In the 20 miles between Panama City and Destin, Florida lies a collection of small beach towns called 30A, named for the two-lane Highway that connects both cities. 30A is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets and was officially named a “Scenic Highway” by the State of Florida in 2008. 

 

30A is home to over 16 distinct beach towns, but the general vibe of this coastal stretch is the same: fun, laid-back, and idyllic. This one-of-a-kind community is home to pure white sand (it’s quartz!) and jade-colored waters. Everyone from artists and creatives to young professionals, families, and retirees have made a home within these 20 miles. Each community is walkable, bikeable, and hikeable, providing an excellent outdoor experience. Quality of life is booming along 30A — don’t miss your opportunity to experience paradise.

 

 

“Family-friendly” is the characteristic of the communities along 30A. This area is all about slow-living and relaxing, especially outdoors. Residents enjoy every marine activity imaginable from fishing and snorkeling to surfing and lounging on a sailboat along the coast. The communities are quiet and serene, making this an excellent spot for young families and retirees.

 

Shopping along the emerald coast has never been more inviting. 30A boasts dozens of unique shopping experiences, a favorite being 30 Avenue on Inlet Beach. This outdoor lifestyle center features dozens of upscale shops and restaurants and live music in the evenings. Mercantile, located in Seaside, specializes in American-made and earth-friendly clothing for men and women.  Indigo in Watercolor is a must- shop and stop by Willow in Rosemary Beach for lines like Ulla Johnson and Golden Goose.

 

Restaurant Paradis brings the finest libations and freshest cuisine to Rosemary Beach. They have a mouth watering menu and pride themselves on offering quality service and food while offering a dining experience you won’t soon forget.

 

For indecisive families, or if you’re searching for many different options, The Hub is the place to be. With the tagline, “Where food is at the center of families, friends, and festival,” this spot in Watersound Beach is perfect for those seeking a fun and unique dining experience. They even host dance parties, family movie nights, and yoga classes. Also catch the BIG GAME on the LED flat screen during your favorite sports season.  It’s a one-stop shop you shouldn’t miss!

 

The 30A Wine Festival in Alys Beach is held every February and showcases renowned distillers and culinary extraordinaires over the course of five days. This event benefits the Children’s Volunteer Health Network. The annual 30A Songwriters Fest promises to be the festival that puts the beach towns of 30A on the map — over 250 artists perform over four days in over 30 venues. The festival is in its 10th year and brings in artists like Jackson Browne, Brandi Carlisle, Roseanne Cash, John Prine, the Zombies, and Tanya Tucker. 

 

The Seaside School Half Marathon + 5K is another fun community event benefiting the Seaside School, one of the oldest surviving public charter schools in Florida. The race takes place over three days — a cuisine event kicks off Friday evening with an all-ages race expo on Saturday and finishes with the 5K on Sunday. 

 

Notable schools in the area include: