30A is a scenic highway along Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, lively town centers, and laid-back atmosphere.
The 24-mile highway connects multiple beach communities along the coast, including Santa Rosa Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Seaside, and Rosemary Beach among others. Many visitors appreciate the lack of high-rise hotels and massive developments, which helps maintain the area's charm and community feel.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities along 30A, from pristine beaches to water sports to boutique shopping and dining, making it an ideal vacation spot.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to unwind, 30A has something for everyone, making it a great spot for a summer vacation or a relaxing getaway during the off seasons. Here at Sand Dollar One, we have vacation rentals for every type of visitor along 30A. Come stay with us and see how magical it is.
Here are our top things to do in 30A during your beach getaway.
1. Hit the Beach
Photo Credit: Jacob Boomsma
30A is best known for its crystal clear water and white sandy beaches, making beach time the most popular 30A activity there is.
The beaches of 30A offer both private and public access points. Some of our vacation rentals offer exclusive beach access, while others are close to public beach access points. Be sure to check out South Walton's interactive map to see what beach access is right for you.
Along 30A, the public beaches offer a variety of unique experiences that showcase the natural beauty and charm of Florida's Gulf Coast. Grayton Beach State Park stands out with its pristine white sand, rare coastal dune lakes, and extensive hiking trails, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Inlet Beach is known for its quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, providing visitors with easy access to local shops and dining while maintaining a peaceful beach experience. Grass and trees line the pretty beach at Seagrove, making it one of the best spots to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Public beach access chair rentals are available through Walton County Chairs. We recommend reserving them as soon as possible. Private beaches usually offer their own chair rental options.
2. Attend the Annual Songwriters Festival
Photo Credit: Adam McCullough
The 30A Songwriters Festival is a beloved annual event that celebrates the art of songwriting in an intimate, laid-back setting along 30A.
The festival features a lineup of talented songwriters and musicians performing across multiple venues in the area, including cozy beachside bars, restaurants, and outdoor stages. Attendees can expect heartfelt performances, storytelling, and collaborations that highlight the craft behind some of their favorite songs.
Beyond the music, the festival offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for music lovers looking to enjoy great tunes while soaking in the beautiful coastal scenery. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, the Songwriters Festival is a perfect spot to experience the vibrant local culture and connect with fellow music enthusiasts.
3. Stroll Rosemary Beach
Photo Credit: Bonnie Taylor Barry
Rosemary Beach is renowned for its stunning architecture that draws inspiration from European coastal towns, featuring charming cobblestone streets, elegant pastel-colored homes, and meticulously landscaped gardens.
The community is adorned with lovely trees that line the sidewalks and provide shade for leisurely walks or bike rides. As you explore the quaint streets, you’ll discover a harmonious blend of classic Southern charm and modern design, making it a picturesque and inviting place to stroll or pedal through.
Be sure to stop in the many charming boutiques and quaint coffee shops, such as Rosemary Beach Trading Company and Amavida Coffee. This is the perfect place to enjoy upscale retail therapy and discover cozy, inviting spots to savor the best coffee along 30A.
4. Explore State Parks and Nature Reserves
Along the scenic 30A corridor, several nearby state parks and nature reserves offer visitors a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. We already mentioned Grayton Beach State Park, but there are even more green spaces to explore along this section of the Emerald Coast.
Eden Gardens State Park is a hidden gem featuring stunning gardens, towering historic oak trees, and the elegant Wesley House, a beautifully preserved mansion that provides a glimpse into Florida’s past.
Just a short drive away, Point Washington State Forest invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore its extensive hiking trails, campgrounds, and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.
5. Enjoy Water Activities
Photo Credit: Melinda Nagy
30A offers a wide variety of water activities that cater to all interests and skill levels, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts.
Snorkeling allows visitors to explore the vibrant underwater world of Florida's Gulf Coast, while fishing charters offer exciting opportunities to catch local seafood or simply enjoy the scenic coastline.
