Florida’s panhandle is often called the Emerald Coast because of the way its super white beaches contrast with the beautiful water so it’s no wonder people flock to this area for their beach vacations.

If you’ve never been to the area before (or you’re thinking about switching up your usual spot on the coast), there’s basically three major towns/cities where tourists cluster: Pensacola, Destin, and Panama City Beach.

Before I get into the specifics of each place, I think these three spots all have a somewhat similar vibe.

Well…how do I say this…they don’t call this the Redneck Riviera for nothing. This part of Florida is most heavily visited by people from the surrounding southern states so it’s a total 180 from what you’ll find in south florida.

Besides all of that, you’ll find high rise condos, Joe’s Crab Trap type restaurants, and putt putt mini golf/amusement parks in all three.

Have I painted a picture?

But…but, but, but. The beach. The entire stretch of coast from Pensacola to Panama City Beach is pretty much the most beautiful beach you’ll find in the entire state of Florida. Which is really saying something.

Powder fine, sugar white sand. Turquoise water. Waves that are calm enough to swim in but still be fun. This is why you come here.

We’re talking about a Caribbean-esque beach super close to home.

Destin vs Panama City Beach vs Pensacola

90 miles of sugar white sand and emerald water stretch along the panhandle from Pensacola through Destin and onto Panama City Beach including smaller beach communities like Navarre, Fort Walton Beach, and Santa Rosa’s famous Scenic Highway 30a.

Let’s cover the “big three” from west to east:

Pensacola

Pensacola Beach, located close to the “Flora Bama” border just 60 miles east of Mobile, is a family friendly beach destination that blends natural beauty and all of the trappings of a classic beach vacation.

The beach is pretty much world renowned for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear, emerald-green waters. It’s a picturesque setting that’s perfect for relaxation, laying in the sun, taking leisurely walks…or adventure. With a beach like this, there’s always plenty to do…swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, fishing, etc.

While there’s plenty going on, the overall vibe of Pensacola Beach is pretty casual and relaxed and very family friendly. There’s plenty to do for all ages and kids especially like the Pensacola Beach Pier.

One of my favorite things about Pensacola Beach is its proximity to the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Gulf Islands National Seashore is a protected area just east of Pensacola that is known for its pristine beaches (even more so than usual), historic sites, and “birding.”

If you’re staying in Pensacola Beach, you don’t really need to pack up the car and drive out here for a beach day, but I really enjoy driving through the park as a scenic day trip.

Also, a visit to Fort Pickens (the far west end of Pensacola Beach on the barrier island) is great for history buffs or just an extra activity when you get tired of the beach.

Pensacola Beach is in close proximity to Naval Air Station Pensacola, the home base of the famous Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron. The team often practices over the area, and their aerial displays are a sight to behold.

Pensacola’s big attraction is the National Naval Aviation Museum. It’s a world class museum and 100% worth a day away from the beach. Plus the Naval Air Station in Pensacola is also home to the Blue Angels. It’s not unusual to see them practicing in the area and Pensacola Beach hosts a few events throughout the year where you can see them fly.

I think Pensacola Beach is a more compact area than Destin or Panama City Beach. Yes, there’s pretty much an endless stretch of small to medium condo buildings along the island towards Gulf Islands National Seashore, but most of the hotels and restaurants are clustered close to the bridge from the mainland.

Most of the hotels here are in the Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn range (but the nice resort versions) and there’s also a Margaritaville and a Hilton.

Food options are your typical touristy beach town variety…Crabs on the Beach, Riptides, Flounder’s, etc.

Pensacola Beach Condos & Vacation Rentals: Check here to find the best condos in Pensacola Beach. You can filter for your wish list (exact location, price, # of rooms, pet friendly, etc.). And if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be pleased to find many options under $100/night.

Search for Pensacola Beach condos and vacation rentals here.

***Want to save major $$$ on your next trip? I get asked ALL the time how I’m able to travel so often and stay at really nice resorts. Well, my favorite travel hack is cashing in points to score free airfare and free nights at high end resorts and hotels. Read my full guide on the exact system I use to max out credit card rewards here. Seriously, it’s going to save you soooo much money.

Destin

About 50 miles east of Pensacola, the Destin area includes Fort Walton Beach to the west, Destin “proper”, and Miramar Beach to the east.

At its core, Destin is a quintessential beach town. Days here revolve around the beach, and the evening’s main activity is always watching the sunset into the Gulf of Mexico.

Yes, you’ll find those same stunning white sand beaches here that the whole coast is famous for, but Destin has quite a bit more going on than nearby Pensacola and Panama City Beach.

What used to be a sleepy fishing village (Destin is known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”) has become THE beach destination on Florida’s panhandle.

While all three of these spots in the panhandle can be described as family friendly (except maybe Panama City Beach around spring break), Destin is very much the most family-oriented destination and it’s because of the sheer amount of activities the town has to offer. From water parks and adventure golf to themed bowling and beachside playgrounds, it’s not hard to find things to do when the kids get tired of just going to the beach.

And besides all of that, it’s basically a sportsman and outdoor lovers paradise: fishing, boating, snorkeling, parasailing, etc.

Plus the area is also known for its excellent golf courses and tennis facilities.

Tired of all of that? Destin is the shoppers paradise too! Yes there’s the huge outlet mall, but there’s also a handful of more upscale shopping centers in the area (I like Grand Boulevard and the Baytowne Wharf).

And when you’re ready for dinner (or breakfast or lunch or a small snack!), Destin has enough restaurants to handle the crowds. A lot of what’s here are big chain restaurants or your typical Florida beach spots but there are more local restaurants as well.

A big selling point about Destin is that while you can definitely find a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences, Destin has a more upscale feel than Pensacola or Panama City Beach.

It by far has the best selection of plush condos and luxury resorts plus nicer restaurants and amenities. But it’s not “snobby” at all. It’s an extremely accessible and low key destination.

Destin Condos & Vacation Rentals: Check here to find the best condos in Destin. You can filter for your wish list (exact location, price, # of rooms, pet friendly, etc.). And if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be pleased to find many options under $100/night.

Search for Destin condos and vacation rentals here.

