Family-Friendly Fun: Kid-Friendly Activities & Attractions on Highway 30A

Welcome to our guide to family-friendly fun on Highway 30A! If you're planning a family vacation to the stunning beaches of Florida's Gulf Coast, you're in for a treat. Highway 30A is not only known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters but also for its abundance of kid-friendly activities and attractions. From exciting water parks and whimsical mini-golf courses to scenic nature reserves and family-friendly events, there's no shortage of fun-filled adventures awaiting families along this picturesque stretch of coastline. In this blog post, we'll be your guide to discovering the best kid-friendly activities and attractions on Highway 30A, ensuring that your family vacation is nothing short of unforgettable. So, pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure, and let's dive into the excitement of family-friendly fun on Highway 30A!

Beach Days:

When it comes to family-friendly fun on Highway 30A, nothing beats a day at the beach. With its sugar-white sands and calm, shallow waters, the beaches along Highway 30A are perfect for families with children of all ages. Whether you're building sandcastles, playing beach games, or simply relaxing under the sun, there's endless fun to be had by the shore. Parents can rest easy knowing that the gentle waves and lifeguard-patrolled areas provide a safe environment for kids to splash and play. Be sure to pack plenty of beach toys, sunscreen, and snacks for a day of sun-soaked memories with the whole family. 

Some of the top beaches to visit in the Highway 30A area include:

• Seacrest Beach: Seacrest Beach is a hidden gem on the Florida panhandle that offers an unforgettable vacation experience. With its white sandy beaches and cool clear waters, Seacrest Beach is a true paradise for beach lovers. The charming town square offers a variety of shops and restaurants, providing endless opportunities for relaxation and fun. The community is also family-friendly, making it an ideal destination for those looking to make unforgettable memories with their loved ones. Seacrest Beach is easily accessible by car and is just a short drive from major airports. So, if you're looking for a perfect vacation spot that offers the best of the beach and the town, Seacrest Beach is the place to be!
• Carillon Beach: One of the most appealing aspects of Carillon Beach is its natural beauty. The community is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, providing a perfect backdrop for a wide range of activities, including swimming, kayaking, and fishing. In addition to its stunning beaches, Carillon Beach also boasts an array of amenities, including tennis courts, basketball courts, and a fitness center. You can take a stroll on the walking paths that wind through the community, or explore the nearby nature preserves and parks. When it comes to dining, Carillon Beach has a variety of options to suit every palate. From casual beachside eateries to fine dining restaurants, you'll find plenty of delicious options to satisfy your hunger.

• Prominence on 30A: One of the key features of Prominence on 30A is its emphasis on community. From the friendly neighbors to the community events, there is always something happening here. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an exciting night out at The Big Chill, Prominence on 30A has something to offer everyone. Another great feature of Prominence on 30A is the abundance of amenities. The community features a resort-style pool, fitness center, and clubhouse, all of which are perfect for staying active and social. There are also several parks and green spaces throughout the community, making it easy to enjoy the great outdoors. Overall, Prominence on 30A is an exceptional community that offers guests a high quality of life. With its stunning natural beauty, welcoming atmosphere, and top-notch amenities, it's no wonder why so many people are proud to call this place their go to vacation destination. And don’t forget about The Big Chill! Located in the heart of the Prominence community, The Big Chill is a lively hub for restaurants, bars, and unique entertainment experiences. The Big Chill is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, enjoy a refreshing cocktail, and mingle with friends and family while on vacation!

• Inlet Beach: Nestled at the eastern end of Highway 30A, Inlet Beach is a hidden gem known for its unspoiled beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Families can explore the pristine shoreline, search for seashells and sand dollars, or take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront promenade.

No matter which beach you choose to visit along Highway 30A, you're sure to find sun, sand, and surf aplenty, making it the perfect destination for a memorable family beach day. 

Water Parks:

For families seeking an exhilarating day of aquatic fun, Highway 30A and its surrounding areas offer several exciting water parks perfect for all ages.

• Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park (Destin): Located a short drive from Highway 30A in Destin, Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park is a premier destination for family-friendly fun. The park features a wide range of attractions, including thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and kiddie play areas. Families can spend the day racing down high-speed slides like the Honolulu Half Pipe or relaxing in the calming currents of the Lazy River. With plenty of shaded seating areas, food concessions, and locker rentals available, Big Kahuna's offers everything families need for a day of splashing fun in the sun.

• Gulf World (Panama City Beach): While not strictly a water park, Gulf World in nearby Panama City Beach offers families the opportunity to experience up-close encounters with marine life and enjoy exciting water-based attractions. The park features daily shows and demonstrations featuring dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs suitable for all ages. Families can also cool off in the park's expansive dolphin pools or take a dip in the on-site swimming pool.

