Discover the Best Things to Do in 30A

Nestled along the Gulf Coast of Florida, 30A beckons with its irresistible charm and breathtaking beauty. Imagine miles of pristine beaches, picturesque towns, and a laid-back atmosphere that instantly whisks you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With many memorable experiences to choose from, 30A offers a wide variety of things to do.

From leisurely strolls along the beach to thrilling water sports, there’s something for everyone. Take a bike ride along the scenic trails, indulge in some retail therapy at the local shops, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants. With so many options, you’ll want to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time in this amazing destination.

I am thrilled to share with you all the exciting activities, delicious food, and amazing places to explore in 30A after spending a week discovering everything the area has to offer.

Named after the stretch of highway from Destin to Panama City Beach, the 30A area takes you back to a time when kids rode bikes with their friends, families hung out together, and technology was practically non-existent. It honestly still exists in this particular area of Florida.

So, pack your sense of adventure and prepare for a vacation like no other, where magic is found around every corner.

Welcome to the exciting world of 30A, where fun awaits you!

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What is 30A?

Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A is a 24-mile stretch of highway that hugs the coastline in Walton County in Northwest Coastal Florida. It’s a coastal paradise where natural beauty meets small-town charm.

Sixteen picturesque neighborhoods dot the coastline along Highway 30A, each with its own unique vibe. All of this is lovingly referred to as “30A.”

Moving west along 30A from Panama City Beach, you’ll encounter several luxurious beach communities. The neighborhoods so closely resemble each other that as you drive, you may miss that you have left one and entered another. However, each one does have its own vibe.

Although there are sixteen neighborhoods along 30A, I took a road trip from Texas to Florida to spend a week at the most developed and popular ones. I can’t wait to share all the possible things to do.

Things to do in 30A – Rosemary Beach

Rosemary Beach is probably one of the more recognizable neighborhoods in 30A by name. The European-inspired architecture, charming boutique shops, and upscale dining options make for swoon-worthy Instagram posts.

You can’t help but love walking the cobblestone streets and admiring the Barrett Square storefronts, the central activity hub. While here, walk to the main resort in Rosemary Beach, The Pearl. It’s a beautiful hotel you should definitely visit.

Unless you live or rent in Rosemary Beach, don’t expect to access the beach in this neighborhood since it is exclusive to residents or guests.

You can however find many great restaurants to enjoy in Rosemary Beach, some of which I listed below. Most have outdoor patios if you can brave the heat.

One of the most popular things to do in 30A is ride bikes along the Timpoochee Trail.

The nineteen-mile trail connects Rosemary Beach to Santa Rosa Beach and runs parallel to 30A, connecting the neighborhoods. You will see many people biking, running, or walking along the completely paved trail at all hours of the day.

Bike rentals are available with most vacation rentals or through the Bamboo Bicycle Company in the Rosemary Town Center.

Finally, most 30A neighborhoods have some shared space for outdoor activities. In Rosemary Beach, it’s called the Western Green. Here, the Rosemary Merchants host events such as live music and movies. Check out the weekly events page when you visit.

Check out these things to do in 30A, specifically in Rosemary Beach:

Things to do in 30A – Seacrest/Alys Beach in 30A

As you make your way west on 30A toward Destin, you will pass Alys Beach and then Seacrest next. They seem to blend into each other. Both offer an upscale but relaxing vibe. Of all the neighborhoods, Alys Beach seemed the most exclusive on our visit.

Alys Beach boasts striking white concrete architecture, creating a unique and contemporary atmosphere. The town balances nature and relaxation with almost a dozen parks and green spaces. This town’s vibe is ideal for anyone seeking a wellness vacation.

Unless you are staying in Alys Beach, there really aren’t many things to do other than visit the restaurants.

Alys Beach has restaurants with beautifully designed outdoor patios. Healthy eaters will like Raw & Juicy, a restaurant in Alys Beach with a spectacular outdoor patio that serves healthy options, organic coffee, and pressed juices.

Seacrest is right next door to Alys Beach. It has more secluded beaches with less crowds than other 30A neighborhoods. There are several stairs to access the beach here, but it the beach is beautiful.

A fun spot nearby, called the Peddler’s Pavilion, has restaurants, shops, and a pub.

You will find Charlie’s Donuts in Peddler’s Pavilion. For a place where you spend most of your time in a bathing suit, I was surprised by how many donut spots there are in 30A. This is one of the most popular spots, but you must get there early if you want a donut; they are that good.

Check out these things to do in 30A, specifically in Seacrest and Alys Beach:

Things to do in 30A – WaterSound

Continue traveling west on 30A; you will find WaterSound, a fantastic centrally located neighborhood. Known for its tranquil ambiance and unspoiled natural beauty, WaterSound is perfect for those seeking a nice balance between fun and a quiet retreat.

This private community has many amenities for its guests, including a private beach, golf courses, and enormous pools. We had a rental in the Prominence neighborhood right next door and found many things to do in the WaterSound area.

