Take a Tour Along 30-A

Separating powder-white sands and emerald-green waters from award winning dining and diverse shopping, Highway 30- A is a road leading to all that is good. So take a road trip... or bike ride... and discover the amazing beach communities that surround this South Walton Beach Highway.

First stop, Santa Rosa Beach’s Gulf Place! An artist community filled with shops, boutiques, and unique eateries. Stop in for some coffee and conversation at Miss Lucille’s Gossip Parlor. Walk around this unique European- style complex and enjoy local art and outdoor concerts on a lush green lawn.

Bordering Santa Rosa Beach is Blue Mountain Beach. Here’s where we park the car and pay a visit to Big Daddy’s Bikes & Beach Sports Bike Rentals. We can now take advantage of one of the most breathtaking bike paths in the world! Ride alongside white sand beaches and sea oat- covered dunes, past freshwater coastal lakes and saltwater inlets.

Which brings us to our next stop. Welcome to Grayton Beach! Bordering one of the largest and most scenic of the 11 rare coastal dune lakes, the 220-acre Western Lake. Grayton Beach is home to sea turtles and shore birds as well as award winning restaurants. Number one on our list - Picolo’s Restaurant and the (world-famous) Red Bar! A long-time favorite of locals and visitors. Get ready for great food in generous portions and an atmosphere that is laid- back and uniquely Grayton Beach. You must visit this early evening and late night hot spot!

Pedaling through Water Sound brings us to Seaside, the cultural and commercial center of 30-A. Famous for is debut in the film The Truman Show, Seaside is as picturesque and successful as the story portrayed. With a shelf full of prestigious architectural awards and a full calendar of cultural events, it’s no wonder visitors flock to its shores in droves.

Cruising on to Old Seagrove and Seagrove Beach where you can slow down the pace and enjoy the sights. Seagrove is home to the Eastern Lake Bike/Hike Trail where you’ll find wildlife in its natural habitat. Then stop for a bite at Café Thirty A, one of the best restaurants on the Highway. Casual, fine dining featuring a delectable menu of seafood and organic meats. Not to mention impressive desserts and creative martinis. Then continue on through Water Sound and onto Camp Creek Lake and St. Joe’s 18-hole Camp Creek Golf Club.

Winding down to the end of the Highway we hit Rosemary Beach. A Quaint beach community reminiscent of the Southwest – white stucco, bell towers, beautiful beaches, up-scale shopping, and restaurants. Head to Main Street for Artisan Cheeses and a wide variety of up-scale wines. Courtyard Wine and Cheese is an eclectic wine and cheese bar featuring over 50 wines by the glass. Enjoy a glass of wine and breathtaking views in their unique open- air courtyard.

Spend the day where nature and beauty abounds and food and fun surrounds an 18- mile highway. Visit the Beaches of South Walton, Highway 30-A.

Published on Monday, January 5, 2009