Florida’s year-round sun and warmth is what makes it the ideal getaway no matter what time of year you’re here. Time on the beach, taking a plunge in the Gulf of Mexico, and several other fun activities await. Many of these things to do along 30A are inexpensive or even free to enjoy, so you can save money for extra souvenirs or experiences. Build a budget-friendly fall trip that reflects you and your traveling companions’ interests. You’ll find something along 30A to make your trip one to remember!
Farmers Markets
The many towns along 30A have their own feel and flair. While farmers markets close for the fall and winter in more northern locales, the farmers markets run strong throughout the fall. Include the farmers markets of Rosemary Beach, Watersound, Village of Baytowne Wharf, Seaside, the 30A market in North Barrett Square, and others in your itinerary. Come and find souvenirs and more in the form of handmade jewelry and crafts, or fresh produce, honey, and more. Most items are affordably priced and make great souvenirs or ingredients for a delicious home-cooked meal.
Truman Show House
Many locales in Florida have been showcased in films and TV shows. The cozy town of Seaside along 30A can be counted among them! In the movie The Truman Show, it was better known as “Seahaven.” Wander around and find familiar spots like Modica Market, the gazebo at the Tupelo Street roundabout, the Coleman Pavilion, and many other spots included in the movie. To top it off, Truman’s house is still there. It is a private residence and not open to the public.
Beaches
Pack up the cooler and your beach gear and prepare for a fun day on land or on the water this fall. With air and water temperatures still comfortable, you’ll enjoy spending more time outside. Whether you’re staying on land or heading out to sea, there’s an activity for you. Sunbathe, take a walk or run on the sand, or plant your beach umbrella and blanket for a fall picnic. Swim in the waves of the Gulf, take a lesson in activities like surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking, or up the adrenaline with jet skis or a parasailing adventure!
Coastal Biplane
Go up, up, and away. The Coastal Biplane, better known as the Spirit of 30A, was only built in 2010, but has the look and feel of a classic 1930s biplane aircraft design. The Waco YMF-5 biplane is Ferrari red in color with an open cockpit design. It seats the pilot and two side-by-side passengers. Look down to catch glimpses of land and sea, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Opt for a short 20-minute cruise or choose a package that offer time in the sky.
Dune Lakes
Enjoy a different beach and water experience when you head to a dune lake. Florida is one of only two states in the U.S., and five total places across the globe, where coastal dunes are a natural geographic feature. These lakes are typically shallow, irregularly shaped permanent bodies of water. Water is typically brackish and dark-colored due a unique mix of saltwater and freshwater sources. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, purchase a Florida combo freshwater/saltwater fishing license, or just relax on the shoreline.
Hiking
The 30A area is more than just a historic route to cruise. It’s dotted with state parks and hiking trails that provide hours of outdoor fun. Pack your sun gear, water, and trail snacks and head out to experience the land-based natural beauty of 30A. While you’re out in the wild, keep a lookout for local wildlife like black bear, coyotes, deer, and osprey. Take a break from the hike and stop in at one of the picnic areas of the state parks to enjoy a fall picnic.
Snorkel and SCUBA Tours
There are several companies along 30A that offer tours to extend your nature and wildlife viewing below the shimmering waters of the Gulf. Get close to bottlenose dolphins, manatees, rays, sea turtles a variety of fish species – even sharks! Ask about daytime or sunset tours, as well as gear rental and SCUBA certification for when you’re ready to strike out on your own.
Biking
The towns of 30A and the road that connects them is as easily navigated on two wheels as it is on four. Enjoy getting around 30A, some extra exercise, and access to some of the nooks and crannies where your rental car can’t reach!
Find Fun Fall Things to Do Along 30A
Begin and end every day along 30A this fall in a vacation rental provided by Dune Vacation Rentals. Choose from a cozy one-bedroom condo for a solo or sweetheart getaway, all the way up to an eight-bedroom single-family home for a fall family reunion at the beach. Prepare and serve any meal or snack during your trip with the help of a fully equipped kitchen. Enjoy the meal in spacious living and dining areas, or in outdoor living and dining spaces. Relax in beautiful and comfortable rooms to bring the feeling of home away from.