Deer Lake State Park

One place near WaterSound is one of South Walton’s public parks on 30A, Deer Lake State Park. It has access to the best beach on 30A for families. The number of people allowed each day is monitored to control crowds, and no alcohol is allowed on the beach.

Located between Watersound and Seagrove, Deer Lake State Park has a rare coastal dune lake, paved parking, restrooms, and covered pavilions.

Use the honor box at the entrance to pay for your entry which is $3 per car (including golf carts), or pre-pay using the online portal.

Deer Lake State Park is a unique and rare destination with a natural coastal dune lake within its boundaries. The park is also home to various plants, including rare species that you will enjoy as you walk the almost quarter-mile boardwalk to the beach.

The park also attracts numerous species of migratory birds and butterflies. You will enjoy a mesmerizing view of the dune ecosystem as you access the beach for swimming, picnicking, and fishing.

The sand and water here are equally impressive. You will not want to leave the white sugary sand and pristine water.

The Big Chill

The main attraction in WaterSound is a hangout called The Big Chill. It offers a center of activity with art, delicious dining options, fabulous 30A shops, and entertainment for the whole family. They have daily activities like live music, movies, and special events.

Wednesdays are Wild Sea Turtle Wednesdays through the summer. Learn how you can help save sea turtles, see a life-size sea turtle, and paint a wooden sea turtle for fun!

Check out these things to do in 30A, specifically in WaterSound:

Things to do in 30A – Seagrove

For a delightful and fun thing to do in 30A, hop in a rented golf cart and cruise the Seagrove area. This is one of the most family-friendly sections of 30A. You will find a nice mix of family-owned businesses, creating a classic beach vacation destination.

Seagrove has proximity to Deer Lake State Park, Eastern Lake, and Point Washington State Forest, where you can go fishing and hiking. You will also find one of the best accesses to the sugar-white sand beaches.

When it comes to dining, Seagrove has some iconic establishments. Café Thirty-A, a beloved South Walton favorite, offers a tradition of fine dining along Highway 30A. Seagrove Village Market is the place for succulent shrimp po’ boys and nostalgic charm.

For a waterfront experience, Beachy Bean and Old Florida Fish House overlook Eastern Lake. You can find delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner between the two. The atmosphere is very family-friendly, with outdoor seating and games.

Check out these things to do in 30A, specifically in Seagrove:

Things to do in 30A – Seaside

The jewel in the crown of 30A has to be Seaside. Of all the towns in 30A, Seaside is my favorite. It is a vibrant and colorful town with a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere.

The Town Center has fantastic shops, casual restaurants, coffee shops (including another amazing donut shop!), a green space, and an outdoor theater for live music performances and theater shows. There is always something happening here.

You will find many things to do in 30A, most of which can be done here. This neighborhood is also one of the most crowded, and you will most always have to contend with traffic if you are driving.

The main beach in Seaside is at Town Center and can only be accessed if you have a resident’s blue band or if you rent chairs through Club Cabana Man.

Explore Seaside’s Architecture and Culture

Most people may not know that you can take a self-guided walking tour through the quaint streets of Seaside.

See the unique architecture which has made this community so famous. If it looks like something out of a movie, it could be because The Truman Show, starring Jim Carrey, was filmed in Seaside. Enjoy visiting the Post Office, the Seaside Chapel, and the Coleman Tower, to name a few.

Go Shopping in Seaside

There are many cute boutique shops in Seaside, including the Seaside flagship shop, where it may be so busy you have to wait to enter. You can also visit the Seaside Farmers Market, where you can browse an array of locally-grown produce and handmade crafts.

For another Truman Show movie stop, check out Modica Market in the center of town. It’s a great place to find those forgotten beach essentials or your favorite snacks.

Eat at an Iconic Food Truck

One of the most iconic parts of 30A is the Seaside food trucks. You can order all types of food here, including crepes, barbecue, specialty dogs, and the best grilled cheese sandwiches.

There are several more restaurants across the street on the beachside that are equally sumptuous, including the Shrimp Shack and Pickles, where you can find the best hamburgers. You can even order ahead from your beach chair and then walk over to pick it up.

Besides eating, there are other unique beachy things to do in 30A in Seaside, like learning to surf or build a sandcastle.

Learn to Build a Sandcastle

If you have ever tried to build a sandcastle, you know it is a true art form to create a masterpiece from the sand.

Beach Sand Sculptures in Santa Rosa Beach will give you and your family an exciting sandcastle-building lesson that will create lasting memories.

This unique experience offers a two-hour lesson of professional sand sculpting tips and techniques. You will learn the proper usage of tools and the right amount of water to create the perfect sand mixture.

With their guidance, you will work together to construct sandcastle towers and create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece standing approximately three and a half feet tall. This hands-on activity provides fun in the sand and equips you with unique skills you can dazzle friends with in the future.

Check out these things to do in 30A, specifically in Seaside:

Things to do in 30A – WaterColor

One of my favorite things to do in 30A besides hanging out at the beach is to drive around all the neighborhoods admiring the homes and dreaming of owning my own beach retreat.

