FREE 30A ACTIVITIES THAT AREN’T FREE BUT CLOSE ENOUGH.

Things to Do

April 11, 2024

Ah, the age-old quest for budget-friendly fun along 30A.

Well, good news, intrepid traveler. We’ve got the lowdown on how to have a blast without emptying your wallet.

From exploring state parks to snorkeling an underwater reef, there are plenty of ways to be entertained here without sacrificing your hard-earned clams.

Let’s pay less. And play more!

The Beach.

30A Beach Walk
The beach! Where the sand is white and the admission fee is… well, nonexistent! While it may not cost a dime to stroll along the shore, resist the urge to splurge on beachside snacks, cocktails, or beach chairs.
When visiting a 30A beach, bring your own beach chair.
BYOBC? Bring your own beach chair! And when bringing your own food to the beach, buy groceries outside 30A, where food prices tend to be cheaper. Or… your local 30A grocery store has pre-cut fruit you can grab on the go for a light snack everyone will love. Watermelon is a summertime favorite you can cut up at your Oversee vacation home before you head to the beach.
Another 30A sunset.
A beach sunset is a can’t-miss. Grab your libations of choice and head to the shoreline for a front-row seat to nature’s nightly masterpiece. A picnic basket (or small backpack cooler) and a blanket can add to your scenic evening. Just remember, while the sunset itself is free, those craft beers might put a dent in your “free” entertainment budget.

Biking.

Two women riding bikes during a 30A vacation.
Enjoy the flexibility to explore 30A at your own pace, with plenty of time to stop for shopping, swimming, drinks, and sunsets. Traffic and parking? Nope. Thirsty? Replace sugary, expensive drinks with ice water in a backpack bladder.
The paved 19-mile Timpoochee Trail runs the entire length of Highway 30A
This paved 19-mile Timpoochee Trail runs the entire length of Highway 30A and provides a fantastic view of the area that can’t be seen by car. Not only will you get in some exercise, but you’ll have fun doing it! Bike rentals are available from several vendors along the trail and you can rent them by the day or the entire week.
A couple having fun in 30A's Rosemary Beach.
As you browse the many quaint shops, boutiques and restaurants of Rosemary Beach from the comfort of a bike, slow things down a bit with a visit to the Hidden Lantern Book Store. Soon enough, you’ll stumble upon that idyllic hidden park bench in the shade, where your afternoon will just kinda melt away.
Serenity of Seagrove is yet another luxurious Oversee Vacation Home.
We know what caught your eye. That pool! Yeah, it looks great, but Serenity of Seagrove also has 4 complimentary bikes. Many homes do!

Paddleboarding.

On 30A's Eatern Lake, a couple paddleboard in front of SeaGroovin', an Oversee Vacation Home.
If you’ve spent time on 30A, you know this coastal stretch showcases some of the most beautiful scenery in Northwest Florida. With lakes, bayous, bays, and the Gulf nearby, paddleboarding offers a wide range of spots to explore. This pic was taken from SeaGroovin‘, an Oversee lakefront house on Eastern Lake.
Woman paddleboarding near 30A.
Many Oversee vacation homes have complimentary paddleboards, but renting equipment is minimal. La Dolce Vita provides paddleboard rentals throughout 30A, so you’ll be on the water in no time!
Man and son paddleboarding along 30A.
Western Lake can be accessed through Grayton Beach State Park. The water is relatively shallow, is primarily freshwater, and is tea-colored (due to vegetation decays). But the water in the lake is clean and perfect for paddleboarding where unique geographical features are only found in a few places in the world!

Cook at home.

Kitchen and dining area of a luxurious Oversee Vacation Home.
Our best advice for avoiding an expensive bill at the end of a meal? Cook at home! Many Oversee homes offer gourmet kitchens with open layouts, making it the perfect space to gather and enjoy a home-cooked meal. 30A has great local seafood markets that offer the same quality as our restaurants. Take advantage of this and customize your menu to fit your family’s needs without the hefty price tag of eating out. 

Snorkeling.