Panama City Beach

If you’re looking for “action,” Panama City Beach is where you want to be. And if you’re trying to avoid the action, eh, I’d probably recommend avoiding PCB.

Here’s the deal…Panama City Beach has a LOT to offer in terms of postcard worthy beaches and sun soaked days. Seriously, you can spend a great vacation here doing ALL the beach things, and they’ve really worked hard to play up the family friendly aspect in recent years (there’s a waterpark, marine park, amusement park on the pier with a movie theater, Dave & Buster’s, etc.).

But once the sun goes down it’s a different story.

Whether its reputation is deserved or not, Panama City Beach has become famous as one of the top Spring Break destinations in the United States and it’s definitely a certain kind of spring breakers if you know what I mean. It’s the kind of vibe that I try to avoid at all costs.

As far as hotels, it’s got the Holiday Inn and Springhill Suites types of places, but it’s mostly condo-tels. And expect the same big chain restaurants, fast food, and typical beach places.

Panama City Beach Condos & Vacation Rentals: Check here to find the best condos in Panama City Beach. You can filter for your wish list (exact location, price, # of rooms, pet friendly, etc.). And if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be pleased to find many options under $100/night.

Search for Panama City Beach condos and vacation rentals here.

Destin vs Panama City Beach vs Pensacola: Which One Is Best?

So which place is best? Well, folks I won’t leave you in suspense…it’s Destin for me. By a landslide. Destin is just bigger and nicer than Panama City Beach and Pensacola, and whatever your expectations are for accommodations, dining, or shopping, you’ll be able to find what you want.

But for the sake of nuance, let’s hash it out a little more:

Airport Options

All three places have pretty decent airports and while VPS is the biggest with the most options, the other two aren’t completely irrelevant.

Destin/Fort Walton Beach (VPS)

Panama City Beach (ECP)

Pensacola (PNS)

Location

We’re only talking 90 miles or so that separate Pensacola from Panama City Beach so I doubt you’ll make the decision of one place over the other based strictly on distance/drive time, but depending on where you’re driving from, Pensacola could be an hour or so closer than Destin (and even closer than PCB) so that could make it attractive.

Best Beaches

This isn’t a deciding point either. The beaches from Pensacola to PCB are all exquisite. It’s basically 90 miles of the most gorgeous white sand beaches you’ve ever seen. You cannot make a bad decision here. The nuances come down to the beach towns themselves and what kind of vibe you’re after.

Which brings me to…

Destin vs Panama City Beach vs Pensacola

I’ve already told you that Destin is my pick. It’s more developed (in a good way I think) and just all around nicer.

I mentioned that whatever your expectations are for accommodations, dining, or shopping, you’ll be able to find what you want. Here’s what I mean:

If you like the spring breakish crab trap/amusement park/mini golf/10 tees for $20 you’ll find your places and if you like a quieter and nicer place to stay with a good pool/good seafood dinners/upscale shopping then you’ll find it too.

I really like the east end of Destin (Sandestin really) and will usually always hit up the Baytowne Wharf and Grand Boulevard no matter where I’m staying in the area.

If I were personally planning a trip to Destin, I would stay at the Henderson Beach Resort. It’s right smack in the middle of Destin, but it borders Henderson Beach State Park so it’s pretty quiet.

The only real drawback to Destin are the crowds. They’ve done a lot to fix the roads and traffic problems in recent years (it’s still a crowded beach town so don’t expect no traffic) but there’s just a lot built here. It’s good and it’s bad.

Pensacola has less built up than the other two for sure and has a bit of a retro feel, but for the number of hotel rooms, I don’t think there are enough restaurants or “things to do.” If you’re planning to park yourself on the beach and hit the grocery store to make sandwiches and you’re fine with the same few restaurants for dinner…it’s probably where you’ll find the least crowded beaches.

And I’ll just level with you…I would steer clear of Panama City Beach. I’m sure plenty of people love it but it’s not for me.

*I’ve actually gotten some not so happy feedback on this post from a local or two in the past as the local business community has worked hard to bury their spring break reputation and attract more families, but my mission with this blog is always to tell YOU what I would tell a friend…and what I would tell a friend is that it’s just way too spring breakish and jam packed with things that I don’t really love.

Here’s the deal…If Panama City Beach was the only spot in the area with these kinds of beaches, I could definitely justify going there and just doing my best to avoid all the other stuff that I don’t love, but it’s not the only place in the area.

It’s relatively close to Destin (not to mention all the cute little beach towns on 30a) so I just wouldn’t ever choose to stay in PCB.

And to wrap this up, I’m sure you’re reading this post because you’re trying to narrow it down between Destin vs Panama City Beach vs Pensacola, but for funsies let me throw another option at you.

One of my absolute favorite spots in all of Florida is the scenic 30a highway in between Destin and Panama City Beach. Yes, it’s in the Destin and PCB area, but trust me it’s a world away.

The cutest, quaintest beach towns you’ll ever see and a little more “highbrow” than the surrounding areas. Read my 30a travel guide to get a feel for the area here.

On Another Note: If you’re looking for a condo or vacation rental for your trip, I always book with Vrbo. They’ve got the largest selection of rentals you’ll find anywhere and you can easily filter to find exactly what you’re looking for. Need a specific number of bedrooms and bathrooms? Narrowed it down to a certain location? Want flexible cancellation terms? Need to stay under a fixed budget? Click here to search for Florida vacation rentals for your trip.

Want to Read More Posts about Florida? I’ve got plenty!

Check out these destinations: Miami (Things to Do Besides Party & Where to Stay) // Key Biscayne // Sanibel & Captiva // Longboat Key & Anna Maria Island // Marco Island // 30a // St Augustine // Amelia Island // St Pete Beach // St Petersburg // Fort Myers // Dunedin // Crystal River & Weeki Wachee Springs // Honeymoon Island & Caladesi Island State Parks // Tarpon Springs // Matlacha & Pine Island // Apalachicola

Trying to narrow it down? Siesta Key vs Anna Maria Island // St Pete Beach vs Clearwater Beach // Sanibel vs Marco Island // Destin vs Panama City Beach // Destin vs 30a // Key Biscayne vs South Beach // Seaside vs Rosemary Beach

Best Beaches in Florida with Seashells

Best Florida Tennis Resorts

The post Destin vs Panama City Beach vs Pensacola: The “Big 3” in Florida’s Panhandle appeared first on Mousin' Around.

