The Ultimate 30A Travel Guide: Where to Stay, How to Get Around, and What to Know Before You Go

If you’ve never experienced 30A, you’re in for a sandy-toed treat. This charming stretch of scenic highway winds along Florida’s Emerald Coast for about 20 miles, nestled between Destin and Panama City Beach. Known for its sparkling emerald waters and soft-as-sugar white sand,

What makes 30A truly special is the string of storybook beach communities tucked along the coast—each with its own vibe, architecture, and must-visit spots. Whether you’re drawn to the chic Mediterranean style of Alys Beach, the pastel-painted charm of Seaside, the upscale vibe of Rosemary, or the artsy soul of Grayton Beach, there’s a little corner of 30A that’s just right for you.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of each community, help you get a feel for where to stay, how to get around, and where to soak up the best beachy vibes. I’ve even teamed up with a few of my favorite local businesses to make your planning process a breeze.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to plan a picture-perfect vacation on 30A—whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.

Getting to 30A: Airports + Getting Around

Closest Airports:
You’ve got two sunshine gateways to choose from:

  • VPS – Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport

  • ECP – Northwest Florida Beaches (aka Panama City Beach Airport)

Both are just a short drive away from the dreamy shores of 30A!.

Getting Around Once You’re Here

While 30A might look like a tiny slice of beach paradise, it actually stretches out over 20 miles! So if you're flying in, I highly recommend renting a car. Trust me—you’ll want the freedom to cruise from one cute beach town to the next, hunt down hidden gems, and chase those golden hour sunsets without waiting on Uber.

Rental Tip: Book your car early, especially in peak season—those rentals can go fast.

When is Peak Season on 30A?

Peak Season: Late May, June, July & early August (aka school’s out and the beach is booming)

  • My Fave Months: August, September, and October. The weather is still warm, the crowds thin out, and sunsets? Pure magic. ✨

Curious about temps and sunshine? Check out the weather chart below to plan the perfect beach week!

Should You Beach Hop?

No need! The beach along 30A is actually one long, beautiful stretch of sugar-white sand. No matter where you’re staying—Seaside, Rosemary, Grayton—it’s all the same sparkling shoreline.

What is worth exploring? The towns themselves! Each community has its own vibe, from posh and polished to artsy and laid back. Check out:

  • The dreamy white architecture of Alys Beach

  • The cozy shops and cafes of Seaside

  • The chic boardwalks of Rosemary

Each stop is like a new scene from your coastal daydream.

Public vs. Private Beaches — What’s the Deal?

Public Beach Access: Totally free to use. These are scattered all along 30A and super easy to find.

  • Private Beach Access: If you're staying in a neighborhood or rental with private or deeded access—lucky you! You’re free to use it.

  • State Parks: Not near a public access point? Don’t sweat it! Head to one of our gorgeous State Parks for easy beach days with plenty of space and parking:

    • Grayton Beach State Park

    • Deer Lake State Park

    • Topsail Hill Preserve

    • Camp Helen

(Just a small entrance fee, and boom—you’re in paradise.)

💡 Helpful Tool: Not sure where your nearest public access is? Click here and plug in your address to see a color-coded map of all the nearby beach options. Total game changer when planning your stay!

Where Can I Stay with a Private Beach?

If you’re dreaming of toes-in-the-sand privacy, these communities have you covered:

  • Alys Beach

  • Rosemary Beach

  • Seaside (see note below)

  • Watercolor

  • Watersound

  • Seacrest

  • Gulf-front homes with deeded beach access

🌟 Seaside Bonus Tip: You don’t have to stay there to use the beach, but you do need to rent chairs from Cabana Man Chair Rentals to access it!