Ever stumbled upon a sand dollar at the beach or spotted one in a souvenir shop and wondered about its story? Far from the polished white disks many of us are familiar with, living sand dollars are a marvel of nature, boasting vibrant colors and a fascinating lifestyle beneath the sea. What’s a Sand Dollar Anyway? Dead and dried, sand dollars are known for their bleached white appearance, showcasing a smooth exoskeleton adorned with a star or flower pattern. But alive? They’re a whole different spectacle. Sporting shades from reddish-brown to deep purple, these sea creatures are covered in tiny, flexible spines, not hair, which play a crucial role in their survival. With 11 different types of sand dollars, let’s check out what their world is: A Peek into the Sand Dollar’s World Belonging to the Echinoidea class within the Echinodermata phylum, sand dollars are close relatives of sea stars and sea urchins. These ocean floor dwellers feast on microscopic algae and bacteria, contributing significantly to their marine ecosystems. Despite lacking a brain, they possess a nerve ring that oversees bodily functions, showcasing nature’s incredible design. Life as a Sand Dollar With a ten-year lifespan, these creatures prefer company, sometimes living in densities as high as 625 per square yard! Their survival and reproduction strategies are as intriguing as their appearance, relying on the movement of their spines to feed and reproduce through the release of eggs and sperm into the ocean. The Sand Dollar’s Legacy After death, the sand... Read More

Dive into this week’s exciting lineup of events along the scenic 30A, where unforgettable experiences and vibrant local culture come alive! 1. Brent Varner Live: Wednesday Grooves at Shunk Gulley. Catch the dynamic Brent Varner, Mississippi’s multi-talented musician, vocalist, and lyricist, performing live at Shunk Gulley from 4 to 8 PM this Wednesday. Brent Varner / Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. @ Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar 2. Wednesday Serenades at Alys Beach ft. Anthony Peebles Band Immerse yourself in the rhythms of live music every Wednesday at the Alys Beach Amphitheatre. Experience the magic of melodies in the open air, and let the night sky amplify the joy of song. Spring Concert ft. Anthony Peebles Band / Wednesday, March 6, 204, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. @ Alys Beach Amphitheatre 3. Thursday Sip n Shop at The Mera Building Visit the courtyard of The Mera Building, just across from Georges, for an exclusive shopping experience at the Alys Shoppe. Every Thursday in March, join us from 3-7 pm for the Sip n Shop event, where delightful browsing meets refreshing sips. Alys Shoppe Pop-up / Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. @ Alys Shoppe 4. Foster Gallery Fête at Miramar Beach Creative Campus The Foster Gallery and J. Leon Studio, invite art lovers to celebrate creativity and expression. Enjoy a live demonstration by Spring Rotation Artist Nicole Hemmerly of MossHound Designs, along with delightful sips and snacks. Mingle with fellow art... Read More

Anchors aweigh for adventure and excitement at the Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show, the premier nautical extravaganza of the year! From March 1st to March 3rd, 2024, the scenic Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach transforms into a mariner’s paradise. This spectacular on-land exhibition is the ultimate destination for sea enthusiasts and outdoor lifestyle aficionados. Get yout tickets HERE. Step aboard the latest vessel models, marvel at the newest high-tech marine engines and electronics and gear up with the finest marine accessories. The show promises an impressive fleet from renowned manufacturers and top dealers, showcasing everything from the perfect entry-level bow riders to the state-of-the-art 42′ center consoles rigged with powerful quad outboards. It’s a celebration where REAL. FUN. BOATS. come to life, and it’s all happening under the Florida sun! Secure your tickets now and dive into the details of the venue and exhibitors on the website. The event schedule is as follows: March 1, Friday | 10 a.m. to Sunset – Red Carpet Opening Day March 2, Saturday | 10 a.m. to Sunset – Ladies Day March 3, Sunday | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Military Appreciation Day But the allure extends far beyond the boats. Embrace the vibrant, active beach life that’s become a hallmark of the Emerald Coast. Whether you’re up for gliding on a stand-up paddleboard, reeling in the catch of the day from a fishing kayak, flipping burgers in your outdoor kitchen, exploring the depths with your diving gear, sporting the... Read More