Florida has ALWAYS been one of my favorite beach destinations (everywhere, the whole state) and a place I visited often as a child. Living in Oklahoma, we had to fly to get to our favorite spots on the gulf between Tampa and Fort Myers, but we could pack up the car and make it to the Florida panhandle in just a day’s drive. And so we did that pretty often!

Most people visiting the panhandle set up camp in Pensacola, Destin, or Panama City Beach, but my favorite spot is a little stretch of scenic coastal highway called the 30a.

Running between Destin and Panama City Beach, 30a is just a little two-lane road that meanders along sugar white sand and some of the cutest little beach towns you’ve ever seen.

While there are almost a dozen different little towns and developments on 30a, there are two “big ones” that attract most of the attention: Seaside and Rosemary Beach. So which one is the best?

Seaside vs Rosemary Beach: Where to Stay on 30a

This post may contain some affiliate links, which means I’ll make a little money on anything you choose to purchase. But of course, I only recommend my absolute favorites to you. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Mousin’ Around possible.

Seaside

Seaside is the big draw on 30a. It’s been an institution since it was built and its pastel cottages, charming town square, and family friendly vibe have been attracting visitors ever since (even just as a daytrip over from Destin).

The town has nine beach entrances all with pavilions designed by different southern architects.

Combined with dozens of quaint shops and plenty of food options to keep up with the crowds, Seaside is always bustling with pedestrians and bicyclers, giving it that perfect summer small town charm.

The beaches are just the best (blue water, white sand!) and the town is SO CUTE.

There aren’t many hotels in this area (The Court first small boutique hotel is under construction right now) so if you want to stay in Seaside, you’ll most likely be staying in a vacation rental (search for Seaside vacation rentals here), although the town’s first hotel, The Court, just recently reopened and I cannot WAIT to stay here. I stayed here when it was the old motor court and you can’t beat the location, but it was getting pretty worn. Well it’s downright luxurious now!

Rosemary Beach

At the far east end of 30a sits Rosemary Beach, a lesser known town but no less lovely.

While Rosemary Beach is a pre planned community just like Seaside, it’s a total 180 when it comes to the vibe.

Rosemary Beach has a much more upscale feel, and honestly, if you didn’t know any better, you’d probably think you were in Europe instead of Florida.

The European colonial architectural style of the Dutch West Indies makes for the BEST backdrop for strolling the cobblestone streets down to the beach.

Rosemary Beach is also a lot less crowded than Seaside. It’s farther from Destin so it sees fewer day visitors (plus it’s just a lot less famous) so it has a bit lower key vibe.

Search for Rosemary Beach vacation rentals here.

***Want to save major $$$ on your next trip? I get asked ALL the time how I’m able to travel so often and stay at really nice resorts. Well, my favorite travel hack is cashing in points to score free airfare and free nights at high end resorts and hotels. Read my full guide on the exact system I use to max out credit card rewards here. Seriously, it’s going to save you soooo much money.

Seaside vs Rosemary Beach: My Personal Pick

Here are my two cents about staying in Seaside vs Rosemary Beach.

For starters, if this is what your decision comes down to…you’re doing alright. Both are GREAT places for a beach vacation. And even with a dozen or so different towns and communities on 30a to choose from, I would narrow it down to Seaside or Rosemary Beach (or at least a place that’s within walking distance of either one).

They’re the two big hubs on 30a with the most dining and shopping options and they also get pretty crowded with limited parking so being able to walk (or bike) is important. 30a is a pretty long stretch of road and I don’t like having to load up in the car and drive (traffic!) to find food or anything.

Having to get in the car, drive, and battle for parking (they now charge for it in Seaside) to get to both places will really limit how much you’re able to enjoy what the 30a has to offer.

I really really love both Seaside and Rosemary Beach (I have and will continue to stay in both areas), but I think I prefer staying near Seaside a bit more.

It has a vibe that fits my style just a bit better which includes the food situation. I prefer more casual dining (even takeaway options) and Rosemary Beach doesn’t deliver with that as well as Seaside.

I would rather spend the bulk of the vacation in Seaside and drive over to Rosemary one or two evenings.

That being said, I have stayed in Seacrest twice recently and really liked the location. It’s walkable to Rosemary Beach but much cheaper.

On the Seaside side, if staying IN Seaside is too pricey, check out nearby Seagrove (you really have to be specific on the location because Seagrove stretches for miles) or Watercolor.

Also a little disclaimer…this whole area has gotten CROWDED during spring break and summer vacation (there are more isolated pockets that don’t see the crowds) but nowhere is crowded like Seaside. I probably would only stay there if it’s not peak season.

If it’s an adults only trip, I REALLY love the Pearl at Rosemary Beach. More on it below. And I can’t wait to stay at the newly renovated Court in Seaside. I stayed there years ago back when it was the old motor court, but it looks really cool since the redo.

If you’re going with kids (or extended family), a house/vacation rental is the way to go. Anything in Seaside, WaterColor, or Rosemary Beach is going to be a good location.

Like I’ve said, by FAR the majority of accommodations along 30a are vacation homes or condos and once you know the exact area you’re looking at, I recommend doing a search on Vrbo to find exactly what you’re looking for.

My FAVORITE Place to Stay on 30a: The Pearl in Rosemary Beach

If it’s an adults only trip (either a couples trip or a girls getaway), my absolute favorite place to stay on 30a is at the Pearl in Rosemary Beach.

The Pearl is a AAA Four Diamond Hotel and was just named one of Conde Nast Traveler’s top 15 hotels in Florida.

You guys…it’s CUTE. The Pearl sits right in the middle of the town just steps away from the beach on Main Street which looks like a charming European street…cobblestones and all.

I would describe it as posh and sophisticated, but with a laidback Southern feel. With only 55 rooms, this boutique hotel may be small in size but it’s high on luxury. From the service to the rooms to the design of the common spaces, it’s on par with a mini size Ritz Carlton.

