Idyllic Seaside Vacationing at Santa Rosa Beach (otherwise known as 30A), Florida
Curated By
Kayla Zimmerman
Curator’s statement
Santa Rosa Beach is a perfect little seaside town with delicious and organic food options and plenty of outdoor activity. You can come here both with your family or on a girls' weekend getaway. No matter the pretense, this part of Florida is a true gem hiding away from the glitz and glamour of Miami and Palm Beach.
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Where to stay in Santa Rosa Beach
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Things to do in Santa Rosa Beach
When you take a vacation to Santa Rosa Beach the ideal activity is, naturally, the beach. You can do just about anything on the beach from lounging to renting kayaks and paddleboards to even setting up an evening bonfire. It’s your righteous backyard.
Seaside town is perfect for daytime if you want a break from the beach. Everything is located within walking distance whether you want to go for coffee, lunch or shopping. Go to Modica Market, get the to-go mimosas and walk around Seaside! Not into mimosas? Get a frose from B.F.F.
Get fresh seafood from Goatfeathers Seafood Market and cook at home. You can also bike down to the Seaside Farmers Market on Saturday or the Farmer's Market in Rosemary Beach on Sunday. Indulge in healthy eating and seaside vacationing in Santa Rosa Beach.
Head to an outdoor pilates class overlooking the gulf with Sculpt Studio!
Or book a private yoga class directly on the beach!
Book a private dinner at your house with Saltwater Supper Club! "Saltwater Supper Club is a private chef dining experience brought to your home. We’re passionate about creating memorable moments over food, wine, and good company".
Book a beach bonfire with your family and friends.
Places to eat & drink in Santa Rosa Beach
Red Bar: A must-visit spot for dinner with live music, great food and drinks. The menu is small but mightyv — known for their Panne Chicken. Make sure to order the crab cakes!
Black Bear Bread Co: My favorite 30A coffee shop. Two locations, in Seaside and Grayton Beach. Get the chocolate croissant and oat milk latte!
Chiringo: This is always my first stop when I arrive on vacation — for beer and tacos! This surfer cafe serves Spanish-style bites in a laid back atmosphere.
Old Florida Fish House: Come here for the sushi and stay for the dueling pianos at night.
The Bay: Order the Faux Ya Ya, their take on shrimp and grits. Another great sushi spot. Enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset directly on the bay.
Great Southern Cafe: Great spot for happy hour in Seaside, get the mojito!
Shunk Gulley Oyster: An open air casual spot, great for watching football games in the fall!
Vue on 30a: Great for a nicer dinner with a sunset view — one of the few restaurants directly on the beach.
Cowgirl Kitchen: Perfect for a casual lunch in Rosemary Beach. Their pulled pork tacos are my go to! Get lunch to-go and eat at the beach.
Pescado: Go here for the amazing views from their rooftop restaurant or listen to live music in the courtyard!
Bud and Alley's: Come here for happy hour and views!
The Pearl Hotel: The Pearl Hotel in Rosemary beach is beautiful. Go up to the rooftop for sunset and drinks.
A note from Kayla
30A is a collection of small, unique, beautiful Florida beach towns nestled quietly between the much busier areas of Panama City and Destin along County Road 30A. Within this area, you’ll find the beach communities of Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Alys and Grayton.
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Travel Advisor
Kayla Zimmerman
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