A sea turtle near a 30A beach.
Dive into adventure without diving deep into your pockets with a snorkeling excursion along 30A’s extensive artificial reef system, offering snorkelers convenient access to thriving marine ecosystems.
Snorkelers enjoying a 30A artificial reef.
For a day of inexpensive underwater exploration, take your kayak or paddleboard out to one of the four snorkel reefs arranged in fun sea life shapes. All of the reefs are accessible from the beach and located near public beach accesses, parking, and restrooms.
A snorkeler exlores a few of 30A's artificial reefs.
Grayton Beach State Park is one of the most popular areas in 30A for spotting sea life. Sea Turtle Reef sits about 783 feet from the shore and is a group of 58 individual reefs deployed in the shape of a turtle.

State Parks.

A couple riding bikes through a 30A state park.
Beyond the stunning Gulf waters, 30A is a lot of things, including a few unbelievably unique state parks near your Oversee home. These pristine and protected parcels of pure natural Florida are ready and waiting for you and your crew to come over and play. 
A couple kayaks 30A's Grayton Beach State Park.
Friends of Grayton run a kayak and paddleboard rental service on Western Lake. Open seven days a week, from 9am – 4pm, renters can take a kayak or paddleboard out on the beautiful waters. lake. Book your inexpensive rental today!
A biker rides through a 30A state park.
200 miles of woodsy trails? Absolutely. The many state parks and wildlife areas along 30A are a sight to be seen, some of which highlight the splendor of the coastal dune lakes. Indigenous wildlife thrives in these diverse pockets of untouched beauty while offering access to beaches, rolling sand dunes, and delightful boardwalks, which meander just feet above the protected flora and fauna.
A path leads directly to a 30A beach.
Some of the trailheads ask for a small donation to the State Forest. Thank you for helping support the overall facilities. Providing you with clean public restrooms is just a part of where your money goes. Your small donations even support a wide variety of eco-tourism activities available throughout South Walton County.

Shuttles and Trams.

A 30A shuttle.
A convenient shuttle has made exploring a lot easier. The ‘Grayton Central’ parking lot is across from the Hurricane Oyster Bar, and has free parking. From here, the shuttle offers free pick-up and drop-off to Grayton Beach, as well as Red’s Bar, The Zoo Gallery, and other restaurants and shops in the unique neighborhood. Also, the free ‘Seaside Shuttle on Scenic 30A’ runs to Seaside in about 8 minutes. Both shuttles run daily from 6am to midnight, every 15 minutes, or as needed.

Explore Seaside.

Near Bud and Alley's, in 30A's Seaside.
A great place to people and window watch, Seaside is hailed by Time magazine as perhaps “the most astounding design achievement of its era,” and is credited with founding a global town-planning movement known as New Urbanism.
30A's enchanting Seaside.
‘With its cozy, narrow streets and its jumble of pastel-colored homes, Seaside is probably the most influential resort community since Versailles.’ – Newsweek

End.

Reader Interactions

MORE ARTICLES

More for you.

FREE 30A ACTIVITIES THAT AREN’T FREE BUT CLOSE ENOUGH.
Ah, the age-old quest for budget-friendly fun along 30A. Well, good news, intrepid traveler. We’ve got the lowdown on how to have a blast without emptying your wallet. From exploring state parks to snorkeling an underwater reef, there are plenty of ways to be entertained here without sacrificing your hard-earned clams. Let’s pay less. And […]

Apr 11 Things to Do

HOW TO GET ‘30A FIT’
WITHOUT A GYM.
‘Go outside and play!’ Mom knew best when she’d repeat that all year long. But getting fit without stepping into a gym? With breathtaking coastal views, a buzzing fitness scene, and a smorgasbord of workout options, it’s absolutely doable. Beach yoga, anyone? RunSUP Walk. Everywhere! Are you up to the challenge? Yoga! The Travel Trainer […]