The facade from Main Street couldn’t be any more perfect (it’s part of what makes Rosemary Beach so iconic) and the lobby is small, but it’s sophisticated with several Chihuly-like pieces.

The service and the personal touches were pretty top notch. I stay at a fair amount of luxury properties and they do it up right here: a prosecco toast at check in, snappy valets, a welcome snack in the room of homemade pimento cheese and crackers, plenty of complimentary drinks in the room (including sodas and water), friendly staff, nightly turndown service with snacks, and a sweet present when we checked out.

The rooms have been recently updated and they are lovely. I’m not going to lie, when I walked into the room I audibly gasped. They’re very crisp and classic with a warm color palette and a sense of laidback luxury that feels like a southern beach home.

The pool fits into the design of this place so well. It’s situated in a courtyard so a lot of the rooms and the rooftop bar look down into the pool. The black and white color palette of the hotel with the bright yellow umbrellas and the turquoise pool really pop and make it such a design feature.

If you can, I would definitely splurge for one of the ocean facing rooms (top two floors would be best). They’re probably the quietest rooms in the hotel, and it’s nice to be able to see the beach from the room.

Book your stay at the Pearl here.

Where to Stay on 30a BESIDES Seaside & Rosemary Beach

Between Seaside and Rosemary Beach, there are a smattering of communities some more centralized than others and each with a unique vibe.

Grayton Beach

Not a preplanned community, Grayton was here before Seaside was built. It’s more “old Florida.” Search for Grayton Beach vacation rentals here.

Watercolor

A newer community that kind of band wagoned onto the popularity of Seaside. Pastel colored houses, but they’re newer and bigger than what you’ll find in Seaside. There’s an inn and a new waterpark (Camp Watercolor) and quite a few shops and restaurants. It’s not quite as much of a community as Seaside, but it blends into Seaside so you could have all of the amenities of both within walking/biking distance. Search for Watercolor vacation rentals here.

Seagrove

The other side of Seaside is Seagrove and that runs for miles. There are pockets of development (shops and restaurants), but there aren’t really any central gathering places and it’s mostly just a long stretch of houses and condos. There’s not much of a community in Seagrove, but it’s proximity to Seaside makes it a good budget option while still being close to the action. Search Seagrove vacation rentals here.

Watersound

An uncrowded stretch of sand with a nice inn and amenities. It feels like more of a resort, manicured area instead of a town. The Hub 30a is located in this area and it’s a very popular hang out spot with a lot of dining and live entertainment. The draw back to this area is that you’re not within walking distance to either Seaside or Rosemary beach so you’d have to drive and parking can be a real hassle. Search for Watersound vacation rentals here.

Alys Beach

By far the most exclusive community on 30a, Alys Beach is primarily residential and its architectural style will have you feeling like you’re in Santorini instead of Florida. There are a couple of restaurants and an amazing pool. It’s within biking distance of Rosemary Beach. Search for Alys Beach vacation rentals here.

Seacrest

Like Seagrove, Seacrest is an area that’s popular because of its proximity to Rosemary Beach. The distance between the far end of Seacrest (Alys Beach side) to Rosemary Beach is very walkable. Seacrest is made up of different pockets of condos. Search for Seacrest vacation rentals here.

Want to Read More Posts about Florida? I’ve got plenty!

Check out these destinations: Miami (Things to Do Besides Party & Where to Stay) // Key Biscayne // Sanibel & Captiva // Longboat Key & Anna Maria Island // Marco Island // 30a // St Augustine // Amelia Island // St Pete Beach // St Petersburg // Fort Myers // Dunedin // Crystal River & Weeki Wachee Springs // Honeymoon Island & Caladesi Island State Parks // Tarpon Springs // Matlacha & Pine Island // Apalachicola

Trying to narrow it down? Siesta Key vs Anna Maria Island // St Pete Beach vs Clearwater Beach // Sanibel vs Marco Island // Destin vs Panama City Beach // Destin vs 30a // Key Biscayne vs South Beach // Seaside vs Rosemary Beach

Best Beaches in Florida with Seashells

Best Florida Tennis Resorts

The post Seaside vs Rosemary Beach: Where to Stay on 30a appeared first on Mousin' Around.

With the most gorgeous white sand beaches (we’re talking powdery, sugar white sand) and turquoise water stretching from Pensacola all the way to Apalachicola, there are literally hundreds of places you could set up camp for a week’s vacation along the panhandle.

Everybody has their favorite spot (families from the southern states have been flocking here for generations), but I’m going to tell you about two of MY favorites…Destin and 30a.

What is Destin Like?

The most sizable beach town (I’d hesitate to call it a city) on the panhandle is probably Destin. What used to be a sleepy fishing village has gone all in on the beach scene over the last few decades. It’s by far the biggest draw to the area, and there’s a decent sized airport now that’s serviced by most airlines (and other good airport in Panama City) so it’s way more accessible to people that don’t live within driving distance than it used to be.

Destin pretty much has it all. Stunning beaches, nice condo resorts and smaller beach hotels, big chain restaurants, local seafood dives, go carts and mini golf, upscale shopping. It runs the gamut and does a pretty good job of catering to different audiences (this isn’t Panama City Beach, but it’s not Palm Beach either).

Depending on where you’re from, Destin either has all of the chains and brands you’re used to or it’s like coming to the big city from a small town. Whole Foods, Target, Chick Fila, Ruth’s Chris, Lilly Pulitzer, Bass Pro (Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl–it’s a BOWLING ALLEY–looks so cool!), Lululemon, Publix, etc. You get the deal. And yes, there’s also Bubba Gump’s, Hooters, Alvin Island (beach shop), Crab Trap, etc. All kinds peacefully coexist in Destin haha. My point is…Destin definitely has all the elements of the quintessential (some might say tacky) spring break town, but they’ve done a lot to keep it upscale too.

And they’ve really done a lot to try to manage traffic. The roads are all nice and they’ve really maximized them for good flow, but hey it’s still a crowded beach town so don’t expect miracles.

