While Florida destinations like Miami and Palm Beach get most of the hype these days, don’t overlook Tampa on the state’s Gulf Coast. The growing mid-sized city exudes a polished ease that makes it a relaxed and inviting vacation spot.
06.05.2024 - 20:47 / lonelyplanet.com
If you’re from Southeastern USA, you know what 30A is. If you’re unfamiliar, let me paint you a picture: 30A is a series of darling beach towns along a 24-mile scenic highway overlooking the white sands and turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
The true beauty of this place is how you can seamlessly wander between towns (by bike is a must) and experience all of their different vibes, from the dreamy Dutch-inspired lanes of Rosemary Beach to the peaceful, laid-back stretch of Grayton Beach. That, my friend, is the vacation destination of your childhood – or my childhood, at least.
If you’re a first-timer on 30A but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered.
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You’ve got plenty of options when it comes to choosing a town to stay in. From west to east, they are as follows: Dune Allen Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, Seaside, Seagrove Beach, Watersound Beach, Seacrest Beach, Alys (pronounced like “Alice”) Beach, Rosemary Beach and Inlet Beach. Every town has a distinct personality (and loyal fans).
There are a limited number of hotels along the highway, like the glamorous Pearl Hotel in Rosemary and Watercolor’s gorgeous resort . But really, the area is largely made up of rentals. Try to book your accommodation through local rental companies, like official town sites or 360 Blue . Yes, you may find the same rental places on bigger sites, but you’re also running the risk of higher fees.
Here’s a deeper look at some of the highway’s best towns.
Vibe: This is not only one of the best beaches on 30A – it’s also one of Lonely Planet’s top beaches in the US . It’s one of the oldest communities on the highway and has less of that new development feel and more of that laid-back, hippie vibe that feels so timelessly beachy. Turn off the paved highway, and the roads are sandy, and the houses are adorable beach cottages. The beach is part of Grayton Beach State Park , where dunes protect several coastal dune lakes.
Do: Take some time to explore the state park. It has a woodsy 4.5-mile trail that snakes around the lakes. You can explore those by kayak, canoe or paddleboard. You can even stay in one of the (very simple) cabins if camping is more your speed. On the first Friday of the month, Grayton’s art galleries stay open late and participate in the 30A Art Walk, where you can meet the artists and enjoy drinks and live music.
Eat: No matter where you land on 30A, you have to go to the Red Bar . Other seafood favorites include Chiringo and Stinky’s Fish Camp. Blue Mountain Beach Creamery has the best ice cream on the highway.
Vibe: If you’ve ever watched The Truman Show , you’ll recognize
While Florida destinations like Miami and Palm Beach get most of the hype these days, don’t overlook Tampa on the state’s Gulf Coast. The growing mid-sized city exudes a polished ease that makes it a relaxed and inviting vacation spot.
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