18 years after my wedding reception at Great Southern and the soul rolls are still the best version of an egg roll I’ve ever eaten—the crispy skin hiding a blend of collards and chicken, pickled peach chutney mounded on the side and zesty mustard ribbons offer a juxtaposition of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth all at once. Some things have changed. The side porch where we celebrated now houses b.f.f., the once parking area outside transformed into an elevated covered dining platform during Covid and never went back. However, the one constant, besides those soul rolls, remains Jim Shirley’s reputation as a community maker and excellent chef. Shirley has cooked at the James Beard House, served the King and Queen of Spain his Southern fare,  and opened many restaurants from Pensacola to 30A.  His commitment to sourcing locally (you can see his chefs out at the docks getting the freshest catch) and giving back to his community is legendary from serving on boards of the Autism Society and Children’s Home Society to keeping the pulse on the industry through involvement with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. His daughter and Vice President of Operations, Madison Shirley added, “It’s deeply rooted in our ethos that you learn about your community and the people you’re surrounded by, the people you break bread with. What you’re eating and sharing with them is your story, your family story, and your community story told through what you put on the plate in front of them.” At Great... Read More

The beauty and style blogger behind Lipstick, Heels, and a Baby and mother of three talks about life as an influencer and her home decor style. Jessica Fay didn’t set out to be an influencer––it sort of just happened. In 2012, Fay started her blog (plus a YouTube channel and a Pinterest account) as an online journal of sorts to stay connected with her husband Ryan, who was deployed to Afghanistan when their firstborn son Braydon was just eight weeks old. On the blog, Lipstick, Heels, and a Baby, Fay documented her adventures with Braydon (such as weekend trips to the mountains with her parents) so that Ryan could check in on them when he could. “I noticed my outfits getting pinned on Pinterest, and it kind of took off naturally from there,” Fay said. On her Instagram account, which has over 300K followers, you’ll find her favorite recipes, hair and skincare products, outfit inspo, and so much more. We had the chance to chat with Fay about home decor, the influencer life, and must-haves for a day at the beach with the kids. Beach Happy: What is the best part about being an influencer? And what’s the most challenging part? Jessica Fay: The best thing about what I do is being able to connect with so many amazing women all over the world. The most challenging part for me is being able to turn it “off.” I can technically work from anywhere––on vacation, from my bed, while watching TV,... Read More

This week along the scenic 30A, our community calendar is bursting with unique and vibrant events! From the enchanting ‘Under The Moonlit Pines’ gala at the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center to the lively Blue Mountain Beach Farmers Market, there’s an abundance of local flavor and fun to be had. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet delights, eclectic live music, or artisanal shopping, 30A has something special for everyone. 1. Soothing Sounds and Sunset Sips: Forrest William Band Live Every Thursday, 6-9 PM Immerse yourself in a weekly musical escape as the Forrest William Band brings their enchanting tunes to The Bay every Thursday evening. From 6 to 9 PM, let each note elevate your experience, harmonizing perfectly with every refreshing sip. Thirsty Thursday With Forrest William Band @ Local Catch Bar & Grill 2. Set Sail for Fun: Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show, March 1-3, 2024 Dive into the ultimate nautical experience at the Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show, March 1st to 3rd, 2024, at Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach. Discover a sea of options from bow riders to advanced 42′ center consoles, alongside the latest marine tech and accessories. It’s more than a boat show; it’s an adventure into the active beach lifestyle with paddleboards, fishing gear, outdoor living, and more. Join us for special themed days and celebrate the waterfront way of life. Details at www.emeraldcoastboatshow.com. Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show: Red Carpet Opening Day / Friday, March 1, 2024, from 10 a.m. onwards... Read More

