Are you looking for an ultimate 30A Florida Travel Guide? If so, we have you covered with everything you need to know when planning your first trip to 30A!
I am obsessed with 30A, it is a unique vacation destination in Florida, but it can be confusing to plan!
This is why I put together this super easy 30A vacation guide filled with everything you need to know before you go!
The Ultimate 30A Florida Travel Guide For First Timers
So you might be wondering what is 30A? It is a 26-mile stretch of Highway 30A in the panhandle of Florida that runs from Miramar Beach or Sandestin on the West to Inlet Beach and Camp Helen State Park on the East.
We will tell you everything you need to know about planning your first trip to 30A! Known for its sugary white sand beaches with warm turquoise water it is the perfect place to spend a few days!
Along 30A you will find a ton of small beach towns, such as Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Alys Beach each with their own vibe! On our 30A Florida travel guide you will find everything you need to know!
Best Airports Near 30A
There are 2 airports located near 30A. Depending on what area of 30A you are staying in, where you are flying in from, and flight price will all determine which airport you choose.
The closest airport is VPS or Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, about 20 miles east of Rosemary Beach. About 30 minutes drive to Rosemary Beach, and 45 minutes to Blue Mountain Beach. This is the smallest of the 3 airports.
Next, is VPS, Destin Fort Walton Beach Airport is about 45 miles to 30A. The drive time is about 1 hour to Seaside and about an hour and 10 mins to Alys Beach. This airport has more direct flights and often lower prices.
Another option is Pensacola International Airport or Tallahassee International Airport but both are about a 2-hour drive to 30A.
Where To Stay In 30A
Each of the beach towns along 30A has its own identity. Where you choose to stay, will depend on the vibe, location, and what you are looking for during your stay! Everyone has their favorite beach town in this area, but you can’t go wrong with any of the towns you choose!
I personally stay in Seaside or Watercolor and have enjoyed both, but, you really can’t go wrong!! Below, I will discuss the vibe of each town so you can make the best choice for your vacation to 30A! I hope my guide to 30A in Florida helps you choose the best fit for your trip!
Hotels on 30A
Unlike most vacation areas, 30A is NOT known for hotels! This area is renowned for its vacation rentals. However, there are a few options for those who prefer hotels! Below are the two choices we would recommend.
Watercolor Inn -Located on Santa Rosa Beach (one of the best beaches for couples) next to Grayton Beach State Park it offers a private beach, complimentary kayaks and bicycles, a pool, and tennis courts, all while sitting oceanfront. Most rooms sleep 4 guests and are coastal modern with all the luxuries a hotel can provide!
Book Watercolor Inn: HERE
Pearl Hotel – Located in Rosemary Beach, the hotel offers free parking and complimentary bikes for guests to use. While not beachfront ( a 15-minute walk), it has everything guests need for an upscale stay! With a restaurant, spa, and on-site, the hotel rooms feature everything you want!
Book Pearl Inn: HERE
Vacation Rentals On 30A
As I explained above, 30A is known for its vacation rental market. Here are a few tips I have learned from past stays, the most important is to make sure your vacation rental comes with PRIVATE beach access as many may not, and most of the beaches in this area are not public!
Here are a few of my suggestions for Vacation Rentals :
Gulfside Rosemary “Freedom Carriage House” – Located just a 1-minute walk to Rosemary Beach (public and private beach access) the house sleeps 4 with a queen bed and full sleeper sofa in a 2-story Carriage House with an outdoor backyard with complimentary bikes, access to community pool and tennis courts.
Check Rates : HERE
Mistral 24 – Located about a 1-minute walk to Seacrest Beach ( with private beach access for Mistral Condo guests) or 6 minutes to Alys beach, this newly renovated 2-bedroom plus bunks,2 bath condo sleeps 8! Sit on your beachfront balcony to enjoy a morning coffee or evening dinner!
Park Place – Park District Newly Renovated WaterColor Condo – Located just a 4 to 5-minute walk from Grayton Beach and Seaside Beach, right next to Watercolor Inn with a community pool and lazy river, and Cerulean Park. The rental comes with bikes and is newly renovated 2 bedrooms, 2 baths that sleep 6. I love the large outdoor solarium porch perfect for family meals or hangs!
