Summer is right around the corner, and as the weather starts to heat up, so does the desire to travel. If you’re looking for a new destination for your summer vacation, try Florida’s scenic 30A. Florida is home to many idyllic vacation spots, but 30A is truly something special. This state road spans roughly 20 miles between Panama City and Destin and features luxurious beaches and charming seaside towns.
Need a little more convincing? The team at Paradise Properties has helped plan many unforgettable vacations along 30A. Here are our top five reasons to take a summer vacation to Florida’s beautiful 30A.
1. Pristine Beaches
There’s nothing quite like a beach vacation, and 30A is one of the best spots for this type of trip in the entire U.S. 30A is home to many white sandy beaches, each different from the next. For example, Seagrove Beach is an expansive stretch, while Inlet Beach is small and peaceful. Wherever you end up, you’re in for a beautiful beach experience. Whether you want to soak up the sun with your feet in the sand, cool off with a dip in the ocean, or enjoy exciting watersports, 30A’s picturesque beaches have you covered.
2. Slow Pace
Have you ever felt like you need a vacation from your vacation? Some of Florida’s most popular summer vacation spots feature heavy traffic, long lines, and big crowds, which can be stressful. You don’t have to worry about that on 30A. 30A is a peaceful area where you can feel comfortable relaxing and taking things at your own pace.
3. Unique Beach Towns
You’ll find several quaint towns and villages along 30A, each with its own unique charm. All of these towns are just a short drive from one another, making visiting them all a breeze. A visit to Rosemary Beach is highlighted local shopping and dining, while a stop at Santa Rosa Beach offers a more rural view of Florida’s panhandle. Those are just a few examples; explore 30A’s beach towns yourself to discover what sets them apart.
4. Fantastic Fishing
Fishing isn’t just a fun activity on 30A; it’s a way of life. Whether you want to cast your line onshore or from a charter, you’ll find plenty of suitable options for your preferred fishing style, including bow fishing. One of the best spots to fish on 30A is Choctawhatchee Bay near Santa Rosa Beach. Here, anglers regularly reel in redfish, seatrout, and more. For a charter fishing experience, we recommend Santa Rosa Charters LLC.
5. Rare & Beautiful Natural Phenomena
30A is home to a whopping 15 coastal dune lakes. These lakes are significant because there are only a few locations in the entire world where you can find them. When the coastal dune lakes on 30A reach a high water level, it empties into the Gulf of Mexico as needed. This creates a unique ecosystem that provides a good habitat for wildlife. You can check out this rare phenomenon at beautiful Grayton Beach State Park, which features three coastal dune lakes.
Book a Summer Vacation Rental on Florida’s Scenic 30A
30A truly has something for everyone, and you can experience it all when you stay in a vacation rental from Paradise Properties. We offer rentals in some of 30A’s most sought-after destinations, including Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Inlet Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seacrest Beach, Seagrove Beach, and Seaside. To book your stay, please check availability online or connect with a reservationist at 850-588-7136.
There’s no doubt about it; one of the best parts of visiting 30A is getting out on the area’s emerald waters. Whether you’re enjoying watersports or splashing around, a day spent on the water is always a good time. One of the best ways to enjoy the area’s waters is by boat. If you’re traveling to 30A, there’s a good chance you don’t have a boat with you, but fear not because 30A is full of stellar boat rentals.
The Best 30A Boat Rentals
Picking the wrong boat rental company can be costly and cloud an otherwise exciting outing. Paradise Properties has a couple of recommendations on boat rental companies in the 30A area; choosing any of these companies will help ensure you have a great day out on the water.
30A Pontoon Rental
Conveniently located in Santa Rosa Beach, 30A Pontoon Rental is one of our go-to’s for boat rentals on 30A. They offer tritoon rentals, which are like pontoons but with three aluminum tubes beneath the deck. However, these aren’t your average pontoons. Instead of the usual 50 horsepower motor, these tritoons feature 150 horsepower. They also offer luxury and double-decker pontoon options, which can fit up to 12 passengers.
