Earlier this week I arrived home from a spring break trip to Florida! While I’ve been to the panhandle many times, this was my third visit to the Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach area – and the one that stole my heart. There’s so much to see and do, the towns are picturesque yet quaint, and the weather is phenomenal. I already shared what I packed, and today I’m sharing a brief guide to where to eat, what to do, and more along highway 30-A.

Activities

The Hub, Watersound – We biked or walked here several times. It’s great for a snack, drink, or lunch, since they have a variety of vendors. They also have live music throughout the week and movies on the big screen.

Rent Bikes, Anywhere – Biking from Watersound through Alys and Rosemary Beach is one of my favorite activities! It’s a great way to see the towns and explore.

Willow Boutique, Rosemary Beach – One of the best boutiques on 30-A! They carry brands like Joie, MISA, Rebecca Taylor, and more. Highly recommend this for designer shopping.

Sundog Books, Seaside – I love exploring bookstores wherever we go, but at the beach a light read is essential and this cute shop is just the ticket.

The Shard Shop, Grayton Beach – The sweetest little studio where you make art with broken glass. Perfect for the girls on an overcast day.

Breakfast and Coffee

Black Bear Bread, Santa Rosa Beach – A cute shop that serves Stumptown coffee and bakes fresh bread an pastries daily. My typical order (black iced coffee) hits the spot on a hot day.

The Donut Hole, Watercolor – Donuts are a beach trip must have. They serve both cake donuts and traditional glazed styles to make everyone happy.

Big Bad Breakfast, Rosemary Beach – Hearty, traditional, and American. Go here for your eggs, pancakes, and morning Joe.

Lunch & Dinner

La Crema Tapas, Rosemary Beach – I love taking a group of girls here for a light lunch. The Willow boutique (mentioned above) is just across the street, so it’s a good excuse to pop over there afterward.

George’s, Alys Beach – I love this spot for lunch for the salads and tacos. The sesame crab & avocado salad is a crowd favorite!

Paradis, Rosemary Beach – Hands down my favorite place to dine along 30-A. Do yourself a favor and order the encrusted tuna.

Old Florida Fish House, Santa Rosa Beach – Admittedly not the quickest service, but the sushi is incredible. There’s a nice outdoor area with a wine bar and adirondack chairs where you can grab a drink while you wait.

Bruno’s Pizza, Watersound – Pizza just tastes even better at the beach. This place is old-school; they make their own dough and sauce and hand-toss every pie.

Cafe Thirty-A, Seagrove – Get dressed up and eat here on the last night of your stay along 30-A! I recommend reservations a few weeks in advance.

Have you been to 30-A? What’s your favorite beach, spot to dine, or activity? I’d love it if you’d comment on this post so that my readers have even more to choose from!