Written by: Helen Wells
Helen writes for Benchmark Management, sharing local tips and vacation inspiration for Florida's Emerald Coast.
On Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton, Florida, you can enjoy the sun, the sand, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere. All the towns along 30A have their own special character, whether it's the friendly atmosphere of Blue Mountain Beach and Grayton Beach or the distinctive architecture found in Seaside, Alys Beach, and Rosemary Beach. If you'd like to explore the natural surroundings, sample local food, go shopping, or relax by the Gulf, then there is a 30A location that suits your preferences.
If you are deciding on where to stay, this guide looks at the 30A towns that are most popular, explains what makes each of them special, and gives you some advice on how to find vacation rentals for your trip.
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In this blog:
- Blue Mountain Beach: The Authentic 30A Feel
- Grayton Beach: The South Walton Original
- Seaside: A Picture-Perfect Town
- Seagrove Beach: A Nature Lover’s Dream
- Alys Beach: Distinctive Coastal Style
- Rosemary Beach: Upscale Beach Living
- Inlet Beach: Quiet Charm
- Find Your 30A Vacation Rental with Benchmark Management
- Frequently Asked Questions
Blue Mountain Beach: The Authentic 30A Feel
Blue Mountain Beach has a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for enjoying the white-sand Gulf Coast without contending with large crowds. You can begin your day with a sweet treat at Blue Mountain Bakery, relax by the Gulf, or have a sweet snack at the Blue Mountain Beach Creamery in the afternoon.
Blue Mountain Beach is a good choice if you're looking for a beach trip that is easy and unhurried along Scenic 30A.
Grayton Beach: The South Walton Original
At Grayton Beach, you can enjoy both the traditional Florida atmosphere and a variety of outdoor activities; the Grayton Beach State Park is also located here, where visitors have the opportunity to go to the beach, walk the trails, see the dunes, and explore one of the coastal dune lakes in South Walton.
If you've been out in the open, take a look at the lively local atmosphere and the good eating places at Grayton Beach. The town is ideal for someone who wants both natural beauty and a distinct character.
Seaside: A Picture-Perfect Town
Seaside is one of the places along 30A that stands out thanks to its pastel-colored buildings, walkable streets, and prime location next to the Gulf. You can take a look around at the boutiques and galleries, have a meal in the town, or spend time in the central gathering areas. This also makes Seaside a convenient spot for exploring other communities and the beaches along 30A during your vacation.
Seagrove Beach: A Nature Lover’s Dream
Seagrove Beach has a peaceful atmosphere and is near a wide range of outdoor activities; you can go to Point Washington State Forest, cycle, relax on the beach, or have a meal at one of the local restaurants.
It's an excellent option when you want to relax yet stay close to restaurants, activities, and other beach towns on 30A.
Alys Beach: Distinctive Coastal Style
Alys Beach is notable for its bright white buildings and the careful planning of its streets and public areas. Its distinctive appearance means it is a place you will remember when visiting the towns situated along Scenic Highway 30A.
Walk around Alys Beach, look at the local shops, or have a meal before moving on to your next destination on 30A.
Rosemary Beach: Upscale Beach Living
Rosemary Beach features beautiful Gulf beaches and a friendly town center with a variety of shops, restaurants, courtyards, and green spaces. The town's distinct buildings and its pedestrian-friendly streets mean that exploring it is part of the pleasure.
Begin your day by the water, then head into town for some shopping or a meal. Rosemary Beach is an excellent choice if you would like both time at the beach and plenty of activities away from the sand.
Inlet Beach: Quiet Charm
Inlet Beach is located at the eastern end of Scenic 30A and provides easy access to the Gulf and to the surrounding areas. If you want to see more of the region's natural beauty, then Camp Helen State Park is nearby.
When it comes to choosing among the 30A beach towns, Inlet Beach is a suitable option if you want to relax on the sand and enjoy some outdoor activities, all while remaining close to other communities.
Find Your 30A Vacation Rental with Benchmark Management
Choosing where to stay is part of the experience on 30A; some people prefer to be close to shops and restaurants, whereas others opt for a quiet location by the beach. Benchmark Management offers vacation rentals for all types of trips and groups.
If you're looking for a rental in or near one of your preferred 30A towns or directly on the beach, selecting the right location will enable you to make the most of all that this part of the Florida Panhandle has to offer.
Why not see the beaches in 30A for yourself? Take the time to look at vacation rentals in 30A through Benchmark Management and choose the one that suits you!
Featured Rental: BAH CASA
Frequently Asked Questions
What towns are located along 30A in Florida?
Well-known beach towns and communities in Florida's 30A area include Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Seaside, Seagrove Beach, Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, and Inlet Beach; each has its own character, giving tourists several choices when deciding where to spend their vacation.
Which 30A town is best for a vacation?
Which 30A town is best depends on the kind of vacation you want; Seaside is popular with people who want a community to walk around in and nearby dining and shopping, whereas places like Seagrove Beach and Inlet Beach are good choices for travelers looking for easy access to beaches and outdoor activities.
What are the beaches like along 30A?
The beaches along 30A, are famous for their white sand and stunning gulf views. Apart from this, various communities offer easy access to state parks, coastal dune lakes, trails, and other outdoor locations, so that tourists can enjoy more than just the beach.
Where can I find vacation rentals along 30A?
Benchmark Management has several vacation rentals throughout the 30A area. Guests can view properties available in their preferred location, with the type of accommodation they need, and aligned with their vacation requirements.
Can I find beachfront rentals on 30A?
People who want to stay near the Gulf can look at beachfront rentals on 30A as well as other vacation rental properties close to the beach. If you choose a rental based on its location, it will be easier to spend more of your getaway enjoying the coast.
Is it easy to visit more than one 30A beach town during a trip?
Yes, a benefit of taking a vacation along Scenic Highway 30A is that you can visit several beach towns on the same trip; each town has its own character, so exploring them can be part of the experience.
What is the best time of year to visit 30A?
The best time for a visit will depend on the aims of your vacation; summer is the preferred season for traditional beach trips, whereas spring and fall are more attractive to tourists who want to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the various communities along Scenic Highway 30A.