30A is an area in South Walton County Florida between Destin and Panama City Beach. It's plastered with beautiful and quaint towns with tons of charm.
It’s known as the “Hamptons of the South” because it attracts celebrities and the wealthy.
It gets the name “30A” because it’s along the scenic Highway 30A. This is a county road that runs along Florida’s gulf coast. The road parallels Highway US 98 and is named after Hwy 98’s mile marker 30.
Here Are All of the Best Communities of 30A
Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach has become one of the most popular 30A communities, and it’s no surprise. Stunning homes, walkable footpaths, and beautiful boardwalks define this close-knit community. Keep an eye out for family-friendly events in Rosemary Beach, too!
Santa Rosa Beach
One of the oldest 30A coastal towns is Santa Rosa Beach! It was founded in 1910 and became the very beginning of South Walton. Today, Santa Rosa Beach is home to delicious dining options and a thriving network of artists. Many people think of the entire 30a area as Santa Rosa Beach.
Blue Mountain Beach
If you’re interested in rare land formations, Blue Mountain Beach is the place for you! You can easily access Draper Lake and 30A’s other massive dune lakes by foot, bike, or car from this community. Named for its native blue Lupine flowers and the Gulf Coast’s highest altitude, Blue Mountain Beach is truly unique. Blue Mountain Beach is quiet, but cozy. It's also conveniently located to tons of shopping and other great attractions.
Grayton Beach
Hand-painted signs, pet-friendly spots, and even friendlier locals characterize Grayton Beach. Grayton Beach is known for the true Florida beach charm.
This laid-back beach town is home to iconic local restaurants, shops, and coastal dune lakes like Western Lake. Be sure to also check out Grayton Beach State Park when in town!
Sandestin
An essential ingredient of an unforgettable 30A vacation is a day in Sandestin! This resort beach town is home to incredible gourmet meals, championship golf courses, spas, and so much more. Sandestin Developed before the 30a area as a resort community. Bring the whole family and be sure to visit The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin. There, you’ll discover kid-friendly entertainment, local shopping, and upscale dining!
Watercolor
Watercolor is so much more than a pretty name. It’s an eco-friendly 30A community that’s known for high-end beach cottages, beautiful boardwalks, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Aside from hiking, biking, and beaching, be sure to check out Watercolor’s restaurants, shops, and tennis club. Watercolor also has the fabulous water color resort. A must see atmosphere.
Dune Allen
Dune Allen is another 30A gem to visit if you’re a fan of rare coastal dune lakes (and who isn’t?). Dune Allen is the furthest west location on 30a. It's ideal for families with kids who may want to go to Destin or Crab Island. There are three of these incredible geographical structures in Dune Allen alone! This is a great town for all manner of outdoor recreation.
Seaside
Seaside is the ultimate family-friendly beach town! This artsy spot is home to a fantastic farmers market, a nationally-acclaimed art festival, and the picture-perfect pastel homes that appeared in The Truman Show. Seaside isn't cheap. It's known for it's high end rental establishments.
Gulf Place
Gulf Place is just off 393 in the heart of the 30a community. Several great public beach locations. One of the newest 30A beach communities is Gulf Place! In addition to lush green spaces and 30A’s signature white-sand shore, the shining star of this community is Gulf Place Town Center. Here, you’ll discover plenty of charming boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
SEAGROVE BEACH
Seagrove Beach is just as beautiful as it sounds! Check out Point Washington State Forest when in town and view the lush maritime forests that came to define this region more than a half-century ago. There are also several shops and restaurants to try here! The traffic can be tricky in Seagrove because it's a little congested. Still very beautiful
Seacrest Beach
Seacrest Beach is characterized by quiet charm and an eclectic array of coastal homes. Take a stroll through this beach community and discover unique shops, local favorite restaurants, and a wide variety of “ecosploring” opportunities.
Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is one of 30A’s most popular communities! You’ll stumble upon colorful shops, paddleboarding outposts, and countless scenic spots overlooking the Gulf. You can’t go wrong with a trip to Miramar Beach! Miramar beach is located between 98 and Scenic 98.
Inlet Beach
SInlet Beach is the furthest east location on 30a. If you’re looking for an untouched coastal paradise that’s both off the beaten path and close to all of the action, look no further than Inlet Beach. Here, old meets new. You’ll see both cozy beach cottages and modern homes. Be sure to check out Inlet Beach’s local-approved restaurants!
Seascape
Get a glow laying on a pristine beach, dive into a refreshing pool, or enjoy some tee time on a championship golf course. These are just a few of the ways you can spend your time in Seascape! Don’t forget to try some fresh seafood and live music at one of Seascape’s many breezy restaurants.
Alys Beach
Pass through this community’s iconic pair of triangular pillars and discover a town full of whimsical, optic-white architecture and sandy beaches to match. Winding trails and elegant, perfectly manicured landscapes define Alys Beach. It’s the perfect backdrop for your next beautiful Instagram photo! Alys Beach has the European atmosphere with beautiful white buildings.
Watersound
Whether your favorite pastime is golfing, hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the sun, Watersound has something fun for you to do. It’s a gated community, but welcoming to visitors nonetheless! Watersound is beautiful, relaxing, and a great place for families.
While you are here, make sure to come enjoy a day on the water with 30a Pontoon Rental and 30a Yacht Charters. We have a variety of different style luxury boats to choose from.