Contact us today to start planning your fall escape to 30A!
Florida’s year-round sun and warmth makes it the ideal getaway no matter what time of year you’re looking to get away. It also means virtually pristine weather and conditions for your 4th of July escape this year. You’ll enjoy patriotic activities, as well as time on the beach, in the water, and wherever adventure takes you along 30A for the 4th of July.
Destin Harbor July 4th Fireworks
While Destin shoots off fireworks all summer long on Thursday nights from a barge between Harborwalk Village and the West Jetties Beach, the best show is sure to be on the 4th of July. Pack up your beach gear and your group and head to Destin Harbor to watch the show that is set off from West Jetties Beach. An insider tip: the 15-minute show is best viewed from Norriego Point or the boardwalk. Parking is limited, so you’re advised to arrive early to claim your spot.
Red, White, and Baytowne
Plan to spend some time at Baytowne Wharf, and make sure to schedule it on the 4th so you can take part in the ultimate 4th of July party. The Red, White, and Baytowne event includes live music, face painting, crafts, balloon sculpting, and much more. There are concerts on the main stage all day long for your enjoyment. The event is from 6 to 9:15 p.m. and is capped by a fireworks display.
Village of Baytowne Wharf 4th of July Fireworks
After you’ve spent some time at the town’s Red, White, and Baytowne celebration, turn your attention skyward. The Baytowne 4th of July Fireworks, set to a music soundtrack, ends the evening with a patriotic bang. The show is over the water between the Village and Baytowne Marina, and the soundtrack can be heard throughout the Village. The giant American Flag over the lagoon adds to the patriotic feel. Shorter shows take place on Tuesdays throughout the summer.
Sandestin Hilton July 4th Fireworks
Keep your eyes fixed on the Gulf of Mexico for this light extravaganza. The show is billed as the only one in the area to be set off directly on the Gulf of Mexico beach, making it one-of-a-kind and a don’t-miss experience. The show lasts about ten minutes and is visible from anywhere on the surrounding beaches, and you can even get near the launch spot. The show starts at 9 p.m.
Stars & Stripes Spectacular Concert July 3rd
Head to Seaside for a live concert on the Amphitheater stage. The Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will be playing some favorite patriotic songs, along with familiar tunes from some of the biggest films in history. Lawn seating is limited, so you’ll want to arrive early enough to claim your spot for the 7:30 p.m. concert on July 3rd.
Seaside Stars & Stripes Spectacular Fireworks
Once the last note from the pops concert that precedes it fades away, the town of Seaside lights up the sky over the Gulf of Mexico. The show starts directly after the concert. If you attended the concert, your seats near the Seaside Amphitheater are some of the best in the house. You can also choose to relax in the sand or dip your toes in the water while you watch from virtually anywhere on the beach in Seaside.
Fort Walton Beach July 4th Fireworks
Head to Fort Walton Beach for another great fireworks show. You can view the spectacular shower of light anywhere along the water downtown in Fort Walton Beach Landing to enjoy the show that celebrates independence. Fireworks are shot off from a barge over the Santa Rosa Sound starting at 8:45 p.m. on July 4th.
Parades
Many of the towns along 30A are hosting 4th of July parades to go along with all the other Independence Day fun and frivolity. South Walton hosts a 4th of July parade starting at 8 a.m., heads down 30A and ends in Seaside. The Grayton Beach Old Fashioned 4th of July Parade also kicks off at 8 a.m. Watch as participants parade by on foot, golf cart, jeep, boats, floats, and more. That parade kicks off at the Red Bar.
Choose 30A for the 4th of July
Begin and end every day of your 4th of July respite in a vacation rental by Dune Vacation Rentals. There is plenty of space for everyone to enjoy time together or make their own patriotic fun for a vacation that’s unique to them. Choose from homes all the way up to 10 bedrooms for a 4th of July family getaway that fits everyone for a dose of Florida-style red, white, and blue. Simplify your stay with fully equipped kitchens, beautiful and comfortable rooms, open living spaces, and more to bring the feeling of home away from home. Step outside and enjoy private patios or balconies, and other outdoor fun. Choose a premium rental for upgrades like stainless steel appliances, sprawling master suites, flat-screen TVs, private pools, and more.
Contact us today to start planning your fun-filled 4th of July trip to 30A!
Making the most of Mother’s Day fun in 2023 starts with gifting your mom a trip to scenic 30A! This gem of a Florida vacation destination is a perfect place to relax, unwind, and celebrate in style. The following are just a few of the many area activities and attractions that are sure to make it an unforgettable Mother’s Day, Florida stay.
Treat Mom to a Savory Mother’s Day Brunch
The amazing views, sun, and access to scenic shorelines all make 30A an amazing place to spend Mother’s Day. However, when cravings come calling, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as Mother’s Day brunch! This year, consider making your way to Cuvee 30A to enjoy a custom Mother’s Day menu that’s sure to inspire the tastebuds! Located at 12805 US-98 D101 in Inlet Beach, Cuvee 30A is once again hosting its iconic Mother’s Day meal options in a fine-dining setting that’s elegant and welcoming. Guests can dine indoors or head out to the open-air brick patio to savor the view, fresh air, and fantastic menu offerings alike. Brunch is on from 11:00 am until 2:30 pm on Mother’s Day May 14, 2023, and will feature specialty cuisine crafted by head Chef Tim Creehan. His award-winning menu options are designed to delight the palate and showcase seasonal ingredients too. Beyond brunch, the restaurant also offers a Mother’s Day dinner menu boasting everything from black pepper-crusted yellowfin tuna and New Zealand venison steak to Kurobuta pork chops and the chef’s signature boneless half-duck too. No matter what you order, you won’t want to leave without enjoying dessert when selections like Key West lime pie, chocolate sin cake, and white chocolate banana cream pie are all on the menu. Be sure to make reservations for Cuvee 30A Mother’s Day brunch or dinner early on as this is a popular event year after year.
Savor time at Eden Gardens State Park
If your mom happens to be the type of traveler with a heart for history and an equal passion for outdoor fun, heading over to Eden Gardens State Park might just be the highlight of your Mother’s Day stay in 30A. Easily accessible at 181 Eden Gardens Road in scenic Santa Rosa Beach, this Florida State Park sprawls across 163 acres of meticulously maintained terrain. This historic and inviting stop was once a part of the Wesley homestead and in addition to gorgeous grounds and pathways to wander along, the park also hosts a renovated two-story house complete with a wrap-around porch and towering columns to admire. Moss-draped oaks surround this 1897 mansion which speaks to a bygone era. Tours of the home are available, and many guests opt to pair their tour with an outdoor picnic in the gardens. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place to enjoy quality time immersed in nature and history this Mother’s Day.
Enjoy Paddleboarding and Exploring Grayton Beach
For those who are looking to incorporate on-the-water fun into their Mother’s Day celebration in 30A, setting your sights on Grayton Beach is a good place to start. Just a short distance from Seaside, Grayton Beach is a wonderful place to settle into the sand but it’s typically the paddleboarding fun on the water that keeps visitors coming back for more! Grayton Beach is home to one of the coastal dune lakes that are found in this area and only a handful of other places on the planet. The lake that’s found in Grayton Beach extends to WaterColor and is a wonderful place to make the most of time paddleboarding or even kayaking. There are plenty of area rental companies offering access to quality gear so that visitors don’t have to worry about purchasing anything or bringing their own. Some companies even offer drop-off and pick-up services to make your day on the water that much more convenient.
Hit the Bike Trails
For a Mother’s Day adventure best enjoyed on two wheels, 30A is sure to inspire. The entirety of 30A hosts a variety of paved pathways for visitors to enjoy who are looking to pedal their way through a sunny afternoon, enjoying the views at their very own pace. When you’re looking for a comprehensive route to follow that offers up visits to a variety of the coastal communities that make up 30A, the 30A Bike Trail is where to start. This trail covers 19 miles of terrain and comes complete with outlooks to stop at and savor the sights.
