30A Beach Towns Guide (2025 - by locals)
- Local Jetsetter
- Jan 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 16
Let’s explore 11 beach communities connected along 24 miles of scenic highway!
NO. 1
Dune Allen
The start of Highway 30A coming from Miramar Beach. Glamp under the stars at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park .
Top Restaurant: Stinky’s Fish Camp - local seafood with lake views
NO. 2
Local art, shops and restaurants!
Top Dining:
Shunk Gulley - fresh seafood with gulf views
Pecan Jack’s - homemade ice cream and treats
NO. 3
Blue Mountain
Got its name by the beautiful Blue Lupines that cover the coastal dunes at peak elevation.
Top Restaurants:
Cafe Tango - A hidden gem. Located inside one of the oldest cottages on Highway 30A, this cozy place features amazing steaks with a menu focused on authentic Spanish and Mediterranean flavors and unique wines. Perfect for intimate date nights. *Reservations highly recommended!
M & P - An American Omakase: translated to “I'll leave it up to you." Curated menus by Chef Farrington highlight the diversity and breadth of American food by elevating the typical "meat and potatoes" into inventive courses with an element of surprise. Dining here is an immersive, luxurious experience for all of your senses that transports you somewhere else - a restaurant unlike any other on Highway 30A. *Make reservations!
NO. 4
Grayton
The funkiest spot in town where you’ll probably run into the most locals. “Nice dogs, strange people.”
Top Recommendations:
Red Bar: Iconic staple and dive featuring large portions of awesome food and live music
Crackings: Local family owned excellent breakfast and brunch spot!
Borago: A classic trattoria with a contemporary flair serving homemade Italian food. Find locals sitting at the bar at this favorite neighborhood spot (plus ask for their off-menu "Priscilla Pasta" and thank us later)! *Reservations highly recommended!
NO. 5
Stunning beach community including private clubs, peaceful trails to explore and more!
Top Restaurant:
Wine Bar - Dine al fresco on Hwy. 30A or inside and enjoy their extensive award winning wine list, small plates, sandwiches, pizzas, salads and more.
NO. 6
Picture perfect and featured in the film, “The Truman Show”. There is no shortage of places to dine and shop here! Seaside also hosts a Farmers Market on Saturdays.
Top Restaurants:
87 Central - Chef Jim Shirley's newest restaurant in Seaside, FL along Highway 30A! Indulge in award winning wines, sushi, charcuterie and shareable plates al fresco. Find the wine bar tucked between Great Southern Cafe and Sundog Books.
Great Southern Cafe - This is the perfect brunch and dinner spot for favorites like Grits A Ya Ya, authentic Po’ Boys, Pensacola Pulled Pork and the best Mojitos on 30A! Fresh produce from nearby farms and seafood from the Gulf of Mexico creates a remarkable menu stationed footsteps from the beach and nearby shops. This beloved 30A restaurant is a must-do!
NO. 7
Seagrove
The middle of Highway 30A. Peaceful scenery in a growing community.
Top Recommendations:
Clay Garden & Gifts: Peaceful garden nursery and unique gifts
Old Florida Fish House: Fantastic sushi, fresh seafood, special ticketed dinners, live entertainment, events and a beautiful outdoor space for the whole family to enjoy!
NO. 8
Top Recommendation:
The Big Chill - the hang-out spot for the whole family to enjoy a variety of open-air eateries, shops, live music, sports games and events!
NO. 9
Top Dining:
O-Ku - Amazing Asian dishes and sushi
The Citizen - A coastal tavern serving creative local fare! A Greek inspired oasis that feels out of this world.
Fonville Press - Great cafe and market
NO. 10
Seacrest Beach
Peddler’s Pavilion has a little bit of everything for shopping and dining!
Top Restaurants:
Ticheli's - homemade Italian pizzas and meatballs
La Co - Mexican
NO. 11
You’d swear you’re walking through a romantic, little European town. The end of Highway 30A connecting to Inlet Beach with lots of shopping down Main Street! Farmers Market on Sundays.
Top Spots:
Restaurant Paradis - Romantic steak house vibes, coastal cuisine, cocktails and wine. Perfect for a date night and celebrations. *Reservations highly recommended!
Hidden Lantern - Our favorite little book shop on Highway 30A
Comments