August 22, 2024Tucked away on the far west end of 30A, Dune Allen Beach is a lesser-known treasure of the Emerald Coast. With five coastal dune lakes and natural beauty all around, it’s a paradise for laid-back beachgoers and outdoor adventurers alike.
Known as South Walton’s all-natural neighborhood, this stretch of beach delights returning families year after year with quiet shores, scenic trails, and delicious local dining.
Start your day right with a stroll or bike ride along the Timpoochee Trail, soaking in the stunning views. Although Dune Allen may not be a secret, it’s certainly a 30A gem.
NATURE AT ITS FINEST
THE BEACH
Planning a family beach day? Like its neighboring coastal towns, Dune Allen Beach has exclusive access to some of the most pristine shorelines in the US. This stretch of coastline is perfect for soaking up the sun, cooling off in the water, and romantic walks in the sand.
Build a sandcastle. Grab a snorkel and a waterproof camera, and get snapping. Toss a frisbee with friends. Head out into the water with a paddleboard. It’s easygoing and beautiful, the kind of beach that makes you forget about everything else. Plus, staying close to the water is a great way to elevate your Dune Allen vacation.
DUNE ALLEN REGIONAL BEACH ACCESS
Very new, Dune Allen Regional Beach Access gives you more than 200 feet of sugar sands to enjoy right across the 30A from Stinky’s Fish Camp and Allen Lake and just a stone’s throw from Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. With restrooms, parking, and a lifeguard station, this access point provides another top-notch portal to the famous beachfront of the Emerald Coast.
ED WALLINE BEACH ACCESS
The wildly popular Ed Walline Beach Access is easy to spot on Highway 30A and offers plenty of amenities. With a spacious parking lot, handicapped parking, a pavilion with picnic tables, grills, and clean restrooms, it’s a favorite spot for beachgoers.
TOPSAIL HILL PRESERVE STATE PARK & ALLEN LAKE
Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Dune Allen Beach, the state park offers over 3 miles of protected beachfront. It’s wide open and the undeveloped landscape is a scenic sensation! Topsail Hill is named for its dunes, which rise like a ship’s sails over soft sand beaches and the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
The white quartz dunes are responsible for a rare coastal ecosystem – freshwater dune lakes – which teem with aquatic wildlife. This park offers bike riders 1,600 acres of stunning trails amidst two coastal dune lakes. Allen Lake is the true gem here.
To hike the interiors of the park, the main entrance is nearby off 30A. Multiple trails meander around the lakes, many of which are boardwalks. These lakes are special—not just for bird watching, or snapping pics of wildlife, but for remembering Topsail’s natural beauty many years from now.
EXPLORE SCENIC TRAILS AND ADVENTURE SPOTS
TIMPOOCHEE TRAIL
This 19-mile paved, multi-use path winds its way from Dune Allen in the west to Inlet Beach in the east. The trail is a dream for bikers, walkers, and joggers alike. Winding along 30A, it’s the perfect way to explore the area, taking in those gorgeous views as you go. Bring your bike or rent one locally, and get ready for a scenic ride through nature, and all the beach towns.
You can rent bikes in Dune Allen along 30A from several great local spots. These shops make it easy to get around the area and explore the scenic trails of Dune Allen, Topsail Hill Preserve, and more!
30A BIKE RENTALS
They offer a variety of bikes, including beach cruisers, e-bikes, and children’s bikes. They provide free delivery and pickup across 30A, including Dune Allen.
THE BIKE SHOP 30A
Located nearby in Blue Mountain Beach, this shop offers bike rentals for all ages, including tandems and cargo bikes. They also deliver.
BIG DADDY’S BIKE SHOP
In nearby Blue Mountain Beach, Big Daddy’s offers bike rentals with a wide selection of cruisers and hybrids. Delivery services to Dune Allen are available.
SALT AIR 30A
Also offering bike rentals, they deliver and pick up bikes anywhere along 30A, including Dune Allen.
SANTA ROSA GOLF & BEACH CLUB
A private beach club and member-owned, the recent multi-million-dollar renovation of Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club inspired Golf Magazine to call it the “Purest Golf in the Florida Panhandle.” The course is designed for walking, with little distance between greens and tees. But that’s okay, two of the holes back up to the Gulf of Mexico, a rarity around here.
Book your stay with Oversee 30A!
Dune Allen offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, with beautiful beaches, unique outdoor experiences, and plenty of great food and fun.
It’s a spot where you can truly unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy every moment of your vacation. Ready to experience it for yourself?