Boss Boat Rentals 30A
Another rental company in Santa Rosa Beach, Boss Boat Rentals 30A, serves the 30A area with new tritoon rentals. Boss Boat Rentals 30A will meet you directly, which helps speed up the rental process and get you out enjoying the water faster. Their tritoons are all new 2021 models and include gas, so you won’t get charged with any surprise fees at the end of your boating adventure.
What to Do Once You’re Out on the Water
Once you’ve got your boat rental, it’s time to have some fun on 30A’s bays, bayous, and harbors. You’ll have a blast as you cruise through the emerald water. Another fun option is turning your rental into your own fishing boat and dropping a line in hopes of pulling in a monster catch.
If you’re looking for a destination to anchor your boat, consider heading to Crab Island, a large sandbar located in Destin. Crab Island is the perfect place to relax, walk around, swim, and enjoy the water. Don’t be surprised to see large crowds; Crab Island is big enough for hundreds of boaters.
The Fun Never Stops on 30A
After spending all day in the sun having fun on your boat rental, come back and relax at a well-appointed vacation home on 30A from Paradise Properties. We have rentals in Santa Rosa Beach near 30A Pontoon Rental and Boss Boat Rentals 30A, as well as other amazing locations like Inlet Beach and more. To stay with us, please check availability online or connect with a reservationist at 850-588-7136.
There are many great reasons to vacation on 30A, including exciting outdoor activities and beautiful beaches. However, don’t overlook another perk of taking a trip to 30A, all of the tasty restaurants! Along 30A, you’ll find cuisine of all types; even the pickiest of eaters will find something they enjoy here.
The team at Paradise Properties has been lucky enough to try many delicious eateries along 30A. To help you find some of the best eats in the area, our resident foodies have cooked up a guide on the top restaurants on 30A.
Cafe Thirty-A
Since 1995, Cafe Thirty-A has been delighting tourists and locals alike at their Seagrove Beach restaurant. Here, you’ll find an innovative menu filled with new spins on seafood, steaks, and more. Cafe Thirty-A features classy decor and has a large selection of wines; this restaurant is a great place for a date night on 30A. However, keep in mind, reservations are required.
Grayton Beer Brewpub
If you want to enjoy a delicious craft brew with your meal, head over to Grayton Beer Brewpub. Don’t just expect the standard pub fare here; in addition to burgers and sandwiches, Grayton Beer Brewpub is serving up fresh seafood, along with other dishes you wouldn’t expect. This brewery is kid and pet-friendly, so everyone is welcome.
Chanticleer Eatery
Chanticleer Eatery is a casual restaurant located in Santa Rosa Beach that brings the flavor. The interior of this 30A restaurant is bright and colorful; it’s definitely a fun place to grab a bite. Some of our favorite menu items include jambalaya, roast beefy sandwich, and ribeye. Please note that Chanticleer Eatery serves lunch Monday through Friday, and dinner is only offered on Thursday and Friday.
Surfing Deer
Enjoy a meal with a view at Surfing Deer, an upscale beachfront restaurant. Not only will you enjoy a delicious assortment of fabulous food, but fine wines and lively libations. Check out the Skinny Thyme Mule, which is a step beyond the usual Moscow Mule. This modern restaurant has something for everyone and shouldn’t be missed when in Seagrove.
La Crema Tapas & Chocolate
If dessert is your favorite meal, La Crema Tapas & Chocolate is a must-stop. They offer a delicious selection of savory tapas, like crab cakes and patatas bravas, but the highlight for sweet tooths is the chocolate menu. You’ll find everything from chocolate fondue and hot chocolate molten cake to seasonal fruit tarts and dessert lattes.
Stay near the Best Restaurants on 30A
These are just a few of the great restaurants 30A has to offer, and you can stay close to them with a pristine vacation rental from Paradise Properties. We have well-appointed vacation homes and condos all over the area, including Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach, and Inlet Beach. Regardless of where you want to stay, enjoy our selection of weekly, monthly, and long-term rentals along 30A. To stay with us, please check availability online or give us a call at 850-588-7136.
There’s no shortage of activities to keep travelers busy along 30A, like shopping at trendy boutiques, casting a line, and enjoying the beach. However, Eden Gardens State Park is the perfect place for an escape for travelers looking for a little peace and serenity. Eden Gardens State Park offers fun activities such as fishing and hiking, though many visit to enjoy the gorgeous landscapes. There’s so much to explore at Eden Gardens State Park; it’s worth a visit when you stay along 30A.
