Local guide

The best 30A beaches for photos

For dunes and sea oats, Grayton Beach State Park and Topsail Hill Preserve are the strongest spots on 30A. For wide open sand with room for a big group, Inlet Beach. Stick to public beach accesses; private communities can have their own rules. The hour before sunset is the best light everywhere, and weeknights are quieter than weekends.

Grayton Beach State Park

Tall dunes, sea oats and Western Lake, one of the coastal dune lakes, give a natural look for families and couples. There is a state park entrance fee per car. The drawback is the walk from the lot over soft sand.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park (Santa Rosa Beach)

Some of the tallest dunes on this coast, dune lakes and very little development in the frame. A state park fee applies, and the beach is a long way from parking. Plan extra time with little kids or grandparents.

Seaside and Rosemary Beach

These planned communities may have their own rules for photographers. We shoot from nearby public beach accesses instead. If you are staying inside one, check with them before booking.

Inlet Beach

Inlet Beach Regional Beach Access has a big public lot, restrooms near the walkover and wide sand. It is our easiest pick for extended families. Open beach means stronger wind and less natural shelter.

When's the best time of year for 30A photos?

Fall, September to November, is our favorite: warm water, fewer crowds and earlier sunsets for little kids. Summer sunset is close to 8 PM. Spring break weeks in March get crowded. Winter sunsets are around 5 PM and it can be cool and windy.

What should I know about sea turtle season?

May 1 to October 31 is nesting season. We stay off marked nests, do not use bright lights on the beach after dark, and leave nothing behind, including holes or sandcastles.