A few years back, Visit Florida extended an invitation for us to explore their renowned beaches. We were instantly captivated by the charm and beauty of 30A… so much so that we went back for spring break this year!
From pontoon boating to finding the most delicious eats and some extremely competitive mini golf, there are so many things to do in 30A. There truly is something for everyone which makes this little town a hit with our entire family, from our littlest one to the teenagers.
We will most certainly be back again soon, but in the meantime, we’ve rounded up all of our favorites for you to check out below!
Things To Do in 30A
Spend the Day on a Pontoon Boat
We kicked off our adventure with a pontoon boat rental from 30A Watersports, where we saw a bunch of dolphins, fish, and pelicans. It was such a cool experience, like having front-row seats to a nature show!
Even though we’re not exactly seasoned boaters, we found it easy to get the hang of things, proving that anyone can give it a try.
Our teenagers absolutely loved it, too. They were all about steering us through the waves and getting up close with the marine life. It definitely made for some epic family memories and was one of the highlights of our trip!
Enjoy The Big Chill Experience
Oh my goodness, The Big Chill in 30A, Florida, is seriously a gem! Why can’t we have something like this back home?
Don’t let the name fool you; The Big Chill isn’t a cheeky nod to the cool weather. It’s a buzzing hub of shops, restaurants, and bars, all conveniently clustered along the scenic 30A strip. It was just a mile from where we stayed and totally became our go-to spot. We even picked up our rental bikes here. The variety there is great; from dining spots to sweet treats.
It’s an absolute paradise for families. You can kick back with some live tunes, enjoy a wide range of eats, play some corn hole, and let the kids go wild in the candy shop. And for the grown-ups? The 30Avenue location within The Big Chill serves up a killer selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, all in the coolest, laid-back setting.
Mini Golf and Go Karting at The Track
Our cousin, who’s practically a 30A veteran, tipped us off about The Track in Destin, and it did not disappoint! It’s a playground of fun with mini golf, three-story go-karting, slick track go-karting, kiddie rides, and an arcade.
Just a 35-minute drive from our beach hangout, it was the perfect change of pace from the usual beach and pool days. Everyone had a blast, and it was a great way to mix things up!
Experience North Beach Social
North Beach Social became one of our favorite things to do in 30A when we visited last time. This beachside restaurant and bar offers a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of activities and amenities that are perfect for families with kids.
One of the best things about North Beach Social is the location. It’s situated right on the beach, so kids can play in the sand and surf while parents relax and enjoy a meal or a drink.
The beach is well-maintained, and there are plenty of chairs and umbrellas available for rent, so you don’t have to worry about lugging your own gear.
In addition to the beach, North Beach Social has a variety of family-friendly activities. There is a large grassy area where kids can run around and play games, and there are also cornhole boards and other outdoor games available to borrow.
The restaurant also has a playground area with a slide and other equipment, which is perfect for younger children.
Visit the Adorable Seaside Community
This is one of my favorite stops on the trip through 30A. Seaside is a picturesque town (the movie Truman show was filmed there) You’ll find delicious find trucks lining the streets, some of the most adorable shops I have ever been in, and of course delicious eats line this little town.
Grab a ball or frisbee and play in the amphitheater when a show is not playing. This place is a must visit.
Local Tip! We always prioritize chatting with the locals and getting their best tips when visiting a new place. Here’s what we heard from them over and over again in 30A… avoid spring break if you don’t want to deal with the crowds! The busiest times of year are the week before and after Easter, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the 4th of July. If you do visit during those times, it’s best to avoid Seaside at night. There tends to be a high police presence and a lot of unsupervised teens.
Grab Breakfast at Black Bear Bread Co.
We’ve got a whole article breaking down the best food in 30A, but we just can’t help but mention Black Bread Co. here as well. After all, getting a good food counts as an activity in my book!
This bakery and café offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and a variety of options that are perfect for both kids and adults. You will find options for breakfast and lunch, including pastries, sandwiches, salads, and more. Plus, a kids’ menu that includes options like grilled cheese, peanut butter and jelly, and ham and cheese croissants.