Everything You Need to Know About Eden Gardens State Park
Located in Santa Rosa Beach, Eden Gardens State Park is near many of the vibrant communities along 30A. Admission is just $4, making Eden Gardens State Park one of the more affordable activities near 30A. Open from 8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year, there’s never a bad time to explore what the park has to offer.
The Wesley House
The focal point of the Eden Gardens State Park is the Historic Wesley House, a renovated two-story beauty built back in 1897 featuring elegant columns. Surrounded by oak trees and ornamental gardens, the Wesley House looks straight out of a fairytale. Guided tours of the Wesley House occur hourly and cost $4 for adults and $2 for children. However, the Wesley House is only open to the public on Monday, Thursday, and Friday, so if you’re interested in exploring the history of the house, be sure to visit on one of those days.
Other Activities to Explore at Eden Gardens State Park
Outside of the Wesley House, Eden Gardens State Park visitors enjoy numerous outdoor activities. Saltwater fishing is permitted on the dock or off the seawall. There are also hiking trails; the Living Shoreline Trail will take visitors through the ornamental gardens, while other trails provide access to the scenic areas west of the gardens. Paddling in canoes and kayaks is another popular option.
The Perfect Place for a Picnic
There are few spots more idyllic for a picnic than Eden Gardens State Park. Enjoy your food and drink under the shade of the live Virginia oaks that call the park home. There are picnic tables and picnic pavilions throughout the park as well.
Beautiful Vacation Rentals Along 30A
After your fun trip to scenic Eden Gardens State Park, come back and relax at one of Paradise Properties’ well-appointed vacation rentals. We have rentals in Santa Rosa Beach, just minutes away from the park, as well as other amazing locations like Rosemary Beach, Laguna Beach, and more. You’ll have access to amenities and comforts of home, including cozy living areas and fully stocked kitchens. Check availability online or connect with a reservationist at 850-588-7136.
30A may be home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, but it is also home to endless family fun! From paddleboarding on the many dune lakes to learning about sea creatures at Gulf World Marine Park, there is something for the whole family. The team at Paradise Properties has cultivated a list of kid-friendly things to do on 30A to make your trip go as smoothly as possible.
1. Spend a Day at the Beach
Kids and adults alike love to spend a day at the beach soaking up some rays. The kids can make sandcastles, swim, and more while the adults can lounge in the sun with a book or dip in the water as well! Some of the best beaches in 30A include Santa Rosa, Blue Mountain, and Crystal Beach.
2. Hike or Bike the 30A Trail
Explore the area by hiking or biking along the Timpoochee Trail. This 18.6-mile paved pathway winds past the dune lakes, state parks, and beach neighborhoods along 30A. Getting exercise while also enjoying stunning views? Sounds perfect to us! And don’t forget to keep an eye out for wildlife while on your hike or ride.
3. Go Paddleboarding on Coastal Dune Lake
Another fun-filled outdoor activity available in 30A is paddleboarding. This activity is perfect for daring older kids and teens. The Rental Shop or La Dolce Vita are great places to rent gear and also get some great paddleboarding tips!
4. See Creatures of the Sea at Gulf World
You’ll want to make time for Gulf World in Panama City Beach, especially when you’re traveling with kids. Gulf World is an aquarium, but it also features indoor and outdoor tropical gardens as well as several exhibits showcasing penguins, flamingos, sharks, sea turtles, and more.
5. Visit a 30A Farmers Market
During your family trip to 30A, be sure to stop by the Seaside Farmers Market. You can get a taste of local delicacies, while also discovering unique gifts. After a morning of sampling and shopping, you and the fam can lay a blanket down on the grass and listen to live music.
Bring the Family to One of Our 30A Vacation Home Rentals
After a full day of exploring, shopping, and sunbathing in one of 30A’s finest seaside communities, return to your luxurious vacation rental to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy every moment of your 30A getaway by letting the team at Paradise Properties help you get settled in your ideal home away from home.
Check availability online or connect with a reservationist at 850-588-7136 and get ready to turn travel plans into a reality.