In most people’s minds, the Destin area really stretches from Fort Walton Beach on the west end across the bridge into “Destin proper” and east through Sandestin (a resort community that’s gotten so big it feels like a town) and into Miramar and Santa Rosa Beach. So depending on what kind of vibe you’re looking for, you should be able to find just the right spot in the area and still be very close to so much shopping and dining.

***Want to save major $$$ on your next trip? I get asked ALL the time how I’m able to travel so often and stay at really nice resorts. Well, my favorite travel hack is cashing in points to score free airfare and free nights at high end resorts and hotels. Read my full guide on the exact system I use to max out credit card rewards here. Seriously, it’s going to save you soooo much money.

What is 30a Like?

Now while I love Destin, just east of Destin is pretty much my favorite place to go in ALL of Florida (and I’ve been everywhere)…30a. It’s gotten so popular the last few years that it’s kind of now just referred to as 30a, but it’s actually a 24 mile scenic highway (Scenic Highway 30a) that runs between Destin and Panama City Beach.

The road passes a handful of towns and communities that are becoming increasingly famous. While Grayton Beach has been there since before 30a was cool, Seaside is what put 30a on the map.

Seaside is a planned new urbanism development that was built in the 80s. It’s basically an idyllic beach town. If you sat down and planned a beach town out to perfection and built it from scratch, well…that’s what they did with Seaside. Self described as a mix of “Florida Cracker” and Key West style, Seaside is bursting with cute pastel beach cottages all centered around a town center that borders the beach.

In the “town” (it’s a town, but it almost feels more like a Disney World than anything out of real life), you’ll find a bookstore, market, post office, school, church, and of course a ton of places to shop and eat. They’re most famous for the converted Airstream trailer food trucks that line 30a.

Seaside is just one of several beach towns along 30a. In the Seaside style, you’ve got the stylized planned “towns” of Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and WaterColor, plus the more organic areas of Grayton Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seagrove, and Seacrest.

The whole stretch of road is lined by a walking/bike path and bikes are the preferred method of getting around 30a.

If you couldn’t already tell, you’re not going to find any big hotels (really only a couple of small inns) along 30a and no chain restaurants or shops (although they just put a Lululemon in Grayton). It’s ALL cottages and vacation rentals. In Seagrove and Seacrest, you’ll find low rise condo options, but this is a beach house kind of place.

Once you arrive, you park your car and mostly just walk and bike around. It’s a laid back, lowkey kind of place (but don’t let that fool you…a lot of these places are $$$) and even though it’s as family friendly as you’ll get, think less go karts and mini golf and more beach games and cornhole in the town square.

Destin vs 30a

I feel like if you’ve read through my descriptions of each place, you probably know which one is a better fit for you. Even though they’re relatively close to each other, they’re not much alike (besides the amazing BEACH!).

The good news is that if you’re leaning towards wanting to stay on 30a, but worried that you might miss out on all the things to do in Destin, Destin is RIGHT down the road. And if you’d rather stay in Destin, but drive over and check out the cute towns on 30a for shopping and a bite to eat, that’s also easy to do (parking is limited though and rumor is they’re going to start charging for it in Seaside).

Let’s do a quick rundown: You’ll probably get more for your money in Destin and if you want a resort type setup, that’s the only place you’ll find it (although the WaterColor Inn is looking pretty cool these days but very $$$).  Destin has more chain restaurants and stores whereas 30a is all local. Destin is better equipped to handle hordes of people so if you’re going during high season sometimes parts of 30a (ehem, Seaside) are a zoo. I mean, Destin is a zoo too but it has multi lane roads, traffic lights, and big parking lots. 30a is more quaint and Destin feels like a bigger “city.”

So which is best? It really just depends on what you’re looking for!

On Another Note: If you’re looking for a condo or vacation rental for your trip, I always book with Vrbo. They’ve got the largest selection of rentals you’ll find anywhere and you can easily filter to find exactly what you’re looking for. Need a specific number of bedrooms and bathrooms? Narrowed it down to a certain location? Want flexible cancellation terms? Need to stay under a fixed budget? Click here to search for Florida vacation rentals for your trip.

Want to Read More Posts about Florida? I’ve got plenty!

Check out these destinations: Miami (Things to Do Besides Party & Where to Stay) // Key Biscayne // Sanibel & Captiva // Longboat Key & Anna Maria Island // Marco Island // 30a // St Augustine // Amelia Island // St Pete Beach // St Petersburg // Fort Myers // Dunedin // Crystal River & Weeki Wachee Springs // Honeymoon Island & Caladesi Island State Parks // Tarpon Springs // Matlacha & Pine Island // Apalachicola

Trying to narrow it down? Siesta Key vs Anna Maria Island // St Pete Beach vs Clearwater Beach // Sanibel vs Marco Island // Destin vs Panama City Beach // Destin vs 30a // Key Biscayne vs South Beach // Seaside vs Rosemary Beach

Best Beaches in Florida with Seashells

Best Florida Tennis Resorts

The post Destin vs 30a: Which is Better? appeared first on Mousin' Around.

If you’re from a southern state, it’s possible you’ve been vacationing on Florida’s scenic highway 30a for years. If you’re from somewhere else, it’s possible you’ve never heard of it.

What is 30a?

Florida’s 30a is a scenic highway that stretches along the panhandle in between Destin and Panama City Beach. It’s a quaint area dotted with charming beach towns where everyone rides bikes, stops for an ice cream cone on the way back from the beach, and waves at one another. It’s about as idyllic as they come.

While southerners have been flocking to spots along 30a for decades due to the area’s stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters (it’s the Caribbean but closer to home) and availability of beach house rentals, its isolated location on the panhandle made it less accessible for northerners or midwesterners who needed to fly in.

There are no major cities in Florida’s panhandle like there are in south Florida, but as 30a has risen in popularity over the last few years (hello internet!), the airlines have started to make it a little easier. The closest airport is Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), but Pensacola International Airport (PNS) and Panama City Beach Airport (ECP) are good options too.

And now 30a is absolutely BOOMING.

Part of the charm of this area is you won’t find any high rises or big hotels here. It’s all vacation houses and cozy condos. If you need help picking out the perfect place to stay (including narrowing down which town to stay in), start with this post.