Visit Point Washington State Forest
When your Mother’s Day, Florida stay in 30A revolves around time in nature, adding a stop at Point Washington State Forest to your itinerary is always the right choice. Spanning more than 15,000 acres of terrain in Walton County along the panhandle, Point Washington State Forest is a fan-favorite destination among 30A visitors who are looking to enjoy everything from hiking and biking to horseback riding. Be sure to bring your binoculars when you head this way as this state forest is a fantastic place to enjoy wildlife watching as well.
Book Your Mother’s Day Florida Vacation Today
Heading to 30A in the name of fun is always exciting. Those making their way in this direction over Mother’s Day looking for luxurious accommodations to top off their trip in style will find Dune Vacation Rentals has everything you need and more. Reach out today to learn about our inviting property options and to start planning your next Florida adventure.
News flash: Everyone’s favorite drinking holiday takes place on a Friday this year, negating the need to limit your indulgences because of having to go back to work the next day! St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and although it has never been considered a traveling holiday, perhaps we can entice you to take a trip down south to explore the beaches of 30A and the comforts of our Dune Vacation Rentals holiday hideaways. Offering sunny days, warm temps, and some of the best places to enjoy green beer in the country, your St. Patrick’s Day escape to Northwestern Florida will give you a break from your real life that is both exciting and relaxing; this guide to St. Patrick’s Day activities and events on 30A will give you a sneak peek into a vacation filled with fun!
St. Patrick’s Day Activities and Events on 30A
Before the nighttime fun begins, we do suggest you head to the white sand beaches we are known for to enjoy the most beautiful minutes of your life. Sunsets in Florida have been known to stop people in their tracks, lighting up the skies with a fiery display of color and drama and as you sip from your water bottle (hydration is important this thirsty night!) with your toes buried in the soft sugary sands, don’t be surprised if you find the need to applaud. Don’t fight the urge as you won’t be the only one clapping for Mother Nature’s most spectacular extravaganza! And once the sun has fallen into the sea and the dark skies are lightened with the twinkling of a billion stars, it will be time to start your night of excitement and Irish entertainment!
St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Show, Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse, 85 Defuniak Street, Grayton Beach
Families love 30A, and if you have brought yours along for this holiday escape, the St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Show is a family friendly event you will all love! Offering live music performed by local favorite Jody Lucas in their Backyard of Love, the backyard bar will be serving soft drinks, kombuchas, and of course, wines and beers and the dinner menu will provide all the flavors of Ireland that will make your stomach happy! Shepherds Pie, Bangers and Mash, and the classic Corned Beef Cabbage are just a few of your dining options, and as you enjoy a beautiful evening under the stars (the party lasts from 6:30 until 8:30) you may decide that St. Paddy’s Day on 30A will be your newest family tradition.
30A Growler Garage, 368 W County Highway 30A, Suite 101 in Santa Rosa Beach
30A Growler Garage in Santa Rosa Beach is THE place to be on a Friday night and St. Patrick’s Day is no exception! Offering live music performed by another local favorite group, Shack N Up, the green beer will be flowing freely, and even the non-green beer found in their 40 different taps will ensure that this holiday will be one that you will probably forget! (But isn’t that the idea of a St. Patrick’s Day celebration?) Sit, sip, and savor live music from ringside seats by the beach and discover the vibe that makes this part of Florida one of the most popular vacation destinations in Florida!
St. Paddy’s Day Delight – Paint the Village Green, The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Offering music, entertainment, and a belief that everything Irish is everything wonderful, painting the village green at the Village of Baytowne Wharf promises to bring color and excitement to your 30A St. Patrick’s Day celebration! Starting at 6 PM and ending at 9 PM on March 17th, Carpenter Academy of Irish Dance and Live Music from Shenanigans are just a few examples of what you can expect from your Irish getaway in paradise.
