Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many places to go and things to do, where do you start? If you’re heading to 30A, you’re in luck! This beautiful stretch of highway along Florida’s Emerald Coast is packed with fun activities, stunning beaches, and cozy spots to eat and stay. Here’s a guide to help you plan the perfect 30A family vacation, with tips straight from the locals.
1. Choose the Right Beach
30A is known for its pristine beaches, but each beach has its own vibe and unique features. Here are a few popular ones to consider:
Seaside: Perfect for families who love quaint, picturesque towns with lots of activities. You can rent bikes, explore art galleries, and grab a bite at the Seaside Airstream Row.
Grayton Beach: Ideal for adventurous families. This beach is part of Grayton Beach State Park, where you can hike, paddleboard, and even camp.
Seagrove Beach: Known for its old Florida vibes Seagrove is a great option for your vacation. Seagrove does have limited parking in certain places, so plan accordingly.
Blue Mountain Beach: Blue Mountain is one of the most forgotten-about stretches along 30A, but it still offers beautiful white sand and emerald water!
Rosemary Beach: A great choice for families who enjoy a bit of luxury. It has beautiful architecture, great restaurants, and charming shops.
2. Book a Family-Friendly Rental
When traveling with kids, having a comfortable place to stay is important. Consider renting a vacation home or condo with plenty of space, a kitchen, and amenities like a pool. Sites like Airbnb and VRBO have lots of options along 30A. Read reviews to find a place that suits your family’s needs.
3. Plan Fun Activities for Everyone
There’s no shortage of things to do on 30A. Here are some must-try activities:
Beach Bonfires: Book a beach bonfire with 30A Blaze. We will set everything up for you, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy the fire, s'mores, and sunset.
Biking: Rent bikes and explore the 30A bike trail. It’s a safe and fun way to see the area.
Paddleboarding: Try paddleboarding at one of the coastal dune lakes like Western Lake in Grayton Beach State Park.
Explore the Coastal Dune Lakes: Unique to this area, these lakes are a mix of fresh and saltwater. They’re great for kayaking and wildlife watching.
4. Eat at Family-Friendly Restaurants
Finding a restaurant that everyone in the family will enjoy can be challenging, but 30A offers plenty of options to satisfy all ages. Here are a few local favorites:
The Great Southern Café: Located in Seaside, this restaurant serves up a variety of Southern-style dishes. Kids will love the crispy fried chicken, while adults can savor the iconic shrimp and grits.
Bud & Alley’s: Also in Seaside, this spot is known for its rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the Gulf. It’s an excellent choice for a sunset dinner, with options that cater to both kids and adults.
Pizza by the Sea: With multiple locations along 30A, this casual eatery is a hit with families. Kids can enjoy their favorite pizza toppings, and adults will find plenty of fresh and delicious options, too.
These family-friendly spots ensure a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience, making it easy for everyone to find something they love.
Seaside Shenanigans: Where to Get Your Ice Cream Fix
What's a beach vacation without a little ice cream? After a long day of sun and sand, head to Frost Bites in Seaside for a cool treat. Their shaved ice is the perfect way to chill out, and the flavors are so wild you'll feel like a kid in a candy store! Trust us, you'll be dreaming about that rainbow snow cone all year long.
5. Visit Local Attractions
30A is brimming with family-friendly activities that create lasting memories. Here are a few must-visit attractions perfect for all ages:
The Seaside Amphitheater: This iconic outdoor venue hosts movies, concerts, and special events throughout the year. It’s a wonderful spot to unwind and enjoy an evening under the stars with the family.
Alys Beach Nature Trail: Perfect for a family hike, this serene trail offers an easy walk through beautiful scenery filled with local flora and fauna. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and get some fresh air.
Gulf World Marine Park: Just a short drive away near Panama City Beach, this marine park features exciting dolphin shows, interactive animal encounters, and educational exhibits. A great day trip for families with animal lovers.
6. Pack Smart
Packing for a family vacation can be a challenge. Here are a few essentials to bring for your 30A trip:
Sunscreen: The Florida sun is strong, so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen.
Beach Gear: Bring beach chairs, umbrellas, and plenty of towels.
Snacks and Drinks: It’s always good to have snacks and drinks on hand, especially if you spend the day at the beach.
Comfortable Clothes: Pack light, breathable clothing for the hot weather, and don’t forget swimsuits!
7. Safety First
Safety is a priority for any family vacation. Here are a few tips to keep everyone safe:
Swim Safely: Always swim near lifeguard stations and watch the flags that indicate water conditions.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you spend a lot of time in the sun.
Use Sun Protection: In addition to sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses to protect against the sun’s rays.
8. Enjoy Some Downtime
It’s important to schedule some downtime during your vacation. Spend a day just relaxing at the beach, take a leisurely bike ride, or enjoy a quiet evening with a beach bonfire. Sometimes, the best memories are made when you just hang out with your loved ones.
Conclusion
Planning the perfect 30A family vacation doesn’t have to be stressful. With beautiful beaches, fun activities, and great food, there’s something for everyone along 30A. Remember to book your beach bonfire with 30A Blaze for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your trip, make lots of memories, and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures!
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