How does white sand, miles of beaches and incredible food sound? Then I think you need to plan a trip to the small beach towns on Highway 30 A on Florida’s panhandle. I live in Buffalo, NY so getting there required two short flights.. Our route took us through Atlanta and then a quick flight to land in Panama City, Florida. We chose to rent a car for our time there, but one is not necessary if you plan to stay in the town of Rosemary Beach. Everything is very walkable and bikes are available to use.

I booked the Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach for our anniversary and it was the perfect hotel in the perfect location. The minute you drive onto Highway 30A you are transported to another place. Tree covered roads, beautiful beach houses, boutiques and coffee shops.

The Pearl offers complimentary valet services, beach chairs and umbrellas with your stay and is only steps from the beach. Unfortunately there was a cold front for our first few days so we weren’t able to take advantage but I hope to some day when I return. Our first night we decided to eat at the restaurant in the hotel. Havana had a wonderful menu and atmosphere, and the most entertaining piano player.

The next day we were anxious to see the sights. We hopped in the car and made our way to the adorable Palms Coffee House in Destin. It was a bit of a drive so if you have no reason to go that way, it might be a stop for another time! Our coffees were delish and I would definitely go back.

We stopped in Seaside on our way back to Rosemary Beach for a bite to eat. So many choices! We opted to try burgers and fries from Pickles Beachside Grill and frose and crepes from Crepes du Soleil. Seaside is famous for it’s pastel colored houses and unique beach pavilions. We did venture here a few times because there were so many options. Definitely add Seaside to your list of stops on 30A.

I wanted to surprise my husband with something special since it was our 20th Anniversary. I decided to book a beach picnic for us to watch the sunset. It was so beautiful!! Sam from Coastline Picnics was wonderful to work with. She arranged everything so all we had to do was show up!! There are several companies that offer this service as well as beach bonfires. This was such a nice surprise for him and a great way to spend some quality time together. I chose to add on the dessert tray but the basic booking comes with setup and clean up, a charcuterie box, non-alcoholic beverage, floral arrangement, blue tooth speaker for music, custom chalkboard and umbrella. You are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages as long as it is not in a glass container.

The rest of our time there we spent relaxing, exploring, eating at incredible restaurants and attending the Rosemary Beach Uncorked Wine Festival. Here is a list of the restaurants we went to:

• Pescado - about a 2 minute walk from The Pearl. Adults only for dinner hour. Resy required.

• Edwards - located right across the street from The Pearl. Food was very good.

• La Crema Tapas - also located directly across from The Pearl. Loved it here. Known for their chocolate desserts and fondue.

• Georges at Alys Beach (my fave) - about a 5-10 min drive from the Pearl. You could also bike here!

• Amavida Coffee - the cutest coffee shop in Rosemary Beach! About a 5 min walk from The Pearl.

• Havana - located right in the Pearl. Delicious food and wonderful entertainment!

Honestly, I cannot recommend Rosemary Beach and the towns on 30A enough. We had the best time! I look forward to going back sometime soon.

Insider tip.. go in September if possible. Way less crowded and beautiful weather!

Drop me a comment below if you’ve been to Rosemary Beach or plan to go!

x, Julie