Mar 22 Things to Do

NO 30A RESERVATIONS?
You’re having second thoughts about visiting another30A 4-star restaurant tonight. Well, put those reservations aside. Opting for the ease of takeout or delivery may be the way ‘to go’. Or better yet, have a 30A chef swing by your Oversee vacation home! A cozy catered party is a fantastic way to treat your family to […]

Mar 11 Things To Devour

BEHIND THE SCENES.
Oversee’s approach to property management and positive experiences. 30A stands as a sought-after destination for vacationers and property investors alike. In this thriving market, Oversee, a local vacation home management company, has carved a distinctive niche by embracing a personable, service-friendly approach. Michael B. Emerick, broker, and co-founder of Oversee, sheds light on the challenges, […]

Mar 06 Property Management

HE TURNED A DEATH SENTENCE INTO AN OPPORTUNITY TO HELP OTHERS.
A two-time, hall-of-fame collegiate athlete, Michael Emerick appeared the cliché of health. And until late 2021, the co-owner of 30A rental management company Oversee, husband and father, was living the good life. But in late 2021, an intruder threatened to take everything from the 34-year-old. Over the course of six days, Michael went from reporting […]

Mar 06 About Oversee

CAN’T STOP THINKING ABOUT 30A? FOLLOW YOUR HEART.
Live the 30A life! Along Florida’s stunning Emerald Coast lies a beautiful stretch of highway known as 30A. You may have heard of it. Perhaps you’ve graced its charming avenues and walked along its soft sandy shores, so you know the allure of this 27-mile seaside stretch. And maybe you can’t stop thinking about your […]

Feb 24 Property Management

FORGIVE ME, 30A SUMMER.
I WANT YOU BACK.
I owe you an apology. Remember when I wrote that ‘Dear John’ letter to you, declaring my newfound love for fall? (see ‘Dear Summer’ blog) Well, I’m sorry. Because now, as I gaze outside at my frozen bird bath, I find myself yearning for you once again. If you can forgive me, I promise to […]

Feb 23 Trip Planning

RAISE YOUR GLASSES TO 30A.
When it comes to wine, 30A puts on quite the show. With wine festivals, a wine walkabout, wine dinners, and boutique wine shops, well, let’s just say, even a connoisseur will have a challenge keeping up with these pros. After a world-class wine-tasting event or a visit to a nearby vineyard, head to the balcony, […]

Feb 08 Trip Planning

GROCERIES & 30A.
In the vibrant world of 30A, where securing a rooftop table at Pescado can be as challenging as finding a convenient grocery store, well, challenge accepted. If you’re planning a quick meal in your stunning Oversee vacation home, or a sunrise breakfast on a paddleboard, you’ll need grocery options that promise convenience, and enough fresh […]

Jan 29 Trip Planning

30A IS FOR LOVERS.
Valentine’s Day! What a lovely excuse to become seduced by 30A’s magnificent sunsets, pristine beaches, and many 4-star restaurants. Well, who wouldn’t love a cozy snuggle on the beach at dusk, with a good drink and even better views? And with a gorgeous Oversee vacation home as your love nest, elevating your 2024 Valentine’s Day […]

Jan 15 Things to Do

THE ONLY TIP NECESSARY
FOR PLANNING A 30A
SUMMER VACATION?
BOOK EARLY! Nothing could be better than a summer vacation on 30A. Except securing an Oversee beach oasis in advance. Let peace of mind set the stage for planning a truly unforgettable 30A summer vacation! BEFORE YOU BOOK. If you’ve set your sights on a specific Oversee beach cottage, don’t procrastinate. Book early to ensure […]

Jan 08 Trip Planning

HOW TO GET WET IN THE 30A RAIN.
Pray for a downpour. Don’t let the rain dampen your vacation! Instead, embrace the rainfall with open arms. There’ll be plenty of time for coziness in your luxurious Oversee vacation home later on. For now, here’s a few tips for those who like to ‘vacation hard’ on 30A, sun or no sun. And if there’s […]

