30A is a picturesque area of the Gulf Coast between Destin and Panama City known for its charming beach communities, interesting history, and accolades from respected lists such as Journey with Dr. Beach crowning Grayton Beach “Best Beach in America”. With towns like Seaside offering award-winning design and collective impact on urban planning, the 19-mile stretch of paradise welcomes locals and tourists alike to uncover its secrets.
Widely celebrated by locals and tourists alike, 30A is a 19-mile stretch of paradise along the Gulf of Mexico, situated between Destin and Panama City. With its small, creative beach towns, 30A is beloved for its hidden gems and fun secrets. From beach day trivia to an intriguing history, 30A is sure to delight all who visit!
A Brief History of Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach, one of the first 30A communities, has seen an impressive history since 1911. Originally set up as a small resort for beachgoers from other areas of Walton County and Alabama, Grayton Beach became known for its attractive ‘air castles’ with low hip roofs called storm roofs and large screens with hinged shutters to protect from hurricanes. Nowadays, it is visited by many tourists and has been even named the “Best Beach in America” by “Dr. Beach”, a testament to its beauty and grandeur. Not only that, but other 30A communities have also received prestigious awards, making this region a celebrated coastal retreat.
The Foundations of Seaside, Florida
30A is the birthplace of New Urbanism, a movement that has been deemed by the New York Times as “the most important phenomenon to emerge in American architecture” in 50 years. This pioneering town development, founded by Robert and Daryl Davis more than 30 years ago, was artfully designed by architects Andrés Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk and is the epitome of traditional enclaves that foster an increased sense of place. Seaside’s signature features include sidewalks, bike paths, cobblestone streets, white picket fences, and nine beach pavilions, all within walking distance to homes, offices, and shopping and dining experiences. This esteemed movement has served as the inspiration for other renowned communities up and down the 30A coastline, such as Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Watercolor, and Watersound.
30A’s Legacy of Creative Design
30A’s architectural designs have garnered worldwide attention, from features in prominent magazines to recognition by the American Institute of Architects. Seaside, located at the heart of 30A, was the catalyst for this success – having offered architects early on an opportunity to be creative. The completion of a unique landmark honoring Vincent Scully, commissioned by renowned architect Dhiru Thadani and street artist Andrew Pisacane, further cemented 30A’s legacy as a leader in creative design. Moreover, the popular film The Truman Show, starring Jim Carrey, was filmed in Seaside, featuring landmarks such as Modica Market that can still be discovered today. Truly, 30A architecture is something to be proud of!
Exploring the World’s Largest Concentration of Coastal Dune Lakes
30A is proud to be home to the world’s largest concentration of coastal dune lakes, an incredible geographical feature found in only a few places on Earth. These 15 interconnected lakes, stretching 26 miles along Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, boast breathtaking beauty and offer plenty of activities. Visitors can take in magnificent sunsets from one of the local state parks, paddle board with the YOLO Board (founded in Santa Rosa Beach), go birding or kayaking, and enjoy both salt and freshwater fishing. The dune lakes are formed by winds that redistribute sand, creating shallow basins no more than 5 feet deep. They contain both fresh and saltwater species as water levels fluctuate between the lake and the nearby Gulf of Mexico.
Biking and Hiking Trails
Visitors to South Walton’s County Highway 30A can explore over 200 miles of biking and hiking trails, winding through protected forests and along the stunning coastline. The area is known for its serene environment, with no buildings towering higher than four stories. With an abundance of natural beauty, visitors can make lasting memories while exploring the area’s trails.
Celebrating the Arts of 30A
30A is home to an ever-growing art scene, with a prestigious “Artist of the Year” program and a plethora of art studios, antique dealers, and craft stores. Every year, the 30A Songwriter’s Festival attracts larger and larger crowds, while Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach has become one of the most unique forms of artistic events in the area. Additionally, Seaside Repertory Theatre offers incredible live shows throughout the year. This vibrant and diverse art community is a testament to the power of creativity and passion.
Celebrities Flocking to 30A
30A is quickly becoming a celebrity hotspot, with high-profile visitors such as Kenny Chesney, Reese Witherspoon, Lady Antebellum, Luke Bryan, Sean Payton, Katie Holmes, Faith Hill, Zac Brown, Katherine Heigl, Courteney Cox, Sheryl Crow, Emeril Lagasse, Amy Grant, Mike Huckabee, and Jane Seymour owning homes on the beautiful stretch of shoreline. Not only does 30A attract these stars, but it also offers stunning outdoor destinations like Eden State Gardens. This 63-acre Florida State Park features a historic two-story mansion dating back 600 years, ornamental gardens, heritage roses, and towering Spanish moss-draped live oaks. With all of these attractions, it’s no wonder why celebrities and visitors alike flock to 30A throughout the year.
Family-Friendly Activities and Events
Experience the award-winning 30A vacation destination that has something for everyone. From quaint towns and beautiful beaches to family-friendly activities and events, this area offers a respite from everyday life. Enjoy world-renown fishing, award-winning restaurants, nightlife, and nature all within reach as well as an array of family-fun activities. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take a break – book your 30A vacation rental with Condo-World today and experience all that 30A has to offer!
30A is a magnificent coastal retreat full of unique and interesting locales. Its history and expert design have combined to create beach towns that are both beautiful and perceptive, appealing to visitors both near and far who come back to make it one of their favorite places to stay. Whether it’s to explore Grayton Beach’s rich tradition or Seaside’s influences on the global New Urbanism movement, every traveler would agree that there is so much that the wonderful coastline of 30A has to offer. With its pleasantly surprising secrets and not-so-secrets alike, the area lives up to its reputation as a paradise for locals and tourists alike.
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