Best 30A Beach Towns

5 Best 30A Beach Towns For Your Vacation Rental

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Florida offers some of the best 30A beach towns and there are a lot of great places to stay in the region, from Blue Mountain Beach to Inlet Beach, Grayton Beach, Seagrove, and more.

The Florida Panhandle is located on the northwestern coast of the United States. It is home to many seaside communities along the scenic Highway 30A.

This road connects 16 different beach towns along South Walton county, and each has its own unique Gulf Coast history.

Whether you’re looking for a quieter place to relax on the beach or a more active way to spend your day, 30A has something to offer.

If you’re looking for a great beach town to rent a house, condo, or vacation rental in the 30A region of Florida, you’ve come to the right place.

Each offers unique qualities and amenities that make it the perfect place to spend your next vacation.

How Many Beach Towns Are in 30A?

If you’re in search of a smaller beach town, you might want to consider Blue Mountain Beach, a large community on the west side of 30A.

This beach town has an old-fashioned 30A vibe and feels more local. It is more affordable than some of the other 30A communities.

Another popular beach town on 30A is Seaside.

This coastal community has over one million visitors every year. It also has a vibrant downtown with galleries, shops, and restaurants.

While it’s not a big city, Seaside has a very unique character.

The area is a popular destination for visitors to the Florida Panhandle.

It’s located between Panama City Beach and Destin.

The closest airport is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, and South Walton is about 35 miles away from the town.

While most of the beach towns along 30A are residential, there are also a few unique places to visit. Grayton Beach is a great place to visit for boutique shopping and great food.

It’s home to some wonderful dining options in the area. If you’re looking for a more adventurous place to visit, the Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is nearby.

The area’s beaches are among the best in the world.

You’ll find draping live oaks and masterfully-designed cottages here. It’s not surprising that this area was named one of Travel + Leisure’s five favorite towns in the United States.

Whether you’re looking for a quieter place to stay or a more active one, the 30A coastline offers a great balance of old and new.

Rosemary Beach is another charming beach town.

This town’s historic downtown is filled with shopping and dining options. A large town square features cute shops and cafes that overlook the ocean.

The area is also home to the annual Rosemary Beach Uncorked festival. While the town is popular for its upscale boutiques and restaurants, it still retains a small-town feel.

Aside from beaches, this town also has a variety of other activities. It’s the perfect location for a family outing.

Visitors can kayak, paddle board, or bike along the shore.

There’s an abundance of restaurants in the area, so there’s something for every taste and budget.

What is the Least Crowded Beach on 30A?

When visiting 30A, it’s important to know where to find the least crowded beaches.

Fortunately, there are some popular destinations that are far from being overrun by tourists.

  • Blue Mountain Beach, for example, is a great spot to spend your day.

This community is home to two coastal dune lakes and boasts some of the least crowded beaches in the area.

This beach is located between Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach. It is quiet, romantic, and ideal for couples.

What is the Least Crowded Beach on 30A? Romantic couple

A nearby lake and golf course give it a scenic setting.

It’s also a great place to go paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming without the crowds.

If you’re looking for an area without big condos and tourist traps, 30A is a great place to visit.

The beaches aren’t as crowded, and the area is quieter and more populated with families than college kids.

You’ll also find cult-like local shops along the beach and gorgeous views of the Emerald Coast.

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  • Inlet Beach is another great option if you want to avoid crowds.

It’s at the far eastern end of 30A and feels like a cross between a charming Southern fishing village and an upscale neighborhood.

The vibe is laid-back, and visitors can rent bicycles to explore the area.

  • Dune Allen Beach is another secluded beach that’s a good choice if you’re looking for a less crowded 30A beach.

It’s a great option for a beach vacation when you want to escape the hubbub of Destin. Its wide white sands and calm, emerald-green waters make it an ideal spot for water sports.

  • Rosemary Beach is also a good option for those who want a quieter and more relaxing setting.

This beach has beautiful architecture and an old-world feel. You can also explore nature trails near Camp Helen State Park.

If you want to spend your day walking or exploring the town, you can book a vacation rental from Booking.com.

  • Alys Beach is another excellent option on the south side of 30A.

It’s home to a small town that resembles a Greek village. It’s a great place for a romantic wedding.

It’s also home to the famous Digital Graffiti exhibition.

  • WaterColor is a colorful community that spans inland and the beachfront.

Watercolor is home to the Watercolor Inn & Resort, which dominates its beach. Those who are looking for a true 30A beachfront experience will want to book a room here.

You’ll find six on-site bars, five outdoor pools, and child care.

  • Seagrove is one of the oldest communities on 30A.

It’s less busy and more laid-back than other communities but still has some interesting local businesses. Its beachfront has more public access points than any other beach in the area and is home to some of the most beautiful views in the area.

What is the Nicest Beach on 30A?

There are many great beaches along 30A. The beaches are family-friendly, and you won’t have to worry about crowds.

What is the Nicest Beach on 30A?