Stay Home with Dunes Vacation Rentals
Your real life is hectic and filled with drama and stress, so perhaps your Florida vacation should be filled with all the rest and relaxation that you need, even if it is St. Patrick’s Day! Start the day out with a run out to the Donut Hole in Inlet Beach and grab a dozen of their finest sweet treats (there are sure to be some holiday themed ones to enhance your day at home) to enjoy with fresh brewed coffee in your holiday hideaway. Our fully equipped kitchens come with all the small appliances (coffee makers, blenders) you need to stay hydrated, and the professional quality larger appliances will make it easy to prepare your own Irish meal of corn beef cabbage! Stream your favorite Irish music to dance to as you snack, play, and relax, knowing that the music will never have to end thanks to our high-speed internet, and when you can’t eat another bite or sip another sip, climbing between the linens of our premium beds will be the highlight of your adventures. Contact us today and Reserve your favorite St. Patrick’s Day escape today!
Christmas holidays present the best opportunity for you to spend time with your loved ones. From feasting to setting up family Christmas trees, there is a lot you can do on this day from the comfort of your home. But there comes a time when the home isn’t fun anymore. Sometimes, hopping to a holiday destination, miles away from home is the best Christmas gift you can have. The white sands of Florida’s 30A offer a valuable alternative. Here are the top 30A Christmas events and activities for a memorable experience.
Envy the Christmas Light Displays
The first thing that ushers you to the Christmas vibe in 30A is the lights. These Christmas lights run throughout the entire holiday season. Depending on which side of 30A you will be visiting, you will be treated to different styles of lighting. Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Dune Allen Beach, Watercolor, and Seaside are all worthy considerations for you to see these beautiful lights. With the snowy conditions experienced during Christmas, these lights create unique patterns for a picturesque site. These lights are safely connected, allowing you to get really close if you need to. Kids will have a good time taking pictures with the lighting decorations in the backdrop. The fact that they run for the better part of December means you will be spending most of your evenings outside enjoying the beautiful view the lights offer.
Wait for Santa in the White Sands
What’s your experience with Santa? Well, there is no Christmas without Santa, especially for kids. Santa holds a special place in children and they would be disappointed if he is nowhere to be seen. However, there is no need to worry since Santa is waiting for you at the beach. Dressed in his signature regalia, Santa will be ready to embrace your kids and in other cases bring them gifts. With paintings and art all over their face, children too will be in that Christmas mood ready for the 30A experience. Allow them to interact with Santa and take pictures whenever possible.
Embrace the Fireworks
New Year’s Eve is a good time to reflect on the hits and misses of the previous year. 30A allows you to add a celebration aspect on top of the reflection. With the region’s vibrant nightlife, it will be hard for you to stick to your room. It would make more sense for you to hop into one of the parties being hosted around as you wait for the fireworks to start cracking. If you came to 30A with your kids, there are a bunch of kid-friendly activities for them to explore. Kids too will enjoy being outside for the night playing with ice as the year nears completion. When the fireworks time comes, no one should be left behind. There is a whole tradition surrounding the popping of fireworks. To some, it is a way of blowing away all the evils of the previous year while still ushering in favors from the new year. Don’t forget to take pictures and videos of the popping fireworks.
30A Christmas Events: Play Ball Drop Game
Have you seen balloons being thrown around during concerts? Now it’s your turn to take part in this activity, albeit in a not-so-volatile setting. Since it is not a professional game as such, you won’t need any specialized equipment to play. It is the kind of game that doesn’t require some prior training. Just hit the inflated ball with your fist and watch it fly high. It is a kid-friendly sport that allows you to keep warm as you wait for the midnight fireworks in the snowy weather.
Exotic Wining and Dining
Feasting is the epitome of your 30A Christmas experience. Christmas and New Year’s Eve are not the days when you stick in your room and prepare your meals. Instead, it is the best time to test your taste buds by going out for dinner. The region is home to multiple restaurants serving a wide range of global cuisines. Usually, there are party special combos on those select days. Choose what works best for your case and have fun while at it. When done with the dining part, it is now time to sample some wine. Sip your favorite bottle as you enjoy the events in the musical arena.