• Wild Willy's Adventure Zone (Fort Walton Beach): Combining water park thrills with arcade games and mini-golf, Wild Willy's Adventure Zone in Fort Walton Beach offers families a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience. The park's water attractions include a giant wave pool, thrilling water slides, and a lazy river, as well as a designated kiddie area for younger children. Families can also enjoy classic arcade games, laser tag, and an 18-hole mini-golf course, providing hours of fun for kids and parents alike.
• Shipwreck Island Waterpark (Panama City Beach): Located a short drive from Highway 30A in Panama City Beach, Shipwreck Island Waterpark is a tropical oasis of fun and excitement for the whole family. The park features a variety of thrilling slides, including the White Knuckle River, Raging Rapids, and Tree Top Drop, as well as a relaxing lazy river and kiddie play area. With plenty of shaded seating, food concessions, and cabana rentals available, Shipwreck Island offers everything families need for a day of splashing fun in the sun.

These water parks offer a perfect combination of excitement and relaxation, providing families with an unforgettable day of aquatic adventure along Highway 30A and its surrounding areas.

Mini Golf Courses & Go Karts

For families looking to add some friendly competition to their vacation itinerary, Highway 30A and its surrounding areas offer a variety of whimsical mini-golf courses perfect for all ages.

• The Track Family Fun Park (Destin): Located a short drive from Highway 30A in Destin, The Track Family Fun Park offers two exciting 18-hole mini-golf courses amidst lush tropical landscaping and cascading waterfalls. Families can choose between the Gator Golf or Shipwreck Island courses, both of which feature challenging obstacles, twists, and turns. With shaded seating areas, arcade games, and bumper boats available, The Track provides a full day of entertainment for families looking to enjoy some classic mini-golf fun.

• Goofy Golf (Fort Walton Beach): A beloved local landmark in Fort Walton Beach, Goofy Golf is a quirky and colorful mini-golf course that has been entertaining families for generations. Featuring whimsical sculptures, wacky obstacles, and vibrant landscaping, Goofy Golf offers a unique and nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages. Families can putt their way through 18 holes of fun while enjoying the park's retro charm and laid-back atmosphere.

• Baytowne Adventure Zone (Miramar Beach): Located within the charming village of Baytowne Wharf in Miramar Beach, Baytowne Adventure Zone offers a unique twist on traditional mini-golf with its Treetop Ropes Course and Zipline Adventure, in addition to its 18-hole mini-golf course. Families can challenge themselves on the ropes course, soar through the air on the zipline, and test their putting skills on the mini-golf course, all while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding area.

These mini-golf courses offer families a chance to enjoy some lighthearted competition and create lasting memories together!

Aquatic Adventures:

• Kayaking: Explore the tranquil waters of the coastal dune lakes or venture out into the Gulf of Mexico on a family-friendly kayaking adventure. Rental companies along Highway 30A offer single and tandem kayaks, as well as guided tours suitable for all skill levels. Check out Glow Paddle for a super unique experience!

• Paddleboarding: Experience the beauty of the Gulf Coast from a unique perspective by paddleboarding along the shoreline. Rental shops provide paddleboards and equipment, as well as lessons and guided tours for families looking to try this popular water sport.

• Dolphin Cruises: Embark on a family-friendly dolphin cruise and witness these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat. Tour operators offer narrated boat tours that provide educational insights into dolphin behavior and biology, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

• Fishing Charters: Spend a day on the water with the family by booking a fishing charter adventure. Experienced captains lead excursions to prime fishing spots in the Gulf, where families can try their hand at catching a variety of fish species while enjoying the beauty of the coastal scenery.

• Boat Tours: Discover the scenic beauty and hidden gems of the Gulf Coast on a family-friendly boat tour. Choose from eco-friendly excursions, sunset cruises, or sightseeing tours that highlight the natural wonders and cultural attractions of the area. 

For all your boating needs, check out 30A Pontoon!

Family-Friendly Events and Festivals:

Throughout the year, Highway 30A hosts a variety of family-friendly events and festivals that promise fun and excitement for kids and parents alike. Families can join in the festivities at local farmers markets, movie nights, concert series, dance parties and more! Visit our Events page to explore what's happening this year on 30A!
Highway 30A is a treasure trove of family-friendly fun, with an array of activities and attractions sure to delight kids and parents alike. Whether you're splashing in the surf, teeing off on a mini-golf course, or exploring the natural beauty of the area, there's no shortage of adventures to be had along this scenic stretch of coastline. So pack your bags, gather the family, and get ready for an unforgettable vacation filled with laughter, sunshine, and endless memories on Highway 30A!

Plan Your Vacay Today!

Ready to plan your family getaway to Highway 30A? Explore our selection of family-friendly vacation rentals and start planning your dream vacation today! With spacious accommodations, convenient amenities, and prime locations near all the action, our rentals are the perfect home base for your family adventure on Highway 30A. Don't wait – book now and get ready for the ultimate family vacation in paradise!