Things to Do on 30a

Beach, eat, sleep, repeat. That’s basically it ; ) I come to 30a for the beach and a bit of puttering around the cute little beach towns. It’s not a big “go go go” trip with a lot of activities. But there are certain things I like to do…

THE BEACH!

The main attraction on 30a is, of course, the beach! Sugar white sand and beautiful turquoise water stretches for as far as the eye can see in both directions and daily life revolves around sunrises, sunsets, and all the rays in between.

There are rental companies at pretty much every beach entrance that provide daily chair and umbrella setups (two chairs, an umbrella, and a little table for about $60/day) so all you have to do is show up with your book, sunscreen, and shades and wile the day away. In the high season, make reservations in advance to guarantee a set up on the front line.

***Want to save major $$$ on your next trip? I get asked ALL the time how I’m able to travel so often and stay at really nice resorts. Well, my favorite travel hack is cashing in points to score free airfare and free nights at high end resorts and hotels. Read my full guide on the exact system I use to max out credit card rewards here. Seriously, it’s going to save you soooo much money.

Bike or Walk Everywhere

I like to start each morning by strolling around wherever I’m staying and 30a is made for that.

There’s a nice biking/walking trail that runs the full length of 30a (they call it the Timpoochee Trail) and biking is super popular. There’s a bike rental place in every town, too.

Let me set your expectations though when I say bike or walk “everywhere.” That means everywhere around the town you’re staying in and what’s nearby. But you’re probably not going to bike the entire 30a. It’s over 8 miles in between Seaside and Rosemary Beach (the two big anchors on 30a) so you’re obviously not going to do that for dinner, but overall 30a is a very bike friendly area.

Honestly, while I’m not much of a bike rider, I love to get up early and walk in the mornings. Also, because the 30a gets pretty crowded in the summer, it’s nice to be out and about early before everybody else is.

Take a walk through Seaside to see all the colorful cottages or the beach pavilions (each named after a different southern town and designed by a different architect) or stroll through Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach (they’re within walking distance of each other).

Explore Each Beach Town

Speaking of beach towns, 30a has some of the very best. Spend time walking, shopping, eating, and just generally exploring each town. They all have that new urbanism vibe (highly walkable, strong community, environmentally friendly), but the style and personality of each is pretty different.

Here are the ones you don’t want to miss:

Grayton Beach: Grayton was here before 30a was “cool.” Not a pre planned community, this organic little town has a gorgeous beach and plenty to keep you busy. Don’t miss Black Bear Bread Co and the Red Bar.

Seaside: Seaside is the town that made 30a famous. It’s as idyllic as they come and this carefully planned town feels like something out of a childhood daydream. Don’t miss the Airstream Row of food trucks, Sundog Books, and the colorful beach cottages.

Alys Beach: You’re in Florida, but you’ll feel more like you’re in Santorini. Alys Beach doesn’t feel like a town so much as it does a super exclusive resort. Don’t miss dinner at George’s and walking around to check out the incredible architecture.

Rosemary Beach: If you don’t drop an “oh wow” under your breath when you see Rosemary Beach’s “main street,” there’s something wrong with you! It’s a little more refined than Seaside, but every bit as welcoming. Don’t miss tacos at the Cowgirl Kitchen and drinks at Havana Beach Club at the Pearl.

Browse the Bookstores

The beach and books go together like pb&j (for me anyways) so a visit (multiple visits really) to Sundog Books in Seaside and Hidden Lantern Bookstore in Rosemary Beach are musts for me.

Sundog Books: I could spend all day here. If there was a competition for best beach bookstore, this place would win it. Sandy, plywood floors…shelves and tables overflowing with books (seriously, all the shelves are double stacked)…and staff whose biggest priority always seems to be helping everyone who comes in the door find their perfect book. It’s the way it should be.

Hidden Lantern Bookstore: Hidden Lantern is a totally different scene than Sundog Books in Seaside, but they have a great selection. It’s really well curated and organized and there’s plenty of space to take it all in and move around the store.

Paddle Board with YOLO

The sparkling turquoise waters of 30a are just begging for a paddle board session and if you’re going to do it, why not local? YOLO is a Santa Rosa based company that delivers pretty sweet boards and bikes. Rent a board or electric bike for your stay or book their paddle board tour on one of the coastal dune lakes.

Hang out at the Hub

Near Watersound (about halfway between Seaside and Rosemary Beach) is a great little hangout spot called the Hub on 30a. It’s a collection of food vendors and shops with communal seating and lounge areas. There’s a large lawn and a stage with an LED screen. Grab your food, find a place to sit, and enjoy the evening. There’s usually some kind of entertainment every night whether it’s a band, movie, or streaming the big game.

Shopping!

Beach towns usually have the best shopping and 30a definitely doesn’t disappoint! I few spots that I never miss:

The Mercantile in Seaside

Disco in Rosemary Beach

Ophelia’s in Seacrest

BEACH by the Seaside Style in Seaside.

Play Tennis

I don’t normally think of 30a as a tennis destination, but I spent some time on my last trip checking out all of the tennis clubs and I was pretty impressed. There are great public tennis centers at Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and WaterColor.

Have a Beach Bonfire

I’ve never done this, but it looks super cool! There are several companies in the area that will set up a bonfire for you right on the beach! Complete with a fire pit, chairs, smores, games, the whole works…it’s everything you need for an epic evening. Check out 30a Blaze and Light Me Up 30a.

Glass Art at the Shard Shop

I’m super glad I stumbled upon this on my last trip! It’s the perfect rainy day activity or if you’re looking for something to do in the winter or just if you need a break from the beach.

Sign up for an hour-long workshop where you can make your own glass masterpieces. Instructors are on hand to give you tips and help you out, but there’s no way to go wrong here.

It’s $95/adult ($45/child ages 6-13) and you can choose a design template, go freestyle, or have one of the instructors help you sketch something out.

It’s a really forgiving art form as you’re just arranging pieces of glass on your board and you can move them around however you want. Don’t like what you’ve got going on? Dump the whole thing and start over. The glass gets sealed with resin after you’re done and you come back to pick up your art the next day.

