Adventures on 30A

Heading to 30A? Here are a few favorites I’ve compiled from multiple lists with a few of my own personal go-to spots. No matter what, you are guaranteed a relaxing, wonderful time away on 30A.

breakfast

Raw and Juicy (Alys Beach) - on the lighter side.

The Perfect Pig (various locations) - on the heavier side.

Black Bear Bread Co. (Grayton Beach) - highly recommended.

Crackings (Grayton Beach) - so delish and a fun location in an outdoor courtyard. If you want a breakfast to remember, order the Snapper + Grits. Your life will never be the same.

Cowgirl Kitchen (Seagrove and Rosemary Beach) - good for breakfast and lunch. The Seagrove location has a more limited menu, but is good for a quick breakfast or a grab and go place for eating on the beach.

lunch

Taco Bar (Seaside) - A great option for a beach side lunch. We even went there one night for a casual dinner with the kids. Order the pulled pork, trust me.

Bud and Alleys Pizza Bar (Seaside) - Solid pizza in a casual atmosphere. Add goat cheese to your pizza for a little slice of heaven.

George’s (Alys Beach) - A very popular place that doesn’t take reservations for dinner, so you can visit at lunch or go early for dinner.

Chanticleer Eatery (Grayton Beach) - highly recommended.

The Bay (South Walton) - Fun atmosphere for lunch or dinner.

Great Southern (Seaside) - I love everything about this place.

dinner

In addition to a few mentioned before, like The Bay and George’s, you should definitely try one of these:

Bud and Alleys Rooftop (Seaside) - great view and solid food.

FOOW (Watercolor) - great view. Order the scallops for an appetizer.

Paradis (Rosemary Beach) - a little more traditional inside, but a solid choice. Might I also recommend the key lime cheesecake for dessert? You’re welcome.

Pescado (Rosemary Beach) - amazing view. Go early because they don’t take reservations.

Edwards (Rosemary Beach) - My favorite meal while we were there. Sit in the lovely courtyard or on the sidewalk in this quaint town.

Borago (Grayton) - A nice choice if you are feeling Italian.

The Hub - a little something for everyone in a casual environment. Plus some live music and great shops to check out.

Pizza by the Sea - (various locations)

The Red Bar - (Grayton Beach) - could be good for lunch or dinner. I have not been, but it has been recommended.

frozen treats

Ice cream and Gelato (Seaside) - Heavenly Shortcakes and Ice Cream

Blue Mountain Beach Creamery (Santa Rosa Beach)

activities

• Spa - I went to Spa Pearl and enjoyed the intense refresher facial and deep tissue massage. It’s not a traditional spa with a relaxation room, but you can sit out by the lovely adult-only pool and wait for your services. The massage was one of the best I’ve ever had. Another spa is The Watercolor Inn, but I cannot speak to it from personal experience.

• Bicycles - If you stay in Watercolor or Seaside (or anywhere really), consider renting bicycles so that you can experience the childlike joys of biking around these great villages. There are many companies you can search for, but I do recommend reserving them in advance of your trip.

• Any Rentals (chairs, umbrellas, baby gear, boats, paddle boards, etc.) - Vacayzen. We used them and they were very flexible and helpful. If you can afford it, splurge to have them set up your chairs and an umbrella. It was worth every penny for our family. They book up fast so rent early!

• Chairs and umbrellas (Seaside) - Cabana Man

• Bonfire on the beach- 360 Blue is the company that will ensure you have a magical evening on the beach. Check them out. It’s so wonderful.

• Sand Castle Lessons - I’ve heard this is really fun for families and groups.

• Deep Sea Fishing - There are multiple companies, but we enjoyed Captain Nick! He was so kind and great with our kids.

where to stay

Honestly, this is personal preference. I have stayed in Watercolor before and really enjoyed private access to the beaches.

Recently, we stayed in Seagrove because we found a fabulous house and it was equally as wonderful. Rosemary Beach has a European feel to me and I know many who love staying there year after year. Alys Beach and Seacrest are also amazing options.

You really can’t go wrong on 30A. Find a house that is walking/biking distance to the beach or make sure you find out where the public access entrances and parking lots are in each area. Some are private access only.

I will also suggest getting a place that also has a pool. It’s so nice to have the option to swim and be near water without being at the beach all day.

For an adults only experience or a girls trip, The Pearl in Rosemary is a great option.

For my family of six we used VRBO and it worked great!

groceries and sundries

There is a Walmart in Santa Rosa Beach and Publix nearby that you can pick up groceries and other toiletries you need. The prices are usually higher there, so you may want to think about what to bring from home vs. buying there.

If you have a favorite that you don’t see here - post it below! This is just scratching the surface. And now, I’m ready to go back.