30A & South Walton, Florida: How to Plan the Perfect Trip

With sugar white sand, gorgeous emerald-blue water, dozens of incredible places to sip and sleep, and a newly added direct flight from NYC to Pensacola, Fl, the shoreline communities of 30A in South Walton, Florida are truly a gem for family vacations, weekend getaways, and weddings alike. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Highway 30A consists of a handful of carefully curated, and artfully designed, beach towns (each with their own distinct style) that give the French Riviera a run for its money—it definitely doesn’t feel like Florida. From the resorts and rentals, to the food and wine, and all the outdoor activities in-between, below is an in-depth overview to help you plan your trip to South Walton’s spectacular 30A paradise.

The best time to visit South Walton:

Technically, the best time to go to South Walton is during the high season, from April to September. However, if you want to avoid the extreme summer heat and crowded streets and beaches, opt for the off-season months of spring and fall, like March and April or October and November.

I grew up along the Gulf Coast and personally love the cooler temperature months for a relaxing stay at the beach. Besides, if you’re not used to the ocean feeling like bath water (unlike me), you’ll enjoy the water just fine all year round.

Of course, as you get closer to the end of summer, you run the risk of dicey weather since the Gulf of Mexico falls within the hurricane belt. Summers along the Gulf Coast tend to be warm and rainy, with temperatures occasionally reaching as high as 100 degrees. Luckily afternoon showers go as quickly as they come and the warm temperatures dry things up even faster. Be cautious of hurricane season, which is strongest in August and September at peak heat.

1. Hop on a bike. One of South Walton's most underrated features is the ability to walk or bike to countless cultural experiences, restaurants and outdoor activities.

2. Relax by the beach. Rent a set of chairs and umbrella for the day or bring your own, the beaches of South Walton are some of the prettiest in the world.

3. Enjoy a culinary experience. Start with breakfast at Big Bad Breakfast (I suggest a skillet, biscuit, and brûlée grapefruit) or The Donut Hole, try Bud & Alley’s for lunch by sea, don’t miss Surfing Deer for one of the most amazing meals of your life, and—if you have any room leftover—circle back to La Crema for the ultimate Spanish-style chocolate dessert.

4. Water sports. You’ll find snorkeling, jet skiing, fishing charters etc. all over 30A. Check with your hotel concierge for their preferred vendors or hit up Run Sup for paddle boarding and other adventures.

5. Explore the Underwater Museum of Art. Head to Grayton Beach to see the first of its kind in North America.

6. Make your own keepsake. The Shard Shop offers a hands-on experience for all ages where you can create a masterpiece made from broken glass.

7. Visit the Truman Show house. You’ll recognize this New Urbanist beach town called Seaside from the 1996 classic movie with Jim Carrey.

8. Head to the market. Pay a visit to the various weekly markets in 30A—from Farmer’s Markets to festivals.

9. Have a cocktail. If you’re not staying at The Pearl, you must stop by for a cocktail at the Havana Rooftop Lounge, experience the pool and restaurant at Caliza, and have a tasting at Neat.

10. Hit the trails. Find a state park and enjoy nature!