How to Spend a Perfect Weekend on Florida's Idyllic 30A
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Paradise, white sand beaches and all, can be found on the Gulf Coast of Florida on 30A. Named for the coastal scenic highway, 30A is a place where one can easily have a perfect weekend without even trying. The state road connects a collection of stunning beach towns, each with individual personalities and charm. The classic, preppy aesthetic of Rosemary Beach is just a short mile away from the luxurious Alys Beach. Named after Alys Stephens, whose husband helped develop the community, the area could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean or Greek Islands with its distinctive white, villa-like homes. Further down the road you'll find other beautiful beach towns like Seaside and Grayton Beach.
Any type of beach trip is possible in just a weekend stay along 30A. From elegant dinners with a perfect view of the sunset to an afternoon of shopping and pampering to days spent searching for shells along the seashore with your family, 30A is meant for exploring—and we're happy to help. Read on to discover exactly what to do on 30A.
Friday Morning
When you arrive on 30A, a convenient half-hour away from the Northwest Florida Beaches Airport, check in to your accommodations. One of our favorite spots is The Pearl. Located in Rosemary Beach, with a stunning rooftop bar and just steps away from the ocean, this gem of a hotel is not one to miss. (If you're planning a stay with a larger group, there are also plenty of rental properties in the area; just make sure to book well in advance.)
Before throwing on your swimsuit, you should know that nearly all beaches in Rosemary Beach are private. To gain access, you'll need to be staying in a private residence or at The Pearl to secure a pass. You can also find public beach access points on 30A here.
Friday Afternoon
After you've settled into your home base for the weekend, acquaint yourself with your surroundings in Rosemary Beach. Grab lunch at Gallion's with fresh salads and a delightful grouper sandwich, or enjoy an entertaining meal of tapas and chocolate fondue at La Crema.
After lunch, continue to explore the cute shops in the area like Pish Posh Patchouli's, an establishment of 30A that has everything you could ever need from top-of-the-line skincare products to luxe pajamas.
Aside from personal papering, there are offerings for everyone in the picturesque town center—including your pups! Tidwell & Son has offerings for the men in your life and Huck and Harlowe has boutique picks for your favorite four-legged friend. Children's clothing can be found at a variety of locations, including Rosemary Beach Trading Company.
Friday Night
End your day in Rosemary Beach with a lovely dinner at Pescado Rooftop Bar where you can watch the sunset and enjoy the peaceful, sophisticated atmosphere. For an after-dinner treat, enjoy some ice cream and sweet treats at the Sugar Shak, an institution of Rosemary Beach that will make you feel as though you are stepping back in time.
Saturday Morning
Start off your second day of vacation by walking over to Alys Beach and ordering a quick bite at Fonville Press (their breakfast biscuits and iced lattes are not to be missed). Or you can have a sit down breakfast at Raw and Juicy, which is known for its smoothie bowls and other refreshing eats.
While you are in Alys, stop into SummerStory to see a beautifully curated collection of home goods and furnishings, MERIT for highly desirable designer clothing from brands like Hunter Bell and Loeffler Randall, and Bebette for the chicest collection of baby clothes.
Saturday Afternoon
After a morning of good food and shopping, it's time to take a scenic bike ride. There are plenty of places where you can rent a bike on 30A, including Bamboo Bicycle Company in Rosemary Beach.
Travel from town to town on the bike paths along 30A, or make your way to Timpoochee Trail which spans 18.5 miles of the area. On the trail, there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy lunch as well as explore local watering holes and state parks.
Saturday Night
End your second night on the beach at George's at Ayls Beach. With coastal seafood and a charming atmosphere, you will remember your meal here for years to come. With plant-based offerings as well as fresh fish and a Wagyu filet, you will be sure that everyone in your party will be happy.
Sunday Morning
No stay on 30A is complete without making a visit to Seaside. This picturesque little town is the heart of 30A and a hub for shops, food and fun. For breakfast, fuel up at Bud & Alley's with a crab cake Benedict or brioche French toast while taking in ocean views.
Next, browse Sundog Books' thoughtful offerings, which include bespoke sections like southern fiction and staff favorites. From there, you can walk to The Art of Simple, which offers cheeky home finds and curiosities, and Amore by the Sea, which is known for its selection of local art and beautiful Turkish ironwork.
Sunday Afternoon
While you are in Seaside, grab a quick bite at one of the many bars and restaurants that line the area. Pickle's Burgers and Shakes and the Shrimp Shack are two favorites.
End your visit to 30A by spending the rest of your precious time on the beach. The white sand and beautifully preserved dunes deserve your utmost attention. Comb the beach for shells and other treasures like sea glass to have as keepsakes of your unforgettable stay.
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