If there is one beach spot that I love coming back to time and time again, it’s the Emerald Coast of Florida. This area not only holds nostalgic memories but has become a place where I can really recharge and relax. The crystal water and white beaches are one of the many attractions that lure so many to this seaside destination, but the Emerald Coast has much more to offer than just pristine beaches. During the summer, you will find numerous activities that are perfect for families looking to create lasting memories, from concerts, firework shows, and festivals. Finding a place to eat is certainly not a problem, as you will discover an array of cuisines that satisfy any taste palette. There is plenty to do as far as outdoor recreational activities with the state parks and beaches providing some breathtaking scenery and landscapes.
On our trip, we were seeking to enjoy not just the calming sounds of the waves but some delicious food and take in many of the local attractions and shops that the area has to offer visitors. This was my husband's first time visiting the Emerald coast and I wanted to show him some of my personal favorites since we’d only be there for a few days.
One of our first stops was the Village of Baytowne Wharf. This hotspot is one that is worth visiting, especially if you have kids who are in need of some fun entertainment. Nestled within the Sandestin Golf and Beach resort, on the edge of the Choctawhatchee Bay, Baytowne is perfectly designed for every member of the family as it provides numerous restaurants, bars, and shops for dining and shopping while hosting numerous special events, concerts, movie nights, and festivals perfect for all ages. If you’re seeking nightlife, you will find plenty in the village for both young and old. Looking for some fun activities for the kids? Try the zip lining across the lake in the center of the village, hang out at the Arcade and Lazer Maze, or try the carousel for some of the younger members.
If you are in the same boat we were in with smaller babies, and seeking a more relaxed experience, heading to the village in the morning hours is just the thing. You will find plenty of parking in the parking garage along with a fraction of the crowds you normally see in the evening. This made taking a stroll along some of the residential homes and the resort a tranquil experience. Feeling almost transported to another time, we made our way through the village and enjoyed popping into many of the boutiques and shops that offered locally made goods, clothing, and local artworks of many kinds. My newest obsession, children's clothing and toy stores, were the perfect thing for this mom. If you are looking for some heirloom clothing for the kiddos, stop at Coconut Kidz, they offer an array of beautifully designed clothing for boys and girls. Ice cream anyone? If you’re looking for a sweet treat to cool off with, you will find two creameries in the village with a delicious selection of creamy sweets. We stopped at La Cremeria which serves gelato, milkshakes, and coffee, and enjoyed our sweet treat next to the lake that centers the village. Absolutely amazing! The gelato was rich and creamy, and they provided a great selection of flavors.
Another great place to try if you're hanging out around Okaloosa Island and looking for something to eat is the Boardwalk. Offering several great restaurants that serve seafood and a few even have some live entertainment, and all are right next to the beach offering a spectacular view while you eat. Our favorite was Floyds’ which has some amazing coconut shrimp and the flounder tacos are a must-try. Along with dining, the pier is just a short walk over which is great for fishing. And if you are wanting to see some marine life, go next door to the Gulfarium and enjoy some of the shows they have to offer.
Finally, and my personal favorite is the picturesque seaside towns on the famous 30A highway. Driving down this scenic highway is relaxing and quite breathtaking as you see some of Florida’s natural beauty shine. We stopped at Seaside and Watercolor for some shopping and lunch. The best part about Seaside and Watercolor is just how well these towns were designed with walking in mind. These places are meant to be walked and enjoyed. The beach cottages and homes create the perfect coastal feeling with luxurious gardens surrounding them. Each street is as picturesque as the last. You can easily walk from Seaside to Watercolor to enjoy the many shops, art galleries, and dining opportunities that these sister communities have to offer.
You'll find many unique home goods stores that not only offer some seaside styles but also unique and vibrant pieces that would look great in any home. One store we popped into was Art of Simple, and nothing simple about this boutique. Vibrant colors filled the shop which offered artist pieces from home decor to handcrafted handbags. When it comes to children's stores, Seaside has two that might be my favorite so far. Bump Baby is the cutest kids clothing boutique specializing in heirloom pieces that are perfect for your little munchkins. If you are looking for some outfits for the 4th, this would be a great place to shop for the kids. Duckies Shop of Fun is one that may require some self-restraint. This toy store lives up to its name as it not only sells a variety of toys for all ages but even has some interactive components that make just being in the store fun even for grown-ups. I was enjoying it so much that I forgot to take pictures, that’s how fun it was.
When it comes to eating in Seaside, the trouble is trying to pick from so many amazing options. We couldn’t choose, so we tried two places. Right off the famous 30A highway is a line of vintage trailers serving as the perfect retro food trucks with a canopy of trees providing the perfect amount of shade. This little strip has a whole lot of flavor. If you are in the mood for a little French food, try the Cordon Bleu crepes at Crepes du Soleil. In the mood for some comfort food? Check out the Meltdown on 30A. This place offers some of the best, if not the best specialized grilled cheese sandwiches we have ever tried. Try the McConnell, it will blow your taste buds. That’s all I can say about it, just try it. Enjoy your lunch in the town center where the palm trees sore and cyclists zoom by. For dessert head on over to Dawson's Yogurt & Fudgeworks for some delicious frozen treats or chocolaty sweets, or both. The triple chocolate yogurt is like eating brownie batter. . . yes, brownie batter.
The Emerald Coast is truly a gem that Florida has to offer and it is a place that can become one of your family's favorite getaway spots, just as it has for mine. You will truly find a little bit of everything that will please every member of the family, from the outdoor enthusiast to the fashionista. Not only is there an abundance of places to see and things to do but the Emerald coast really lives up to its name as its beaches are some of the most beautiful I have ever seen. If you are planning for your family's next summer getaway, take a look at this gorgeous destination that will be the perfect beachside experience for your family to create lasting memories.
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