Check Rates: HERE
Cabana Babe Guest Cottage – Located a 2-minute walk to Seaside Beach, this charming cottage is just 3 houses off the beach and sleeps 2. You have all the seaside charm, restaurants, and beaches within walking distance. Access to Private Beach at Natchez Pavilion, pools, and complimentary bikes.
Check Rates: HERE
Cutest 30A Beach Towns To Explore
In this section, I will describe the vibe, amenities, and everything you NEED to know about each of these cute beach towns along 30A! These are some of the best small beach towns in Florida! My 30A vacation guide will help you choose what town to stay in!
Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach is known for its European influence with narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful homes, public spaces, restaurants, and courtyards, and is very walkable and bike-friendly.
Rosemary Beach is one of the private beaches with the prettiest water in Florida for those staying in the area, but just 1 mile away is public access at Inlet Beach. I find this town to be less crowded than others in the area.
Alys Beach
The stunning white buildings nestled in this upscale beach community showcase the blue skies and water will have you thinking you are either in Greece or a Caribbean Island. The town is surrounded by palm tree-lined entryways and courtyards and the amazing Caliza Pool is the centerpiece of this town.
This beach town has everything you need and once you arrive you won’t want to leave. From restaurants, and coffee shops, to boutiques and the beach this community has it all with a pristine white sand beach. I find this town best for couples looking for a romantic and luxurious vacation on 30A.
Seagrove/Watersound
Seagrove is a town in 30A for those who love old Florida. The live oak and magnolia trees surround the town. This area is perfect for outdoor lovers who want to bike, and hike along the nature paths. The Big Chill outdoor area is located nearby!
Watersound is known for its international visitors. Nestled between grasslands and the beach, this town is best for those looking to kayak, fish, and bike along the paths. The secluded beaches here are less busy than the surrounding towns.
Seaside
Seaside is one of my favorite towns in 30A. Seaside is home to beautiful pastel-colored houses with manicured lawns and white picket fences. A true-life movie set, The Truman Show was filmed here.
I think Seaside is the best family-friendly beach town along 30A. It is voted one of the best family beaches in the World! From restaurants to shopping, this is an extremely pedestrian-friendly town. Checkout one of the 9 pavillions along the beach!
Enjoy eating at the “food trucks” which are airstream trailers, before heading to the pristine beach! Checkout our guide of what to do in Seaside!
Watercolor
Watercolor is boarded by Seaside and Grayton Beach but it IS its own “community”! It is a town best known for being situated on Western Lake and surrounded by nature, with pristine beaches, amazing restaurants, and boutiques all situated right on the Gulf.
I find this town to be family-friendly as well with parks, playgrounds, and everything can be explored on foot!
Blue Mountain Beach
Blue Mountain Beach is one of the highest points along 30A with towering sand dunes. It is actually named after the Blue Lupin flowers that grow in the dunes. If you are looking for a “hidden oasis” that is far less crowded than surrounding towns this is the town for you!
Known for its amazing food scene, nearby golf courses, surfing, and coastal dunes the beaches in this area are less crowded, and there is a state park neighboring for walking hiking and exploring.
One of my favorite coffee shops and bakeries – Blue Mountain Beach Bakery is located here!
What To Do In 30A
Enjoy the Beaches
Each of the small towns along 30A is situated along the beach. Each of the beaches here both private and public offers pristine white sand beaches, and gorgeous turquoise water. You come to 30A to enjoy the beaches and after your trip here you will see why!
During busy times, I suggest renting chairs at some of the private beaches!
Rent bikes and explore
One of the most fun and easiest ways to get around 30A is by biking! There are tons of bike shops to rent from, and many of the homes also include bike rentals.
The 30A area is extremely bike-friendly, with the 19-mile paved Timpoochee Trail that takes you along all the beach communities. Stop along the way to grab a coffee, lunch, or a cocktail, or to enjoy the views!
Relax at Big Chill
The Big Chill, formerly known as the Hub30, is a great local spot for live music, shopping, food, and drinks. It is the perfect spot to enjoy for families, couples, or bachelorette party trips. Plus, it is pet-friendly.
Adults can enjoy the spa and shopping, while children love the arcade. Everyone loves the stage for live music and the jumbotron that plays sporting events and fire pits in the evening.
Shopping and Dining
Each of the towns along 30A offers a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and places to grab a drink! They also offer shopping ranging from upscale boutiques to small souvenir stores!
Activities
Along 30A you will find a variety of activities to enjoy.
