Is it just me or is EVERYONE going to 30A Florida this summer? I went for the first time in February for a bachelorette party in 30A and it seems like I’ve been seeing people flock to the Emerald Coast ever since. I totally understand why though. An easy flight to clear, blue water and white sandy beaches without the need for a passport. Sign me up…again!
Here is my guide to 30A Florida and all the things you need to know ahead of your trip!
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What is 30A?
If you aren’t familiar with 30A, don’t worry. I was not either – it’s one of the best kept secrets in the South.
30A is a highway that runs along the panhandle of Florida. The highway runs through tons of ultra-charming beach towns which is how the whole area became known as 30A. On each end, you will find the big spring break destinations Destin and Panama City Beach.
The most popular beach towns dotting the coastline of 30A are Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Seaside, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach. They are all super unique, but share one thing in common: they are not tourist traps. There’s no mega condos, timeshares, or major hotels. You’ll find amazing boutique hotels and adorable airbnbs in these peaceful beaches.
Whether a family vacay, romantic getaway, or bachelorette party, 30A will be a great choice for your holiday!
How to Get to 30A Florida
So how do you get to 30A? What airport do you fly into for 30A? There are two airports to choose from and are each about the same one hour distance to any of these towns. ECP is Panama City Beach Airport and VPS is Destin Fort Walton Beach. The best part of having two airports is when our flight to VPS was delayed, we were able to switch to an earlier flight into ECP!
From there, you will get an uber/lyft/taxi to your final destination. I would try to find a driver in advance especially if you fly in late.
Where to Stay in 30A Florida
Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach is definitely the most popular spot to stay in 30A. It’s a super charming beach town with a luxury hotel, great restaurants, and fabulous shopping! I will be staying here for my next trip with my husband.
Alys Beach
Alys Beach will remind you of a seaside mediterranean town. It feels very grecian with the perfectly white homes and buildings one after another. If you are yearning for a European vacay, this town will feed your wanderlust!
Seaside
Seaside is a very family friendly town known for its food truck highway or “Airstream Row”. There’s a great park with tons of food trucks housed in vintage airstreams along the highway. On the opposite side of the highway, you will find some of the best shopping in adorable open air cabanas!
Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach is where we stayed on my trip. There are many great restaurants and easy access to a large beach called Blue Mountain Beach. We stayed in the best house and had a golf cart to take us anywhere we needed to go!
Best Hotels in 30A Florida
The Pearl Hotel, Rosemary Beach
The Pearl Hotel is the most iconic hotel that you have probably seen in pictures and is easily the best hotel on Rosemary Beach. You will recognize the black and white striped awnings and clock tower from photos. It is an intimate 55 room property featuring stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The hotel is within walking distance to everything and has a spa on property. It’s a AAA Four Diamond hotel and has been named one of Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Hotels!
WaterColor Inn & Resort, Santa Rosa Beach
WaterColor Inn is definitely more of a resort hotel located on the front beach with multiple pools to enjoy. You will also have access to bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, and even beach bonfires! They have plenty of room types to choose from between larger family suites or a single room.
30A Florida Rentals
Additionally, I highly suggest a vacation rental in Florida. It’s perfect for a bachelorette party to 30A or your larger family gathering. There are some really amazing homes like these 30A Florida airbnbs. Some include golf carts and have pools and hot tubs, too!
Here’s a peak at the incredible home we stayed in for our friends 30A Bachelorette Party!
30A Florida Airbnbs
Best Restaurants in 30A Florida
Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar, Rosemary Beach
Pescado has the best rooftop with gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico! You will definitely want to time your visit around sunset whether grabbing drinks or dinner.
Havana Beach Bar and Grill, Rosemary Beach
If you are not staying at the Iconic Pearl Hotel, then you will absolutely want to stop in for brunch at their trendy Havana Beach Bar.
The Citizen, Alys Beach
The Citizen is a great place to put on your itinerary for lunch or Sunday brunch. You will find things like soups, salads, seafood, sandwiches, biscuits, shrimp and grits and more. The drink menu is very extensive with local beers, wine, and inventive cocktails. The decor is light and bright with subtle coastal touches so you’ll really love the trendy atmosphere too!
Blue Mountain Bakery, Santa Rosa Beach
Blue Mountain Bakery is the best little coffee shop and bakery. We loved picking up coffee and all kinds of pastries from poptarts to muffins and quiche.
Vue on 30A, Santa Rosa Beach
The Vue on 30A is your nice, more upscale dining experience. It has an amazing lounge along the beach so plan to sit outside to soak up the views! The food is amazing with plenty of options like salmon, fresh catch, lobster, and steak.
Red Bar, Grayton Beach
The Red Bar is a super casual beach bar. We sat outside for lunch after visiting the beach and it was very easy with a group. Definitely recommend the mojitos! 🙂
Things to do in 30A Florida
30A Beaches
Obviously, you are visiting for plenty of beach time! Enjoy the clear waters and white sand making you feel like you are in Mexico!
Shopping
Next, there are plenty of great shops to peruse throughout the towns. Be sure to check out the cabanas in Seaside for a fun open-air shopping experience. The boutiques have some really cute outfits so leave room in your suitcase 🙂
Beach Bonfires – perfect for a bachelorette party!
One of the best things about 30A beaches are that they allow bonfires! Of course, you need a permit so contact one of the many local companies to set it up for you. They will do all the work and even bring ice and chairs for you. We loved working with this company for our beach bonfire.
Sunset Cruise
I love to get out on the water in any destination. Book a sunset cruise or even a paddle board – anything to get you in the water.
Best Sunset Sails near 30A:
- 2 Hour Yacht Charter
- 4 Hour Happy Hour Cruise
- Sunset and Dolphin Watching from Destin
- 90 Minute Sunset Cruise
Crab Island Florida
If you are here for a bachelorette in 30, then you definitely want Crab Island on the itinerary. It’s essentially a large sandbar where people party. There are even food trucks (well, boats) that come out to feed everyone. Book a charter to take your group for the day.
Best Crab Island Tours:
- 3 Hour Crab Island and Dolphin Tour from Destin
- Crab Island Charter and Bar
- Crab Island Tiki Boat Tour
- 3 Hour Crab Island Excursion
Bike Rides
Finally, 30A is a great place for a bike ride since you can easily hop from one town to the next.
E-Bike Rentals:
What to Wear in 30A Florida
Florida weather is pretty nice year round. We visited in February and the days got very warm in the high 70s to low 80s. Thankfully, we were able to soak up the sun and enjoy the water. The evenings did get a bit cooler, so recommend a light jacket this time of year. It was perfect for having a night time beach bonfire, though!
Anytime about March through October, you should expect warm beach weather typical of Florida. You’ll want to pack all of your cute resort wear and beachy brands.
Outfits for 30A Florida
Here are a few outfits to pack for your next trip to 30A Florida.