July 27, 2025KICK BACK. AND SOAK IN THE 30A SUNSHINE.
Nothing says vacation like a picnic under the Florida sky. Santa Rosa Beach is full of spots perfect for spreading out a blanket, unpacking a cooler, and letting time slow down.
From family afternoons to lazy lunches with friends, here are the best places to snack, relax, and soak up the laid-back 30A vibe.
GULF VIEWS AND PICNIC TABLES. ED WALLINE BEACH ACCESS.
Set up at one of the picnic tables overlooking the Gulf, grab lunch from across the street at Gulf Place, and let the salty breeze keep things cool.
Restrooms are close, and the beach is right there for a post-picnic swim. Easy, beautiful, and low effort – exactly how lunch should feel on vacation.
PACK A BASKET FOR THE PINES. POINT WASHINGTON STATE FOREST
Trade the beach crowds for pine trees and birdsong. This quiet forest is full of walking and biking trails, with plenty of shady spots for a peaceful picnic.
Pack sandwiches, grab your sneakers, and make a morning out of it. It’s nature therapy with lunch included.
A FULL DAY OF TRAILS, SAND, AND SNACKS. TOPSAIL HILL PRESERVE STATE PARK
If your crew likes options, Topsail Hill Preserve delivers. Covered pavilions keep lunch cool, while the nearby trails and boardwalks give everyone a reason to walk off that extra cookie. Restrooms are close, and the quiet beach here is perfect for a post-picnic nap in the sand.
SANDWICHES AND SHADED PLAYGROUNDS. HELEN MCCALL PARK
This park is a kid paradise. Think grassy picnic spots, shaded playgrounds, and room to run while you finish your sandwich in peace. Pack bubbles or a soccer ball, and let them wear themselves out before an afternoon ice cream stop.
FISH AND PICNIC BY THE BAYOU. CESSNA LANDING OR HOGTOWN BAYOU
Want sunset views without the beach crowds? Head to bayou access points, Cessna Landing or Hogtown Bayou. These quiet bay access spots have picnic tables, peaceful water views, and space to fish if someone packed a rod. Perfect for early evening snacks as the sky turns pastel.
FIND YOUR OWN SECRET PICNIC.
OPTIONAL ADVENTURE: QUIET BEACH DUNE SPOTS
For those who prefer a little adventure with their lunch, scout out a quiet dune spot along Santa Rosa Beach. Pick a high (non-protected) area, unpack your feast, and enjoy Gulf views without a crowd in sight.
DON’T FORGET THESE ESSENTIALS.
30A PICNIC MUST-HAVES
- Reusable cooler stocked with your favorites
- Beach blanket or oversized towel
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Portable speaker for mellow tunes
- Games or cards for kids (or competitive adults)
- Wet wipes and trash bags – leave it cleaner than you found it
- Towels or backup chairs if you prefer not to sit on the ground
GRAB-AND-GO. WHERE TO GET THE GOODS
Stock up on fresh bites and picnic essentials at these local favorites:
- Black Bear Bread Co. – Pastries, fresh bread, grab-and-go meals
- Modica Market – Gourmet deli, drinks, and snacks
- For the Health of It – Organic groceries, juices, and smoothies
- Goatfeathers Seafood Market – Fresh seafood if you want a picnic with flair
- The Perfect Pig – Gourmet to-go sandwiches and salads
PICNIC LIKE A PRO WITH LITTLE ONES.
FAMILY HACKS FOR SANTA ROSA BEACH
- Go early to grab shade and avoid peak heat
- Aim for brunch or golden hour for cooler air
- Bring a change of clothes if swimming is on the plan
- Bubble wands and beach toys = endless entertainment for little ones
FINAL TOUCH.
SHARE YOUR PICNIC MOMENTS WITH #30AUNWIND
Picnics are one of the simplest joys of a 30A vacation. Snap a photo of your picnic setup, your sandy crew, or that golden sunset and tag #30AUnwind to share the moment with us.