Seacrest Beach is a quiet and scenic beach located between Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach.

The serene environment of this beach makes it a favorite spot for romantic couples. It offers breathtaking views of Camp Creek Lake and is relatively uncrowded.

This beach is also located near the Camp Creek Golf Club.

WaterColor Beach is one of the nicest beaches along 30A.

It features white sand and turquoise water.

This beach is great for swimming and sunbathing. Watercolor also has restaurants and shops nearby. It’s also possible to camp here, and there’s a campground in the adjoining state park.

Inlet Beach is another popular beach on 30A. This area is close to shops and restaurants and offers a small-town feel.

Rosemary Beach has white sand and clear water. There are several boardwalks in the village, which lead to the beach. You’ll also find a farmers market here, and there’s never a shortage of things to do.

The west side of 30A has some very scenic beaches.

Dune Allen is on the far western end of the beach, across from Oyster Lake. The sandy, emerald waters are beautiful. The beach is a favorite of celebrities and politicians alike.

Emeril Lagasse and Mike Huckabee have homes here.

If you’re looking for a quieter beach, consider Seagrove. This coastal community has been attracting families since the 1940s. The area is also known for its architecture, which has a Bermudan flavor.

The town is developing into a 158-acre community, and it’s definitely worth a visit.

If you’re interested in eating, 30A has some great restaurants.

Grayton Beach is a unique 30A beach town with a distinct artistic culture.

This eclectic neighborhood is dog-friendly, and its motto is “Nice Dogs, Strange People.”

Grayton Beach Florida dog friendly

It’s a small town, but it has plenty to offer. Most of the accommodations in Grayton are private vacation rentals, and many are single-family homes.

As a result, prices are a little higher than in other areas.

Santa Rosa Beach is another great beach on 30A.

It’s not too far from many attractions and offers unmatched views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s also close to Grayton Beach State Park and Seaside, which was the location of the movie “The Truman Show.”

If you’re interested in sightseeing, Santa Rosa Beach is an excellent choice.

1. Blue Mountain Beach

If you’re looking for a quiet, laid-back beach town that’s still home to great seafood, you’ll love Blue Mountain Beach.

This small community is home to sugar-white sand, clear blue water, and a quaint downtown.

Best 30A Beach Towns Blue Mountain Beach

This 30A beach town is a perfect place for families or foodies to spend their vacation. You can also find several great restaurants here.

If you’re into golf, you can also enjoy the scenery from the nearby Santa Rosa Golf Club.

One of the best things about Blue Mountain Beach is its quaint charm. The town’s elevation is high enough to allow you to view the gulf without having to drive too far.

It is also home to a few funky local businesses and is a great place to catch a sunset. There are also art galleries and live music venues in the area.

You can also find a great rental home for the family at Blue Mountain Beach Vacation Rentals.

Another great thing about Blue Mountain Beach is that it isn’t a typical tourist trap.

While you’ll still find plenty of college students and big hotels in the area, there is a more laid-back feel to the town. The local shops have cult followings and there are plenty of families around.

Besides the fantastic beaches, the town also has a lot to offer.

The town is one of the most beautiful in the area. Its architecture is reminiscent of Caribbean villages in Bermuda and the Mediterranean.

It’s a perfect place for a romantic beach wedding or a relaxing getaway.

There are also a number of unique restaurants here.

2. Inlet Beach

Inlet Beach is a unique beach town that is not crowded with tourists, which makes it a great place to enjoy a quiet beach vacation.

There are a number of reasons to visit this town, including its stunning views and sparkling waters.

It also has beautiful dunes and piers.

inlet beach 30a best beaches

If you are interested in fine art, the 30A area has many galleries and studios to explore.

You can check out works by local artists in tie-dye art, vintage windows painted with colorful designs, recycled outdoor furniture, and pottery.

You can also sign up for weekly drop-in art classes offered by local artists.

Inlet Beach is a peaceful, quiet, and artistic place to live and visit. You can also take a walk along the boardwalk or bike the scenic trails.

This place is a great place to take a family vacation.

There are plenty of events to keep the kids occupied and entertained.

A laid-back beach town along the Emerald Coast, Inlet Beach has many amenities and is close to other beach towns. Its public beach is the biggest in South Walton and offers rare access to the Gulf of Mexico.

The town also offers plenty of dining options, shopping, and entertainment at Twin Palms.

Whether you want to spend your vacation with friends or with family, Inlet Beach is a great choice.

The city is home to five public beach access points that are easily accessible, and it has plenty of parking. It also boasts clean bathrooms, season lifeguards, and ADA access.

It also has a popular spot for beach bonfires.

Grayton Beach is an old town on 30A, but it is full of character. Its streets are lined with peace signs, a VW van, and free-spirited residents.

The town’s public beach is not overcrowded, and the residents are very laid-back and friendly. Bonfires are permitted on the beach, but visitors must obtain a permit before lighting them.

The town’s state park offers camping spots and glamping facilities.

3. Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach is one of the oldest communities along the 30A stretch of the Gulf of Mexico, and is a quirky and fun place to explore.