Dec 31 Things to Do

30A’s DUNE ALLEN BEACH
Hidden? Not so much.A gem? Absolutely. On a slice of Florida’s Emerald Coast lies a gorgeous community on the far west end of 30A. Hmm. The far west end? Maybe that’s why it’s not as well-known as its beautiful counterparts. Oh sure, Grayton Beach shares its name and beauty with an enchanting state park. Blue […]

Dec 18 Trip Planning

HUNGRY FOR SEAGROVE?
Find your yums along 30A. Sprawled along the stunning Emerald Coast of Florida, Seagrove Beach is a treasure trove of vacation homes, pristine beaches, charming shops, and culinary wonders, waiting to be explored. Steeped in a rich history, ‘modern’ change began in the 1940s when Seagrove transformed from narrow sand roads and native scrub brush, […]

Dec 11 Trip Planning

TO BARK? OR NOT TO BARK?
The pros and cons of making your30A vacation rental pet-friendly. Are you on the fence about allowing furry friends into your 30A vacation rental? Sure, the demand for pet-friendly vacation rentals on the Emerald Coast of Florida is high. In fact, “pet-friendly” is one of the most popular search filters on booking sites. But that […]

Nov 29 Property Management

TOP 10 30A RESTAURANTS
WITH A VIEW.
Come for the views. Stay for the food. The Gulf Coast is more than just a pretty face. Want yummy take-out for your 30A Beach House? Or are you wandering the charming streets of Rosemary Beach and Seaside, wondering what to eat? These alfresco dining and drinking options are some of the best in all […]

Nov 03 Things to Do

A 30A THANKSGIVING.
YOUR GUIDE TO THE 2023
‘FEEDING OF THE FACE’.
It’s all about the food. Make room, because Thanksgiving Day is right around the corner. And what better way to celebrate the annual feeding frenzy, than in the scenic beauty of 30A along the Emerald Coast of Florida. This year, let’s give thanks to delicious dining options that embody 30A’s unique style. From extravagant sit-down […]

Oct 29 Trip Planning

BE AFRAID OF 30A THIS HALLOWEEN.
BE VERY AFRAID.
Boo! It’s that enchanting time of year when our beloved Gulf Coast transforms into a spooky paradise. Our vibrant coastal communities, from Dune Allen to Inlet Beach and everywhere in between, come alive with a burst of autumnal energy, turning the entire stretch of Highway 30A into a Halloween wonderland. Ready to dive into 30A […]

Oct 23 Trip Planning

WHY A GREAT NAME FOR YOUR 30A VACATION RENTAL IS IMPORTANT.
SUN OF A BEACH, LET’S TALK NAMES. You finally made the tough decision to dip your toes in 30A real estate. Congrats! That was a big leap. Now let’s have a little fun. Naming your swanky Seaside property or that chic spot in Grayton Beach should be evocative, inspiring, or downright cute. And trust us, […]

Oct 16 Property Management

30A’S BEST-KEPT SECRETS,
HIDDEN TREASURES,
AND LITTLE-KNOWN FACTS.
Don’t share this blog! They’re secrets, after all. Want to know where that sneaky beach access is? Or that low-key eatery or watering hole where locals hang? Of course you do. But let’s keep it hush-hush. If you’re looking for 30A vacation rentals, or just curious about Florida’s panhandle, consider this your exclusive invitation to […]

Oct 06 Trip Planning

ROSEMARY BEACH.
THE GEM OF 30A AND FLORIDA’S EMERALD COAST.
Located in Florida’s panhandle, Rosemary Beach appears straight out of a storybook. Beyond the picturesque facades, welcome to a treasure trove of history, charm, and of course, fun throughout the entire year, with concerts, art festivals, farmers’ markets, and holiday celebrations. A storied past. Rosemary Beach is more than just a perfect 30A vacation spot. […]

Sep 28 Trip Planning

A GOLFER’S BEST EXCUSE?
THE DISTRACTING BEAUTY OF
30A’S GOLF COURSES.
“I was on par until the scenery got in the way.” The views are breathtaking, the distractions are plenty, and the temptation to ditch your golf cart for a sandy beach stroll is all too real. But the good news? The distracting views have inspired a fresh round of delightful excuses. So next time your […]

