My favorite place I’ve ever traveled is definitely Grand Cayman, but as far as US beaches go, nothing tops Rosemary Beach. My friend and I just returned from a five day trip with our kiddos and I’m about to bombard you with photos.
I try to make it down to 30A at least every other year. We’re so fortunate that such beautiful beaches are so accessible to those of us in the southeast. Not only are the water and sand stunning, the towns that dot the coast are all charming and picturesque.
The waves were pretty big the entire time we were there (red flag every day) and the kids were SO excited. Our first stop was at Bamboo to get boogie boards. Our second stop was The Hidden Lantern, which is a fabulous little bookstore right in the heart of Rosemary. Can you say “dream job?” My friend and I were thrilled to discover a mystery series and a romance series both set on 30A. We purchased a few and are loving them.
The kids couldn’t wait to get into the surf. Those boogie boards were the best investment of the entire trip! Bodie brought his best buddy on the trip since he was the only boy. Matthew had never been to 30A before and he loved it! I’m so thankful he joined us. Bodie and Matthew lived their best lives as little beach bums.
Boogie Boarding
I couldn’t resist snapping this photo of the signature Rosemary Beach hotel, The Pearl. We stayed in a condo right on the square and really enjoyed our proximity to all of the shops and restaurants in town. The walk to the beach wasn’t too bad, either. We booked through http://www.rosemarybeach.com back in January. One thing I cannot stress enough when staying in Rosemary is to book your beach chairs as soon as you book your condo or house. Diana and I really wanted to be first row so that we could easily keep an eye on the kids in the water. As soon as I received my code with my confirmation, I used the code to book my chairs.
A sight for sore eyes…
When in Rosemary (or anywhere along 30A), one must eat breakfast at The Donut Hole! All of the food is delicious, but we couldn’t resist the donuts.
La Crema is for sure the best spot for happy hour in Rosemary. My friend’s birthday fell on the second day of our vacation, so we snuck away for a quick drink and appetizers without the kids. We split the stuffed peppers, roasted brussel sprouts and a bottle of Pinot Noir. HEAVENLY. Cheers to the birthday girl! It’s officially The Year of Diana. HA!
One of my other nearest and dearest friends (of more than 30 years!) also happened to be on 30A while we were down there, so we met up for dinners, a bonfire, and kid swapping. Emery and McKenna have been friends since birth. Tara and I met in sixth grade. Now I feel old.
Em and McKenna
Tara and me
I really should have done a better job with pictures, but at the very top of my Rosemary “must-do” list is a s’mores bonfire with Beach Brothers’ Beach Service. I’ve booked with them several times and they never disappoint. This is always a highlight for the kids and adults. Be sure to book in advance: https://www.beachbrothersbeachservice.com/
Beach Brothers’ Beach Service Bonfire
The second item on my 30A “must-do” list is surfing lessons with Austin Magee. Austin’s surf school is located in Seaside, which provided us with the perfect excuse to head down 30A a few more miles. We stayed in Seaside/Watercolor last summer. I’d be hard pressed to pick a favorite, although Rosemary did seem less crowded than Seaside. But I digress….
Emery and Bodie have surfed with Austin three times and they were so excited to share this experience with their friends. We lucked out with gorgeous weather and great surfing conditions. If you’re heading to 30A, book your session NOW. https://www.amsurfschool.com/ Austin is great with the kids and an incredible surfer. His dad helps out and his mom handles the books. I love their little family business.
Austin Magee’s Surf School
We couldn’t visit Seaside without stopping by Frost Bites for a treat. Frost Bites is a shaved ice mecca in a cool Airstream right on the main drag. In addition to the incredible variety of flavors they offer, they’re also known for their tee shirts. My kids ALWAYS get a Frost Bites shirt when we visit. In my (probably unpopular) opinion, these shirts are better than the iconic “Seaside” logo shirts. Although those are cool, too.
Frost Bites in Seaside
Rosemary Beach really showed us a great time. We can’t wait to go back!