- Amazing golf courses
- State parks with hiking, and biking
- Florida Springs
- Spend the day at your town’s community pool!
In the evenings you can plan a bonfire, have a picnic on the beach or just enjoy a beverage on the balcony of your vacation rental overlooking the ocean!
Rent kayaks, paddle boards, and floats to make the most of your beach day! Finally, don’t forget you can charter a boat to take you to Crab Island for a day of hanging on the Sandbar!
Checkout our list of the 15 best things to do in 30A.
Where to Eat on 30A
There are so many AMAZING restaurants along 30A. Regardless of which town you are staying in, there are a ton ofdining options. From upscale Michelin restaurants to local beach eats, food trucks, juice bars, and more these are my choices for the best restaurants in 30A!
- Mimmos Italian (Santa Rosa Beach) – For those looking for the best Italian food in 30A, Mimmos is the spot! Authentic homemade dishes like Mimmos; marsala, and lobster Pappardelle are some of the restaurant’s favorites!
- Old Florida Fish House (Santa Rosa Beach) – Located on Eastern Lake, this traditional fish house is one of my favorite restaurants in 30A. They have a kitchen, and sushi and oyster bar. Try the flash-fried Gulf Crab claws, Mahi Reuben, and oysters on the half-shell.
- Roux (Santa Rosa Beach) – This intimate upscale restaurant is the perfect date-night spot. Try the 6-course tasting menu with local ingredients. Reservations are required!
- Black Bear Bread co (multiple locations)- After a stop here, you will see why there are multiple locations. This Parisian-style bakery serves a brunch/breakfast menu with dishes like Grass Fed Burger or Bagel and Lox’s Board. Try one of the many pastries and the amazing Stumptown coffee.
- Chanticleer (Grayton) – This laid-back eatery is known for serving casual fare with indoor and outdoor seating. Try the steak sandwich or Creol pasta, or Filet Mignon. They also have a children’s menu!
- Raw and Juicy (Alys and Grayton Beach) – If you are looking for a healthy and organic breakfast this is the place! Try the Costa Rican breakfast, organic smoothies or bowls, or the walnut lentil beet burger!
- Cowgirl Kitchen (Rosemary and Blue Mountain Beach) – This restaurant is always on the list of where to eat on 30A. Think of dining and entertainment in one! Try breakfast like the breakfast veggies tacos with a $5 bloody or mimosa, lunch serves a beachy shrimp roll or grouper sandwich while on the dinner menu pulled pork plate and brisket tacos!
- Fish Out of Water (Watercolor Beach) – This family-friendly restaurant is known for its coastal dishes and impeccable service. The locally sourced ingredients such as chilled seafood platters, low country seafood boil, and catch of the day! Pair with one of the many specialty cocktails.
- Amigos 30A (Inlet Beach)- Amigos has a Mexican, Italian, and Burger restaurant. I love the Mexican kitchen, try the fajitas or rice bowls. It is also vegetarian-friendly.
- Shades (Inlet Beach) – For over 20 years, Shades has been a family-friendly spot! This late-night spot is open until 1 am and has a large selection of beers. Try the pan-seared redfish platter or the salmon pad-thai.
- Modica Market (Seaside) – Seaside’s grocery store with gourmet meals to-go. Try their weekly lunch menus or their seasonal menus.
- Bud and Alleys (Seaside) – A Seaside staple, this waterfront restaurant serves up coastal classics using sea-to-table ingredients with a rooftop Bar. Try the crab cakes or the freshly caught fish of the day!
- Airstream Row (Seaside) – Airstream Row is Seaside’s version of a food truck pod with vintage airstream trailers. They have everything from crepes, to pizza to BBQ. I think it is a cool place to hang out for an evening!
Best Of 30A: Public Beach Access
As previously stated, many of the beach access points along 30A, are private access for residents and guests of those specific beach towns! I will discuss some of the best public beaches along 30A so that you can plan your trip to 30A. These include the various State Parks!
Starting on the west of 30A, Inlet Beach is the public beach for those staying near Rosemary Beach. Santa Clara, Miramar, and Blue Mountain are also public beaches.
State Parks along 30A include Grayton Beach State Park, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Deer Lake State Park, Camp Helen State Park, and Point Washington State Forest. Each of the parks does charge a small admission fee per vehicle.
15 Best Things To Do In 30A Florida 