The Best Public Beaches on 30A ☀️🌊
30A is famous for its sugar-white sand and crystal-clear waters, but not all beaches are easily accessible to the public. If you’re looking for the best public beaches on 30A, you’re in the right place! Whether you’re after a lively beach with lots of amenities or a quiet stretch of sand to relax, here are the top spots you need to check out.
1️⃣ Grayton Beach State Park 🌿🏖️
One of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches on 30A, Grayton Beach State Park offers 1,000 acres of natural beauty, hiking trails, and even a rare coastal dune lake.
✔️ Why You’ll Love It: Pristine sand, clear waters, and fewer crowds.
✔️ Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails, kayak rentals.
✔️ Local Tip: Arrive early—parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends!
2️⃣ Santa Clara Regional Beach Access (Seagrove Beach) ☀️
Santa Clara Beach Access is one of the most convenient public beaches on 30A. Located in Seagrove Beach, it offers a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk and ample parking.
✔️ Why You’ll Love It: Easy access, beautiful water, and less crowded than some other beaches.
✔️ Amenities: Restrooms, showers, parking, ADA accessibility.
✔️ Local Tip: Bring an umbrella—there’s little natural shade here.
3️⃣ Ed Walline Regional Beach Access (Santa Rosa Beach) 🌊
If you’re staying near Gulf Place, Ed Walline Beach Access is perfect! This beach is great for families, with a nearby playground, picnic tables, and easy parking.
✔️ Why You’ll Love It: Family-friendly atmosphere, sunset views, and close to restaurants.
✔️ Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, parking.
✔️ Local Tip: Grab a bite at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar right across the street!
4️⃣ Inlet Beach Regional Access 🏝️
One of the largest public beach accesses on 30A, Inlet Beach offers wide stretches of sand and uncrowded conditions compared to some other 30A spots.
✔️ Why You’ll Love It: Peaceful, scenic, and perfect for long beach walks.
✔️ Amenities: Restrooms, showers, parking.
✔️ Local Tip: This beach is less commercialized, so pack everything you need for the day.
5️⃣ Gulfview Heights Beach Access (Blue Mountain Beach) 🏖️
A hidden gem in Blue Mountain Beach, Gulfview Heights is perfect for those who want a quiet spot to enjoy 30A’s beauty.
✔️ Why You’ll Love It: Less crowded and ideal for a relaxing beach day.
✔️ Amenities: Showers, picnic tables, limited parking.
✔️ Local Tip: Parking is tight, so consider biking or walking if you’re staying nearby.
6️⃣ Van Ness Butler Jr. Beach Access (WaterColor) 🌅
Located in WaterColor, this access point is close to everything—restaurants, shopping, and the stunning dunes of Western Lake.
✔️ Why You’ll Love It: Beautiful views, easy access, and near WaterColor’s charming town center.
✔️ Amenities: Limited parking, but walkable from nearby rentals.
✔️ Local Tip: Stop by WaterColor Beach Club for a post-beach drink!
7️⃣ Miramar Beach Regional Access 🏄♂️
Technically just outside 30A, Miramar Beach is worth a mention! With its wide shoreline and emerald waters, this beach is a favorite for both visitors and locals.
✔️ Why You’ll Love It: Spacious and great for water activities like paddleboarding.
✔️ Amenities: Restrooms, showers, parking, restaurants nearby.
✔️ Local Tip: Rent jet skis or paddleboards for a fun day on the water!
Tips for Visiting 30A’s Public Beaches
✔️ Arrive early – Parking is limited at many beaches.
✔️ Bring your own chairs & umbrellas – Rentals aren’t available at every public beach.
✔️ Check the flag system – Pay attention to beach flags for safety conditions.
✔️ Pack out what you bring in – Keep 30A’s beaches clean!
✔️ Consider biking – Parking fills up fast, and biking is a great way to get around.
Ready to Hit the Sand?
No matter what kind of beach day you’re looking for, 30A has the perfect spot for you. From lively beaches with lots of amenities to quiet hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. So grab your beach bag, slather on some sunscreen, and enjoy the beauty of 30A’s coastline—while staying at Destin Dreamers for the perfect home base to relax and unwind after a day at the beach!
