If you’re planning a trip to 30A or thinking about moving to 30A full time, this one’s for you. I’m Christine with Sea Haus Realty. My mom and I are a mother-daughter real estate team based right here in the Florida Panhandle, and we love helping people get to know this area. Whether you’re visiting, relocating, or thinking about buying or selling property on 30A, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help.
Here’s a quick guide answering some of the most commonly asked questions I see over and over again online and in person.
Happy Hour on 30A
There are so many great spots, but here are a few that keep coming up:
Hurricane Oyster Bar in Grayton Beach is a local favorite. I haven’t made it to their happy hour yet, but lunch and dinner there are always a hit.
Ambrosia in Watersound near Rosemary and Alys Beach is fine dining with both food and drink specials during happy hour.
Pescado Rooftop Bar in Rosemary Beach is my personal favorite. Great cocktails, light bites, and a stunning view from 2 to 4 PM.
Other favorites include The Citizen, Bud and Alley’s, Amici 30A, Idol Hound, Mimmo’s (at the bar), and Cantina Laredo in Grand Boulevard. That one’s a go-to for me.
Seafood Markets
Want to cook your own seafood at home? Locals love:
Shrimpers on Highway 98, west end of 30A
Buddy’s Seafood Market, with two locations along 30A
Snorkeling Spots
For great underwater adventures, check out:
Destin East Jetty, near the rocks. Tons of fish, very cool spot.
For tours: Dive 30A and Shell Island Dolphin Tours in Panama City Beach are popular picks
Where to Find Local Events
All the events are listed at 30A.com/events. Local businesses add their own listings, so it’s updated and accurate with everything from food and wine festivals to outdoor movies and concerts.
Best 30A Burger Spots
South of Philly behind Gulf Place is my top pick. Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, gyros, wings. Super casual, super good.
Other recs: Pickles (Seaside), Down Island, Shunk Gulley, and Hurricane Oyster Bar.
Desserts That Aren’t Ice Cream
La Crema in Rosemary Beach for fondue and fancy desserts
A chocolate-dipped banana spot in Seaside and Watersound Origins (I’ll get the name for you!)
Pies & Provisions, Caba & Cakes in Gulf Place
The Donut Hole is open late, and I love grabbing a slice of cake and coffee there after dinner
State Park Tips
During summer, parks can fill up quick, sometimes within 30 minutes of opening. Go early! In the off-season, parking isn’t an issue. My favorite is Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.
Special Occasion Dinner Spots
These places are great for birthdays, anniversaries, or a nice night out:
Public vs. Private Beach Access
This is a hot topic, and it’s changing fast. As of now, some beaches are private and some are public. There’s an interactive map that breaks it all down, and I’ll link it for you. It’s a great tool to use whether you’re just visiting or planning a move.
https://www.visitsouthwalton.com/beach-bay-access-locations/
We post regular updates and videos about living on 30A, real estate tips, and life on the Emerald Coast. If you’ve got more questions or ideas for what you’d like to see next, leave a comment or reach out. Talk to you soon!