The bakery also offers a variety of breads that are baked fresh daily. Don’t forget to sneak one back to your Airbnb for a snack later!
Beach day at Seaside Beach
When you think of Florida, you think of the beach, right? Well, Seaside Beach is a must-visit destination on 30A. This beautiful beach offers crystal-clear water and soft, white sand.
It’s perfect for kids of all ages, and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether your kids want to build sandcastles, play in the waves, or simply soak up the sun, Seaside Beach is the perfect spot for a family day out.
Take a Bike Ride along the Timpoochee Trail
The Timpoochee Trail is a 19-mile paved bike path that winds through the 30A area. It’s a great way to explore the area with your family and take in the beautiful scenery. Rent bikes for the day and pack a picnic lunch for a fun-filled family adventure.
Visit The Village of Baytowne Wharf
We also loved visiting the Village of Baytown Wharf. It is a wonderful destination for families, and as a mom, I highly recommend it.
This charming village is located on the banks of the Choctawhatchee Bay and offers a variety of activities and amenities that are sure to keep both kids and adults entertained.
One of the highlights of the Village of Baytown Wharf is the variety of restaurants and dining options available.
As a mom, I appreciate that there are plenty of family-friendly options, such as pizza and ice cream shops, as well as more upscale dining options for date nights or special occasions. There are also several outdoor dining areas with beautiful views of the bay, which makes for a lovely backdrop to any meal.
Another great aspect of the Village of Baytown Wharf is the abundance of shops and boutiques. My kids love browsing the toy stores and candy shops, while I enjoy perusing the boutiques for unique gifts and souvenirs. There is something for everyone, and the variety of shops ensures that no one will leave empty-handed.
The Village of Baytown Wharf also offers plenty of family-friendly activities. The Adventure Zone is a must-visit for families with kids, as it offers zip-lining, ropes courses, and a bungee trampoline.
There is also a playground area and a splash pad for younger children. My family also enjoys renting bikes and exploring the scenic trails that wind through the village. Check it out here: https://www.baytownewharf.com
Go on a Hunt for the Best Dessert
Moolala on Cannery Lane is a must-visit spot if you’re in the mood for some delicious ice cream, featuring unique flavors like browned butter bourbon. This place is more than just an ice cream shop—it’s part of a massive shopping area complete with a giant kids’ playground. There’s plenty of fun activities for kids and even live music, making it a great hangout spot for the whole family. The drive from Seacrest is absolutely worth it for a fun-filled day at this vibrant location.
If you love fresh homemade ice cream, fudge, toffee, and all things delicious, Pecan Jacks is the stop for you. Just be warned they are often packed with a line forming on the street to grab some of their unique delectable flavors.
Last but not least, Nigel’s Bananas! This is a fun spot near the food trucks in Seaside.
Visit Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is another must-visit destination on 30A. This beautiful park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
There are also hiking trails to explore, and you can even take a guided nature walk to learn more about the area’s plants and wildlife.
Check out the Local Farmers Market
The 30A Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh, locally grown produce and handmade goods. It’s open on Sundays from 9 am to 1 pm, so plan to visit early in the day before it gets too crowded.
Your kids will love exploring the market and trying some of the delicious treats on offer.
Take a Dolphin Tour
If your kids love marine life, they’ll be thrilled to take a dolphin tour on the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of tour operators in the area, and they all offer a unique experience.
Some tours even include the opportunity to see other marine animals, like sea turtles and sharks.
Pro Tip! I highly recommend renting a car. You will need to drive to visit all the different little areas like Aly’s Beach, Grayton Beach, Watersound, Seaside, and Seacrest – this is what makes vacationing here so fun!
Visit the Gulf World Marine Park
The Gulf World Marine Park is located in nearby Panama City Beach and is home to a variety of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays. Your kids will love seeing these animals up close and learning about their habitats and behaviors. There are also plenty of shows and demonstrations to enjoy.
