30A Beach things to do: 2025
If you’re looking to have a relaxing beach vacation in the USA, 30A Seaside and Rosemary Beach are the place for you!
Known as the Emerald Coast, this strip of beaches along the panhandle of Florida was one of the more beautiful and relaxing places I’ve visited in a long time!
One of the key things I’ve learned about having a relaxing vacation is the important adjustment that needs to happen of moving a bit slower and practicing being present. We are often so busy keeping up with our families and loved ones, and working on our careers and businesses, that it can feel very strange to suddenly give yourself permission to not pack your day full of to-do’s, or to multitask for the sake of “productivity”! You’ll find some tips on slowing down and being more present at the end.
Here are some recommendations for Seaside, Alys and Rosemary Beach, as well as some important things to note before your 30A beach trip!
EXPLORE 30A SEASIDE
This area has so many wonderful spots all within walking distance of each other - from shopping, to dining and drinks! Some of my favorite spots are Black Bear Bread Co. for breakfast, Amavida for coffee, Daytrader Tiki Bar and Restaurant for drinks, and Mercantile and Sundog Books for clothing and book shopping!
EXPLORE ROSEMARY BEACH
La Crema Tapas & Chocolate is a wonderful spot for dinner. There are SO many dinner and shopping spots in this area, but it’s also fun for people watching! Don’t forget to make your way to see the Pearl Hotel… or better yet… to stay there for a couple of nights!
CATCH A SUNRISE (and maybe some dolphins)
It just hits different. I highly recommend packing a small picnic with your favorite hot beverage of choice, and maybe bringing a book or a journal. Dune Allen Regional Beach access is a good spot - it’s further away from the touristy areas, and we happened to see a lot of wildlife including dolphins here!
A UNIQUE 30A SUNSET SPOT
Sunset on the beach anywhere is a dream, but I highly recommend going to Deer Lake State Park and enjoying a leisurely stroll down the boardwalk to the beach. You’ll get to see some really beautiful sand dunes along the way!
30A Santa Rosa Beach: The quieter option for your trip.
Some people love to be in the middle of everything happening, but personally, I love being able to visit the exciting busy areas, but then retreat to a more peaceful place to rest and relax. If you’re the same, I highly recommend booking your stay in the Santa Rosa Beach area.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT 30A:
Traffic and parking can be a bit hectic. Make sure you give yourself extra time if you’re needing to be somewhere and there’s not a flexible timeline.
While some restaurants take reservations, there are a lot that don’t, so be open to having to wait for a table.
If you want to beat the crowds, get out earlier in the morning to hit up a breakfast or coffee shop and explore.
Stormy weather churns up the sand in the water, so if you’re only going for a night or two and there’s a chance of storms, know that you may miss out on that brilliant emerald color.
Tips to slow down and be more present:
Mornings set the tone. If you don’t have to, don’t set an alarm, have some food and a favorite beverage on hand so you don’t have to rush out the door to avoid becoming hangry. Read, journal, or stretch.
While at the beach, bring an umbrella, book, food and drink so you can linger as long as you like
When you go out for dinner, don’t be in a hurry! Order drinks, ask questions, have a dream in between your meal and dessert.
Go on noticing walks simply to observe the world around you.