Curator’s statement
Looking for a place for your next girls get-together or bachelorette party? I’ve got you covered! Look no further than Florida’s 30A, one of the most underrated strips of beaches. From Grayton Beach, Rosemary Beach to Alys Beach, you’ll have access to crystal clear beaches right on the Gulf of Mexico. Not to mention, 30A also has an array of exceptional dining options, a vibrant shopping scene and plenty of activities. I spent a week in 30A and here’s how I’d plan an itinerary for three days.
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Where to stay
Watercolor Inn
Between the Gulf of Mexico and a dune lake, this beachfront resort is a playground for families and seclusion seekers alike.
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The Pearl Hotel
A luxurious boutique hotel known for its elegant architecture and prime location near the Gulf of Mexico.
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Day 1: Arrival
Land and travel to Seaside, Florida and stay at the WaterColor Inn. The Rotunda suite is spacious with panoramic views of the beach. The hotel features numerous pools, is right on the beach and includes extremely friendly staff to help you with your every move, allowing you to be in a prime spot for an unforgettable beach getaway.
Spend the day basking in the sun by the WaterColor Beach Club or head to the beach to experience the smooth sand and pristine water. If you’re itching for a beach activity, rent bikes, stand up paddle boards and kayaks from the hotel. Grab lunch at Fish Out of Water, Canteen or Beach Cow (don’t forget that Piña Colada for the beach!)
For your first night, I’d recommend watching the sunset by the beach, using the hotel's bonfire services. Your concierge will happily set up a beach bonfire over the phone before you get there. There is nothing like watching the sky turn from blue to orange while drinking a margarita with some friends or family.
While the hotel features a variety of food options for dinner such as Gather Kitchen + Bar, the Costa Chica and more, Pescado has a phenomenal dinner. Additionally, the restaurant features gorgeous views if you are looking for both a picturesque sunset and a delectable dinner. I highly recommend the artisan greens, spicy garlic shrimp and the seafood platter. End your day with a tan and feeling blissful.
Day 2: Activity day
Start your day off with hot yoga at Studio 30A, an exquisite all glass yoga studio with exceptionally friendly instructors. Who wouldn’t want to start their day in high spirits with some peace and quiet? Afterwards, head across the street to For the Health of It to grab a smoothie or treat. I personally adore the Blue Mystic smoothie.
After you recover from yoga, I’d head on over to the main Seaside area. The Art of Simple has the best gifts to bring back with you or to give to friends, with items ranging from plates to cups to candles, you’re bound to find a little something to bring home. If you need a new bathing suit or a cover-up to wear on your trip, stop by and pick something up from Beachfolly. If you’re looking for unique and stylish clothing and jewelry, head over to the Jewel Toffier.
Looking for an afternoon meal or treat? From sweet to savory, Seaside has got it. Grilled cheeses from Meltdown on 30A, Greek food from Mr Gyro Hero, the Taco Bar, Amavida donuts and ice cream from It’s Heavenly.
If you’re still itching to explore more of what 30A has to offer, check out Alys and Rosemary Beach. Alys Beach has been featured in Architectural Digest and has exquisite architecture modeled after Bermudian and Greek designs. I’d suggest grabbing oysters and a drink at the Citizen and taking a walk around to get the full experience.
Looking for more shopping? Head to Rosemary Beach. ExVoto has custom-made vintage jewelry and cute dresses. Luminary offers a diverse selection of chic accessories ranging from shoes to bags. CK Feed & Supply has gourmet groceries if you’re looking for a snack or want to make a little cheese board at night. Interested in finding an item to keep as a memory of Rosemary? Stop by Rosemary Beach Trading Co..
For dinner, I’d recommend Bud & Alleys Waterfront Restaurant and Bar, which is conveniently located near the Watercolor Inn. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the sunset and a vibrant nightime bar scene. You can stay at Bud & Alleys as it picks up at night or you can head to AJs for live music in the front and a DJ in the back. So much variety!
Day 3: Boat day
The concierge at the hotel can help you book a boat for the day before you even get to Seaside. From yacht charters to boat rentals, you’ll have a multitude of choices for how to spend your day on the boat. You can rent a boat for a couple of hours or a full day depending on what you’re most interested in.
Before you head out on the boat, wake up, get caffeinated, and fed at Black Bear Bread Co. This Parisian-style coffee shop has scrumptious pastries, croissants and breakfast sandwiches on top of a long list of coffee options from Stumptown Coffee Roasters. The bear latte and Paris ham sandwich was the best way to start the day off.
As you embark on your boat journey, travel over to Crab Island on the clear water. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other fascinating sea life. A day spent on the water is an experience you won’t regret!
Following a day out on the boat, treat yourself to a mouthwatering last meal at Cafe Thirty-A. The restaurant is known for their martinis. Make sure to try the grilled filet mignon, sausage and burrata penne pasta and chili-dusted salmon and I promise you will leave thinking about your meal for weeks.
End your trip feeling fulfilled having explored the wide variety of what 30A has to offer!
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Travel Advisor
Samantha Vanderhorst
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Florida.