Looking to catch some waves? Be sure to take up surfing lessons while you're here. Additionally, dolphin watching tours are popular, giving visitors the chance to see these playful marine mammals up close.
Whether you're looking to relax on the water or embark on an active excursion, 30A's crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable aquatic experiences. You'll find equipment rentals and boat tours at various towns along 30A.
7. Go Biking Along 30A
Photo Credit: Daxiao Productions
Biking along 30A is one of the favorite things for visitors to do, and it's one of the most enjoyable ways to visit the diverse towns and charming villages that line this beautiful stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
You'll see people biking for exercise, grabbing groceries at local markets, or simply making their way from one quaint town to the next. The Timpoochee Trail is a flat 18-mile paved path that runs alongside much of the 30A highway, and it makes it really easy to safely bike between towns.
Many of our vacation rentals come with bicycles, providing a convenient way to explore the towns and local beaches. However, there are also local vendors, such as 30A Bike Rentals and Peddlers 30A, that rent bikes and E-bikes by the day or hour.
8. Enjoy Delicious Food in 30A
Photo Credit: Olga Miltsova
From family-friendly restaurants to upscale dining for a special date night, 30A is packed with delicious local eateries. Although the area is known for its local seafood, you can find just about any cuisine along this stretch of beaches.
Family-Friendly Options
- The Florida Fish House in Santa Rosa is a popular spot for dinner, with its seafood, steak, and pasta options.
- The Donut Hole is a popular breakfast and dessert spot in Inlet Beach, known for its variety of delicious options.
- Bud & Alley's is known for its sunset bell tradition, where visitors gather on the upper deck to sip cocktails and eat light bites while the sun sets.
Coffee Shops
- Black Bear Bread Co. is highly recommended for its delicious breakfast items and coffee, with multiple locations along 30A.
- Fondville Press is another charming coffee shop located in Alys Beach, offering breakfast, coffee, and a local market.
Fine Dining
- The Citizen is a beautiful restaurant in Alys Beach that offers satisfying food and specialty cocktails, along with an oyster happy hour that does not disappoint.
- Pescado is another fine dining option in Rosemary Beach, offering a rooftop lounge with incredible views of Rosemary Beach and delicious seafood.
9. Hit the Shops in Seaside
Photo Credit: BearFotos
Seaside is one of the most iconic places along 30A, offering a delightful shopping experience with its charming boutiques and unique local stores that capture the laid-back coastal vibe.
Visitors can browse a variety of shops featuring beachwear, home décor, artisan crafts, and more. A little retail therapy is especially fun on Florida's rare rainy days.
Among the most iconic souvenirs are the classic t-shirts and sweatshirts at The Seaside Style, which make perfect keepsakes or gifts.
10. Visit Local Farmers Markets
Photo Credit: Willowtreehouse
To get a real sense of the area, plan to visit one of the farmers' markets along 30A:
- 30A Farmers Market at Rosemary Beach - Sundays, 9 AM – 1 PM
- Seaside Farmers Market at Santa Rosa Beach - Saturdays, 9 AM – 1 PM
- Grand Boulevard Farmers Market at Miramar Beach - Saturdays, 9 AM – 1 PM
Here, you can support local farmers, sample fresh local goods, and enjoy live music that adds to the festive atmosphere. These markets are perfect for picking up unique souvenirs, tasting regional flavors, and mingling with residents and fellow travelers.
Visit 30A to Find Even More Fun Things to Do
Whether you're seeking sun-soaked relaxation on pristine white sand beaches, exploring charming coastal towns like Rosemary Beach and Seaside, or indulging in delicious local seafood, 30A offers an unforgettable beach vacation experience.
With its laid-back atmosphere, upscale boutiques, fun activities, and beautiful natural surroundings, your trip to 30A will surely be filled with memorable moments and plenty of reasons to return.
Come book your stay with us at Sand Dollar One. We have a variety of vacation rentals dotted along the entire length of 30A, and we can't wait to welcome you to this scenic stretch of Florida coastline.