When to Visit 30A

A lot of our guests ask us, “When is the best time to visit 30A?” The easy answer is, “Anytime.” Every month offers its own unique benefits and experiences. Each season is full of treasures for you to explore. Plus with excellent weather (300+ sunny days a year) throughout, you might want to make your decision based on the activities you enjoy or whether you prefer busy, energetic beach crowds or quiet, wide open sands for yourself. Let’s take a look at each season, the pros and cons for visiting and local events that take place so you can decide the best time of year for a Florida Gulf Coast vacation.

Spring

Spring is a great time to avoid summer crowds but still take advantage of sunny weather and warm temperatures. We like to say April and May are the calm before the storm. It’s the perfect time to visit before school lets out and the busy season gets rolling. Enjoy quieter beaches and plenty of local activities to enjoy. Ride a bike down the main street in Rosemary Beach, Seaside or Seacrest Beach. Pop into local stores for some casual shopping. Stop at the farmer’s market in Rosemary Beach for fresh produce or sample local fare.

Spring also brings a selection of fun local events like the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival where you can enjoy fine food, wine and live entertainment. If you enjoy live music, you’ll love the many restaurants that feature live music each week. Check the Alys Beach Amphitheatre schedule to keep up with the latest musical offerings. If you’re visiting over Easter, there are numerous local Easter events to enjoy with the family.

Summer

Summer is hands down the busiest time of the year to visit 30A. June-August is considered peak season along 30A. July is the busiest month of the summer which means rental rates are at their year-long high. Be prepared for traffic and some difficulty parking. You may want to opt for renting a bike or golf cart for faster transportation without the headache. With reliably hot temperatures, the beach is a busy, lively place to hang. If you enjoy the excitement of a crowd and the energy of fun-loving beach goers, summer may be the time for you. Expect a hot and humid summer. Don’t skip the sunscreen. You may want to dodge the mid-day heat and aim to visit the beach early in the morning or later in the afternoon, grabbing the last few hours of sunshine of the day.

Memorial Day kicks off the summer with loads of events along 30A but the 4th of July is by far the biggest days of the year. Enjoy BBQs, evening fireworks, parades and more. With events all along 30A, you’ll love the festive, patriotic vibe July offers. Summer also brings the popular Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic which draws sport fishers from around the world. It’s a serious competition for participants but also a fun event to spectate even if you aren’t a fishing expert.

Fall

With the end of peak season, by Labor Day most of the crowds have gone home. It’s the perfect time to enjoy lower 30A vacation rental rates and quieter beaches. Temperatures are still mostly warm, in the high 70s and low 80s, and the Gulf is usually warm enough for swimming. You’ll still get plenty of beach time but without the mad dash for the last free spot in the sand. October and September are ideal months for peace, rest and relaxation.

The slightly cooler weather brings the opportunity for local running events like the Sandestin Triathalon and 30A Half Marathon & 5K. Run a scenic course and enjoy a Gold award-winning South Walton “best event.” If you enjoy wine, be sure to visit Rosemary Beach Uncorked in November for delicious food, fine wine and high spirits.

Winter

Winter is the season when public beaches are so quiet they feel more like private beaches. Enjoy having the sand and sea all to yourself. Of course, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s, it may be too chilly for a dip. However, it’s a great time for biking, hiking and exploring the 30A area. Plus you’ll have the best vacation rental rates of the season. 30A vacation rentals are at their lowest rates so you can stay longer for less. And there’s still plenty to do and see! You won’t have to wait for a table in a busy restaurant or circle the block a few times waiting for a free parking space.

January is the 30A Songwriter Festival, the ideal time to listen to great music and new songs. The event is over three days and takes place in different locations along 30A. Check the event website and calendar for more information. In February, enjoy the 30A Wine Festival in Alys Beach and the Sandestin Gumbo Festival over President’s Day weekend. Live music, seafood boil and family fun—what could be better?