WaterColor has me picking out beachy paint colors because of its charming coastal homes with beautifully preserved architecture and lush green spaces. It has it all.

Similar to other 30A neighborhoods, WaterColor has a private beach club available only to residents and guests. If you do stay in WaterColor, you will love the beach club with its multiple pools and restaurants.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding at the Boathouse in WaterColor

Boathouse Paddle Club offers a wide range of kayak and Stand Up Paddle Board rentals at The Boathouse in Watercolor. Even if you have never kayaked or attempted to paddleboard, you are welcome here. They have everything you need, from hourly rentals to private and group lessons.

To explore the beauty of Western Lake, one of the coastal dune lakes, I highly recommend going first thing in the morning for an unbelievably relaxing time.

In addition to being on the water, WaterColor is a beautiful place to take a leisurely bike ride along the trails in Cerulean Park.

Beach Bonfire on 30A

There is nothing like the magic of a beach bonfire on 30A.

There are many ordinances in place about starting a fire on the beach, including needing a permit. That’s where the company, 30aglow comes in. They are the first smokeless luxury bonfire company on The Emerald Coast.

They offer full-service experiences that guarantee a stress-free and memorable evening. Say goodbye to the hassle of tending to the fire, as 30aglow’s technology allows you to relax by the fire without worrying about the smoke.

Let them set up your beach bonfire for an exceptional and unforgettable beach bonfire experience.

Check out these things to do in 30A, specifically in WaterColor:

Things to do in 30A – Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach is one of the original coastal neighborhoods on 30A, famous for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands. This artsy small town gives off a relaxed vibe and offers a range of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing.

One of the least crowded towns on 30A, you can easily park here and ride the free shuttle to the more populated Seaside.

Grayton Beach State Park

Grayton Beach State Park is another one of the state parks in the 30A area. It is an amazing place to visit and is often recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. This park covers a large area of 2,000 acres where you can enjoy the warm Gulf breezes and relax on the stunning Grayton Beach. But the beach is not the only thing that makes this park special.

It has Western Lake, a 100-acre coastal dune lake; the only other place you can find a coastal dune lake in the United States is Oregon!

It’s a perfect spot for fishing and paddling. There are also four miles of trails that take you through a forest full of interesting scrub oaks and magnolias shaped by the salt winds.

It’s $5 for an all-day parking pass. It has covered pavilions, restrooms, and a refillable water bottle station.

Find your Favorite Art Gallery

Grayton Beach is home to many cool art galleries.

One special gallery is called the Zoo Gallery, known for its eclectic collection of contemporary art, jewelry, and unique gifts. The Zoo Gallery is known for its vibrant collection and offers a fun and immersive experience.

Another gallery you won’t want to miss is The Studio Gallery, with art of local and regional artists. You will see all styles there, like abstract and realistic art. The gallery helps new artists show their work too.

Lastly, there is the Modus Gallery, with its most modern and contemporary art. The collection pushes the limits of what art can be.

All the art galleries in Grayton Beach show off talented artists and make the area even more exciting and interesting. Art lovers should definitely visit these galleries.

Get Crafty at The Shard Shop

When you need a break from the sun, head over to The Shard Shop and get crafty with glass. Take a class to create your one-of-a-kind masterpiece with glass and resin to remember your fun at 30A.

Check out these things to do in 30A, specifically in Grayton Beach:

Explore Nearby Coastal Communities on 30A

The allure of 30A does not end here. There are other coastal communities of 30A beyond Grayton Beach, each offering its own unique charm and personality. For more things to do in 30A, head beyond Grayton Beach to explore Dune Allen, Blue Mountain Beach, Sandestin, and Miramar.

For an unforgettable day trip, head to Fort Walton Beach or Destin to take a trip out to Crab Island.

Discover State Parks and Natural Preserves

Seaside and the idyllic coastal communities along 30A offer more than just beautiful beaches and charming towns. Nestled in this picturesque region are several state parks and natural preserves that showcase the area’s extraordinary natural beauty.

Beyond Grayton Beach State Park and Deer Lake State Park, other popular state parks and preserves provide activities and other things to do in 30A.

Located a short drive east of Seaside, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a hidden gem that showcases the area’s natural diversity. Nearby Point Washington State Forest provides a unique blend of ecosystems, including wetlands, pine flatwoods, and swamps.

Endless Adventures Await: Embrace the Spirit of 30A

There’s a saying in South Walton, “Every day a new discovery.”

And it’s true; with its stunning beaches, charming communities, and wide range of activities, you can find something new to do every day in 30A.

From the family-friendly vibe of Seaside to the luxurious ambiance of WaterColor and the laid-back charm of Seagrove, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the pristine beaches, explore the vibrant art scene, indulge in local cuisine, or take advantage of outdoor adventures, 30A has it all.

Start planning your next trip and discover all the fun things to do in 30A.

This coastal paradise will leave you with unforgettable experiences and have you planning your return trip before the airplane lands in your hometown.