Most Iconic Spots along Scenic Hwy 30-A

Are you planning a visit to the Destin area? If so, you’ll want to make time to tour our “official” Florida Scenic Byway--Highway 30-A. This quaint two-lane beach road meanders through 12 charming coastal towns that range from New Urbanism Communities such as Seaside and Rosemary Beach to historic beach towns, including Grayton Beach and Seagrove Beach. Up your fun rent a 30A Beach Buggy to drive the 19-mile scenic stretch. On your tour, check out the Most Iconic Spots along 30-A:

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Stop 1: Justin Gaffrey Gallery

One of South Walton’s original artists and honored as 2005 South Walton Artist of the Year, Just Gaffrey is a brilliant creative. A trained chef, Justin gave up kitchens, pots & pans and ingredients for canvases, jugs of paint, bent pieces of metal, and props. He works with acrylics and uses some of his techniques as a chef to create dimensional works of art that literally come off the canvas. He’s well-known for his coastal landscapes and sunflowers but he seems most happy creating works that strike a balance between real and imaginary and make the viewer wonder about their true meaning. His gallery in Blue Mountain Beach is where he lives, creates and exhibits his diverse body of work. Address: 21 Blue Gulf Dr, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Stop 2: Red Bar

This must stop in Grayton Beach is a local institution that’s not to be missed! Located in historic Grayton Beach, the Red Bar location was originally the town’s general store and gathering spot in early 1900’s. Today, the Red Bar is known for its fun and funky bohemian beach shack vibe and the Red Bar Band. It’s a great spot for food, cocktails and live music.

Stop 3: Home of the Truman Show

Did you know the new urbanism town of Seaside, Florida is where The Truman Show, starring Jim Carrey was filmed? This charming, master plan town is well-thought-out and is an architecture enthusiast’s paradise. With many homes designed by some of the world’s most notable architects, the town's tree-lined streets and white picket fences will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. Be sure to stop on Pensacola Street to view Truman’s home from the movie and take a picture in front of this Iconic house. Address: Pensacola Street.

Stop 4: Western Lake Causeway & Bridge

One of the special qualities of 30-A is that it is punctuated by rare coastal dune lakes. These rare geological features are only found along 30-A and in remote portions of the world, including Africa and Madagascar. These lakes are unique in that they open and close to the Gulf of Mexico and are home to a diverse array of wildlife. In addition to recreational activities, these lakes offer great scenic beauty. One of the most iconic coastal dune lakes is Western Lake. Drive west from Grayton Beach and you’ll find yourself crossing a causeway and bridge that divides the lake. This iconic vista of slash pines, towering dunes, and the reflective lake create a “must see” stop when visiting South Walton.

Stop 5: Stay on 30-A

Now that you’ve toured Highway 30-A, we’re confident you’ll want to stay. Feel like a local and discover the 30-A way of life by booking one of our 30-A vacation rental homes or condominiums, including luxury condos at Sanctuary at Redfish, which overlooks Big Redfish coastal dune lake. View our collection of vacation rentals online or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652. As one of the longest operating rental and real estate companies, Newman-Dailey Resort Properties has been making beach dreams come true since 1985.  

See you @ the beach!

Published on Tuesday, January 4, 2022