Just as the smaller moments can have the largest impact in your lives, smaller trips can result in the most magical experiences. If you only have three days to spare for your Emerald Coast getaway, it’s ok; this guide to the best Emerald Coast attractions will ensure you have the Florida getaway you always dreamed of. And because it’s only 28 miles from beginning to end, chances are you will see it all!
Day 1: Rent a Golf Cart
This journey you are about to embark on is a dreamy one, best experienced by exploring your distinct beach community via golf cart! Starting with breakfast with a view of the Seaside town center at the Great Southern Cafe (a delicious omelet and Bloody Mary) will keep your motor running until lunch as you explore what the panhandle has to offer. Another great choice in Seagrove Beach is The Perfect Pig (4281 E. Co. Highway 30A) or try their Gulf Place location too! Today’s adventures will lead you through five of our favorite Gulf-side communities, including Gulf Place, Seaside, Seagrove, Rosemary Beach, and Carillon Beach. There are no rules to how you explore these areas, but a visit to Eastern Lake—a coastal dune lake—and try out stand-up paddle boarding (contact us for details) is highly recommended. Dinner at Restaurant Paradise, located at 82 S. Barrett Square in Rosemary Beach, is the perfect way to round out the perfect day in paradise.
Day 2: More to see…
It’s all blue skies and sunshine as we start out refreshed and relaxed from a night’s sleep in one of our Paradise 30A panhandle escapes to continue our three-day tour of the Emerald Coast. Today’s hot spots will include exploring some of the local favorites. This morning we will take a walk on the wild side and enjoy ice cream for breakfast! The Blue Mountain Beach Creamery at 2129 S Co Highway 83 is a bit off the beaten path, but so worth the drive! Serving sweet and creamy ice cream and fro-yo, BMBC only accepts cash, so be prepared! Enjoy biking in Grayton Beach, hiking along the trails of Point Washington State Forest in WaterColor, and a visit to Sundog Books, an independent book store located at 89 Central Square in Seaside; this day will be jam-packed with adventures! Pleasantly tired and slightly sunburned, dinner at Seagrove Village Market Café (2976 South County Highway 395) will bring a smile to your taste buds as you feed your soul with delicious seafood and key lime pie!
Day 3: The Magic Continues in Emerald Coast Attractions
There’s still time to explore the wonders of Santa Rosa Beach, Seacrest, Rosemary Beach, Inlet Beach, and Carillon Beach before you go! Wake up early for a quick 18 holes at the Santa Rosa Beach Club Golf Course (for those who dislike golf, you can spend the time at the beach, perfecting your tan!), shop for souvenirs at Peddler’s Pavilion in Seacrest, explore the outdoor shops in Carillon Beach, take in a delicious dinner at The Havana Beach Bar & Grill at 63 Main Street in Rosemary Beach, and finally go for a moonlight stroll on the white sands of Inlet Beach! It’s time to pat yourself on the back; you’ve had a busy and fulfilling three days in paradise, and you managed plenty of activities!
Emerald Coast Attractions
Falling into the cloud-soft beds at our Paradise 30A properties at the end of each day. Contact us today to learn more about Emerald Coast attractions and to book one of our beautiful vacation rentals, including our winter rentals and properties on Watersound Beach. In addition, we offer holiday rentals, and Panama City Beach weekly and villa rentals.