Beach Life
Inspiration + discovery from the emerald coast and beyond.
Join us as we explore the Emerald Coast.
BeachLiFE Magazine is a travel inspiration publication that introduces readers to life on the Emerald Coast and the people who call it home. Each issue takes readers on a guided tour through the coastal communities of Scenic Highway 30A, Destin, and beyond. Immersing them in the ambiance and energy of a magical realm where the pace is casual and the air smells of salt.
Travel
Join us as we explore the coast and learn what make the Emerald Coast so magical.
Tour the Choctawhatchee River
Kingfishers dive and swoop, skimming the surface of the water, encircling each other in a dance before alighting on a low-hanging branch. Osprey nests top bare, skinny trees, framing the horizon like a child’s drawing—the nests far too wide and heavy to rest safely...
Emerald Coast Vacation Guide
There’s so much to see and do along the Emerald Coast that it can feel overwhelming. Since we’re experts in the local 30A, Miramar Beach, Destin, and Panama City Beach areas, we’ve highlighted amazing experiences and some of our favorite local shops and...
Building Sandcastles
Have you ever stopped and stared at an intricately carved sandcastle on the beach and thought, wish I could do that? It turns out you’re not alone. Creative coastal entrepreneurs paid attention to those lingering looks and began doing just that—teaching people how to...
All About Alligators
American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are one of the most iconic animals in Florida. These massive reptiles can be found in all 67 counties of the state and are a common sight in many freshwater environments, including lakes, rivers, swamps, and brackish...
Farmers Market
On your next trip to the beach, treat your senses to a visit to a local farmers market. Spend the morning sampling freshly baked bread, homemade jams, and artisanal cheeses. Soak in the beauty of native plants, handmade jewelry, and crafted goods. Pet some dogs, chat...
Oyster Season
Eating oysters on the half-shell is about as Florida as turning up the volume on a Jimmy Buffet song and grocery shopping in a swimsuit. You can enjoy them raw, steamed, baked, grilled, or fried year-round, although many folks still prefer to stick to the adage that...
the story of the emerald coast’s white sand
"It’s this perfect maritime world thatstretches on for miles and milesin either direction.” The sand. Flour-soft and, on sunny days, blindingly white. It’s a defining presence on Florida’s Emerald Coast, changing everything it touches—from the water itself to those...
romance on the emerald coast
What do you consider romantic? Red roses, white tablecloths, and a candle-lit table? Or does a leisurely walk along the beach at sunset—with the sky bursting in burnt orange, ruby red, and dusty pinks sound more your style? Romance is subjective, so we did our best...
holidays on 30A
Did you know Santa Claus is a big fan of the Emerald Coast? It’s true! Each year the man in the red suit kicks off his busiest season with a visit to 30A, Destin, and Panama City Beach. So what are you doing? Let’s make plans to visit this holiday season!
30A tour: seaside
There’s a gorgeous sameness about the beaches of the Emerald Coast—just one mile after another of soft quartz sand running alongside an aquamarine shoreline that appears aglow, lit from within. The communities that populate this realm, however, are a different matter...
rise of the vacation home rental
The vacation home rental market. Not only is it the newest player in the lodging space, it’s also widely recognized as the most dynamic and innovative. And since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020, it has enjoyed an unexpected surge in...
fishing trips
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing? Or catch a shark? What about a nighttime hunt for swordfish? It’s easier than ever to cross fishing off your beach to-do list—you can even book directly through our concierge. Surf Fishing Surf fishing is perfect for...
explore the underwater art museum
An extraordinary experience found only along 30A is the Underwater Museum of Art, where massive art pieces serve as protective marine habitats. 30A is also home to more than a dozen artificial reefs for diving and snorkeling.
tarpon bar’s mo-garita
One of the joys of enjoying a cocktail upstairs at Bud and Alley’s Restaurant (known as the Tarpon Club) is seeing Mo Mosely’s familiar face. He’s been ringing the sunset bell and pouring drinks for 23 years in one of 30A’s most beloved beachside bars.
waterways of the panhandle
Join us as we explore the waterways of eastern Choctawhatchee Bay. While in the neighborhood, we wander off on a couple of detours—the first into the spectacular Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, the second up the little-known waters of the Choctawhatchee Watershed.
beach gear tips
The right beach gear can make or break your day. We’ve rounded up everything from beach safes, to sand-free towels, to reliable beach wagons!
cape san blas
At the far eastern edge of the Emerald Coast, a slender arm of sand extends into the Gulf of Mexico. At the elbow, there’s a cape—Cape San Blas. There is no destination quite like it in all of Florida.
from vacation to staycation
And that could be a good thing… The staycation. It’s a revolutionary idea: To go away on vacation and stay away for a timeframe measured in weeks and months rather than days—a concept that hadn’t crossed the minds of many until the advent of work-from-home mandates....
the turtle lady retires
Sharon Maxwell is not the type of woman to take no for an answer. And thank goodness for that. After 25 years scouring the sand for signs of a nesting sea turtle, she officially retired from the organization she created—South Walton Turtle Watch.
easter events on (and around) 30A
There's delicious food to eat, beautiful beaches to explore, and so many egg hunts! Get those baskets decorated, the outfits ready, and prep your appetite for fabulous Easter Brunches up and down 30A. All brunches and events are held April 17, unless noted. Easter...
