We recently had the opportunity through Visit Florida, to experience 30A, Florida for the very first time, and we LOVED IT! If you’re planning a family vacation to South Walton or specifically 30A, Florida, you’re in for a treat! There are so MANY things to do in 30A and on top of it, it is simply a gorgeous place to visit!
There’s so much to do in this beautiful beach destination, and the best part is that it’s perfect for adults and kids of all ages. As a mom of six, I’ve had my fair share of family vacations, and I can say with confidence that 30A is one of the best places to take your kids.
So, without further ado, let’s get into the top things to do in 30A, Florida with kids!
Enjoy The Big Chill Experience
Oh my GOODNESS! What an amazing place, I wish we had something like this in our hometown.
“The Big Chill” is not only the name of a weather event in 30A, Florida but also the name of a popular local business. The Big Chill is a chain of retail shops, restaurants, and bars along the 30A.
The Big Chill is a great environment for families, there are games to play like corn hole, live music, tons of different food options and of course a candy shop and even a build a bear workshop.
The Big Chill also has several bars for the adults including the 30Avenue location. This bar offers a great selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, along with live music and a laid-back atmosphere.
For more information about The Big Chill shops, restaurants, and bars, visit their website at https://bigchill30a.com/.
Experience North Beach Social
North Beach Social became one of our favorite things to do in 30A when we visited. This beachside restaurant and bar offers a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of activities and amenities that are perfect for families with kids.
One of the best things about North Beach Social is the location. It’s situated right on the beach, so kids can play in the sand and surf while parents relax and enjoy a meal or a drink.
The beach is well-maintained, and there are plenty of chairs and umbrellas available for rent, so you don’t have to worry about lugging your own gear.
In addition to the beach, North Beach Social has a variety of family-friendly activities. There is a large grassy area where kids can run around and play games, and there are also cornhole boards and other outdoor games available to borrow.
The restaurant also has a playground area with a slide and other equipment, which is perfect for younger children. Learn more about North Beach Social here: https://www.northbeach.social/
Visit the Adorable Seaside Community
This is one of my favorite stops on the trip through 30A. Seaside is a picturesque town (the movie Truman show was filmed there) You’ll find delicious find trucks lining the streets, some of the most adorable shops I have ever been in, and of course delicious eats line this little town.
Grab a ball or frisbee and play in the amphitheater when a show is not playing. This place is a must visit.
Grab Breakfast at Black Bear Bread Co.
Speaking of places to dine in Seaside, Black Bear Bread Co. in 30A, Florida is a fantastic spot for families to visit. This bakery and café offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and a variety of options that are perfect for both kids and adults.
One of the best things about Black Bear Bread Co. is the menu. There are plenty of options for breakfast, lunch, and brunch, including pastries, sandwiches, salads, and more.
The bakery also offers a variety of breads, which are baked fresh daily and are perfect for taking home as a souvenir or for a picnic on the beach.
The bakery also has a kids’ menu, which includes options like grilled cheese, peanut butter and jelly, and ham and cheese croissants. There are also plenty of baked goods and pastries that kids will love, like cinnamon rolls and chocolate croissants.
Check it out here: https://blackbearbreadco.com
Beach day at Seaside Beach
When you think of Florida, you think of the beach, right? Well, Seaside Beach is a must-visit destination on 30A. This beautiful beach offers crystal-clear water and soft, white sand.
It’s perfect for kids of all ages, and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether your kids want to build sandcastles, play in the waves, or simply soak up the sun, Seaside Beach is the perfect spot for a family day out.
Take a Bike Ride along the Timpoochee Trail
The Timpoochee Trail is a 19-mile paved bike path that winds through the 30A area. It’s a great way to explore the area with your family and take in the beautiful scenery. Rent bikes for the day and pack a picnic lunch for a fun-filled family adventure.
Visit The Village of Baytowne Wharf
We also loved visiting the Village of Baytown Wharf. It is a wonderful destination for families, and as a mom, I highly recommend it.
This charming village is located on the banks of the Choctawhatchee Bay and offers a variety of activities and amenities that are sure to keep both kids and adults entertained.
One of the highlights of the Village of Baytown Wharf is the variety of restaurants and dining options available.
As a mom, I appreciate that there are plenty of family-friendly options, such as pizza and ice cream shops, as well as more upscale dining options for date nights or special occasions. There are also several outdoor dining areas with beautiful views of the bay, which makes for a lovely backdrop to any meal.
Another great aspect of the Village of Baytown Wharf is the abundance of shops and boutiques. My kids love browsing the toy stores and candy shops, while I enjoy perusing the boutiques for unique gifts and souvenirs. There is something for everyone, and the variety of shops ensures that no one will leave empty-handed.
The Village of Baytown Wharf also offers plenty of family-friendly activities. The Adventure Zone is a must-visit for families with kids, as it offers zip-lining, ropes courses, and a bungee trampoline.