Take a Kayaking Trip
Kayaking is a great way to explore the 30A area from a different perspective! There are plenty of tour operators that offer guided kayaking trips through the local waterways.
Visit the Emerald Coast Science Center
The Emerald Coast Science Center is a hands-on science museum located in Fort Walton Beach. It offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. Your kids will love exploring the museum and learning about science in a fun and engaging way.
Visit the South Walton Turtle Watch
The South Walton Turtle Watch is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of sea turtles in the area. Your kids will love learning about these amazing creatures and even have the opportunity to participate in a nest excavation to see baby turtles hatching.
Experience an Eco-Tour
As a mom, it is important to me to consciously incorporate things within our family that is more green and eco-friendly into our home and travels.
That said, I was thrilled to find out that one of the many things to do in 30A, Florida is to experience an eco-tour. Several companies in 30A Florida offer eco-tours that allow families to explore the local wildlife and ecosystems. These tours can include kayaking through marshes or taking a guided hike through local forests.
You can learn more about 30A Eco-Tours here!
Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is another great destination for marine animal lovers. It’s located in nearby Fort Walton Beach and is home to a variety of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and alligators. Your kids will love seeing these animals up close and learning about their habitats and behaviors.
Visit the Santa Rosa Beach
The Santa Rosa Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline that’s perfect for families. It offers soft, white sand and crystal-clear water, and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, including snorkeling, fishing, and paddle boarding.
Where to Stay in 30A?
There are two places we’d highly recommend staying in 30A. With a beach destination, I find it extra important to pick lodging that you love because so much of your day will be spent lounging around and spending time at the beaches nearest to you!
Mermaids of Magnolia Airbnb in Seacrest
On our most recent trip, we stayed at a fantastic Airbnb in the Seacrest area. It had private beach access, which was a major highlight. For private beach access, you do have to rent two chairs and an umbrella for about $40. They set everything up for you and it’s absolutely worth it! They allow you to bring extra chairs and towels to hang around the set-up.
We had access to a pool right across the street and the house came with a golf cart, which was perfect for quick trips around the area. We also rented bikes for the week at around $65 each, complete with trailers and tag-along bike options for the little ones.
Staying at an Airbnb is a game-changer for us as a big family. It’s great having everyone in one place, not to mention the perks of a full kitchen and different bedrooms to accommodate everyone’s bedtime schedules (an important consideration when you’ve got little ones, teens, and parents on different schedules). It just makes the whole family vacation smoother and more enjoyable!
The Lodge 30A
As a mom, finding family-friendly accommodations can be a challenge, but The Lodge 30A in Florida is an amazing destination for families.
This beachside resort offers a variety of amenities and activities that are perfect for all ages, making it a great choice for families looking to enjoy a fun and relaxing vacation together.
One of the best things about The Lodge 30A is its location. The resort is situated right on the beach, so families can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf just steps from their room.
In addition to the beach, The Lodge 30A has a variety of family-friendly activities. There is a large outdoor pool that is perfect for kids to splash around in, as well as a hot tub for parents to relax in.
The resort also has a game room with a variety of arcade games, pool tables, and more, which is great for older kids and teens.
The rooms at The Lodge 30A are also great for families. They are spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for parents and kids to spread out.
Bonus amenity of Lodge 30A – Watersound Beach Club!
This is one of the best parts of staying at the lodge. For an additional fee, you can get access to the Watersound Beach Club. This club has private pools, lazy rivers, basketball courts, a private beach entrance, restaurants and so much more. The amenities are incredible.
30A, Florida is a wonderful destination for families with kids of all ages. It seems almost too good to be true. From beautiful beaches to outdoor adventures and fun-filled attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in 30A!
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Ashland, one of our main editors, is also a mom and an ardent Disney enthusiast. Her love for the magical world of Disney is paralleled only by her passion for cooking. Ashland brings a unique perspective to our team, blending her editorial skills with her personal experiences of motherhood, Disney adventures, and culinary explorations to enrich our content.
