Area Information
There are lots of free concerts, improv shows, magic shows, and farmer’s markets in all the little beach communities The best place to see what is happening is 30A.com (which also comes as an app). You can also check the events calendars for each of the little resort neighborhoods here:
Bikes are a great way to move around the area and can really add to the fun! These are some of our favorite vendors for bikes, beach setups, and deep-sea fishing. (Or…if you prefer, you can bring your own chairs, umbrellas, or tents)
Find our list of favorite restaurants here. Please let us know if you have a favorite others should know about, and we will add them!
Its not all about the beach. Off-the-sand activity suggestions
Vendors and Outfitters
Beach setups —- The building has an exclusive contract with Dillion’s Beach Service. During the off-season, Dillion’s may refer you to other vendors. Please feel free to bring your own beach chairs too. All the gas stations, grocery stores, etc. sell inexpensive chairs and umbrellas
Lots of vendors rent bikes in the area. They all offer quality bikes and similar rates and they all deliver your bikes directly to the condo. We often use the rather unimaginatively named 30a Bike Rental. If you find a better place, let us know!
We are certainly no authority on Deep Sea Fishing outfitters, but Captain Anderson in Panama City Beach has taken us out for a great time several times. Whether or not fishing is your game, you are sure to enjoy the time
Kayaks and Paddle board rentals are also available in the area
Restaurant Suggestions - So Many Places…So Little Time
The Hub is only a mile (east) from the condo and has several open-air options - plus a giant TV for game day.
Seaside area
Bud and Alley’s - an institution. Great pizza, great seafood, great location
Great Southern Cafe - It’s not my thing, but I seem to be the only one
Airstream trailers - all part of the Seaside experience
Alys Beach
Georges for lunch. Get the Grouper sandwich for lunch. Better yet, ride your bike there from the condo, such a great afternoon!
Caliza is a bit on the pricey side, but a great choice if you are looking to splurge a bit
Rosemary Beach
Cowgirl Kitchen. Great tacos. (We have a place in Austin, so something of an expert on the subject)
Paradis - a beautiful spot for a nice dinner. Reservations and a sizeable credit limit on your credit card are recommended
La Crema is an inventive lunch spot. Very interesting menu
Havana is one of my new favorite bars/restaurants. I love the character of the place and it has a great menu.
Watercolor/Grayton Beach
I am legally required to mention Grayton Beach’s Red Bar. It is perhaps the best-known restaurant in a 200 mile radius. Limited menu, done well. The decor is pure old Florida
Cafe Tango THE BEST restaurant in the area. Costly though
Non - Beach suggestions
At the top of this page, we mentioned outdoor music, improv, and magic shows, the schedule for which can be seen on 30a.com. There are a ton of them, depending on the season. The Saturday morning farmer’s market in Rosemary is a local favorite.
Additionally, in Seaside there are some great toy stores including Duckie’s Shop of Fun, Sundog Books (my favorite book store), and a great glass gallery to peruse.
Econfina is a bit of a drive, but a wonderfully clear spring-fed lazy kayak experience.
Deer Lake State Park on the north side of 30a offers short, but interesting little hiking opportunities. Its great for kids!
Conservation State Park is about 20 minutes away and has longer hikes through some true Florida wetlands…very interesting. If you have a bike carrier, bikes are welcome here.