Your Guide to Florida 30 A Rentals & Much More
Looking for a 30A beach rental and tips to make your vacation better? Here’s a quick guide with valuable tips and suggestions to plan your getaway.
Located between Destin and Panama City Beach, 30A is a scenic 24-mile stretch along Florida’s Emerald Coast, home to a collection of charming beach communities renowned for their pristine white-sand beaches, emerald-green waters, and laid-back coastal vibe.
While all these communities share the same stunning natural beauty and offer a wide variety of incredible 30A beach rentals for an unforgettable stay, each has its own unique vibe and activities to cater to different preferences.
Planning a trip to the Emerald Coast soon? In this blog, we’ll guide you through the most popular beach communities along 30A, highlighting what you can see and do in each spot, along with a few top-rated Florida 30A rentals to consider for your stay.
A Little About Us Before We Dive In…
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 for an epic trip through the 30A, Florida?
Beach Communities & Activities Along 30A
Here’s a list of beach communities along 30A — all of them boating scenic beaches — and the activities and attractions you’ll find in each one.
Dune Allen Beach
Located on the western end of 30A, Dune Allen Beach is a serene and picturesque beach community known for its quiet atmosphere and natural beauty. It’s surrounded by rare coastal dune lakes, such as Oyster Lake and Allen Lake, offering unique ecosystems and opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching. The beach itself boasts sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters, perfect for a peaceful getaway. You can enjoy several outdoor activities, local dining, and a laid-back vibe, making Dune Allen Beach a hidden gem along Florida’s Emerald Coast.
Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach is one of the oldest and most charming communities on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Known for its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green waters, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The area features a vibrant arts scene, boutique shopping, and diverse dining options, including fresh Gulf seafood.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love activities like paddleboarding on nearby coastal dune lakes, hiking in Point Washington State Forest, and enjoying beach days in the sun. With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Santa Rosa Beach is a favorite destination for families, couples, and solo travellers.
Blue Mountain Beach
Blue Mountain Beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere, natural beauty, and unique “blue” dunes—the highest elevation along the Gulf Coast. The area combines sugar-white sand beaches with vibrant emerald waters and offers outdoor activities like biking, paddleboarding, and exploring coastal dune lakes such as Draper Lake. Blue Mountain Beach is home to cozy cafes, boutique shops, and local eateries, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a tranquil escape with plenty of charm and stunning Gulf views.
Grayton Beach
This is a bohemian and artsy beach community known for its eclectic charm. It also features spectacular beaches and crystal-clear waters, alongside the stunning Grayton Beach State Park, often ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. You can enjoy activities like kayaking on Western Lake, hiking, and paddleboarding. The area is also home to quirky boutiques, art galleries, and the famous Red Bar, a lively spot for dining and live music.
WaterColor Beach
For a more upscale experience along 30A, WaterColor Beach is renowned for its luxurious amenities. Like every community along 30A, it offers unlimited access to stunning beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy a variety of water activities. WaterColor is also an excellent destination for dining, featuring gourmet options such as Fish Out of Water, celebrated for its fresh seafood and breathtaking Gulf views.
Seaside Beach
Known for its pastel-colored cottages and as the filming location for the movie, The Truman Show, Seaside is celebrated for its picturesque town square, unique boutique shops, and diverse dining options, including food trucks and gourmet restaurants. Beyond enjoying its idyllic beaches—where you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable day by the Gulf—you can bike around the community to explore at your own pace or attend live music, theater performances, and movie nights at the Seaside Amphitheater.
Seagrove Beach
This laid-back yet vibrant beach community is known for its Old Florida charm. Surrounded by lush oak and magnolia trees, it provides a tranquil setting with uncrowded beaches. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like paddleboarding on nearby Eastern Lake, biking along scenic trails, and exploring local dining options such as the Old Florida Fish House and Café Thirty-A. For families, The Big Chill is a must-visit venue, offering family-friendly food, shopping, and entertainment, including live music and events.
Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach exudes elegance with its picturesque coastal setting, European-inspired architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming courtyards. You can explore the town on foot or by bike, discovering lovely souvenir shops and eateries, enjoying outdoor water activities on its pristine shores, or simply relax and soak in the sophisticated vibe that makes this community a favorite among couples for romantic getaways.
Seacrest Beach
Seacrest Beach is one of the most family-friendly coastal communities along 30A. It features one of the largest resort-style pools in the area, wide beaches perfect for kids to build sandcastles, and a charming town center. Biking along the Timpoochee Trail is a popular activity among visitors, offering a scenic way to explore the surrounding area.
Alys Beach
Luxurious and visually striking, Alys Beach is known for its signature whitewashed architecture inspired by Mediterranean and Moorish designs. Its meticulously planned layout features quiet courtyards, lush green spaces, and stunning coastal views. Alys Beach is also home to beautiful beaches, upscale dining, and cultural events like outdoor concerts and art festivals. With its serene atmosphere and sophisticated vibe, it’s a favorite destination for those seeking a high-end beach getaway.
Florida 30A Rentals: Ideal Stays for an Unforgettable Getaway
Your choice of accommodation while exploring 30A plays a significant role in shaping your overall experience along the Emerald Coast. While there are stunning luxury resorts and more budget-friendly hotels available, the best way to make the most of your vacation is by opting for one of the amazing 30A beach rentals. These rentals offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, privacy, and a truly local experience on the Emerald Coast.
Here are some of the types of vacation rentals available along 30A and why they make for ideal accommodations when visiting the area:
Florida 30 A rentals: Condos
30 A condos are perfect for couples, small families, or solo travelers seeking a cozy and cost-effective option without sacrificing location or convenience. Choose condo rentals with fully equipped kitchens and private balconies to enjoy a relaxed, home-like atmosphere while soaking in the beauty of 30A. Condos typically offer stunning Gulf views, easy beach access, and shared amenities such as pools, fitness centers, and tennis courts, making them ideal for those who want to stay healthy and active during their vacation.
Top Rated Condos:
- The Viridian View
- Beachside Villas 113- The Starfish
- Topsail Village 721- Shore Bird Sanctuary
- Hidden Lakes 311- Beach Blessing
- Gulf Place Cabanas 410- Gulf Place Getaway
30A Rentals: Beach Houses
Beach houses are an excellent choice for a spacious, private, and luxurious vacation experience, offering the ultimate beach getaway. These homes often feature direct beach access, stunning Gulf views, and ample space for families or groups. For those traveling with pets, many beach houses are pet-friendly, providing plenty of room for your furry companion to play.
Additionally, many homes come equipped with private pools, fully equipped kitchens, and outdoor living areas, making them ideal for relaxation and entertaining. Beach houses along 30A truly feel like a home away from home, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and charm of the Emerald Coast.
Top Rated Beach Houses:
- Captain’s Cottage
- Seagrove Seaclusion at 30A
- Grayton Escape
- Blue Mountain Breeze (Pet-friendly)
- Brown Eyed Girls
30A Beach Rentals: Townhouses
Townhouses often provide multiple levels, offering privacy and room to spread out, along with features like fully equipped kitchens, living areas, and outdoor patios or balconies. Many are located near 30A’s stunning beaches, shops, and restaurants, making it easy to enjoy everything the area has to offer. With a home-like feel and easy access to local attractions, townhouses are perfect for families, small groups, or travelers seeking a blend of space and convenience.
Top Rated Townhouses:
- Cassine Gardens 272- Captain’s Cove
- Cassine Gardens 273- Sandpiper
- Cassine Gardens 108- Sandy Daze
- Watercolor Townhouse 9
- SeaRenity at Inlet 2
30A Beach Rentals: Studios
Staying in studios along 30A is a great option for solo travelers, couples, or those seeking a cozy and budget-friendly getaway. Studios often feature compact yet stylish accommodations, with amenities like kitchenettes, private patios, or balconies to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Their smaller size makes them easier to manage while still providing access to 30A’s stunning beaches, dining, and outdoor activities. Studios offer an intimate and convenient base to explore the charm of the Emerald Coast.
Top Rated Studios
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.