Sep 25 Things to Do

30A SUNSETS.
AND HOW TO TAKE GREAT SMARTPHONE PICS.
The Gulf Coast sunsets are pure magic.And so is your phone. When the 30A sky explodes in a riot of colors, reflecting off the shimmeringGulf of Mexico, preparedness is key. For you and your amazing phone-camera. Let’s explore not only when and where to experience these breathtaking sunsets, but also how to capture their beauty […]

Sep 15 Things to Do

WHAT? ANOTHER BLOG ABOUT 30A AND COFFEE?
Sorta. You may be relieved this isn’t another lighthearted and ‘entertaining’ exploration of the coffee scene on 30A. We won’t be introducing you to quirky coffee shops with funky decor, friendly baristas with a talent for latte art, or expert roasters who take pride in sourcing the best beans. Of course, we have nothing against […]

Sep 08 Things to Do

Dear Summer,
It’s me, not you.Firstly, let me start by saying how much I’ve cherished our time together.You’ve been incredible. You brought warmth, adventure, and memories that will forever be etched in my heart. I have something to confess. Our time together has been epic, but I’ve found a new love. It’s not that you’re not everything […]

Aug 31 Trip Planning

FISHING 30A.
How to catch fish in one easy step: 1.Get professional help. Catching fish is easy with a seasoned captain at your side.The moment you contact a local fishing guide, you’re in good hands because every charter caters to families set on creating hassle-free, 30A adventures. The only thing you have to do is decide from […]

Aug 16 Things to Do

An enchanting history.
A timeless charm.
Explore the natural beauty of Seagrove Beach. IntroductionWelcome, oh curious traveler, to the captivating world of Seagrove Beach. As you embark on a journey through time, let us whisk you away to the early days of this remarkable coastal gem along the famed 30A corridor. This enchanting tale harmonizes the past and the present, sprinkled […]

Aug 02 Trip Planning

HOW TO TURN YOUR 30A HOME INTO A SUCCESSFUL VACATION RENTAL.
Finding the perfect partner. Congratulations on your new vacation home!As you embark on this exciting journey of turning your property into a successful vacation rental, finding the right management company is crucial for maximizing your investment. And guess what? You’ve stumbled upon the holy grail of vacation rental management – Oversee! Get ready to unwind […]

Aug 01 Property Management

ESCAPE TO 30A!
Oversee makes it easy.
Imagine this. You’re strolling along the white sand beaches of 30A, the sun kissing your cheeks, the rhythmic sound of the waves lulling you into a state of pure relaxation, when, suddenly… Laughter fills the air.Your family has joined you on the beach. Now, with everyone at your side, prepare to embark on a journey […]

Jul 17 Trip Planning

MY FAVORITE 30A CLICHÉS.
The most popular words about Florida’s most breathtaking vacation spot. While searching for a vacation rental, or reading a travel magazine, you’ve undoubtedly come across a few ten-dollar words. These essential tools of language help paint a more detailed or romantic picture of a home, restaurant, beach, whatever. But over time, these proven workhorses of vacation […]

Jun 28 Trip Planning

I FAILED TRYING TO RATE THE TOP 30A BEACH TOWNS.
THEY ALL CAME OUT ON TOP. Yes, each town scored equally well with its neighbors, meaning they also scored #1. Huh? Well, sorry. But these world-class beaches, with lively avenues to match, are just too delightful to compare. Before we get into our favorite things, let’s take a look at a few commonalities our towns […]

Jun 28 Trip Planning

JULY 4th & 30A.
A COMPLETE GUIDE.
Beach barbecues are thankful the founding fathers didn’t declare independence in the winter. Grayton Beach Independence Day Parade Vehicle and people decorating! Scooters, skateboards, Jeeps, bikes, wagons, golf carts, and even kids, make up this one-of-a-kind kick-off to Independence Day. Join us! Parade line-up at Red Bar 8am The parade starts at 8:30am Clothes, hair, and […]

