SOUTH WALTON, FLORIDA
What to do in 30A or South Walton, Florida?
I spent 72 hours in South Walton, Florida, located in the northwest region of the Sunshine State and known for its sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise water, and 16 acclaimed beach neighborhoods. Here is an itinerary for South Walton for the food and arts lovers!
Visit South Walton hosted this trip, but the commentary in this post is my own.
Itinerary
Day 1
Hotel Check-In @ Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
4000 S Sandestin Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
The Hilton Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a luxury oasis nestled on Florida's Gulf Coast. With stunning views, world-class amenities including golf courses, a spa, pool complex, and newly renovated rooms. Enjoy delicious cuisine at the resort's restaurants, relax by the poolside cabanas, and centrally located to nearby attractions.
Dom’s Tip: When selecting a room, choose one with a beach view for the perfect sunrise/sunset viewing.
Dinner @ Seagar’s Prime Steak & Seafood
4000 S Sandestin Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Seagar's Prime Steak & Seafood is the only "AAA Four Diamond" award-winning steakhouse in Northwest Florida. It is situated in the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, offering an elegant ambiance and impeccable service. Seagar's serves the finest USDA Prime beef and fresh seafood with an extensive wine selection. The executive chef, Fleetwood Covington, is a renowned chef who has shared his expertise in New York City's Food and Wine Festival, showcasing his unique approach to coastal cuisine.
Dom’s Pick: Order the Caesar salad made tableside and bananas foster, a true show and treat.
Day 2
Walking Tour at Seaside Institue
168 Smolian Cir, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
The Seaside Institute in Seaside, Florida, promotes community engagement and cultural enrichment through innovative programs focused on architecture, urban design, sustainability, and the arts. It inspires creativity, collaboration, and positive change in individuals and communities.
Dom’s Tip: If you were a fan of The Truman Show movie with Jim Carrey, it was shot in Seaside. The address to the home featured below is 31 Natchez St, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459.
Lunch at Great Southern Cafe
83 Central Square, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Great Southern Cafe in Seaside, Florida, is headed up by Chef Jim Shirley. It offers inventive twists on classic Southern dishes using fresh, local ingredients. The warm atmosphere and friendly service create a memorable dining experience that embodies Southern hospitality and culinary excellence.
Dom’s Pick: Order the Grits Á Ya Ya that includes blackened shrimp or the catch of the day, sauté of smoked bacon, spinach, portobello mushrooms, and cream on top of smoked Gouda cheese grits.
Grits Á Ya Ya
Happy Hour at 30A Distilling Co.
605 N County Hwy 393 Building 15-B, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
30A Distillery is a unique distillery located on Highway 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. It specializes in crafting handcrafted spirits using locally sourced ingredients. Its range of spirits includes vodka, gin, and rum, all of which are made with meticulous care to capture the essence of the Gulf Coast. Visitors can enjoy tours and tastings at the distillery, where they can learn about the distillation process and sample these unique spirits in a relaxed coastal setting.
Dom’s Tip: Order any cocktail with their Limoncello, as it is a crowd favorite.
6 Course Dinner at Roux 30A
114 Logan Ln, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Roux 30A is a restaurant in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida that offers upscale Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Chef Nikhil Abuvala leads the restaurant, which features fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, and inventive small plates—all highlighting Gulf Coast flavors. The setting is stylish and elegant, perfect for those who love good food served in a welcoming environment.
Day 3
Art Gallery Tour
South Walton has an impressive arts scene, where galleries proudly showcase local talent and creativity.
Adaro Art | 21 Hub Ln, Watersound, FL 32461
Andy Saczynski Studio Gallery | 26 Logan Ln B, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Justin Gaffrey Gallery | 21 Blue Gulf Dr, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Lunch at The Big Chill 30A
7000 E County Hwy 30A, Watersound, FL 32461
The Big Chill is a multi-functional area featuring live music, shopping, a farmers market, and multiple food vendors, making it an ideal destination for groups.
Sightseeing and Drinks in Rosemary Beach
This scenic beachside destination boasts award-winning architecture, convenient amenities like tennis courts, pools, beach walkovers, and plenty of green spaces to relax in. The architecture of the area is reminiscent of New Orleans and The French Quarter.
Dom’s Tip: There are several spots for dining and cocktails and I would recommend La Cremas Tapas & Chocolate or Havana Beach Bar & Grill.
Havana Beach
Dinner at Camp Creek Inn
100 SE Alder St, Portland, OR, US, 97214
The Camp Creek Inn is among the latest establishments in the South Walton region. It is a tranquil escape in Florida's Camp Creek area. With attentive service and scenic surroundings, it is the ideal destination for a peaceful retreat.
Dom’s Tip: You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but feel free to ask the wait staff about specials. Reservations are required.
Questions
What airports do you recommend flying into South Walton?
The two closest airports include Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) and Destin/Fort Walton Beach, FL (VPS).
I recommend reviewing the Getting Here page on Visit South Walton for additional info.
Do I need a car in South Walton? What is transportation like?
Renting a car may not be necessary depending on the neighborhood you are staying in, but Uber and Lyft are well-established in this area. Depending on the length of your trip, you may want to consider a rental.
Where to stay while visiting South Walton?
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is a 4-star hotel and houses Seagar’s, the top-rated steakhouse in the Northwest region of Florida, along with multiple restaurants, a private beach, a golf course, and spa amenities
Outdoor pools are open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Private beach
Deluxe Junior Suite
Are there any additional resources you would recommend while visiting South Walton?
I am GLAD you asked, and I recommend Visit South Walton, the official tourism website.
Would you return to South Walton to visit?
I ABSOLUTELY WOULD! I come here during off-peak and peak seasons to unwind and disconnect or on a family or girl's trips.
If you have any additional questions, please feel free to comment below!