The town is decorated with peace signs and a prominent VW van, and the locals are free-spirited. The beach here rarely gets crowded, and there are many activities to do.

vw van grayton beach florida

You can even have a bonfire on the beach. However, you must obtain a permit before doing so.

Located on the beach, Grayton offers a wide variety of dining options, from American fare to international fusion.

Whether you’re craving a seafood dinner or a burger and fries, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.

You can also indulge in craft beer and craft cocktails at several bars and restaurants, including a brewery in Grayton Beach.

Grayton Beach is known for its funky and eclectic vibe. Those who appreciate art and music should definitely consider staying here.

It is the perfect place to unwind and get away from the usual beach vacation routine. It’s also home to the Underwater Museum of Art, an underwater sculpture garden.

In addition, the town also offers fishing opportunities.

If you’re looking for a place to stay while you explore the town, make sure to check out the Baytowne Wharf Hotel in Grayton Beach. It’s only 15 minutes walk from the beach, and is convenient for dining and entertainment.

The hotel itself is quite chic, with golf carts, e-bikes, and bike rentals.

4. Seagrove

One of the best 30A beach towns is Seagrove, and it’s home to beautiful beach cottages and quaint streets.

There are also plenty of walking and biking paths, a boathouse, and a beach with kayaks and paddleboards.

This charming community also has a large dune lake and beautiful magnolia trees.

In addition, Seagrove has many unique boutiques and eateries, and it’s an ideal vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

This small town is the perfect getaway for the entire family. The pristine white sands, sparkling blue waters, and natural greenery create a stunning backdrop to a day at the beach.

Seagrove is also home to more public beach access points than any other 30A beach town.

For those looking for an authentic Florida beach town, a visit to Seagrove is a must. 

It’s a popular destination for families and offers everything from shopping at quaint boutiques to biking on the Timpoochee Trail.

You will also find plenty of outdoor activities at nearby Deer Lake State Park and Eastern Lake. There’s also live music at the Old Florida Fish House, which is an iconic Seagrove landmark.

In addition to the stunning shoreline, Seagrove also has great restaurants and a picturesque town square.

The town also has a great selection of real estate for sale.

Unlike many other beach towns along the 30A, Seagrove is not overcrowded, so you can expect to have fewer crowds.

The beach here has a slow pace and is expansive. It’s a popular choice for families and those who enjoy an upscale, laid-back beach lifestyle.

Grayton Beach is another gem on the 30A coast. While it’s not as bustling as other 30A beach towns, the laid-back vibe of this community makes it a great place to spend your vacation.

The town is also home to iconic local restaurants and boutiques.

Also Read: 5 of the Best Beaches in St. Pete

5. Watercolor

You’ll never have to pay high prices to visit one of Florida’s best beach towns.

The 30A area is home to a dazzling array of pristine beaches that are worth a visit. Whether you’re staying at a luxury resort or a family-friendly beach town, you’ll find something for everyone.

Best 30A Beach Towns Watercolor Florida

Here, you’ll find everything from a world-class farmer’s market to picture-perfect pastel homes straight out of the Truman Show.

In addition to the 30A beach towns, you’ll find beautiful communities like Rosemary Beach.

The vibrant town boasts colorful shops, countless scenic spots, and paddleboarding outposts. If you’re looking for a less crowded spot, consider Santa Rosa Beach, which dates back to 1910.

It’s a quaint little community with a modern edge and a vibrant arts scene.

You’ll find award-winning shopping and dining in the area. The community has over 1500 feet of beach frontage. There’s also a dune lake with paddleboards and kayaks available to rent.

The area is also close to the Point Washington State Forest and Grayton Beach State Park. The community is an environmentally conscious community that puts its residents’ well-being first.

Watercolor is a small, charming beach town on the 30A.

Its streets are lined with beautiful beach cottages, and there’s ample room for bicycles and pedestrians.

The beach is rarely crowded and it allows bonfires, though visitors must obtain a permit before starting a bonfire.

There are several local restaurants and nightlife options that you’ll love in WaterColor.

If you like wine, try the Wine Bar, a French-inspired bar in the town center.

The Wine Bar serves all types of wine, and you can also buy some wine at the market, which is located adjacent to the Wine Bar.

The Wine Bar offers daily happy hours and food specials a few nights a week.

There are plenty of other places to enjoy a drink and eat in the area, and many of them do not take reservations.

Wrapping Up

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area or want to be right in the middle of all the action, 30A has something for everyone.

With 16 different beach towns to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is best for you.

If you’re looking for a great beach town to rent a house, condo, or vacation rental in the 30A region of Florida, you’ve come to the right place.

Each offers unique qualities and amenities that make it the perfect spot for your next getaway.

Whether you’re looking for a quieter place to relax on the beach or a more active way to spend your day, 30A has something to offer everyone who visits.

Hopefully, this guide will help make your decision a little bit easier.

So what are you waiting for?

Start planning your trip today!

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