The Way of Water: The Best Kept Secret in Florida

Life is better at beach. Not just any beach — the beaches along 30A. One of the best areas to visit along the Emerald Coast is a stretch of towns along the shores of Scenic Highway 30A. This 26-mile road hugs the Gulf of Mexico and is home to picturesque tows full of cute boutiques, great restaurants, and beautiful beach architecture.

30A sits between two more well known towns: Panama City Beach and Destin. Towns include Inlet Beach, Rosemary Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, Grayton Beach, Watercolor, and more. Thomas and I grew up near the area and love visiting the scenic roads, when we can.

You can ride or jog along the super-bike friendly streets or sunbathe at the world most beautiful beaches. Other family friendly activities include kayaking, going on a dolphin tour, going on a fishing charter, or visiting local spots including family-friendly breweries, fine dining, or

When you visit 30A, you can start your day riding or jogging along the super bike-friendly streets or sunbathe along the world’s most beautiful beaches. Other activities in the area include kayaking, going on a dolphin cruise, catching fish on a fishing charter, and more. Looking for a great food spot? This is the place for you! Get fresh seafood, enjoy fine dining, check out eclectic spots, and enjoy delicious food as you watch the sun set.

Here are some of our favorite spots to visit and eat along 30A:

The Red Bar — this is by far our favorite restaurant. We come as often as we can when we are in the Panhandle. My friends and I actually made Red Bar part of my Bachelorette party, so it holds an even more special place in my heart. Also, as someone who doesn’t like seafood, this place has the BEST chicken piccata around! (Their key lime pie is also the best in the area.)

Bud and Alley’s — this is the place to go to sit on the deck and watch the sunset. Grab a drink and let the ocean breeze blow your cares away.

Eden Gardens State Park — this beautiful mansion sits on 163 acres of land that were part of the Wesley Homestead. You can walk around the gardens and tour the two-story home. This is a great place to bring a picnic and enjoy the day.

The Big Chill — Formerly known as The Hub, this is the entertainment and food place for the whole family! Local food shops dot along the green lawn. Catch live music, the latest game, or even a family-friendly movie on the big screen while enjoy quality family time.

Our favorite place to stay along 30A, though we may be a little partial, is a home called The Way of Water in Inlet Beach right next to Doughnut Hole and the entrance to Rosemary Beach. Just a short one-mile bike ride and you can enjoy the beautiful town of Rosemary Beach. Or you can walk to the public beach access across the street from The Way of Water.

If you’re looking for a great place to bring your family in the Panhandle of Florida or looking for a romantic spot to bring your partner, look no further. 30A is home to the most adorable towns and beaches and even hosts some great yearly events like the 30A Songwriters Festival, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, and the Emerald Cost Blue Marlin Classic. Book your trip today; life is better at the beach!