Want to explore 30A like a local or a seasoned visitor? Check out this guide to favorite hangouts and hidden gems.
30A is a picturesque stretch of highway along Florida's Emerald Coast, known for its pristine white-sand beaches, charming seaside towns, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Spanning approximately 24 miles, this scenic route connects a series of unique beach communities, including Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach.
The best way to make the most of a 30A trip? Create an itinerary that blends must-visit attractions with hidden gems, adding a unique touch to your experience in this Florida paradise.
To help you with that, we've put together a list of favorite hangouts and hidden treasures along 30A.
About Us
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. Whether you're seeking spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of fantastic options tailored to every preference. All our properties feature top-notch amenities designed to make your stay truly unforgettable. As local experts, we know the area inside and out, ensuring you have the best possible experience.
For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast — from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, we've got you covered.
Ready to uncover the best of 30A? Let's get started!
Favorite Hangouts
Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is one of Florida's most unspoiled and breathtaking coastal parks, located along Scenic Highway 30A. Spanning 2,000 acres, it features sugar-white sand beaches, rare coastal dune lakes, scenic hiking trails, and excellent kayaking spots, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the region.
You can explore the pristine shoreline, hike or bike along the 4.5-mile nature trail that winds through pine forests and dunes, or paddle on Western Lake, one of the rare coastal dune lakes found in only a few places worldwide. If you're a wildlife lover, keep an eye out for deer, ospreys, and even bald eagles thriving in the park's diverse ecosystems.
Seaside's Town Center
Famous for its pastel-colored cottages, walkable design, and charming town square, Seaside's Town Center is the vibrant heart of this iconic New Urbanist beach town.
Explore the Seaside Amphitheater, a lively gathering spot for concerts, farmers' markets, and outdoor movies, or grab a bite from the famous Airstream food trucks lining the street. The area is also home to unique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, all within steps of the stunning Gulf beach.
Made famous as the filming location for The Truman Show, Seaside's Town Center is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience classic 30A charm, small-town vibes, and a beautifully designed coastal escape.
The Big Chill (Formerly The Hub)
Formerly known as The Hub, The Big Chill in Watersound is a lively outdoor entertainment destination perfect for families, food lovers, and those looking to unwind. This open-air venue features a huge outdoor screen for movies and sports, live music performances, a variety of casual dining options to satisfy every craving, farmers' markets, and fun workshops.
The relaxed, community-style setting makes it a go-to place in Watersound to grab a bite, listen to live music, mingle with locals, or simply relax with friends and family. This is truly one of 30 A's favorite local hangouts.
The Red Bar in Grayton Beach
A true 30A landmark, The Red Bar in Grayton Beach is a beloved local institution known for its funky atmosphere, live music, and delicious food. With its eclectic decor, dim lighting, and walls covered in vintage posters, the restaurant exudes a chill, bohemian vibe that perfectly matches Grayton Beach's quirky charm.
The menu is simple yet delicious, featuring favorites like blackened grouper, crab cakes, and their famous Red Bar Bloody Mary. Live music is a staple, with local bands keeping the energy high throughout the evening.
The Underwater Museum of Art
The Underwater Museum of Art (UMA), located off the coast of Grayton Beach, is the first permanent underwater sculpture park in the United States. This unique museum blends art and marine conservation, featuring a collection of large-scale sculptures placed on the ocean floor to create an artificial reef.
Divers and snorkelers can explore the evolving underwater gallery, where marine life, coral, and fish gradually transform the sculptures into living works of art. Each year, new sculptures are added, making every dive a fresh experience.
Alys Beach Architecture & Courtyard Strolls
With its white-washed, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, Alys Beach looks like it belongs in a Greek coastal village.
Strolling through Alys Beach's courtyards is like stepping into another world — each space is carefully designed with water features, lush greenery, and shaded seating areas, perfect for a relaxing walk. Pedestrian-friendly pathways make exploring the town an experience in itself, whether you're admiring the architecture, stopping at a chic café, or catching sunset views from the Gulf Green.
Eden Gardens State Park
Step away from the beach and experience the charm of Old Florida at Eden Gardens State Park. Located near Santa Rosa Beach, this tranquil retreat is home to towering oak trees, vibrant gardens, and the beautifully preserved 1897 Wesley Mansion.