Where to Eat on 30a

Nothing works up an appetite like a day at the beach. Whether you need an early morning coffee shop, a casual lunch, or the perfect place for sunset cocktail hour, here’s everything you need to know about where to eat on 30a:

Coffee & Early Morning Bites

Black Bear Bread Co: I can’t rave about this place enough. And it’s not a hidden secret…everybody knows about this place. Stop by for coffee and pastries (the cheese danish was maybe the best thing I’ve ever eaten) or more of a hearty breakfast (the breakfast sandwiches were really good too). There’s more seating in the bar and lounge area next door and they’re open for dinner. The original location is in Grayton Beach, but there’s a second one in the Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and a third coming to Seaside SOON.

Charlie’s Donuts: It’s not vacation until you’ve trekked down to the donut truck at 6AM to bring back donuts for the crew. Okay maybe not 6AM but if you show up too late, all the sprinkled ones are gone : ) Charlie’s has a few locations on 30a…there’s the truck in Alys Beach, the stand at Peddler’s Pavilion in Seacrest, and the shop (a full cafe) in Rosemary Beach.

Amavida: Coffee, coffee, coffee. This long standing 30a coffee shop has locations in Seaside and Rosemary Beach.

Raw & Juicy: With an airstream trailer in Seaside and a full shop in Alys Beach, this is the go to spot for lighter fare. Smoothies, juices, bowls plus coffee drinks and a fuller breakfast at the Alys Beach location.

Modica Market: Stop by the market for coffee, pastries, breakfast sandwiches, etc to go and eat them outside on the square.

Other Places I Haven’t Been Yet: Sunrise Coffee Co (Santa Rosa Beach), Kahve & Cream (Santa Rose Beach-they have Charlie’s Donuts), Kith & Kin (inside the Topsail Hill Preserve State Park campground), Blue Mountain Bakery (Blue Mountain Beach), Sweet Henrietta’s (Santa Rosa Beach)

A Proper Breakfast

Donut Hole: This Destin breakfast institution is so popular that they’ve expanded and there’s now a huge restaurant in Inlet Beach (just east of Rosemary Beach). Yes, they do have donuts in a case, but they do a FULL breakfast. Go early or be ready to wait.

Havana Beach Club: I am a breakfast person and 90% of the time I eat the same thing everywhere (scrambled eggs with cheese, bacon, breakfast potatoes, and toast) and can honestly say that every time I’ve eaten here it. is. so. good. Yes, there are fancier things on the menu, but they do the breakfast essentials perfectly and that tells you everything you need to know. Mimosas, bloody marys, eggs benedict, french toast, etc. It’s all there. If the weather is warm, the views from the porch are 10/10.

Other Places I Haven’t Been Yet: Big Bad Breakfast (Inlet Beach) – I’ve heard so many recommendations for this place!

Casual Sit Down Lunch (& Dinner)

Great Southern: The quintessential 30a restaurant. There’s ALWAYS a wait (no reservations) no matter what time you show up. Grab a drink at the BFF bar on the porch or head next door to Sundog Books to wait it out. The Grits a Ya Ya (with shrimp) is their signature dish and is not to be missed, but I have to say that their pecan crusted catch of the day (often grouper) and fries is hands down the best fish and chips I’ve eaten anywhere.

Crabby Steve’s: One of the few beachfront restaurants on 30a, Crabby Steve’s is easiest reached from the beach in between Seacrest and Rosemary Beach. Work up an appetite walking up the steps from the beach. It’s casual seafood and burger fare, but the view makes everything taste better.

Cowgirls Kitchen: It’s hard to find a casual spot in Rosemary Beach (this is about it), but it’s a good one. Famous for their tacos.

Bud & Alley’s: Another Seaside icon, this is one of the best views on 30a. Bud & Alley’s (upstairs) is your typical beach bar with good food. It’s not terribly big though, so if you can’t get in, try the Taco or Pizza Bar downstairs. Everybody goes for sunset (or wants to), but breakfast/brunch on the weekends is pretty great too.

Shrimp Shack: One of my favorite spots for lunch…it’s on the beach side of 30a and always easy to grab a bite and find a good spot to sit and eat. Yes, it has shrimp in the name, but don’t sleep on the lobster.

Other Places I Haven’t Been to Yet: Cafe 30a (Santa Rosa Beach), Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar (Santa Rosa Beach), Stinky’s Fish Camp (Santa Rosa Beach)

On Another Note: If you’re looking for a condo or vacation rental for your trip, I always book with Vrbo. They’ve got the largest selection of rentals you’ll find anywhere and you can easily filter to find exactly what you’re looking for. Need a specific number of bedrooms and bathrooms? Narrowed it down to a certain location? Want flexible cancellation terms? Need to stay under a fixed budget? Click here to search for Florida vacation rentals for your trip.

Food Trucks & Takeaway

Seaside’s Airstream Row: The thing Seaside does better than anywhere else on 30a is serving up good beach food, fast. And the Airstream food trucks lead the way. Lining 30a, there are 6 or so trailers with different offerings. My favorite is Meltdown on 30a (GRILLED CHEESE!), but you’ll also find BBQ, crepes, hot dogs, snow cones, smoothies and acai bowls.

Peddler’s Pavilion: Down at the other end of 30a closer to Rosemary Beach, Peddler’s Pavilion has a similar setup. 5-6 food huts arranged around a lawn.

Cocktail Hour & Nightlife

Bud & Alley’s: The best place for a sunset drink on 30a, but (like every place on 30a) it’s not very big.

Neat: Alys Beach’s fancy schmancy craft cocktail bar is the place to go if you’re an aficionado.

Red Bar: The hub of 30a’s nightlife…the vibe here is more neighborhood bar with great live music. Come for dinner and stay for the dancing. In Grayton Beach.

Dinner with a View

Bud & Alley’s: Yes, Bud & Alley’s again. Best view on 30a with decent food.

Pescado: 100% more high end with views of Rosemary Beach in the distance. Make reservations if you want to eat in the dining room or take your chance at the bar.