Local Spotlight
Learn about the people and places that call the Emerald Coast home.
Emerald Coast Vacation Guide
There’s so much to see and do along the Emerald Coast that it can feel overwhelming. Since we’re experts in the local 30A, Miramar Beach, Destin, and Panama City Beach areas, we’ve highlighted amazing experiences and some of our favorite local shops and...
Farmers Market
On your next trip to the beach, treat your senses to a visit to a local farmers market. Spend the morning sampling freshly baked bread, homemade jams, and artisanal cheeses. Soak in the beauty of native plants, handmade jewelry, and crafted goods. Pet some dogs, chat...
Oyster Season
Eating oysters on the half-shell is about as Florida as turning up the volume on a Jimmy Buffet song and grocery shopping in a swimsuit. You can enjoy them raw, steamed, baked, grilled, or fried year-round, although many folks still prefer to stick to the adage that...
romance on the emerald coast
What do you consider romantic? Red roses, white tablecloths, and a candle-lit table? Or does a leisurely walk along the beach at sunset—with the sky bursting in burnt orange, ruby red, and dusty pinks sound more your style? Romance is subjective, so we did our best...
holidays on 30A
Did you know Santa Claus is a big fan of the Emerald Coast? It’s true! Each year the man in the red suit kicks off his busiest season with a visit to 30A, Destin, and Panama City Beach. So what are you doing? Let’s make plans to visit this holiday season!
30A tour: seaside
There’s a gorgeous sameness about the beaches of the Emerald Coast—just one mile after another of soft quartz sand running alongside an aquamarine shoreline that appears aglow, lit from within. The communities that populate this realm, however, are a different matter...
rise of the vacation home rental
The vacation home rental market. Not only is it the newest player in the lodging space, it’s also widely recognized as the most dynamic and innovative. And since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020, it has enjoyed an unexpected surge in...
fishing trips
Have you always wanted to try surf fishing? Or catch a shark? What about a nighttime hunt for swordfish? It’s easier than ever to cross fishing off your beach to-do list—you can even book directly through our concierge. Surf Fishing Surf fishing is perfect for...
explore the underwater art museum
An extraordinary experience found only along 30A is the Underwater Museum of Art, where massive art pieces serve as protective marine habitats. 30A is also home to more than a dozen artificial reefs for diving and snorkeling.
tarpon bar’s mo-garita
One of the joys of enjoying a cocktail upstairs at Bud and Alley’s Restaurant (known as the Tarpon Club) is seeing Mo Mosely’s familiar face. He’s been ringing the sunset bell and pouring drinks for 23 years in one of 30A’s most beloved beachside bars.
waterways of the panhandle
Join us as we explore the waterways of eastern Choctawhatchee Bay. While in the neighborhood, we wander off on a couple of detours—the first into the spectacular Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, the second up the little-known waters of the Choctawhatchee Watershed.
beach gear tips
The right beach gear can make or break your day. We’ve rounded up everything from beach safes, to sand-free towels, to reliable beach wagons!
cape san blas
At the far eastern edge of the Emerald Coast, a slender arm of sand extends into the Gulf of Mexico. At the elbow, there’s a cape—Cape San Blas. There is no destination quite like it in all of Florida.
food with a view
Food seems to taste better when it’s accompanied by a beautiful view, don’t you think? 30A might be famous for its architecture, but it’s also home to award-winning restaurants and unforgettable dining experiences.
easter events on (and around) 30A
There's delicious food to eat, beautiful beaches to explore, and so many egg hunts! Get those baskets decorated, the outfits ready, and prep your appetite for fabulous Easter Brunches up and down 30A. All brunches and events are held April 17, unless noted. Easter...
black bear bread
Know what the number one question Emerald Coast locals get asked all the time? “Where’s a great place to eat?” Here’s a shortcut: Black Bear Bread Company. It’s locally owned and operated, puts a special emphasis on using local products, serves breakfast and lunch...
things for kids to do
Bored teenagers? Fickle toddler? Is there anything more frustrating than hearing “I’m bored” while vacationing with the kids? We get it.
farm-to-table
Join us as we catch-up with local chefPaula Emory. Paula Emery is a private chef based in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida whose company, Cookin’ with Love, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Her focus? “Cooking right out of the garden.” Freshness and simplicity...
the life & times of grayton beach
Welcome to Grayton Beach. They say dogs here are nice and the people strange. In reality, It’s a town of free spirits widely considered the soul of 30A.
day trips on the emerald coast
Begin with an inland day trip... Nearly five-million visitors arrive on the Emerald Coast each year, nearly all of them here for a week or so of life on the beach. Overwhelmingly, they come for the distinctive vibes offered by the coastal communities of 30A, Miramar...
