September 1, 2025Your quick orientation to parking, beach rules, local lingo & more.
WELCOME TO 30A!
So, you finally made it. Yes, 30A, Florida. That scenic stretch of Gulf Coast where beach towns line up like pearls on a string, each with its own personality. Around here, bikes outnumber cars, mornings move at coffee speed, and the pace feels about as far from “hurry” as you can get.
It’s not the kind of place you “check off” in a day, and that’s exactly the charm. Families, couples, and friend groups from all over the Southeast love driving down to South Walton for one simple reason: it feels like another world.
If it’s your first trip, here’s your 30A visitor’s guide, from parking and beach rules to local etiquette and tips that make a good vacation a great one.
THE BEACH TOWNS OF 30A
Every mile or two, the vibe changes, like flipping channels on a very pretty TV.
- Seaside, FL – White picket fences, Airstream food trucks along 5-star dining, concerts in the square. Is this storybook-perfection? Well, The Truman Show was filmed here, so yeah, maybe.
- Grayton Beach – Artsy, funky, and home to Grayton Beach State Park. Their motto? “Nice dogs, strange people.” You’ll get it when you see it.
- WaterColor – Sophisticated and serene. Think nature trails, paddleboards, and lazy poolside afternoons.
- Rosemary Beach – Cobblestone streets and European-inspired architecture. Stylish shops, cafés, and a polished-but-relaxed atmosphere.
- Seagrove – Old Florida roots with modern dining. Family-friendly, with plenty of variety.
- Blue Mountain Beach – Laid-back, low-key, and nature-forward. A great pick if you like extra space on the sand.
The best part? They’re all connected by one scenic road. Grab a map, or use Oversee’s area guides, and plan a day by mood.
PARKING & GETTING AROUND 30A
Here’s the deal. Parking on 30A is a bit like finding a seashell no one else noticed. (we’re looking at you, Seaside) especially during peak season. Arrive early if you want a beach-day spot. Public lots are available in Seaside and at Grayton Beach State Park.
But honestly? The easiest way to explore is on two wheels. Many Oversee vacation rentals include complimentary bikes, and the 19-mile 30A bike path makes it simple to cruise from beach to bakery. When it’s running, the 30A Trolley is also a fun, car-free option.
FOR A BETTER 30A BEACH
A few rules will make your day smoother (and keep the beaches beautiful):
- No glass on the sand.
- No fires unless you’ve got a permit.
- Dogs need permits issued by Walton County.
- Leave No Trace: tents, chairs, and toys must be cleared daily.
- Beach access: Some stretches are private. Look for marked public beach access points before you set up.
- Beach flags:
- Green = calm
- Yellow = moderate surf
- Red = strong currents
- Double Red = water closed
- Purple = marine pests (like jellyfish)
Check daily conditions before heading out. Safety first.
LOCAL LINGO & ETIQUETTE
Some quick translations:
- “30A” = both the scenic highway and the lifestyle that comes with it.
- “The Beaches of South Walton” is the official name for the entire area.
- Locals value respect: Be nice, follow the rules, tip well, and support small businesses.
- Quiet hours are real, leash laws are enforced, and rental rules keep neighborhoods enjoyable for everyone.
EXPECT LOTS OF CHARM ON YOUR 30A VACATION
This isn’t South Beach, and that’s the thing. Enjoy:
- Long, lingering beach days.
- Fresh seafood under the stars.
- Farmers markets and boutique shopping.
- Bike rides, paddleboarding, and nature trails.
- Evenings that end with stargazing or live music, not velvet ropes.
Here, “busy” usually means choosing between tacos or oysters for dinner.
TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME 30A VISITORS
- Bikes! Many Oversee homes include beach cruisers. Or bring them, or rent.
- Dinner plans: For peak-season dining, reservations aren’t optional. Plan ahead!
- Pack smart: Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and a portable shade can make the day.
Fresh finds. Stock your rental with goodies from a local market or farm stand. Farmers markets and small shops are part of the 30A experience.
BEACH MEMORIES? COME AND GET’EM!
The magic of 30A is in the mix: explore multiple beach towns in a single day, or settle into just one and let the pace slow you down. Either way, you’ll see why visitors return year after year.
New to 30A? Find your perfect vacation rental with Oversee, we’ll make your first trip feel like the start of a tradition.
