If you’re looking for exceptional beaches, a vacation on 30A is certain to meet your expectations, but locals know there are many more things to do beyond the coastline. Explore something different during your next stay at a St. Joe property by adding one of these unique activities to your itinerary.
The Truman Show House
Jim Carrey’s 1998 movie The Truman Show was filmed in Seaside. The 30A community created the perfect setting for the serene environment depicted in the movie, and you can still see filming locations in the area. Perhaps the most notable is the house on 31 Natchez St. that served as the home to the titular character.
Underwater Museum of Art
Located just beyond 30A, about a mile from Grayton Beach State Park, this art display is the first permanent underwater sculpture garden in the U.S. The museum lies 58 feet underwater, and there are approximately 50 sculptures to explore — in addition to the native Gulf of Mexico marine life that calls the area home. Visiting the Underwater Museum of Art requires a short boat ride and diving skills, so most visitors book tours.
Spa Pearl
Treat yourself to a restorative escape at Spa Pearl, the intimate poolside spa at The Pearl Hotel in the Rosemary Beach® Community. The poolside spa offers indulgent treatments in a serene setting just steps from the Gulf. It’s the perfect way to recharge after a day of exploring the coast.
Eden Gardens State Park
Study local history and enjoy the 30A sunshine at this 163-acre outdoor space that was once part of the Wesley Homestead. The property features the renovated Wesley House, a 1897 Florida Cracker-style Southern vernacular house that’s home to artifacts, antiques, and offers tours. The park also includes trails, gardens, and Tucker Bayou.
Beach Bonfire
Warm up and roast marshmallows after the sun sets on the beach. WaterColor Inn, Camp Creek Inn, and Watersound Inn allow guests to book beach bonfires at their private beach clubs with all the supplies you need for s’mores and socializing. It’s the perfect way to gather your friends and family to maximize your time by the Emerald Coast.
Timpoochee Trail
Pedal to your next destination on this 18.5-mile trail that’s adjacent to Scenic Route 30A. The Timpoochee Trail is a fairly flat path that spans from Dune Allen to Inlet Beach. Don’t worry about packing your bike; guests at Camp Creek Inn, The Pearl Hotel, WaterColor Inn, and Watersound Inn can receive complimentary rentals, and The Lodge 30A guests can rent bikes at special rates through YOLO Board + Bike.
Sundog Books
Find your next beach read at this independent bookstore in Seaside’s Town Square with over decades years of history. The store carries books in all genres, but if you need help finding a page-turner, you can browse the staff picks. If music is your jam, Central Square Records is located directly above Sundog Books.
Nigel’s Bananas
Cool off with a one-of-a-kind frozen treat. Nigel’s Bananas is known for its chocolate-dipped desserts that can also be covered in candies and drizzles. As the name implies, you can get a frozen banana, or you can pick a vanilla ice cream bar, frozen cheesecake, or frozen key lime pie. The business has two 30A locations, one in Seacrest and one in Watersound® Town Center.
Lake Powell
30A is home to 15 coastal dune lakes, including Lake Powell, the largest in North America. Visitors often access this lake while visiting Camp Helen State Park, where they can enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Golfers can also get views of Lake Powell while golfing at Shark’s Tooth Golf Course.
Monarch Art Trail
Take a walk in art through this mile-long public art installation that connects the Watersound Origins community and 30A. The outdoor display is a collaboration between the Cultural Arts Alliance in partnership with the St. JoeSM Community Foundation and includes eight sculptures honoring monarch butterflies, a species that migrates through Northern Florida.
Scratch Biscuit Kitchen
Taste these made-from-scratch biscuits that locals rave about. The popular restaurant uses its biscuits to make sandwiches or pairs them with jams, jellies, and gravies, so you can choose between sweet or savory options that are perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Details included in this story were accurate at time of publication but are subject to change based on seasonal schedules, amenity and/or operational updates. For the most current information, please visit the respective property’s website.
