10+ Fun Things to Do in 30A Florida

This post contains affiliate links which means that I will make a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking on any of them, at no extra cost to you.

There are so many amazing things to do in 30A, and this stretch of coastline is definitely one of Florida’s best-kept secrets! With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and laid-back charm, 30A looks like it was plucked straight from a postcard!

Whether you’re soaking up the sun, exploring quaint beach towns, or enjoying the local seafood, 30A offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. From iconic spots like Seaside and Rosemary Beach, it’s no wonder this area is a favorite for those looking for a peaceful getaway with a touch of fun.

We loved our little weekend in 30A, and I honestly wish we had had more time to explore each of the beach communities. It is one of my new favorite weekend getaways from Tampa. The drive from Tampa to Santa Rosa Beach was 6 hours.

What is 30A?

First things first, what exactly is 30A? 30A is a scenic stretch of coastline located along Florida’s Panhandle. The 24-mile highway connects multiple beach communities along the coast, including Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Grayton Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach.

The road offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding natural beauty. It has become a beloved destination with each of its beach communities having its own vibe—some are artsy, others are more laid-back, but all have the perfect mix of beauty, fun, and relaxation.

When is the Best Time to Visit 30A?

The best time to visit 30A depends on what you’re after! Summer (June to August) is the busiest time, with perfect beach weather and clear waters for water sports. But, expect crowds and higher prices.

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere and cooler weather, you may want to consider visiting 30A during the spring (it’s a great Florida spring break destination) or fall. The shoulder seasons, which run from March to May and September to November, offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices. You’ll still be able to enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities but with a more laid-back vibe.

Winter (December-February) is quieter and cooler, perfect for outdoor activities like biking and fishing. But the weather during the winter months is cooler and sometimes rainy, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the low 60s.

We visited in mid-April, and the water was just the right temp—not too cold, but perfect for a refreshing dip! Check the weather before packing and use my Florida packing list for a handy guide!

Fun Things to Do in 30A

1. Hit the Beaches

The beaches along 30A are one of the biggest draws of the area! With sugar-white sand and crystal-clear water, they offer a relaxing and beautiful experience! Here are the most popular beaches along 30A and what you can expect at each:

Grayton Beach:

Grayton Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The state park here is home to some of the most pristine and undeveloped beaches in the area, as well as scenic trails and diverse wildlife.

Seaside Beach:

This beach is known for its picture-perfect scenery, with pastel-colored beach houses and a stunning white sand beach. Not to mention its lively town center with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s a popular spot for families, and there are plenty of amenities nearby.

Rosemary Beach:

This upscale beach community features luxury homes, high-end shops and restaurants, and a bustling town center with plenty of activities and entertainment. It’s a quieter beach compared to some of the others in the area, making it a great spot for a relaxing day in the sun.

Santa Rosa Beach:

This family-friendly beach is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The town has a laid-back and charming atmosphere. It also has a vibrant food scene, with many seafood restaurants serving up fresh catch from the Gulf of Mexico!

Capture the beautiful moments on a private photoshoot. 

Alys Beach:

Known for its unique architectural style, the town features white stucco buildings with turquoise accents, and its narrow streets are lined with palm trees and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Alys Beach is also known for its luxurious amenities, including a private beach club and pool, tennis courts, and an amphitheater that hosts concerts and events throughout the year. Alys Beach is a popular destination if you’re looking for a luxurious beach vacation.

2. Rent a Bike

One of the best ways to explore 30A is by bike! Rent from YOLO Board and Bikes for a fun, scenic ride along the 19-mile trail. With electric bikes, you get to decide how much exercise you want, and the trail’s flat and easy for all skill levels. Plus, they deliver to your door for free with a two-day rental!

There are plenty of spots to stop along the way—beaches, parks, and restaurants—so you can take your time and enjoy all the coastal charm 30A has to offer! Taking the bikes out and exploring the scenic coastal roads and quaint neighborhoods is easily one of the best things to do in 30A.

3. Take a Boat Tour

Set sail with Destin Boat Rentals on their Crab Island 4-hour Adventure Tour—it’s a blast! Cruise over to Crab Island, a sandy oasis perfect for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. You’ll even get to test your skills on an inflatable obstacle course at their adventure park!

This family-friendly tour lets you bring your own cooler with snacks and drinks, or you can grab a bite from one of Crab Island’s vendors—trust me, the BBQ ribs and wings were mouthwatering (way better than I expected!).

If you’re traveling with a group and want a private boat tour to Crab Island, check out this half-day pontoon rental.

4. Visit the State Parks

Get ready to soak up nature’s beauty at some of 30A’s stunning state parks! Here’s a peek at the must-visit spots:

• Grayton Beach State Park— Only $5 per vehicle and offers 2,000 acres of paradise with clear waters, sugar-white sands, towering dunes, and tons of wildlife. Hike the trails, kayak, or fish in Western Lake, or enjoy a picnic in the pavilions.
• Topsail Hill Preserve State Park— For just $6 per vehicle, you get over 1,600 acres of nature, including a secluded 3-mile beach perfect for beachcombing and swimming. Check out the wildlife and enjoy scenic trails, like the popular Campbell Lake Trail through a pine forest!
• Bonus Parks— Don’t forget about Deer Lake State Park and Camp Helen State Park, both nearby for even more outdoor fun!

If you enjoy nature, these parks really need to be on your list of things to do in 30A!

5. Go Shopping

If you’re in the mood to shop ‘til you drop, 30A has tons of adorable boutiques and local gems to explore! For all the bookworms, The Hidden Lantern Bookstore in Rosemary Beach is a total must-visit. It’s the perfect spot to find not just books, but also some cute gifts and stationery to take home.