Where to Stay in 30A
Your Christmas and New Year’s experience in 30A goes hand in hand with the kind of vacation rental you book. Our team at Dune Vacation Rentals is determined to offer you accommodation options to match your holidaying desires. From beautiful waterfront condos to a multitude of other beach properties, you have all the luxury you would desire for a Christmas vacation. Private pools, patios, outdoor grills, and golf carts are some of the amenities that come with our customized rentals. Contact us today to book yours.
There’s magic to discover in 30A all year long, especially during the spooky season! Home to several beach towns along highway 30A on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, it’s a name that’s become synonymous with dreamy white sand beaches, tropical shores, and vivid, clear-blue water. It might not seem like the typical Halloween destination as it doesn’t have the standard fall scenery, but 30A certainly knows how to celebrate the season in style, from local events to fall activities. Whatever your vision for your 30A Halloween vacation is, you’re certain to have an unforgettable trip—a Halloween unlike any other!
Spend Your 30A Halloween at the Beach
One of the best things about spending a 30A Halloween here is that you get to experience an entirely different way to celebrate the holiday—and it involves copious amounts of beach time! Since the larger 30A community is made up of several smaller beach towns, you’ll be able to have your pick—maybe you want a low-key beach with lots of natural features, like the shorefront at Deer Lake State Park, or perhaps you want to spend a day at a vibrant beach with lots of nearby shopping and eateries, such as Rosemary Beach or Alys Beach. Seacrest Beach is another great option when you’re looking for a bit of relaxation. Inlet Beach is an ideal area to rent a bicycle and cruise along the shore. When you spend Halloween on a beach vacation, you get to trade fall flannels for sandals and swimsuits!
Visit the 30A Farmers Market to Get Into the Fall Spirit
Of course, just because you’re on a beach vacation for Halloween doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice any of those typical, cozy fall delights. Pay a visit to the 30A Farmers Market to get your fall fix—vendors will be selling fresh produce, along with seasonal produce like your classic orange pumpkins. You can even take one back to your vacation rental to carve and create a little Halloween atmosphere! Grab a pumpkin spice latte and browse the market—beyond fresh ingredients, you’ll find other items for sale, such as locally-made jewelry, organic skincare, candles, and more. You might even find some fall-themed gifts or décor to take back home once your Halloween beach vacation comes to an end. There are four multiple locations for the 30A Farmers Market—the Watersound Town Center, Grand Boulevard, Rosemary Beach, and Niceville at Palm Plaza. The Rosemary Beach location is on Sundays, while the others are on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Check Out Local 30A Halloween Events
With so many towns along 30A, you’re likely to find a fun Halloween event nearby! In Watersound, The Big Chill (formerly known as The Hub) hosts a family-friendly trick-or-treat event on Halloween weekend, while the Village of Baytowne Wharf shopping center offers a Halloween trick-or-treat event as well—in previous years, the Village of Baytowne Wharf has also hosted spooky movie nights, with classic Halloween flicks such as Hocus Pocus. Depending on which town you’re near, there are also community events such as trunk-or-treats, where you can bring the kiddos to collect goodies from the trunk of decorated cars.
Experience the Best of 30A Shopping
Fall is the time for sales, and it’s no different on 30A, even though we have beach weather almost all year long! If you’d like to do a bit of shopping on your Halloween visit to 30A, you’ll find your options plentiful, from large outdoor shopping malls to boutique shops. You might even find the missing accessory to complete your perfect costume for a Halloween night out on 30A.
Celebrate the Halloween Season in Style in 30A
After spending a day at the beach, you can get dressed up in your spookiest gear and check out some of the local spots on 30A for a night full of music and dancing. Depending on where you’re staying, you’re likely to be near a venue with live music on the weekends. Some popular spots along the beach include the Salty Goat Saloon and Whiskeys Saloon. In the past, Local Catch Bar and Grill, Louis Louis, and the Old Florida Fish House have thrown Halloween bashes with DJs and costume contests! These are certainly some of the best places to go out for Halloween on 30A!
Reserve Your 30A Halloween Vacation Rental Today!
If you’re ready to learn more about our fabulous 30A Halloween beach vacation rentals, our friendly team is ready to chat—just give us a call, and we’ll help you pick the perfect 30A Halloween rental today!