Sip + Savor
Gulf inspired cocktails and snacks.
Hot Toddy
Looking for the ultimate Fall nightcap? Warm and soothing, the Hot Toddy is a watered-down whiskey kissed with a touch of sweetness. If a cozy blanket could be a cocktail—it would be a Hot Toddy.
Tiffany Mimosa
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy yields: 10 drinks Ready to feel fancy? Slip on your favorite baubles and sip bubbly inspired by the iconic Tiffany & Co. little blue jewelry box. 1 slice of lemon 2 tbsp. of granulated sugar 1/4 cup Blue Curaçao,...
peach whiskey sour
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy/medium yields: 1 drink The Peach Whiskey Sour is perfect as summer begins to wind down—and here’s why: the temperatures keep rising, but the countdown for the new school year has begun, and the hectic holiday season is...
paloma
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy yields: 1 drink If the margarita is king of tequila-based cocktails, consider the Paloma, our queen. This effervescent cocktail is Mexico's drink of choice—and it just might be ours, too. The surprising combination of...
pimento cheese spread
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy servings: 4 Lemonade on the porch, tiny pimento cheese sandwiches cut carefully into small triangles— does it get more Southern than this? Now granted, you don’t have to cut sandwiches into triangles or even spread the...
tarpon bar’s mo-garita
One of the joys of enjoying a cocktail upstairs at Bud and Alley’s Restaurant (known as the Tarpon Club) is seeing Mo Mosely’s familiar face. He’s been ringing the sunset bell and pouring drinks for 23 years in one of 30A’s most beloved beachside bars.
peach bruschetta
While we can’t prolong the Summer, this delicious recipe for Peach Bruschetta brings the sweetness of summer into the crisp early evenings of Fall.
beer punch
A cold beer on a hot day is hard to beat, but we’ve found a cocktail recipe that kicks it up a notch!
raspberry lemon drop
The raspberry lemon drop combines the sweetness of honey with the tart bite of fresh raspberries and lemon. Crisp and refreshing, it’s perfect for porch sipping.
lemonade sangria
Our lemonade sangria is the perfect mocktail. An ice-cold pitcher brimming with fresh-cut fruit is sure to be a standout at the backyard cookout or while lounging around the pool.
breezy peach
Ripe peaches on a hot summer day…does it get any better? Well, surprise, surprise. It turns out it does!
orange mule
On a hot day, the fusion of warm spices from ginger beer and the cool tang of orange and lime juices hits all the right notes.
champagne cocktail
It’s fun (and simple) to add little dashes of the holiday season to your holiday table.
msg
Don’t worry; our version of MSG won’t give you a headache—or a hangover—but it will lighten your step!
the lie
The Lie is a sophisticated drink with a dash of summer fun, like floating in an infinity-edge pool on a Unicorn float.
ruby red cocktail
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacks difficulty: easy yields: 1 drink There’s nothing that compares to the tanginess and flavor that a juicy Ruby Red grapefruit possesses when making a cocktail. This light and airy drink fits the menu for any occasion—whether it’s for a...
classic old fashioned
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy yields: 1 drink The Old Fashioned cocktail was invented in Louisville and has made its way to 30A, by way of several different local restaurants and bars. An Old Fashioned in its truest form is simple, delectable, and...
blackberry mint bourbon cocktail
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy yields: 1 drink Enjoy the taste of summer year-round with this lively drink! The Blackberry Mint Bourbon cocktail is self-explanatory with its name—so non-bourbon lovers may want to try another recipe! It’s a simple...
white lilly
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy yields: 1 drinkThe White Lily, also known as a French 75, is a crisp cocktail commonly featured on the menus of swanky, upscale lounges. The recipe dates back to the 1920s during World War I as the cocktail was known...
classic dirty martini
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy yields: 1 drink Simple, elegant, and easy. The classic dirty martini is essential for any high-falutin dinner, or if you just want a fancy drink. It's important to use quality alcohol when making a martini since the...
patrón + pineapple cocktail
Beach Inspired Cocktails + Snacksdifficulty: easy yields: 1 drink When the weather begins to warm up, we’re all about drinks that are light, bright and delicious! With a tangy flavor from the pineapple combined with the zing of tequila, this drink is the perfect...