. You can also enjoy amenities such as pools, hot tubs, fireplaces, balconies, patios, and more.
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If you're looking for a place to stay on 30A Florida Beach, you can't go wrong with 30A Escapes Vacation Rentals. They have a large selection of luxury 30A vacation rentals, with properties in every 30A community, from Rosemary Beach to Dune Allen Beach.
They have rentals for every occasion, from romantic retreats, to family reunions, to corporate events. They also offer concierge services, such as grocery delivery, bike rentals, beach chair rentals, and more. You can book your rental online or by phone, and enjoy a hassle-free and memorable vacation on 30A Florida Beach.
Where to Eat on 30A Florida Beach
Another great thing about 30A Florida Beach is that you'll find some of the best food in the South here. From fresh seafood, to Southern classics, to international cuisine, you'll find something to satisfy your taste buds and your appetite.
You'll also find a range of dining options, from casual cafes, to upscale restaurants, to rooftop bars. You can enjoy the views, the ambiance, and the service, while indulging in the flavors and the freshness of the food.
If you're looking for a place to eat on 30A Florida Beach, you have plenty of choices, but here are some of my favorites:
The Red Bar
This is a 30A institution, and a must-visit for anyone who loves live music, good vibes, and delicious food. The Red Bar is located in Grayton Beach, and it's known for its eclectic decor, funky atmosphere, and amazing menu.
They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, blackened grouper, and pasta. They also have a full bar, with beer, wine, and cocktails.
The best part is that they have live music every night, featuring local and national bands, playing jazz, blues, rock, and more. The Red Bar is always packed, so be prepared to wait, but trust me, it's worth it.
The Great Southern Cafe
This is a 30A favorite, and a perfect spot for anyone who loves Southern comfort food, with a twist. The Great Southern Cafe is located in Seaside, and it's known for its cozy and colorful setting, friendly staff, and mouthwatering menu.
They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes such as beignets, shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and gumbo. They also have a full bar, with beer, wine, and cocktails.
The best part is that they have a happy hour every day, from 4 to 6 pm, featuring half-price drinks and appetizers. The Great Southern Cafe is always busy, so make sure to make a reservation, or arrive early.
NEAT
This is a 30A gem, and a ideal place for anyone who loves craft cocktails, fine wines, and artisan cheeses. NEAT is a bottle shop and tasting room in Alys Beach, and it's known for its sleek and modern design, knowledgeable staff, and curated selection.
They offer wine and cheese tastings, cocktail classes, and private events, with products from local and global sources. They also have a full bar, with beer, wine, and cocktails.
The best part is that they have a patio, where you can enjoy the views, the breeze, and the company. NEAT is always chic, so dress to impress, and enjoy the experience.
What to Do on 30A Florida Beach
The best thing about 30A Florida Beach is that you'll never run out of things to do here. From relaxing on the beach, to exploring the nature, to enjoying the culture, you'll find something to suit your mood and your interests.
You'll also find a variety of activities, from water sports, to biking, to golfing, to fishing, to shopping, to art, to music, and more. You can have fun, learn something new, and challenge yourself with these activities. Here are the top five things to do on 30A Florida Beach.
Paddleboard on a Coastal Dune Lake
30A Florida Beach is home to 15 coastal dune lakes, which are rare and unique ecosystems that only exist in a few places in the world.
These lakes are formed by wind and waves, and they periodically connect to the Gulf of Mexico, creating a mix of fresh and salt water.
You can explore these lakes by renting a paddleboard from one of the many outfitters on 30A, such as 30A Beach Paddle Surf or YOLO Board Adventures. You'll enjoy the views, the wildlife, and the tranquility of these natural wonders.
Bike on the Timpoochee Trail
30A Florida Beach has a paved bike path that runs along the entire length of the road, called the Timpoochee Trail. You can rent a bike from one of the many shops on 30A, such as Big Daddy's Bike Shop or Pedego Electric Bikes.
You'll ride through the different beach towns, see the sights, and stop at your favorite spots along the way. You can also take a detour to some of the state parks, such as Grayton Beach State Park or Deer Lake State Park, where you can hike, picnic, or swim.
Golf at Camp Creek Golf Club
30A Florida Beach has some of the best golf courses in the South, and one of them is Camp Creek Golf Club. This is a private club, but you can play as a guest if you stay at one of the St. Joe Club & Resorts properties, such as WaterColor Inn or WaterSound Inn.
You'll enjoy the challenging and scenic 18-hole course, designed by Tom Fazio, that features rolling fairways, natural wetlands, and pine forests. You'll also enjoy the amenities, such as the pro shop, the practice facility, and the clubhouse.
Also Read: Best Solo Beach Vacations for Females
Fish on the Gulf of Mexico
30A Florida Beach is a paradise for anglers, as it offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the Gulf of Mexico. You can fish from the shore, from the pier, or from a boat, depending on your preference and skill level.
