1. Enjoy all that the beautiful beaches and communities of South Walton, Florida have to offer by spending most of your time on 2 wheels with bike rentals. The easiest way to get around is also the most scenic along highway 30A.
  2. Grab a trendy new Vera Bradley backpack when you stop by the Silver Sands Premium Outlets to securely hold all your necessities while you bebop around sunny 30A.
  3. Joe has you covered for your premium hospitality needs and activities from sunbathing to golfing. Stay at The Pearl or the WaterColor Inn for the most luxurious accommodations and be sure to inquire about local beach and golf amenities.
  4. Drop into Grayton Beach State Park for a long walk on the beach and perhaps even a dip in the beautiful waters of the Emerald Coast. This “nationally ranked nature wonderland” has something for everyone! The Grayton Beach Hike & Bike Trail is a local favorite as well.
  5. It’s not a trip to Grayton without grabbing an afternoon pick-me-up at the Black Bear Bread Co. bakery. Cozy up inside or enjoy the great outdoors on their charming patio. What will it be—a warm latte with a croissant or champagne with a side of oysters?
  6. Live music, anyone? Head over to The Red Bar for this local favorite. Come for the fresh seafood; stay for the Red Bar Jazz Band and unparalleled dining comradery.
  7. Don’t miss a visit to the WaterColor Resort for lunch with a view at one of their incredible restaurants. Mouth-watering seafood and local fare awaits along with great finds at the WaterColor Town Center Resort shops and boutiques.
  8. It isn’t a proper trip to 30A without picking up a slice or seven at Pizza by the Sea in WaterColor.
  9. Get active on the water? Yes, please! RUN/SUP® rents kayaks and stand up paddle (SUP) boards right on the gorgeous Western Lake in WaterColor at the Boathouse Paddle Club. Take out an hourly rental or try a private or group lesson with friends!
  10. Coastal towns don’t get much more idyllic than Seaside, Florida. Get lost in the charming streets lined with restaurants, merchants and artisans.
  11. One of the most quintessential 30A lifestyle brands can be found at The Seaside Style. The infamous Seaside t-shirt is more than just a shirt. It’s the iconic symbol of what they’ve coined to be the “simple, beautiful life.”
  12. For an extra boost of vitamin C-side, stop by locals’ favorite “quaint gourmet grocery store” Modica Market for a fresh mimosa to take for a leisurely Seaside stroll.
  13. Grab a table at The Great Southern Café in the heart of Seaside for a truly incredible meal, casual bar and lively atmosphere.
  14. Catch a sunset over the sea at Bud & Alley’s waterfront restaurant and al fresco patio for good food, good people and good times. Did we mention the view? Can’t beat it!
  15. Need a perfect new pair of lucky running shoes? Stop by Love 2 Run for a quick meeting with the local experts on all things shoes and fitness apparel.
  16. Be sure to stop by 30Avenue for a little shopping and catch some live music if you’re lucky. While you’re there, get inspired for your next home interior renovation at The Lighting Studio of 30A.
  17. Get some carb loading in before the February race at Amici Italian Kitchen or Amigos 30A Mexican Kitchen. The Amigos skinny margaritas are out of this world.
  18. Take a long walk through the cobble stoned and palm tree lined streets of the iconic Alys Beach. If you’re in the mood to lounge or meditate, stop by one of the town’s many gorgeous parks. To get those steps in, check out the peaceful 1800-foot-long Nature Trail that winds along an elevated wooden boardwalk.
  19. When in Alys, The Citizen and George’s are not to be missed for memorable afternoon or evening meals. If it’s earlier in the day, try an acai bowl from Raw & Juicy—and if you’re sticking around after the race, the beloved Fonville Press café is reopening on February 24th!
  20. Stop by quintessential Rosemary Beach to enjoy the many boutiques of the town square and quite a few al fresco dining options. Beloved local rooftops include The Pearl and Pescado.
  21. Exercise with a view? The Rosemary Beach Fitness Trail & Walking Tour is a 2.3-mile trail combining sand paths and boardwalks as it winds through the many parks and public spaces of the idyllic community.
  22. Bringing the kiddos? Pop on over to Shipwreck Island Waterpark in neighboring Panama City Beach for family fun for everyone!

Feeling ’22 yet? 30A is always a good idea, and life is too short to miss a fun vacation. So, call your friends, book the room and register for the race. It’s for a good cause, after all—and the world could always use more goodness. We’ll see you there!

The Seaside School Half Marathon + 5K will be back in person for the 20th running on Sunday, February 20, 2022, in Seaside, Florida. Better yet, we will also be offering a limited number of virtual registrations for those that are unable to join in person. Get ready to sweat, connect and crush some run goals with us in South Walton… or from wherever you are in the world! Proceeds from the Seaside School Half Marathon + 5K benefit the Seaside School, Inc.

Meanwhile, find the accommodations that best suit your needs here: The Pearl, WaterColor Inn, 30A Cottages, 30A Vacay, One Seagrove Place, and the Homeowners Collection.

Kristin Edwards

Author Kristin Edwards

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