Our week at 30a was the most relaxing, happy vacation. I left a piece of my heart there and cannot wait to go back. We got so lucky with the most perfect weather and love going in early May before school is out and it gets really crowded.
We have been traveling to the Destin/30a area since I was in middle school. My parents had a time share there at one point, and we have definitely found our favorite places over the years. Here are a few of our top recommendations.
Where to Stay
Rent a house – we always get a house because there are so many great options and we like having a kitchen to be able to cook! When I am looking for a house, I always start with 360 Blue. We also have used VRBO and Panhandle Getaways.
If you don’t want to rent a house, the Pearl is a beautiful boutique hotel within walking distance to the beach, great shopping & so many good restaurants. I also have a ton of friends that love the Adagio (condos) because of the easy access to the beach.
Where to Eat
There are so many amazing restaurants, it’s hard to pick! I will just give ya’ll our favorites!
- The Perfect Pig – we love this place! Their salmon on the dinner menu is so good, Lee thought it was the best salmon he has ever had. Their quiche for breakfast or lunch is to die for! I could eat here for breakfast, lunch and dinner! They have multiple locations across 30a.
- The Great Southern – another favorite for sure. If you go for dinner get there early because they do not take reservations. They have a great happy hour and we love their mojitos! My favorite is the mango.
- Bud & Alley’s – directly on the beach with an awesome view of the ocean in Seaside. It’s a perfect spot to take an Instagram worthy pic. The food and drinks are both great, I love the frose!
- Whiskey Bravo – the name sounds like a bar, but it’s a great restaurant with a rooftop patio with awesome views of the ocean. They do take reservations which is nice & hard to find in this area!
- Cowgirl Kitchen – Our favorite for breakfast. They have multiple locations across 30a. You won’t regret ordering the “All-American” and for a healthier option we love their avocado toast!
- George’s – family friendly but perfect for a date night if you can sneak away! The food and atmosphere are both fantastic! They don’t take reservations either so go early if you can!
A few places we want to try are Neat, Caliva & Pescado. We didn’t get a chance on this trip, but we are hoping to next year!
What to Do
- Shopping: for kids go to Duckie’s, Gigi’s, & Bump + Baby. For women’s clothing/accessories: Ophelia & Willow Boutique have multiple locations across 30a. Cabana & The Seaside Style are in Seaside along the beach next to Bud & Alley’s.
- The Hub – a great spot for kids to get their energy out. They have live music or a DJ at night with a huge lawn for the kids to run, play and dance. There are tons of different restaurants, an ice cream shop, and a bar for the parents. The food is honestly pretty over-priced /mediocre. I would go after dinner and let the kids get ice cream and play while you enjoy a cocktail on the lawn!
- Explore each town along 30a. Each one has a different feel, and I love them all for different reasons! My favorites are Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Aly’s Beach and Watercolor.
What are your favorite spots on 30a? If you have any questions about the area, I am happy to help! Feel free to send me an email! 
xo,
Laura
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