FOOD, SHOPPING, AND LOCAL FLAVORS
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
Hungry? Dune Allen’s got you! Start with Stinky’s Fish Camp—a local favorite for fresh seafood with a funky, laid-back vibe. Order the crawfish pie or catfish meunière and thank us later. For something sweet, grab a dessert at a nearby café, because vacation calories don’t count, right?
STINKY’S FISH CAMP
Stinky’s Fish Camp is a local favorite in Dune Allen, known for its fresh Gulf seafood and laid-back vibe. Though the wait can be long, it’s worth it for the top-notch food, including “select” Apalachicola oysters. Located by a coastal dune lake, Stinky’s is a must-visit for seafood lovers on 30A. Don’t miss the Stinky’s Stew if you’re dining with a friend!
GOATFEATHERS
For a more laid-back atmosphere, Goatfeathers Restaurant is a local favorite. With a menu featuring fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes, it’s a perfect spot for a casual yet delicious meal.
VUE 30A
Vue 30A has floor-to-ceiling windows, offering some of the best sunsets on the coast. Named “Best Waterfront Dining” by Travel + Leisure Magazine, Vue 30A practically puts you on the beach, while featuring fresh and innovative cuisine. As their slogan says, “Come for the views – stay for the food!
SHUNK GULLEY OYSTER BAR
Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, offering a menu brimming with Gulf-inspired flavors. From oysters to freshly caught fish, every dish is a celebration of coastal cuisine.
PAPA SURF BURGER BAR
Where music and sports meet delicious burgers, the founders envisioned a place where folks can come together to enjoy delicious food, good company, and a lively atmosphere.
UNIQUE SHOPS
After you’ve had your fill of good food, take a stroll through the nearby shopping areas. At Gulf Place, check out the quirky little boutiques for one-of-a-kind finds, from beachy clothing to local artwork. Who doesn’t love a good souvenir?
GRAND BOULEVARD
Grand Boulevard is more than just a town center. For high-end fashion, exclusive boutiques, and specialty shops, this vibrant hub has something for every shopper. The dining scene is equally impressive, with a range of gourmet restaurants offering everything from fresh local seafood to international cuisines, perfect for any palate.
The beautifully landscaped park adds a touch of serenity to the area, offering open green spaces where visitors can relax, take a stroll, or even enjoy outdoor events. With its combination of style, comfort, and functionality, Grand Boulevard stands out as a premier destination on the Emerald Coast.
CHRISTINA D SWIM AND RESORT
As a small, boutique business, Christina D Swim and Resort strives to fit women of all sizes and ages in some of the best swimwear out there. As you all know, finding a great suit isn’t easy, so having a qualified expert guide you through the fit process is essential in getting the fit that is best for you.
KITH & KIN COFFEE
Kith & Kin Coffee blends a love for coffee with a passion for community. Located in 30A, it’s more than just a café—it’s a place to connect with friends and enjoy high-quality brews. Come for the coffee, stay for the welcoming vibe.
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
FISHING AND CRABBING
Got any aspiring anglers in the family? Dune Allen is a prime spot for fishing and crabbing. You can cast a line right off the shore or head to a nearby lake for a more peaceful setting. Pro tip: The best times for fishing are early morning and late afternoon—perfect for catching that next big story to tell.
SNORKEL TO SEAHORSE REEF
Dive into the underwater wonders at Seahorse Reef, located off of Topsail Hill State Park. The reef sits 715 feet from the shore. Installed in the summer of 2017, it’s comprised of 78 individual reefs deployed in the shape of a seahorse. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will be captivated by the vibrant marine life thriving beneath the Gulf’s surface. Take a paddleboard or a kayak there. Super easy, super fun.
LIVE MUSIC AND LOCAL EVENTS
If you’re in the mood for some after-dark fun, check out what’s happening in the area. From live music at local venues to seasonal festivals, there’s always something going on to keep the good vibes going.
STINKY’S BAIT SHACK
Stinky’s Bait Shack isn’t just a bait shop—it’s also a live music venue with a full bar. As Highway 30A’s only live bait retailer, it’s famous for both its seafood and lively music scene. With performances ranging from bluegrass to rock-n-roll, Stinky’s Fish Camp pairs great tunes with delicious seafood. Plus, don’t miss the Fish Camp next door!
Book your stay with Oversee 30A!
Dune Allen offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, with beautiful beaches, unique outdoor experiences, and plenty of great food and fun.
It’s a spot where you can truly unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy every moment of your vacation. Ready to experience it for yourself?