Fish Out of Water: I haven’t had a chance to eat here yet, but I did walk through on my last trip and honestly if the food is even halfway decent, this place is worth a dinner spot. It’s a bright and airy, well designed restaurant with GREAT views. It’s pretty large too and has an elevator for accessibility.

Nice Dinner Out

After a long day at the beach (and usually with kids in tow), a fancy restaurant is not usually high on my priority list, but of course you’ve got options (also keep in mind that “nice” is relative…30a is pretty casual no matter where you are):

Surfing Deer (Seagrove) is at the tippy top of my list for dinner on my next trip.

George’s (Alys Beach): Love this place! Good food and relaxed (but refined). If you want to check out Alys Beach, this is the best place for dinner.

Places I Want to Try: Edward’s Fine Food & Wine in Rosemary Beach and Citizen Alys Beach

Something Sweet

La Crema Tapas & Chocolate: For a fancy dessert and dinner combo, have some chocolate fondue after your tapas. In Rosemary Beach.

Heavenly’s in Seaside: THIS IS MY SPOT. Everybody just goes for ice cream, but they have REALLY good strawberry shortcake…like with actual shortcakes, not angel cake.

Frost Bites: Frozen custard & shave ice on Seaside’s Airstream Row

Want to Read More Posts about Florida? I’ve got plenty!

Check out these destinations: Miami (Things to Do Besides Party & Where to Stay) // Key Biscayne // Sanibel & Captiva // Longboat Key & Anna Maria Island // Marco Island // 30a // St Augustine // Amelia Island // St Pete Beach // St Petersburg // Fort Myers // Dunedin // Crystal River & Weeki Wachee Springs // Honeymoon Island & Caladesi Island State Parks // Tarpon Springs // Matlacha & Pine Island // Apalachicola

Trying to narrow it down? Siesta Key vs Anna Maria Island // St Pete Beach vs Clearwater Beach // Sanibel vs Marco Island // Destin vs Panama City Beach // Destin vs 30a // Key Biscayne vs South Beach // Seaside vs Rosemary Beach

Best Beaches in Florida with Seashells

Best Florida Tennis Resorts

The post What is 30a? Only the Best String of Beach Towns in Florida appeared first on Mousin' Around.

About 2 hours east of Rosemary Beach (30a) on highway 98, “Apalach” (as the locals call it) sits on the Apalachicola River and is pretty much the oyster capital of the world. It’s also just over the bridge from St George Island which has one of the prettiest beach drives I’ve ever done anywhere. 

But the town itself is CUTE. It’s kind of out in the middle of nowhere. If you live anywhere in the area (from Tallahassee to Destin), it’s definitely a place you could come for at least an overnight stay. I drove over for a day trip on my last stay in Rosemary Beach, and if you’re looking for something to break up your time at the beach (or you’re visiting when it’s chillier than expected), I think it’s the perfect day trip. 

Here’s what not to miss in Apalachicola, Florida:

The Gibson Inn: Even if you’re not staying the night in Apalach, you’ve got to stop by the Gibson Inn. It’s a big part of the reason that Apalachicola is having the moment it is. A stylish and well run inn attracts people to the area and it’s really helped the tourism economy. Built in 1907, it’s recently been completely renovated in a way that brings the modern comforts but keeps the old small town feel. It feels part adventurer’s club, part local hangout and very, very chicly Southern. If Ernest Hemingway would’ve walked through the door and sat down at the bar, I would not have been surprised.  

Speaking of the bar, definitely plan to stop by the lobby bar for drinks. I had lunch at the Franklin Cafe and not only was the food great, but the atmosphere was just perfectly lowkey Southern style. 

Apalachicola Seafood Grill: In hindsight, I think I would’ve had lunch here and hit the lobby bar at the Gibson Inn. It’s old school, no frills, order at the counter, but it looked GOOD. 

Shopping in Town: It’s easy to kill a couple of hours strolling through town and hitting all of the shops and cafes. There’s a tiny bookstore (it’s also a yarn/crochet shop) and quite a few clothing boutiques. There’s also a handful of antique/junk shops that managed to pull me in. Don’t miss the Grady Market, Apalach Outfitters, and Becasa. 

Lighthouse on St George Island: It’s just a few minutes across the bridge to St George Island. Stop and see the lighthouse. It’s $5 to climb to the top and there’s a small museum and gift shop. 

St George Island State Park: If you make it to Apalachicola, you HAVE to drive onto St George Island and up through St George Island State Park. I am officially commanding it to be so. The state park is the whole north end of the island and it’s one of the best beach drives I’ve ever done. A lot of state park beaches in Florida are just parking lots and the beach, but this park has almost 9 miles of road that takes you alongside the beach and the most magnificent coastal sand dunes I’ve ever seen. I also think the shelling is probably really great (better than most places along the panhandle). I didn’t have a ton of time and it was pretty chilly, but in just the 15 minutes or so I walked along the beach there were a lot of shells. 

So to wrap it up…I probably wouldn’t pick St George Island over the 30a area for a beach trip (it’s just way too quiet for me), but I absolutely think it’s worth driving over for the day to see the area. Especially if you visit the panhandle often and you’re not super pressed for time. 

Want to Read More Posts about Florida? I’ve got plenty!

Check out these destinations: Miami (Things to Do Besides Party & Where to Stay) // Key Biscayne // Sanibel & Captiva // Longboat Key & Anna Maria Island // Marco Island // 30a // St Augustine // Amelia Island // St Pete Beach // St Petersburg // Fort Myers // Dunedin // Crystal River & Weeki Wachee Springs // Honeymoon Island & Caladesi Island State Parks // Tarpon Springs // Matlacha & Pine Island // Apalachicola

Trying to narrow it down? Siesta Key vs Anna Maria Island // St Pete Beach vs Clearwater Beach // Sanibel vs Marco Island // Destin vs Panama City Beach // Destin vs 30a // Key Biscayne vs South Beach // Seaside vs Rosemary Beach 

Best Beaches in Florida with Seashells

Best Florida Tennis Resorts

The post Apalachicola & St George Island: Florida’s Perfect Little Southern Town appeared first on Mousin' Around.