Section 1.2 – Scenic 30A & the Creative Gulf Coast

Live music takes center stage at the annual 30A Songwriters Festival in South Walton, where nationally recognized artists perform across multiple venues along the scenic Gulf Coast. Photo courtesy of Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County / Nathan Zucker.

Head toward emerald Gulf Coast waters for the cultural gems of South Walton, showcasing everything from art galleries, digital projection festivals and live theater. Recommend clients visit in January—when the weather is breezy and mild—and during which they might catch the annual 30A Songwriters Festival, when more than 175 artists perform over a 4-day weekend in 30+ venues, all located along the Gulf-front 30A corridor.

Visitors explore the Monarch Art Trail in South Walton, where outdoor sculptures celebrate art while supporting habitat for migrating monarch butterflies. Photo courtesy of Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County / Kurt Lischka.

While exploring the 30A area, visitors should visit the Monarch Art Trail, an outdoor sculpture installation that also helps preserve Northwest Florida’s monarch butterfly habitat.

Historic buildings like the Grady Market in Apalachicola reflect the town’s rich character, where galleries, shops and local artisans bring coastal creativity to life. Photo courtesy of Roundhouse Creative.

Stay on 30A and you’ll reach Franklin County, whose charming towns—including Apalachicola and Carrabelle—showcase local artists and coastal-inspired work at welcoming galleries that may be tucked inside historic buildings, waterfront warehouses or cozy storefronts. 

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Florida’s Forgotten Coast – The Florida you remember

Franklin County, along Florida’s Northern Gulf Coast, is a coastal oasis with sparkling
beaches, tranquil bay shallows and scenic rivers. Plan soon to visit the Florida you remember-  a quiet coast with abundant fishing, hiking and of course, famous Apalachicola Bay seafood.

The small coastal communities of Apalachicola, Carrabelle, Eastpoint, Alligator Point and

St. George Island are the heart of Florida’s Forgotten Coast.  Take a sunset tour of Apalachicola’s historic waterfront or charter an offshore trip in Carrabelle. Enjoy birdwatching and pet-friendly beaches on St. George Island. Get a taste of the area’s  charm with visits to local museums and climb an historic lighthouse to see breathtaking views of the Gulf. Sip a local brew in quaint waterfront pubs with live music or a casual dinner in one of the area’s romantic restaurants.  

Appreciate the slower pace of the Florida you remember as you settle into your choice of accommodations, ranging from quaint bed-and-breakfasts to luxury beachfront  vacation homes and inns. Camping enthusiasts will appreciate the waterfront RV parks or primitive campsites tucked into nearby forests. Visit online at https://www.floridasforgottencoast.com and stay up to date on events and specials.

Embrace the pace of the Florida you remember.