Florida’s year-round sun and warmth is what makes it the ideal getaway no matter what time of year you’re looking to get away. You’ll want to make time to take a stroll on the beach or bask in the sun and work and your tan with some 30A activities. For some, the water temperatures of 57 to 64 degrees might be a bit too cool for a dip in the Gulf of Mexico. Local Floridians know the best places to enjoy a winter break without getting in the water along 30A.
The angler of the group will enjoy fishing year-round. There are plenty of companies along 30A offering fly, inshore, nearshore, and offshore, and deep sea fishing excursions. Don’t worry about packing your own gear. Most companies include all the gear, bait, and tackle needed for the half-day or full-day experience. Depending on where you’re headed, plan to bring home snapper, Mahi-Mahi, king mackerel, redfish, trout, and more for your next meal. For a more unique experience, ask about night time fishing.
Plan your getaway around the winter solstice and pack your running or walking shoes. This all-day “ultra-run” starts at sunrise at the westernmost point along Scenic 30 in Rosemary Beach and continues for 40 miles along beaches, around lakes, and even through the forests until sunset. If the sun and activity of running or walking isn’t enough to keep you warm, the day is sponsored by Amavida Coffee Roasters, and they provide their warmest beverage to keep you warm and fueled for the duration of the journey.
Pack your hiking boots and set out on foot! The 30A area is dotted with state parks and hiking trails. You’ll be able to explore to your heart’s content, since the sun isn’t as intense during the winter months, making it perfect weather for a day on the trails. While you’re out in the wild, keep a lookout for local wildlife, including black bear, coyotes, deer, and osprey, to name a few.
If you’re hungry after the hike or looking to take a break and let someone else handle the cooking for a change, look no further than the many culinary selections 30A has to offer. Go for a taste of Havana, local seafood, American fare and much more. Take your taste buds along on your journey to fun and excitement along 30A. Ask about children’s menus, gluten free, vegan, or vegetarian offerings.
If the weather is a bit cool for you, or you’d rather stay out of the sun for a while, consider the many offerings along 30A for indoor fun. Visit the Man of the Sea Museum or be amazed at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. Get competitive and head to Rockit Lanes in search of the perfect 300 score. Get lost, compete at laser tag with your group, or test your spy skills with the laser challenge at Emerald Coast Mirror Maze. You can also check the schedule to see if the Seaside Repertory Theatre is holding performances in their 75-seat theatre or roaming the surrounding area with street performances.
The chef of the group may want to learn some new skills or recipes to try out during vacation or take home to their own kitchen. Kitchenique Cooking School offers cooking classes taught by some of the best local chefs. Beginners and seasoned home cooks alike will enjoy a fun and informative class. Get your youngest vacationers involved with a hands-on lesson designed just for them.
If you’re planning your trip with a music lover, consider scheduling it in January. The annual 30A Songwriters Festival takes place. Experience the tunes of local up-and-coming or established music artists with over 300 performances by more than 100 songwriters. The weekend festival is also a fundraiser for the area nonprofit Cultural Arts Alliance, which helps enhance the area’s musical and creative excellence.
While your music fanatic may want to schedule the break in January, your fashionista will try to convince the group to come in February. That’s when the annual South Walton Fashion Week takes place. The week features high fashion by national, local, and regional designers, stores, and boutiques. Attend a runway or trunk show, enjoy retail shopping experiences or parties. The event is presented by Visit South Walton and produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA), with proceeds benefiting the CAA.
Begin and end every day of relaxation or adventure in a vacation rental by ILove30Avacations.com. Enjoy the privacy of bedrooms, private patios, or balconies. We have condos and homes up to 5-bedrooms so everyone can stay and play. Simplify your stay with fully equipped kitchens loaded with all the tools you’ll need to create a home-cooked meal. Choose a premium rental for upgrades like stainless steel appliances, sprawling master suites, and flat screen TVs.
Contact us today to start planning your trip of a lifetime!
