Walton County Tourism

The Ultimate Guide To Florida's 30A—The South's Best-Kept Beach Secret

At first, beachgoers landed on Scenic Highway 30A the same way sand settles on the seashore: slowly and without much fanfare. But then a wave began to build and—bam!—all of a sudden, this unassuming stretch of roadway, just 24 miles long, was one of the most popular destinations in the South. These picture-perfect towns are welcome sights for weary Southern travelers, some of whom have been driving for hours amid crumpled potato chip bags, empty sippy cups, and restless children in car seats. A greeting of powdery-white sand, clear cerulean water, and a decidedly sunny disposition instantly gets you in vacation mode.

4 Beach Towns to Visit Along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A

AARP

I’ve never met a scenic drive I didn’t like, an appreciation inherited from my dad. There’s just something about the long way home and taking the time to enjoy the journey. The miles slide by while fingers drum on the steering wheel, conversation flowing freely then fading comfortably.

The 8 Best Sites for Glamping in Florida

The Knot

Over the past two years, more than 15 million Americans went camping for the first time—a huge boom as travelers continue soaking up nature and embracing the great outdoors (and the beauty of the national parks in their own backyards). Pitching a tent isn't for everyone, so it makes sense that glamping in Florida—a place where nature comes in multiple forms—has also grown in popularity. Glampsites have sprouted everywhere across the state, from national parks, hot springs, and beaches to orange groves and forests within driving distance of major cities like Orlando and Miami.

The 21 Best Weekend Getaways in Florida

MSN

Many things can be said about the Sunshine State, but there's no denying its pull as a year-round destination for a weekend getaway or, if you can swing it, something longer. Particularly during the winter months, when much of the country is shoveling snow and scraping ice, the best things to do in Florida incorporate clear blue skies, wide and welcoming beaches, and a steady drip of Vitamin D that packs a powerful endorphin punch.

9 Of The Most Welcoming Towns On Florida's Emerald Coast

World Atlas

Florida’s Emerald Coast is dotted with distinctive small towns, welcoming visitors with fine, white sands and plenty of sun. The sunshine state's panhandle beaches earned their nickname from the striking color of the gulf waters, and the sugary sand is made up of bits of quartz crystals washed down to the Gulf of Mexico for thousands of years through rivers from the Appalachian Mountains. Deep-sea fishing is a popular pastime in the region, and the area boasts fresh seafood with catches unique to the warm, clear waters, including snapper, grouper, and amberjack. The beaches and gulf waters are not all the area has to offer. Locals along the Emerald Coast are friendly, and the towns are laid-back yet vibrant. There is an array of shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities for all interests.

The Clock Is Ticking on Scoring These Cheap Flights and Hotel Deals — Save Up to 65% Before End of Year

Travel + Leisure

As a seasoned traveler who often hops on last-minute trips around the world, I’m no stranger to spontaneous excursions. But with the New Year upon us, I’m making a resolution to start planning trips with a bit more advance notice. Not only will I be able to optimize my experiences if I plan ahead, but I’ll also undoubtedly save serious money, too.

10 Free Beaches To Visit In Florida During The Colder Months

The Travel

Florida, a state synonymous with perpetual sunshine, palm-lined shores, and vibrant nightlife, takes on a unique allure during the colder months. While summer typically steals the spotlight for beachgoers, winter unveils a quieter, more enchanting side of Florida's coastline. As the temperatures cool and the summer crowds disperse, Florida's pristine beaches offer a haven of tranquility. Imagine soft white sands, clear blue waters, and landscapes that seem to stretch into eternity. What's more, many of these sandy havens do not charge entry fees during the winter months, making them even more appealing for a budget-friendly escape.

This Florida Beach Is A Great Spot For A Warm Weather Winter Holiday Escape

Explore

During the winter, everyone yearns for the summer days of warmer weather and beach trips. That is, everyone but locals in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Located along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico in South Walton County, the temperatures there remain mild and hover between highs of 61 degrees and lows of 46 degrees. If you're spending your winter locked indoors, avoiding the freezing weather, then Santa Rosa Beach could be the perfect escape.

10 Best Places to Retire to in Florida

The Travel

After a stressful career, there comes a time when one must pack their bags and permanently move to a location where they can freely indulge in their favorite leisurely activities. For those with sufficient savings, this may mean a beachfront mansion in an exclusive community. For the less privileged, mild temperatures and affordable living expenses would do.

25 Best Christmas Towns in the USA

Travel + Leisure

Nothing quite compares to the joy of seeing a town bedecked with holiday decorations. The sight of boughs of holly and string lights can warm you even in the coldest temperatures. Everyone wants to spend Christmas in a town like that, seemingly plucked from a Hallmark movie, and there are plenty of them dotted all around the U.S.

13 Best Beach Vacations for Families, Hand-Picked by Travel Experts

Good Housekeeping

Thinking about taking a beach vacation this year? So are a lot of other families with kids and teens. According to a new survey from the Family Travel Association, 54% of respondents indicated they're planning a beach vacation in the next 12 months. In fact, beach vacays turned out to be the most popular type of trip, beating theme parks and national parks by a landslide. California, Florida and Hawaii are the top three states that families said they want to visit — not surprising since they all have great beaches.

8 Chefs Share Their Best Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas

Forbes

Leftovers are much more than just reheated food; they offer an opportunity to unleash creativity and innovation in the kitchen. Utilizing leftovers in new meals also has a much deeper significance during this holiday season. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 35% of perfectly good turkey meat in the U.S. only gets consumed after it's initially cooked.