Unveiling an extraordinary opportunity to claim your slice of paradise with this stunning hidden gem in Summer Ridge, a treasure seldom found on the market. This exquisitely renovated four-bedroom residence is a dream come true for those seeking a blend of luxury and tranquility in a prestigious gated community. Step into a world of serene elegance as you enter the private courtyard, where the harmonious blend of a heated pool, new shell stone patio, and a cozy fire table invites relaxation. The home’s entrance, marked by double coffee-stained wood and glass doors, opens to an interior that sings of sophisticated coastal living. Vaulted wood-beamed ceilings, resplendent windows, and rich wood flooring set a tone of understated opulence. The heart of the home, the Great Room, seamlessly flows into the kitchen and dining areas, creating an airy, open space perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. The kitchen is a culinary delight, equipped with a gas stove, French door refrigerator, microwave, and a built-in ice maker. The main level also houses a convenient laundry room, powder room, and the Primary bedroom, a haven of comfort with its double walk-in custom closets. The en-suite bath, a masterpiece of modern renovation, features a separate water closet, walk-in shower, double vanity, ample storage, and an original cast iron soaking tub for the ultimate relaxation. Ascending the stairs reveals two spacious bedrooms sharing a hall bath, each with access to a covered porch overlooking the pool and courtyard. The journey upwards continues to a versatile... Read More

In the far west corner of Walton County is the tranquil resort of Seascape. Tucked away from the busyness of the small beach towns to the East are the towering Seascape penthouse condos that stand tall and proud just minutes from 30A. Spanning over 300 acres, Seascape Resort is a verdant oasis, boasting tranquil lakes and lush landscapes. This all-encompassing resort elevates your vacation experience with an array of leisure, relaxation, and recreational activities suitable for every age. Nestled along Highway 98 in Northwest Florida, the gated community of Seascape opens up to a world of exclusive streets and scenic pathways, ideal for serene walks, energizing jogs, and delightful bike rides. Wandering through the extensive grounds, visitors are treated to a picturesque array of over a dozen man-made lakes, distinct in their beauty and not to be mistaken for the unique dune lakes found in other parts of the Florida panhandle. Soak in the Sun Seascape’s brag-worthy penthouse views are only bested by its 2,000 feet of shimmering white sand shoreline. There’s plenty of space to lounge along the private beaches of Seascape. The resort offers daily beach service and has a private beach parking lot reserved exclusively for guests. For active beachgoers, there are endless opportunities for fun in the sun. Guests can spike a ball on one of the beach volleyball courts or toss beanbags in friendly cornhole competitions in the sand. Out on the water, there are seasonal water sports activities, including parasailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and chartered... Read More

Florida’s new Scenic Walton / 30A Charity License Plates have already raised over $84,000 for Scenic Walton, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that promotes projects designed to improve the quality of life in Walton County. “All of the money goes to promote beautification and safety projects throughout Walton County, not just along the beach,” said Leigh Moore, Executive Director of Scenic Walton. Scenic Walton’s mission is to improve the landscaping in roadway medians, reduce litter, promote underground utilities, expand infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, and other projects. Click here to order your 30A Charity License Plate now! Walton County locals rallied to support the cause with over 3,000 registrants signing up to get the tag. Like all Florida specialty license plates, the 30A charity tags cost $33 per year. The State of Florida keeps $8, and the other $25 goes directly to Scenic Walton. “So many people helped make these charity tags a reality, especially an extremely generous grant from the J.W. Couch Foundation,” said Moore. “Everyone at the county and state level has been so supportive, as have local media partners and influencers. The whole community really pulled together to make this happen.” Moore said that the 30A / Scenic Walton tags are the only specialty plates that generate revenue exclusively for community projects in Walton County. “It’s such an easy and affordable way to help keep Walton County safe and scenic.” Designed by Gulf Coast native Jake Meyer, the license plate depicts the famous blue “30A” logo against a silhouette... Read More