Book a Property Today!
Search a destination
Search Bedrooms, Locations, and more.
While 30A boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Florida, let alone the US, it’s also home to the most captivating and rare coastal dune lake systems in the world. The series of coastal dune lakes that can be accessed along scenic route 30A, are central to the delicate ecosystem that defines the natural beauty surrounding the region.
Discover the rare coastal dune lakes along scenic route 30A, learn why these captivating dunes define the delicate ecosystem of this region.
While 30A boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Florida, let alone the US, it’s also home to the most captivating and rare coastal dune lake systems in the world. The series of coastal dune lakes that can be accessed along scenic route 30A, are central to the delicate ecosystem that defines the natural beauty surrounding the region. Here’s why…
The sand dunes of Florida are unique in their formation. They’re made of millions of tiny particles of quartz that have been broken down from rocks originating in the Appalachian Mountains. These sand particles are small enough to be lifted by wind, but big enough that they don’t stay airborne for long. As a result, over time they pile up to form hills and create intriguing patterns that form on the surface of the sand.
The coastal dunes system along 30A are also distinguished by their connection to a series of lakes. Lake waters push through the dunes system to form a river or channel that flushes a tea-colored fresh water out across the beachfront into the Gulf of Mexico. As a result, freshwater and saltwater can flow in both directions creating interesting geological features not found elsewhere. The high salt levels can accommodate alligators, as well as salt-water species of fish! And It’s a perfect habitat for woody plants such as palmetto, wax myrtle, sea spurts and beach morning glory as well as a haven for birds and other wildlife.
Coastal dunes also serve as natural storm barriers against hurricanes. Most of these coastal dune lakes are part of Florida’s State Park System that undertake the preservation and conservation of their most treasured natural phenomena, and are enjoyed by visitors year-round. Here’ a list of the coastal dune lakes not to miss on your 30A vacation.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Named after the gorgeous dunes that sail over the soft sandy beaches and the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, this park a must visit on your coastal dune check list. The park protects a line of freshwater lakes include Campbell Lake and Morris Lake, and is located in between Miramar and Santa Rosa Beaches.
Western Lake
Western Lake is widely considered one of 30As most scenic destinations. It’s a picture-perfect oasis nestled within Grayton Beach State Park. A shallow 214-acre lake, it’s sometimes referred to as a natural kiddie pool and is a big draw for young families, as well as for fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, swimming and wildlife-watching.
Alligator Lake
Also located in Grayton Beach, is Alligator Lake, a 12-acre lake that was restored from agricultural lands to wetlands and opened is 2020 with a recreational focus on picnicking, hiking and biking. Make sure to hike its Montgomery Trail, where you can experience the overgrown meadow and marshes that restored this lake to its natural habitat.
Lake Powell
Lake Powell is the largest coastal dune lake in North America. At 800 acres, it surrounds the north and east sides of Camp Helen State Park, in Panama City Beach, and is a prime location for many activities including freshwater and salt water fishing, kayaking, hiking and more. Contact the Park about their guided kayak tours where you can learn more about what makes this dune lake system so unique.
Camp Creek Lake
Located in the Santa Rosa Beach at the southeastern edge of Deer Park State Park, Camp Creek Lake offers visitors the best of both freshwater and saltwater adventures. Pack a picnic, and meander along the neighborhood boardwalks offering majestic views of its towering sand dunes, and gorgeous views of the Gulf.
Deer Lake
Deer Lake in Deer Lake State Park, also has a scenic boardwalk stretching over its lush sandscapes and pristine beach, and is a favorite of birdwatchers and strollers alike. You can hike its Blue Trail which will take you to a scenic overlook at the northern edge of the lake. It’s here where you can also spot rare plants such as the Gulf coast lupine, the spoonflower and the Curtiss’ sandgrass.
Book your perfect stay along 30A with us at LovetoStay30A. We offer unparalleled customer service to both the homeowner and vacation renter of premier vacation properties along beautiful Highway 30A.
Rosemary Beach is the ideal place for a perfect beach vacation. Quaint and picturesque, there’s a relaxed elegance to the Florida vacation rental homes here. Our 30A cottages put you right in the heart of this cozy area, footsteps away from the beach or a brief and breezy bike ride to nearby local restaurants and charming retail stores. If it’s your first time visiting Rosemary Beach, we’ve created a two-day itinerary to help you find where to go, things to do and what to eat while you’re there. Even if you’re familiar with Rosemary Beach, you may discover new spots to explore on our list.
From cozy local pubs to bar tours, the cities along 30A are home to incredible brews and beaches. With quite a few exclusive 30A breweries, visitors and locals alike can enjoy sampling unique creations. Breweries are popping up all over the U.S. and Florida is no exception. Whether you’re dodging a rainy afternoon or simply fancy a pint, check out our list of favorite places to tour for a guaranteed good time.
If you’re traveling to Florida’s 30A area from out of state, you’re likely looking for the best way to travel. Skip a long car ride and opt for one of two airports conveniently within reach of our beautiful Emerald Coast shores. In this article, you will learn more about flying to Florida’s 30A area and which airport to fly to. You’ll get all the information you need to know for planning your 30A vacay and flight. Let’s go!
Today on the Love to Stay 30A blog, we’re talking all about Spring Break on 30A. We’ve got all the juicy details on where to go, what to do and what to expect here in our little slice of paradise. If you’re dodging cold winter months for some sunshine and sand, you have a lot to look forward to! We have beautiful weather, fresh seafood, charming coastal towns and stunning 30A luxury vacation rental homes for you to enjoy. Before we dive into our ideas of things to do on 30A during Spring Break, let’s go over some things you might want to know before you go.
Escape the thick of winter with a romantic couples’ getaway to the white sand beaches along 30A. Sure, we may be biased but we think a stunning 30A luxury vacation home is the perfect place to enjoy Valentine’s Day. Spend a couple days reconnecting and relaxing before a special Valentine’s Day surprise. We’ve got plenty of ideas for a super special 2021 Valentine’s Day on 30A. Just be sure to plan ahead and make reservations as soon as possible! Many of these activities book up in advance.
Summer is a spectacular time to visit 30A. Experience 85-degree weather, long days of sunshine, and beautiful sunsets and a wide range of activities unique to this stunning region. Home to some of the most gorgeous white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, rare coastal dunes and lakes, abundance of wildlife and charming seaside villages and towns there’s no shortage of activities to make your 30A summer vacation one to remember for years to come.
