Blog | Paradise Beach Rentals

Spend Thanksgiving Along 30A This Year

Thanksgiving at 30A

“Thanksgiving” and “at the beach” might be words you never thought you would use in a sentence. But we think it’s about time you do! Not sure if there is anything to do at the beach on Thanksgiving? Think again! We have a whole list of activities and dining options to give you one of the most memorable (and hopefully drama-free) Thanksgivings you and your family have ever had!

Start The Morning With A Run

Already feeling guilty about that extra piece of pie you know you’re going to eat later? Earn those extra calories by running in the 30A Thanksgiving Day 10K (or 5K…or 1 mile…if a 10K isn’t quite your thing)!

This race takes place every Thanksgiving, and has become a tradition for countless families that either call 30A home, or choose to spend Thanksgiving here every year. Whichever race you choose to run, you will start and finish in beautiful Rosemary Beach.

All proceeds from this event benefit a group of local charities. Register early! Last year, the race sold out.

Eating Out

When you think about Thanksgiving, you most likely think about food! But maybe you don’t get very excited about cooking that food. We completely understand! That’s why we’ve compiled a list of different restaurants and experiences along the Emerald Coast to make sure you get the Thanksgiving feast you want (and deserve!) while keeping you out of the kitchen.

The Pearl Thanksgiving Buffet

Located in the ballroom of The Pearl in Rosemary Beach, you can enjoy live music and a renowned Thanksgiving Buffet! This year, they are offering three seatings at 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM. Reservations are required, so please call 850.588.2882. Prices are $79 per adult and $39 per child (13 and under).

The Pearl Thanksgiving Plated Dinner

The Pearl also offers a plated dinner from 11 AM – 7 PM at the Havana Beach Bar & Grill. Their regular menu will not be available, but you can still find their interpretation of Thanksgiving classics on the special 3-course Thanksgiving menu. Reservations are required, so please call 850.588.2882. Prices are $79 per adult and $39 per child (13 and under).

Stinky’s Fish Camp

If you’re looking for a fuss free holiday dinner, make reservations at Stinky’s! They will be serving your holiday favorites as well as selections from their regular menu. Call 850.267.3053 for reservations.

Old Florida Fish House

Old Florida Fish House will be serving up Thanksgiving on the Lake again this year. You can choose from the special buffet or from their sushi menu. Select regular menu items will also be available. Prices are $39 per adult and $15 per child. Make your reservations by calling 850.534.3045.

Vue on 30A

Vue on 30a will be serving up traditional holiday dishes with a coastal flair at their Annual Thanksgiving Brunch. Enjoy a delicious meal in a spectacular setting! Make your reservations today by calling 850.267.2305. Price per adult is $49.95, and price for kids (aged 6-12) is $15.95. Children 5 and under are complimentary.

Cafe Thirty-A

Make your reservations for Cafe Thirty-A’s Thanksgiving feast early…it always sells out! Book now and enjoy a four-course Thanksgiving dinner with all the extras! Adults eat for $60 and children eat for $20. Make reservations online, or call 850.231.2166.

OR, get a take-out feast for 6. Order early! Pick-up will be Thanksgiving Day.

Solaris Yacht

Set sail this Thanksgiving on the Solaris Yacht and enjoy a spectacular feast on the water. This year, enjoy either lunch or dinner during your two and a half hour cruise. This event sells out every year, so make your reservations as soon as possible! Prices for adults (11 & up) are $68, children (3-10) are $38, and infants (2 & under) are $23 (no meal served).

Cuvee 30A

Tim Creehan’s Annual Thanksgiving Day Buffet happens every year exclusively at Cuvee 30A at 30Avenue. Early reservations are highly recommended, and can be made online. Buffet prices are $49 for adults, and $21 for children under 9.

OR, order a turkey to-go! Each year, they offer turkey-only options, full dinner options, or full-dinner with dessert.

Restaurant Paradis

Thanksgiving in Rosemary Beach with dinner at Restaurant Paradis! They will be serving a traditional turkey dinner, alongside their regular menu if you are looking for something different. To make your reservations, please call 850.534.0400.

The Bay Restaurant

Chef Jim Shirley always puts together an amazing Thanksgiving menu at The Bay. Enjoy the celebratory buffet while also enjoying spectacular views of Choctawhatchee Bay. make reservations by calling 850.622.2291.

Great Southern Cafè

Another restaurant by Chef Jim Shirley, Great Southern Cafè offers a Thanksgiving Day Lunch Buffet that always fills up fast! Reservations can be made by calling 850.231.7327 from November 1 at 8 a.m. and are on a first-call first-reserved basis. Be fast, because reservations typically fill up within hours!

Eating In

Maybe getting dressed up and eating out isn’t your idea of a fun Thanksgiving?

Thankfully, Cafe Thirty-A, Cuvee 30A, Grayton Beer Brewpub, Roux 30A, Cowgirl Kitchen, The Perfect Pig, and The Hub 30A all offer delicious Thanksgiving Dinner to-go options that give you the ability to enjoy time with family at home while not having to cook…which we call a win-win! Or, go for a classic like Honey Baked Ham. They several different locations in the South Walton area to choose from!

But if you do like to cook, don’t fret about not being able to find the perfect turkey! For The Health Of It offers a limited supply of free range and organic turkeys each year. They have been sourcing their turkeys from Mary’s Farm in Pennsylvania for the past 24 years.

And for fresh, seasonal veggies, check out the different farmers’ markets along 30A the week before Thanksgiving! You’re sure to find some unique finds that will make your Thanksgiving spread even more special.

At Paradise Beach Rentals, we always want to give you the best beach vacation possible. That’s why we try to ensure that each of our rentals comes with everything you could possibly need. So, if you plan to spend the holiday in one of our beach rentals, you are sure to have everything you need to whip up an amazing Thanksgiving dinner!

Ready to spend Turkey Day by the coast? Book your beach rental today! We typically fill up during the holidays. Browse our available homes today and find the perfect place for you and your family. Need help booking? Call us today at 877.782.9302 (877.STAY.30A) and we will help you find the perfect rental for you and your family this Thanksgiving.

Don’t Miss Taco Tuesday Just Because You’re On A 30A Vacation

There’s no reason to miss Taco Tuesday just because you’re on vacation. Especially when fish tacos are a delicious possibility! Browse these incredible restaurants below and find the perfect spot to eat on your next trip to 30A.

Tacos on 30A

Red Fish Taco

With a selection of soft tacos, crispy street tacos, and grilled corn tortilla tacos, everyone is bound to find something they love! Try the Grilled Red Fish or Blackened Shrimp Fish Tacos for a coastal taste, or the Chili Steak or Smoked Brisket Tacos for something fun and different.

2052 W County Hwy 30A

Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Bud and Alley’s Taco Bar

Bud and Alley’s never disappoints, and the Taco Bar is no exception! Just steps from the sand, you can eat at the Taco Bar OR get your order to-go and enjoy your tacos on the beach. We recommend the Baja Style Fish Tacos or the Carnitas Tacos! They also have burritos and a wide selection of house made sides.

2236 East County Road 30-A

Seaside, Florida 32459

Chiringo

Originally inspired by a trip to Spain, the decor, vibe, and menu of Chiringo draws from beaches around the world. While the tacos are out of this world, you’re sure to love the atmosphere of Chiringo just as much!

63 Hotz Ave

Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

north-beach-tortilla-company-017

North Beach Tortilla Co.

Take a trip to the Bay! Located at the foot of the 331 Bridge, this restaurant is a newcomer to South Walton. With plenty of room for the kids to run and play, you can enjoy a drink from their extensive tequila selection. And their tacos are made-from-scratch in a delightful gulf- and farm-to-table fashion!

24200 US-331

Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Macho Taco

If everyone in your group isn’t craving tacos, make your way to The Hub where there are plenty of different food options. But for you taco lovers, look no further than Macho Taco! Enjoy delicious combos like Pork Chimichurri, Grilled Chicken Mole, or Grilled Portabellos for a vegetarian option.

Unit 4, 24 Hub Lane

Watersound Beach, Florida 32461

La Playa

Located in Gulf Place directly across from the Gulf of Mexico, La Playa is the place to go for Caribbean-influenced favorites. Get exactly what you’re craving with their Build Your Own menu. Choose from Bowls, Tacos, Burritos, or Nachos and plenty of protein and topping options!

37 Town Center Loop C8

Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

la cocina

La Cocina

La Cocina offers Latin-inspired cuisine made-from-scratch from the freshest possible ingredients. And in the heart of Seacrest Beach, it’s in the perfect location. Enjoy a wide variety of tacos and other classic Mexican cuisine. But don’t forget the cocktail!

10343 E County Hwy 30A

Seacrest, FL 32461

What’s your favorite place to grab a taco along 30A? Let us know in the comments!

And if you don’t have a trip to the beach on your calendar, book your next beach rental today. Browse our available homes today and find the perfect place for you and your family. Need help booking? Call us today at 877.782.9302 (877.STAY.30A).

Get Your Miles In At One Of These Races Along 30A

Turn your next beach weekend into a race weekend! If you’ve never run along the stunning 30A coast, you are in for a treat. So get your running friends together, book your beach rental, and start training! And with races ranging from 1 mile to a half marathon, you are sure to find something for your skill level…

Seaside School Half Marathon and 5K

Sunday, March 1, 2020

This will be the 18th Annual Seaside School Race Weekend! They offer both a half marathon and 5K race. The course is mostly flat and out-and-back. You’ll run through the charming beach towns along 30A, past coastal dune lakes, and, of course, the gorgeous Emerald Coast!

In 2020, the event will also feature a Taste of the Race event on Friday, February 28th. Join Chef Emeril Lagasse and enjoy cuisine from some of the Gulf Coast’s top chefs! After all, what better preparation is there for race day?

And if you need an excuse to make this a girls’ weekend, we’ll give you one… this event is sponsored by Vera Bradley! So, you’re sure to walk away with some great swag.

All proceeds from this event benefit the Seaside School.

Cost

Half Marathon – $125

5K Run – $95

30A Half Marathon and 5K

Sunday, October 13, 2019

The 4th Annual 30A Half Marathon and 5K will feature an out and back course that starts and ends at beautiful Gulf Place on Highway 30A. You’ll get all the beauty of the coast during this race!

This event also includes a full weekend of activities! Join your fellow racers on Friday, October 11th for the 30A BBQ Festival at the Gulf Place Amphitheater and enjoy all you can eat BBQ. Saturday will feature a Race Expo during packet pickup, followed by Race Day on Sunday.

All proceeds from this event benefit The Sonder Project.

Cost

Half Marathon – $85

5K Run – $55

30A Thanksgiving Day Races (10K, 5K, and 1 Mile)

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Spending Thanksgiving at the Beach? According to Southern Living Magazine, this race is one of the Top 5 Races in the South on Thanksgiving! This race starts and finishes in Rosemary Beach.

The fun starts the day before at packet pickup! You will need to pick up your race shirt and bib on Wednesday, November 27th at The Hub. While you’re there, enjoy the fun and festive atmosphere of the Fall Festival!

All proceeds from this event benefit a group of local charities.

Cost

10K – $75

5K Run/Walk – $65

1 Mile Fun Run – $35

Don’t let these races rush on by! Book your beach rental today and enjoy several days in the sun as well. Browse our available homes today and find the perfect place for you and your crew. Need help booking? Call us today at 877.782.9302 (877.STAY.30A).

Where To Find The Best Farmers’ Markets On Your Next 30A Vacation

Does a great farmer’s market just lift your spirit and make your day? Then you better not miss these incredible markets the next time you’re visiting 30A! Even if you don’t regularly visit the farmer’s market or you don’t have one in your town, these outdoor markets will be an experience for all the senses and a true highlight of your 30A vacation. Plus, you’ll be able to support local businesses selling fresh produce, organic products, and other interesting finds such as heirloom seeds and organic pet food.

Seaside Farmers’ Market

The Seaside Farmer’s Market is well established and has been running for over 10 years! You can visit this market every Saturday and Tuesday from 9am to 1pm at the Seaside Amphitheater. At the Seaside Market, you’ll find fresh and locally grown produce, organic chicken and duck eggs, baked goods, heirloom and organic seeds, dairy products, local honey, and so much more! And if you’ve booked a pet-friendly rental (LINK), your dog is also welcome to join you on your trip to the farmer’s market!

Grand Boulevard Farmers’ Market

If you booked a rental a little closer to Sandestin, you might want to visit the 30A Farmer’s Market at Grand Boulevard. Located on Grand Park between Cantina Laredo and Tommy Bahama’s, the Grand Boulevard Farmer’s Market is open Saturday’s year round from 9am to 1pm. This farmer’s market offers a wide range of fresh produce, dairy products such as butter, cream, milk, and ice cream, eggs, grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, pork products, fresh local seafood, and plenty of dips, jams, and sauces to make your vacation snack-time extra delicious. You can also find organic baked goods, including some gluten-free items. There are also body products such as soaps and lotions available at this farmer’s market. Skip the grocery store and fill your beach cooler with your delightful finds from the Grand Boulevard Farmer’s Market!

Rosemary Beach Farmers’ Market

Rosemary Beach Farmers' Market

Looking for a Sunday market? Stop by the Rosemary Beach Farmer’s Market every Sunday from 9am to 1pm in Barrett Square. You’ll find a wide selection of fresh from the farm produce, dairy, honey, eggs, grass-fed beef, beef jerky, pork products and sausages. You can also find fresh local seafood, crabcakes, tuna and shrimp dips. Pick up some snacks to take to the beach such as homemade pita, hummus, veggie dips, hot sauces, salsas, guacamole and homemade tortilla chips. Grab a fresh-pressed juice to sip on and enjoy your stroll around this relaxing market!

Have you ever been to any of these markets? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments.

You can enjoy these markets all year round and you can also enjoy a 30A beach rental all year round! Book your 30A rental today with Paradise Beach Rentals and enjoy the beach (and fresh produce) any month of the year.

Your Kids Could Enjoy One Of These Great Bunk Rooms On Your Next 30A Vacation

Are you planning a beach vacation with several families and LOTS of kids? Then you need a rental with a great bunk room that can comfortably sleep all those beach-loving kiddos, and hopefully give them a little space of their own as well. We’ve curated this list of rentals with incredible bunk rooms you and your kids are sure to love!

Bon Temps

If you have a big family, this Rosemary Beach rental home is perfect for you! The home sleeps 16 and the detached carriage, which can be rented separately, sleeps an additional 4. The main house features this spacious 1st floor bunk room that opens right out to the private pool, making early morning or late night swims even more exciting for the kids!

Front Porch

This Seacrest Beach home features an entire 2nd floor devoted to your kiddos. The bunk room can sleep up to 8 with two sets of twin over full bunk beds and a sleeper sofa. Let your kids have their own getaway in a suite that’s all their own.

The Sugar Palm House

Designed by the sought-after firm of Kate Marker Interiors, this Seagrove Beach home offers the best combination of beauty and comfort in the heart of Seagrove Beach. And if you have kids tagging along, they will love this 4 bed bunk room. The house sleeps a total of 12.

The Hidden Gem

This home is fantastic because it sleeps a total of 18 and features an amazing bunk room with 8 twin custom bunk beds and a 70″ flat screen TV. If you’re wanting to plan a big family reunion at the beach, we found your rental!

Easy Peasy

Another Rosemary Beach home perfect for bigger families, Easy Peasy sleeps 12 and has a carriage house that can be rented separately and sleeps an additional 4. The main house features this 2nd floor bunk room with 4 twin size bunks.

Blissful Breeze

Families love Seacrest Beach for its relaxing atmosphere, short walk to the beach and an incredible 12,000 sq. ft. community pool! Let your kids sleep off all the sun in this 2nd floor bedroom with bunks, two twin beds and a daybed with a trundle. The room sleeps 6, comfortably, and the house sleeps 14 total.

Fetch The Waves

We love this 30A pet-friendly property that would be perfect for two families. The bunk room sleeps 5 with a twin over full bunk, as well as a twin daybed and twin trundle. Plus, there will be no shortage of entertainment with the 50” Smart HDTV.

Beach Clarefication

The newest property added to our inventory, Beach Clarefication is gulf front and boasts stunning gulf views, a pool onsite and a short walk to the beach. The bunk room comfortably sleeps 4 and the full condo sleeps 10.

Lifeguard Loop

A 30A pet-friendly home, with a private pool and all the wonderful amenities of Seacrest Beach, Lifeguard Loop is a renter favorite and offers everything a family needs to enjoy the ultimate beach getaway. The house sleeps 10, and this 2nd floor bunk room sleeps 4.

Sea La Vie

This bunk room features full over full bunk beds and a twin bed with an additional twin trundle. All together, the room sleeps 6 and the house sleeps a total of 12. This home also features an additional (detached) carriage house that can be rented separately and sleeps another 4. And did we mention this Rosemary Beach home is pet-friendly? A rare find, indeed!

Periwinkle Bliss

Located in Blue Mountain Beach, this 30A pet-friendly home is tucked away in a newer neighborhood located off scenic 30A. Your kids can sleep all the excitement of the beach away in this room featuring a twin over full size bunk and twin trundle bed. The house sleeps 10 total, and the bunk room sleeps 4.

Seagrove Orange

This 2nd floor condo is another renter favorite, with a beautiful community pool and a short walk to private beach access. The bunk room features four twin size bunk beds and a 32″ Flat Screen SMART TV. The bunk room sleeps 4 and the condo sleeps a total of 8.

Ready to get to the beach? Book any one of these rentals by clicking through above, or browse available dates on all of our properties. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Where To Get Your Coffee Fix On Your Next 30A Vacation

Can’t imagine making it through a day at the beach without your daily cup of coffee beforehand? We’ve got a list of all the best coffee shops along 30A to help you stay fully caffeinated and ready for the waves! Hours for all of these coffeeshops may vary by season.

Amavida Coffee and Tea

This local chain is serving coffee made from thoughtfully sourced beans. They also have a selection of loose-leaf tea and light eats.

Rosemary Beach – 6:30am – 9:00pm

104 North Barrett Square, Unit 1A Lofts West, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461

Seaside – 6:30am – 9:00pm

25 Central Square, B1, Seaside, FL 32459

Miramar Beach – 6:30am – 4:00pm

9375 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach, FL 32550

Bad Ass Coffee

Coffee shop serving Hawaiian coffee. A great place to stop for an iced coffee during a hot walk along the beach!

7:00am – 5:00pm

17 Uptown Grayton Cir, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Black Bear Bread Company

Grayton Beach’s neighborhood bakery and all-day seasonal café serving Stumptown Coffee.

Monday-Saturday – 7:00am – 6:00pm

26 Logan Ln Unit G, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Kahve and Cream

Great shop serving coffee, donuts and ice cream…the best combination for vacation, in our opinion.

7:00am – 9:00pm

5311 E County Hwy 30A #5, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Outpost

Outpost serves coffee, but is also a women’s clothing store! Get your coffee and shopping fix all at once.

7:00am – 5:00pm (Closed Sundays)

12805 US-98 K101, Inlet Beach, FL 32413

Sunrise Coffee Co.

Sunrise Coffee Company offers specialty coffees, smoothies, breakfast wraps, pastries, lunch and desserts, including ice cream and snow cones.

6:00am – 6:00pm

45 Town Center Loop, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

We hope you get the chance to visit all of these coffee shops on your next trip to 30A. Don’t have anything booked currently? Browse some of our available dates today!

Have you enjoyed coffee at any of these shops? If so, tell us about it in the comments.

Get Ready For 4th of July Along 30A

There’s a reason families flock from all over to spend 4th of July on 30A. There’s so much to look forward to! Besides a relaxing afternoon on the beach, there are plenty of fun (and FREE) parades, parties, concerts, and must-see fireworks shows.

Never spent July 4th along the beautiful beaches of South Walton? We’ve got a full list of all the events and activities happening in and around 30A:

South Walton 4th of July Parade – 8:00 AM

The parade begins at 8AM in front of the Seagrove Plaza, where participants will march down 1.5 miles from Seagrove decked out in their patriotic costumes and riding elaborate holiday floats. The parade will stop at Seaside, where a panel of judges will select the winners from the parade entries.

Whether you are riding a bike, scooter, golf cart, or float, you are invited to participate in the parade. However, you must register ahead of time. Missed registration? No problem. The part starts in Seaside anyway! Off-site parking and free shuttles into Seaside run from 6 a.m. until midnight from the public parking lot in Grayton Beach on Highway 283.

Grayton Beach 4th of July Parade – 8:30 AM

Start lining up at 8AM along Holtz Avenue next to The Red Bar. No need to register…everyone is welcome! Just decorate your cars, bikes, boats, scooters, or skateboards! And enjoy popsicles, watermelon and lemonade after the parade.

Rosemary Beach 4th of July Celebration – 7:30 AM – 8:45 PM

Start the morning early with a Bike Decorating Contest and Breakfast at 7:30 AM, followed by the Bike Parade through Town Center at 8:30 AM. More fun to follow with an old-fashioned family field day on the Western Green. Activities include sack races, water balloon tosses, and so much more. Settle down around 6:00 PM with live music by The Like Total Hep Cats on the Western Green. The music is followed by a fireworks display from the beach at 8:45 PM.

Seaside 4th of July Concert – 5:30 -9:00 PM

Claim your spot early for the Seaside 4th of July Concert. Live music from 5:30 PM with Sister Hazel performing at 7:00 PM. Followed by a fireworks show at 8:30 PM.

Red, White & Baytowne – 6:00 – 10:00 PM

The Village of Baytowne Wharf puts on quite a show with a host of kids activities and live music for everyone performed from 6-9 p.m. Then, stick around for the 4th of July Fireworks Celebration starting at 9:15 p.m.

4th of July Concert at Alys Beach Amphitheatre – 6:00 – 9:00 PM

Enjoy a concert in beautiful Alys Beach with live music by Rhythm Nation. And it wouldn’t be 4th of July without fireworks, right? Stick around after the concert to watch the sky over Alys Beach light up!

We can’t wait for you to come stay with us this July 4th! Missing this year? No problem! Book one of our family-friendly 30A beach rentals for your 2020 beach vacation.