Then, head over to the charming boutiques in Seaside Beach for a little retail therapy. From beachy accessories to unique clothing, it’s the perfect place to score something special. Check out the seven best shopping spots in 30A.

6. Enjoy Local Eats

There are lots of great bars and restaurants along 30A. Be sure to get some of their delicious local seafood! Here are some of the best spots to grab a bite or a drink at:

Seaside

• Bud and Alley’s— This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Be sure to try their spicy pineapple mezcalita, and their all-meat-no-filling crab cakes which are a fan favorite.
• The Meltdown— The Meltdown is a food truck located in Seaside’s Airstream Row that serves gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Actually depressed I was unable to try one of these before leaving 30A.

Alys Beach

• Fonville Press— Fonville Press is a café and bookstore with a casual atmosphere. They serve coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and salads. We had a flatbread which was so flavorful!
• George’s— George’s is a waterfront restaurant known for its seafood and upscale American fare. It’s a little on the pricier side but has a lovely atmosphere for a nice dinner out.
• The Citizen— The Citizen is a cozy restaurant and bar that serves coastal and creative local fare. Prices are moderate.

Santa Rosa Beach

• Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar and Hurricane Oyster Bar and Grill— These restaurants have delicious seafood and some of the best oyster shooters in the area. Shunk Gulley is located right across the street from the beach and has a rooftop area as well.
• Vue on 30A— As the name suggests, Vue on 30A offers stunning views of the coastline. They serve seafood and American cuisine, with prices on the higher side.
• Mimmo’s 30A— A cozy Italian restaurant with classic Italian pasta dishes, wood-fired pizza, and seafood. The restaurant has an intimate atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Rosemary Beach

• Pescado— Also located in Alys Beach, Pescado is a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. They specialize in seafood and coastal cuisine, with prices on the higher side.

For breakfast or dessert, The Donut Hole also seems to be a right of passage, and I understand why. There were so many options and they were delicious! Not to mention the prices were so cheap.

7. Local Coffee Shops

Speaking of delicious things to do in 30A, if you’re a coffee lover, 30A has some adorable spots to grab your caffeine fix while soaking up the beach vibes! Here are a few must-visit local coffee shops to check out:

• Sunrise Coffee Co (Santa Rosa Beach)— Located just across from the beach, this cozy cafe has a relaxed vibe and a variety of hot and cold brews. Don’t miss their coconut creme brulee cold brew—it’s a must-try!
• Badass Coffee (Santa Rosa Beach)— Known for their Hawaiian coffee blends, this spot serves up perfect iced drinks, including the dangerously good frozen coffee. We loved this spot when we visited Maui and loved checking them out again on the East Coast.
• Beachy Bean Coffee Co (Santa Rosa Beach)— A quaint waterfront coffee shop with locally roasted coffee and yummy treats. Their cinnamon toast crunch cold brew is a game-changer, and the rose latte is both beautiful and delicious!

We also heard great things about Black Bear Bread Co and Amavida Coffee, but there were unfortunately only so many coffees we could sip in a day!

8. Farmer’s Market

If you’re a fan of locally sourced produce and artisanal goods, you won’t want to miss the 30A Farmers Market in Rosemary Beach. This market is held every Sunday, year-round, from 9 AM to 1 PM.

With over 30 vendors, you can find a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade jams and jellies, artisan breads, handmade soaps, and much more. The market is a great place to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying the beautiful outdoor setting of Rosemary Beach!

9. Beach Bonfire

One of the more unique things to do in 30A is have a bonfire on the beach! Unlike the beaches near Tampa, where bonfires are a no-go, 30A is all about cozying up by the fire while listening to the waves crash nearby.

Setting it up yourself can be a hassle, but lucky for you, Native Fires 30A has it all covered! This locally-owned company creates the perfect beach bonfire experience, complete with a fire pit, firewood, comfy chairs, and even s’mores supplies. They handle everything—permits, safety, you name it—so all you have to do is show up and enjoy the vibes!

10. Local Breweries

30A is home to some great breweries! Both of the most popular breweries in 30A are located in Santa Rosa Beach. Grayton Beer Company has a tap wall of 20+ unique beers. They are family and pet friendly and have games like darts, cornhole, and life-sized Jenga.

Idyll Hounds Brewing Company is another great brewery that has everything from sours to stouts and has live music and food trucks on select days.

Where to Stay in 30A

There are plenty of options for where to stay along 30A! Kick Ash 30A Beach Bungalow is a 2 bed 2 bath adorable home located in Santa Rosa Beach. This location was perfect for us since it was located centrally in between PCB and Destin and we had planned on going to Destin for the boat tour.

The rental comes equipped with all of your beach essentials, is pet friendly, offers games like cornhole, and has a grill for cooking out. This location is perfect for couples traveling together, families, and pet owners traveling with their furry friends. It was the perfect home away from home for our vacation!

If you’re looking for a hotel stay, The Pearl is one of the most iconic places to stay in 30A. This luxury boutique hotel is located in Rosemary Beach and offers stunning ocean views, an on-site spa, and multiple dining options. The hotel’s rooms and suites are beautifully done and have plush bedding, elegant decor, and all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Check out all hotel accommodation options for your dates here, or if you prefer homes check out VRBO here.

Are you ready to experience the best things to do in 30A?

There you have it! From biking along the scenic 30A trail to sipping on local brews and basking in the glow of a beach bonfire, 30A is packed with adventures that’ll make your Florida getaway one for the books! Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature, indulge in delicious eats, or experience some local charm, the Emerald Coast has plenty of fun things to do in 30A just waiting to be experienced!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:

Best restaurants in Anna Maria Island

Fun things to do in AMI

Sarasota visitors guide