When it comes to planning the ultimate family beach vacation, few places rival the magic of Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A. With its charming coastal towns, white-sand beaches, and a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, 30A is the perfect destination for parents and kids alike. Whether you’re staying in Seaside, Rosemary Beach, or Blue Mountain Beach, you’ll find no shortage of exciting activities, delicious eats, and memory-making moments. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best kid-friendly activities and family fun on 30A.
Stay Close to the Fun with 30A Vacation Rentals
Choosing a 30A vacation rental gives families the flexibility and space they need to relax, cook meals, and enjoy quality time together. From beachside cottages to spacious condos with resort-style amenities, Best Beach Getaways offers a wide range of 30A vacation rentals that put you steps away from the sand—and close to all the fun. Booking directly through Best Beach Getaways also ensures you get the best rate and personalized service.
1. Beach Days and Sandcastles
30A is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. Spend the day playing in the powdery white sand, boogie boarding in the waves, or building sandcastles. Grayton Beach State Park offers wide stretches of shoreline, calm waters, restroom facilities, and picnic areas, making it ideal for families with small children.
Another great spot is Blue Mountain Beach, known for its uncrowded shores and natural dunes. It’s perfect for a slower-paced beach day with a more local vibe. Don’t forget to pack beach toys and sun tents—many 30A vacation rentals include these as part of the stay.
2. Bike the Timpoochee Trail
The 18.6-mile Timpoochee Trail is a paved multi-use path that parallels 30A and weaves through scenic beach towns like Dune Allen, WaterColor, and Seacrest. It’s flat and safe for kids of all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly activity.
Stop along the way at Alys Beach’s amphitheater for a rest or picnic, or grab smoothies and sandwiches at Raw & Juicy. Bikes can be rented from places like Big Daddy’s Bike Shop, which also provides helmets, trailers, and baby seats. Visit bigdaddysbikeshop.com for details.
3. Explore Seaside’s Central Square
Seaside is a family favorite on 30A, thanks to its charming town square filled with boutiques, green space, and iconic food trucks. The Meltdown on 30A serves up gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches that kids and parents love. Follow it up with a treat from Dawson’s Yogurt & Fudgeworks.
Families can lounge in the grassy amphitheater, catch a weekend performance or outdoor movie, and shop local favorites like Duckies Shop of Fun, which offers quirky toys, beach gear, and games for all ages. Check out seasidefl.com for event calendars.
4. Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park (Nearby in Fort Walton Beach)
Located about 45 minutes west in Fort Walton Beach, the Gulfarium is a marine park offering hands-on exhibits and animal encounters. Kids can watch dolphin and sea lion shows, touch stingrays, and learn about ocean conservation.
Interactive experiences like the “Discover Dolphins” program make this well worth the trip. It’s open daily and tickets can be booked online at gulfarium.com. This is a great alternative for a cloudy beach day or when you want a change of pace.
5. Go Paddleboarding or Kayaking
30A is home to several rare coastal dune lakes that are perfect for a calm water adventure. Families can rent paddleboards or kayaks and explore Western Lake in Grayton Beach. Launch from the Grayton Beach State Park boat ramp or rent from The Rental Shop 30A (therentalshop30a.com) for delivery directly to your vacation rental.
Beginners and kids will enjoy the peaceful setting, where you might spot turtles, birds, and even fish jumping. Life jackets are typically included with rentals, and some companies even offer guided tours designed for families.
6. Enjoy Live Music and Outdoor Movies
Throughout the summer, towns along 30A host weekly outdoor movie nights and free concerts. The Hub 30A (now The Big Chill) is a popular family hangout with restaurants, yard games, and a huge LED screen for movie nights.
Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Gulf Place also offer family-friendly music and entertainment series throughout the week. For schedules and updates, visit each town’s official website, such as thebigchill.com or rosemarybeach.com.
7. Discover Eden Gardens State Park
Located just north of 30A in Point Washington, Eden Gardens State Park offers a peaceful escape with sprawling oak trees, historic gardens, and the beautiful Wesley House Mansion.
Families can walk the shaded paths, fish in the bayou, or have a picnic by Tucker Bayou. It’s open daily from 8 AM to sunset. Admission is just $4 per vehicle, and more information can be found at floridastateparks.org.
8. Try a Family Fishing Charter
For an unforgettable experience, book a family fishing charter with local pros who know the waters around 30A. Dead Fish Charters offers nearshore and bay fishing trips that are perfect for beginners and kids.
These trips are usually 2–4 hours long and include all equipment, bait, and licenses. You’ll have a chance to catch redfish, trout, or even flounder—and many charters will clean and bag your catch so you can cook it up at your rental.
9. Cool Off with Sweet Treats
Beat the heat with a cold treat from one of 30A’s best ice cream shops. Blue Mountain Beach Creamery is a must-visit with handmade ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt.
Another great option is Pecan Jacks, known for their pralines and gourmet candies. It’s a perfect stop after a day at the beach. For more frozen fun, swing by Heavenly Shortcakes & Ice Cream in Seaside.
10. Shop the 30A Farmers Markets
Local farmers markets pop up all summer long across 30A. The Seaside Farmers Market runs every Saturday morning in Central Square, while the Rosemary Beach market is open on Sundays along Barrett Square.
You’ll find fresh produce, local honey, pastries, and handmade crafts—plus live music and a festive vibe. These markets are a great way to support local businesses and experience the flavor of 30A. Check 30a.com/events for weekly schedules.
Bonus Tip: Pack for Comfort and Convenience
Summer on 30A can be warm and sunny, so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and beach gear. Many 30A vacation rentals come with chairs, umbrellas, bikes, and wagons, making beach days a breeze.
From sunrise shell hunts to sunset concerts, summer on 30A is a dream for families looking to reconnect and make lasting memories. Book your 30A vacation rental with Best Beach Getaways and start planning your perfect summer getaway today!