There is also a playground area and a splash pad for younger children. My family also enjoys renting bikes and exploring the scenic trails that wind through the village. Check it out here: https://www.baytownewharf.com
Get Some Ice Cream and Fudge at Pecan Jacks!
If you love fresh homemade ice cream, fudge, toffee and all things deliciousness, this is the stop for you. Pecan Jacks will soon have two locations on 30A which is great because their first location is often packed. You will often see a line forming on the street to grab some of their unique delectable flavors. The staff is friendly and the treats are amazing.
Where to Stay in 30A?
While you are planning all the things to do in 30A, you might also want to know the best place to stay with your Family! That said, we HIGHLY recommend booking a stay at The Lodge 30A!
The Lodge 30A
As a mom, finding family-friendly accommodations can be a challenge, but The Lodge 30A in Florida is an amazing destination for families.
This beachside resort offers a variety of amenities and activities that are perfect for all ages, making it a great choice for families looking to enjoy a fun and relaxing vacation together.
One of the best things about The Lodge 30A is its location. The resort is situated right on the beach, so families can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf just steps from their room.
In addition to the beach, The Lodge 30A has a variety of family-friendly activities. There is a large outdoor pool that is perfect for kids to splash around in, as well as a hot tub for parents to relax in.
The resort also has a game room with a variety of arcade games, pool tables, and more, which is great for older kids and teens.
The rooms at The Lodge 30A are also great for families. They are spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for parents and kids to spread out. Book your stay at The Lodge 30A and learn more here: https://www.thelodge30a.com/
Bonus amenity of Lodge 30A – Watersound Beach Club
This is one of the best parts of staying at the lodge. For an additional fee, you can get access to the Watersound Beach Club. This club has private pools, lazy rivers, basketball courts, a private beach entrance, restaurants and so much more. The amenities are incredible.
Other things to do in and around 30A
We didn’t get to experience everything in and around 30A. Here are some experiences we hope to check out in the future.
Visit Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is another must-visit destination on 30A. This beautiful park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore, and you can even take a guided nature walk to learn more about the area’s plants and wildlife.
Check out the Local Farmers Market
The 30A Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh, locally grown produce and handmade goods. It’s open on Sundays from 9 am to 1 pm, so plan to visit early in the day before it gets too crowded. Your kids will love exploring the market and trying some of the delicious treats on offer.
Take a Dolphin Tour
If your kids love marine life, they’ll be thrilled to take a dolphin tour on the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of tour operators in the area, and they all offer a unique experience. Some tours even include the opportunity to see other marine animals, like sea turtles and sharks.
Go on a Fishing Trip
Fishing is a popular activity in the 30A area, and there are plenty of charter companies that offer family-friendly fishing trips. Whether your kids are experienced anglers or are trying it for the first time, a fishing trip is a great way to spend a day on the water.
Visit the Gulf World Marine Park
The Gulf World Marine Park is located in nearby Panama City Beach and is home to a variety of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays. Your kids will love seeing these animals up close and learning about their habitats and behaviors. There are also plenty of shows and demonstrations to enjoy.
Take a Kayaking Trip
Kayaking is a great way to explore the 30A area from a different perspective. There are plenty of tour operators that offer guided kayaking trips through the local waterways.
Visit the South Walton Turtle Watch
The South Walton Turtle Watch is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of sea turtles in the area. Your kids will love learning about these amazing creatures and even have the opportunity to participate in a nest excavation to see baby turtles hatching.
Visit the Emerald Coast Science Center
The Emerald Coast Science Center is a hands-on science museum located in Fort Walton Beach. It offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. Your kids will love exploring the museum and learning about science in a fun and engaging way.
Take a Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise is a great way to end a fun-filled day in 30A. There are plenty of tour operators that offer sunset cruises, and they all offer a unique experience. Some cruises even include dinner and live entertainment.
Experience an Eco-Tour
As a mom, it is important to me to consciously incorporate things within our family that is more green and eco-friendly into our home and travels.
That said, I was thrilled to find out that one of the many things to do in 30A, Florida is to experience an eco-tour. Several companies in 30A Florida offer eco-tours that allow families to explore the local wildlife and ecosystems. These tours can include kayaking through marshes or taking a guided hike through local forests.
You can learn more about 30A Eco-Tours here: https://30a.com/eco-tours/
Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is another great destination for marine animal lovers. It’s located in nearby Fort Walton Beach and is home to a variety of marine animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and alligators. Your kids will love seeing these animals up close and learning about their habitats and behaviors.
Visit the Santa Rosa Beach
The Santa Rosa Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline that’s perfect for families. It offers soft, white sand and crystal-clear water, and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, including snorkeling, fishing, and paddle boarding.
Things to do in 30A: Our Thoughts
30A, Florida is a wonderful destination for families with kids of all ages. It seems almost too good to be true. From beautiful beaches to outdoor adventures and fun-filled attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in 30A!
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