The Perfect Day on 30A From West to East

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Grayton Beach, photo by Holly Makekau

The beaches are open! It’s time to explore. The Timpoochee Trail, the 18.6-mile pedestrian path that parallels the coast is one of the best ways to enjoy 30A while also remaining socially distant from others. Safe and with relatively little elevation change, it’s ideal for bike riding for the whole family. The availability of electric bikes has made it easier to cover more ground, making it possible to fully experience all the places that make 30A unique.

As you embark on your adventure, remember that many restaurants will be serving to-go only or at reduced capacity for seating, and shops will have guidelines on how many can enter. Take your time, be kind and enjoy the views along the way!

Morning

Head to the YOLO Board + Bike shop in Gulf Place to rent bikes and gear. Next door, Sunrise Coffee Co. is a great spot to grab a cup of joe before you embark on your adventure.

Draper Lake

Ride west to the brand-new Dune Allen Regional Beach Access to take in a gorgeous Gulf view for your first stop. Equipped with restrooms and ample parking, this beach access has everything you need for a morning at the beach.

After a stroll through the white sands, get back on the bike and start traveling east. There’ll be much beauty to take in along the way including a lovely lake vista from the covered Draper Lake Bridge.

By now you’ve passed through Dune Allen, Santa Rosa Beach and Blue Mountain Beach, and you’re starting to work up an appetite. A quick detour up County Road 283 in Grayton Beach to Black Bear Bread Co. is the place to fuel up for more adventures. Whether you’re craving pastries made from scratch or avocado toast, this local café has something delicious to satisfy your hunger!

After breakfast, take a minute to peruse the colorful boutiques in The Shops of Grayton offering everything from local art to unique children’s items to handmade jewelry.

The last stop of the morning takes you to Western Lake in Grayton Beach where you’ll meet concierge company Adventure 30A to trade your bikes for paddleboards for a little while. Whether you want to take a leisurely paddle around the coastal dune lake or venture out in the Gulf for a guided paddle and snorkel trip to the Grayton Beach State Park Sea Turtle Reef, Adventure 30A will outfit you with everything you need.

Afternoon

Your paddle is over and it’s time to get back on the road! Keep biking east across the Western Lake Bridge to see one of the area’s most iconic views – the tree line of Western Lake and stunning white dunescape of the Grayton Beach State Park.

Make a quick stop at the WaterColor Town Center for a little more shopping. Find a variety of quality outdoor gear at Old Florida Outfitters or high fashion at women’s boutique Indigo WaterColor.

As you make your way through Seaside, be sure to note the unique architecture of the beach pavilions. There are nine different pavilions, each with a distinctive look and designs including the sailboats of the West Ruskin Pavilion, a rotunda at Pensacola Beach Pavilion and the towering Coleman Beach Pavilion.

Your stomach is probably rumbling by now and what could be better than a legendary fried grouper sandwich at the Seagrove Village MarketCafe? Find other must-try items like fried green tomatoes and blackened shrimp tacos.

Seagrove Beach is the next beach town along the path. Pause at Clay 30A to peruse a thoughtfully curated selection of plants, pottery and outdoor art. Keep biking until you reach Deer Lake State Park, a peaceful stop for a break and a breathtaking stroll to the Gulf!

Rosemary Beach, photo by Shane Carter

It’s back on the road, and now you’re travelling through WaterSound Beach, Seacrest and the new Kaiya Beach Resort. Admire the varying styles of architecture found in the homes of these communities and cross one more of 30A’s rare coastal dune lakes, Camp Creek Lake.

The towering palms of Alys Beach come into view and it’s time for a break! Pull into Raw & Juicy for a healthy snack, a fresh organic smoothie or a glass of wine.

You’ve almost made it to the end of the path as the oaks of Rosemary Beach come into view. Park your bikes and enjoy walking the brick lined streets with quaint shops and eateries. Pop into the Hidden Lantern Bookstore to find a thrilling new read before making your way to Pescado for a rooftop dinner (reservations required!).

Hop on your bikes for the final stretch, the Timpoochee Trail ends in Inlet Beach at Shades Bar and Grill. Go inside for a local brew or a delicious dessert to celebrate your perfect day on 30A!

Grayton Beach, photo by Holly Makekau

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