Jun 05 Things to Do

30A STATE PARKS.
FLORIDA AT ITS BEST.
MORE THAN JUST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES. Beyond the stunning Gulf waters, 30A is a lot of things, including a few unbelievably unique state parks near your Oversee home. These pristine and protected parcels of pure natural Florida are ready and waiting for you and your crew to come over and play.  A few things to know […]

May 15 Things to Do

TOP 5 REASONS WHY 30A VACATION RENTALS WITH PRIVATE POOLS ARE PERFECT FOR SUMMER VACATIONS.
1)  CLOSER IS EASIER WITH A PRIVATE POOL Of course, the community pools are clean, beautiful, and huge! But they’re over there, and you and your crew are right here, in a really nice Oversee beach home. But a private heated pool? It just may cause you to raise your hands in the air, and […]

May 10 Trip Planning

I DIDN’T STEAL ANY WHITE SAND ON MY FIRST 30A TRIP.
I BORROWED IT DAY 5 It was the last day of our first trip to 30A. And I just couldn’t help myself, I had to have some of that wonderful white stuff, the perfect Emerald Coast souvenir. My daughter and I quickly walked the 200 feet or so, from our dreamy vacation beach house, ‘A […]

May 10 Trip Planning

HOP ON A 30A BIKE RENTAL.
NOW GET LOST!
WHY A BIKE? Discover the nooks and crannies of 30A near your Oversee rental. Exploring our enchanted region by car has its advantages. But to really get that “Oh wow, I’m on vacation!” feeling, get out of your vehicle and lose yourself on a bike. Before you explore 30A, explore 30A bike rentals now. “But […]

May 02 Things to Do

THE HOMEOWNER | 2 |
30A PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
LIFE HAPPENS. EVEN ON VACATION. We work with homeowners to create beautiful sanctuaries for folks looking for a dreamy vacation rental. And when guests arrive at an Oversee home, we work with them also, and do everything we can to help them unwind. To illustrate the lengths we go to keep our guests happy, I’ve […]

May 02 Property Management

THE HOMEOWNER | 1 |
30A PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
“HAVE YOUR PEOPLE CALL OUR PEOPLE.”  What? That doesn’t sound like a partnership. Dealing with a giant property management company can feel impersonal. But shouldn’t turning your 30A beach home into a dreamy vacation rental be a fun challenge? Of course! So what’s next? Going solo can be time-consuming, and sometimes headache-inducing. And although partnering […]

Apr 11 Property Management

SPOIL YOURSELF.
YOU DESERVE A 30A SHOPPING SPREE.
30A is a stunning stretch of highway that includes a string of beautiful beaches along the Florida Panhandle. The charming beach towns and communities are distinctive, making it one of the most unique regions in all of Florida, if not the world.  The laid-back atmosphere in 30A is also unique, and when paired with the […]

Feb 13 Things to Do

SPRING BREAK?
30A IS THE BETTER WAY.
Find out what adventurous activities will keep the entire family happy.

Feb 06 Trip Planning

EVERYTHING’S WONDERFUL
ALONG 30A.
ESPECIALLY THE RESTAURANTS.
30A! What? You’ve never been? Well, prepare yourself for stunning scenery, charming towns, eclectic shops, and perhaps the real reason you’re here, some of the tastiest eateries and fine dining anywhere. But 30A is more than perfect beaches and cute boutiques. It’s home to a delightful mix of good-hearted locals, who open their rental One […]

Feb 06 Things to Do

WHAT DO GUESTS WANT THE MOST? OUR 30A TOP-5!
Find out what amenities are popular among guests searching for a dreamy vacation home.

Feb 06 Property Management

FARMER’S MARKETS OF 30A.
A HELPFUL GUIDE.
You can’t throw an avocado without hitting a wonderful farmer’s marketaround these parts. Spend a peaceful morning strolling past the many stalls,chatting with friendly farmers, local makers, and smiling bakers. The food scene hereis off the hook, with the best local produce, seafood, and unique food items. WHY A very satisfying way to uncover locally […]

Jan 31 Things to Do

Skip to content