You can catch a variety of fish, such as redfish, snapper, grouper, trout, and more. You can also join a fishing charter, such as 30A Guide Service or Dead Fish Charters, where you'll have a professional guide, a boat, and all the equipment you need. You'll have a fun and memorable fishing adventure on 30A Florida Beach.
Shop at 30Avenue
30A Florida Beach has some of the best shopping options in the South, and one of them is 30Avenue. This is a premier lifestyle center, located at the east end of 30A, that features a mix of upscale boutiques, restaurants, and services.
You'll find everything from fashion, to jewelry, to home decor, to art, and more. You'll also enjoy the events, such as live music, yoga, and farmers markets, that take place at the green space. You'll have a great time shopping and dining at 30Avenue.
Where to Shop on 30A Florida Beach
The last thing to do on 30A Florida Beach is to shop for some souvenirs, gifts, or treats for yourself. 30A Florida Beach has some of the best local shops, where you can find unique and quality products, made by local artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs.
You can support the local economy, culture, and community, while finding something special to take home with you. Here are some of the best places to shop on 30A Florida Beach.
The 30A Store
This is the official store of 30A, the lifestyle brand that celebrates the beach life. You can find a variety of products, such as apparel, accessories, stickers, hats, and more, all featuring the iconic 30A logo.
You can also find products made from recycled materials, such as the 30A Recycled Apparel, which is made from recycled plastic bottles. You can shop online or at one of the four locations on 30A, such as the 30A Store at Seagrove or the 30A Store at Gulf Place.
The Blue Giraffe
This is a charming art gallery and gift shop, located in WaterColor. You can find a selection of original art, prints, pottery, jewelry, books, and more, all made by local and regional artists.
You can also find some whimsical and inspirational items, such as signs, cards, candles, and more. You can shop in person or online, and enjoy the friendly and helpful service.
Sundog Books
This is a cozy and independent bookstore, located in Seaside. You can find a variety of books, from bestsellers, to classics, to local authors, and more.
You can also find some magazines, newspapers, puzzles, games, and more. You can shop in person or online, and enjoy the quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.
The Art of Simple
This is a stylish and eclectic boutique, located in Seaside. You can find a collection of clothing, accessories, home goods, and more, all curated with a simple and elegant aesthetic.
You can also find some handmade and fair trade items, such as jewelry, bags, scarves, and more. You can shop in person or online, and enjoy the chic and sophisticated vibe.
The Seaside Style
This is the official store of Seaside, the iconic beach town. You can find a range of products, such as apparel, accessories, beach gear, souvenirs, and more, all featuring the Seaside logo or theme.
You can also find some exclusive and limited edition items, such as the Seaside Cabana Man Collection, which is inspired by the legendary beach service.
You can shop online or at one of the three locations in Seaside, such as the Seaside Classic or the Seaside Kids.
FAQs about 30A Florida Beach
To wrap up this blog post, here are some frequently asked questions about 30A Florida Beach, with short answers.
What is 30A Florida Beach?
30A Florida Beach is a scenic stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, between Destin and Panama City, in Florida. It's named after the road that connects the 16 beach towns that make up the area, County Road 30A.
It's a popular destination for beach lovers, nature lovers, and culture lovers, who enjoy the beauty, diversity, and charm of the place.
How to get to 30A Florida Beach?
The easiest way to get to 30A Florida Beach is by flying to one of the nearby airports, such as Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City, or Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) in Destin.
From there, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use a ride-sharing service to get to 30A. You can also drive to 30A from other parts of Florida or the South, using highways such as I-10, US-98, or FL-20.
When is the best time to visit 30A Florida Beach?
The best time to visit 30A Florida Beach depends on your preferences and plans. Generally, the peak season is from March to August, when the weather is warm, sunny, and humid, and the beaches are crowded, lively, and festive.
The off-season is from September to February, when the weather is cooler, drier, and more variable, and the beaches are quieter, calmer, and more relaxing.
You can also find some special events and festivals throughout the year, such as the 30A Songwriters Festival in January, the 30A Wine Festival in February, or the Seeing Red Wine Festival in November.
Where to find more information about 30A Florida Beach?
The best way to find more information about 30A Florida Beach is to visit the official website of 30A, which is 30A.com. There, you can find everything you need to know about 30A, such as the history, the culture, the communities, the events, the news, and more.
You can also follow 30A on social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube, where you can see photos, videos, and stories about 30A. You can also download the 30A app, which is a free and handy guide to 30A, with features such as maps, weather, live cams, and more.
Final Thoughts
30A Florida Beach is a paradise for anyone who loves the beach, nature, and culture. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, you'll find something for everyone on this amazing destination.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to 30A Florida Beach today and discover why it's the South's best-kept secret.