30A Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Drink, Shop and Stay

30A Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Drink, Shop and Stay

With white sugar sand, clear Gulf water, and coastal beach towns, scenic Highway 30A makes it easy to settle into vacation mode. From the laid-back feel of Grayton Beach to the polished streets of Alys Beach, each community along 30A offers its own take on coastal living. 

Whether you are planning a family getaway, long weekend with friends or a laid-back beach escape, consider this your travel guide to some of our favorite places to eat, drink, shop, and stay along 30A.

Where to Stay

Located in the heart of Rosemary Beach, The Pearl Hotel brings an elevated feel to a coastal getaway. With iconic black-and-white awnings and Gulf views, this boutique hotel is an ideal home base for days spent exploring and nights looking over the water.

For a quiet retreat with plenty to do, Camp Creek Inn offers laid-back luxury surrounded by pine trees and emerald-green fairways. Guests can take advantage of golf, tennis, pickleball, pool, wellness amenities, and access to their private beach club, making it a natural choice for travelers who like a little activity mixed into their relaxation. 

Overlooking the Gulf and tucked between the beach and coastal dune lake, WaterColor Inn captures the easygoing spirit of beach vacations. With a variety of pools and recreational activities, you have everything you need for a complete resort location. 

Conveniently located in Seagrove Beach near the restaurants and shops of Greenway Station, The Lodge 30A makes it easy to explore the area. Comfortable accommodations provide a relaxed home base between days filled with beach time, shopping, and dining. 

The Court Seaside is just steps from the beach offering a collection of bungalows surrounded by lush greenery in the heart of Seaside. Designed for guests 25 and older, this peaceful stay includes extras such as beach chair and umbrella service, bicycles, and concierge service. 

Where to Eat 

The Daytrader brings globally inspired dishes and tropical flavors to Seaside. With a menu ranging from poke bowls and fresh seafood to creative cocktails, this restaurant is the perfect stop when you or your group wants to share a few dishes or try something new. 

Slow down over shareable tapas, wine and delicious chocolate desserts, at this Rosemary Beach favorite. Whether you are stopping for an afternoon treat or to settle in for the evening, La Crema offers an experience worth savoring.

A Seaside classic since 1986, Bud & Alleys is known for Gulf-inspired dishes and waterfront views. Plan dinner around sunset, then head to the Roof Deck for cocktails overlooking the water.

Old Florida Fish House pairs fresh seafood with a relaxed waterfront setting overlooking the Eastern Lake. The family-friendly atmosphere and live music make it an easy choice when making dinner plans. 

Modica Market has been a Seaside staple for the last 50 years. Stop in for a homemade breakfast or lunch, grab a prepared meal for a cozy night in, or browse a selection of wine, craft beer and specialty finds for a beach picnic. 

Where to Drink

Pickle's Sandbar adds full-service drinks to one of Seaside’s most casual favorites. Order a handcrafted cocktail, draft beer or glass of wine and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of downtown Seaside.

Located at The Pearl in Rosemary Beach, Havana Beach Bar & Grill draws inspiration from both the Gulf and the Caribbean. Pull up a seat to the hand carved mahogany bar or make your way upstairs to the roof top for a hand-crafted cocktail for an elevated end to the day. 

Black Bear Bread Co. is the perfect stop to grab your cup of morning coffee. Its cafe is located in Grayton Beach, where they serve Stumptown Coffee alongside naturally leavened breads, freshly baked pastries and lunch dishes. Black Bear Bread Co is the perfect stop for fueling a full beach day.

Raw & Juicy offers a fresh start in a relaxed Alys Beach courtyard. Cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and plant-forward dishes make it a go-to when you are looking for something light and refreshing before heading back to the water.  

The Citizen is a stylish coastal tavern and raw bar in Alys Beach, serving craft cocktails alongside oysters, fresh seafood and dishes from its wood-fired oven. Stop by for oyster happy hour or make it your evening destination for dinner and drinks.

Where to Shop

No 30A trip is complete without stopping at the Southern Tide Store in Santa Rosa Beach. Located along scenic Highway 30A, stop to refresh your vacation line up with lightweight polos, breezy dresses, and performance styles made to go from the beach to dinner with ease.

Spend a Sunday morning browsing the year-round 30A Farmers Market in Rosemary Beach. Local farmers, bakers, and makers fill the square with fresh produce, bread, local seafood, flowers, handcrafted goods, and more. 

Every beach trip deserves a good book! The Hidden Lantern Bookstore, located in Rosemary Beach is an independently owned bookstore carrying thousands of books, from best sellers and mysteries to children's books, making it easy to find your next poolside read. 

True to its name, the Art of Simple celebrates the little things that make every day feel special. Browse art, home decor, apothecary finds, and gifts at this eclectic Seaside shop. 

Colorful, creative, and a little unexpected, The Zoo Gallery has been a part of the Florida panhandle since 1979. Its Grayton Beach location is filled with handcrafted art, pottery, jewelry, and decor you cannot find everywhere. 

What to Pack for 30A

Fall Beach Days

Fall brings a slower pace to 30A, with plenty of opportunity to walk along the shoreline, relax in the sun or spend an afternoon by the water. Pack swimwear, flipjacks, and your favorite hat for long days spent on the beach and lightweight pullovers and sweaters for cool mornings or breezy sunset views.

Days Around Town

Enjoy days spent strolling through town centers, browsing local markets or following the scenic highway from one community to another. Men's lightweight performance shirts, comfortable pants, and easy layers are must-haves for a day full of exploring.

Dinner Plans

Lightweight dresses, breathable Coastal Breeze styles, and polos are perfect picks for beachside dinners or evenings along the coast. These easygoing styles fit right in everywhere, from casual seafood spots to rooftop restaurants. Add a layer or cardigan for breezy nights by the water.

Plan Your Trip to 30A

From relaxed beach days and memorable meals to local shops and sunset drinks, 30A has everything you need for a perfect coastal getaway. Start planning your trip, pack your favorite Southern Tide pieces, and be sure to visit our Santa Rosa Beach location while you're in town.