Once a thriving estate, the park now invites visitors to wander through its lush grounds, admire the reflecting pond, and explore its ornamental flower beds. The Wesley Mansion, furnished with elegant Louis XVI antiques, serves as the park's centerpiece, offering guided tours that bring its rich history to life.
Beyond its historical appeal, Eden Gardens provides a peaceful setting for picnicking, hiking, and fishing along Tucker Bayou.
Hidden Treasures
Blue Mountain Beach
Despite its name, there's no actual mountain here — just gorgeous blue lupine flowers and some of the highest dunes along the Gulf Coast. Blue Mountain Beach is also known for its laid-back vibe and clear, turquoise waters, making it perfect for a quieter beach day.
This less-crowded beach town is ideal for paddleboarding, biking, and exploring coastal dune lakes, including nearby Big Redfish Lake. Be sure to check out the town's lovely local cafés, ice cream shops, and charming eateries, all of which capture the relaxed spirit of 30A.
Stallworth Lake (Santa Rosa Beach)
Partially located within Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, this hidden gem features brackish waters, where freshwater and saltwater mix, creating a unique ecosystem and offering a less crowded alternative to the more visited lakes in the region.
Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching, Stallworth Lake provides a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore one of Florida's rarest natural features. With its direct connection to the Gulf of Mexico, the lake shifts with the tides, revealing ever-changing landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Camp Helen State Park
This lesser-known gem is located where Lake Powell, one of Florida's largest coastal dune lakes, meets the Gulf of Mexico. Want to avoid the crowds? Be sure to include this natural escape in your 30A itinerary.
Camp Helen State Park is a unique destination offering a mix of pristine beaches, hiking trails, and rich history, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Other great outdoor activities within the park include paddleboarding, kayaking, and birdwatching. The park also features historic buildings from its past as a private retreat and corporate vacation resort.
Oyster Lake Overlook (Dune Allen Beach)
Oyster Lake Overlook is a scenic and often-overlooked spot along Scenic Highway 30A, offering a breathtaking view of this rare coastal dune lake. Located near Dune Allen Beach, this peaceful overlook provides an ideal vantage point to take in the lake's brackish waters, diverse ecosystem, and connection to the Gulf of Mexico.
Historically named for the oyster beds that once thrived here, Oyster Lake remains a beautiful and ecologically significant part of 30A's natural landscape, even though oysters are no longer abundant in the area.
Fonville Press Market + Café
Fonville Press Market + Café is a charming café, wine bar, and market in the heart of Alys Beach. Known for its sleek, minimalist design and relaxed ambiance, it's the perfect spot to start the day with a craft coffee, enjoy a light lunch, or unwind with a glass of wine in the evening.
This local treasure serves freshly baked pastries, gourmet sandwiches, and artisanal drinks that are better enjoyed in their tranquil courtyard, creating a peaceful retreat for reading, enjoying a conversation, or simply soaking in the elegant surroundings.
Bonus: Tips to Make the Most of Your 30A Trip
Visit in the Shoulder Seasons for Fewer Crowds
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer perfect weather, fewer crowds, and lower rental rates while still providing the same stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
Catch the Sunset at a Beachfront Restaurant
Grab a table at Bud & Alley's in Santa Rosa Beach, Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar in Rosemary Beach to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the Gulf.
Plan a Midweek Farmers' Market Visit
The Seaside Farmers' Market (Saturdays), Rosemary Beach Farmers' Market (Sundays), and Watersound Town Center Farmers' Market (Thursdays) offer fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and unique souvenirs.
Wake Up Early for the Best Shelling
The best time for beachcombing and shelling is early in the morning before the crowds arrive, especially at Grayton Beach, Inlet Beach, and Camp Helen State Park.
Experience 30A After Dark
Beyond the legendary Red Bar, visit NEAT in Alys Beach for a delicious wine tasting, or enjoy an outdoor movie night at Seaside's amphitheater.
Where to Stay During Your Trip to the Emerald Coast?
Planning a trip to the Emerald Coast, FL? Book like a local with RealJoy Vacations. From spacious beachfront houses to luxurious resorts, we offer a wide selection of accommodations along 30A. All our properties come with top-notch amenities designed to make your stay unforgettable. Book now with RealJoy Vacations and experience the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast.