The Emerald Coast is the name given to some seventy miles of unbroken white-sand coastline stretching between two natural inlets: the East Pass of Choctawhatchee Bay (Destin) on the west and St. Andrews Bay (Panama City) on the east. For many years this area was a “blank space” on the map, with few settled communities. During the 20th century, small-scale settlement began, with significant development not undertaken until after World War II.

Over the past forty years, the Emerald Coast has become known worldwide for the quality of its beaches, the clarity of its unique blue-green water and the gentle climate which makes it perfect for year-round vacationing. It has attracted significant attention from the design community which has gifted the area with an exciting, eclectic mix of coastal architecture.

U.S. Highway 98 connects Panama City and Destin. Just east of Destin, Scenic Highway 30-A branches off 98, hugging the beach as it winds some nineteen miles through a number of unique small communities showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Emerald Coast. “30-A” has become shorthand for the area, which offers the very best in coastal vacationing. Visit www.30A.com for news and events, dining, shopping and nightlife guides as well as visitor-voted “best-of 30-A” in many different categories.

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Executive Traveller says of our area: “30-A has become a major upscale tourist attraction with its eclectic palette of bright Caribbean colors and soft pastels, and architecture ranging from weathered wood beach homes to the New Urbanist community of Seaside.”

According to The New York Times: “The beach communities on Scenic Highway 30-A somehow manage to drip Southern family charm, pioneer cutting-edge design, and stay out of the limelight. They also share what may be the best beach in the continental U.S.”

From Travel + Leisure: “I see Route 30-A, unofficially the New Urbanist Highway, as a remarkable laboratory of lifestyle.”

“Northwest Florida’s chic coastal village corridor oozes charm, Southern hospitality and great golf.” – Private Clubs Magazine

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Area Guide - A Tour of Scenic Highway 30-A

Beaches

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