Hideaways Beach – the crown jewel of County Road 30A in Walton County, nestled like a hidden gem between Grayton Beach State Park and Alys Beach. This stretch of “Old Florida” is where the high-rise condos surrendered to the charm of dune lakes, state forests and unspoiled beaches. It’s as if nature looked at the rapid development in South Walton and said, “Not on my watch!”
Now, don’t expect to find a grand entrance with neon signs and a massive parking lot. That’s not Hideaways’ style. Instead, you’ll have to channel your inner explorer and seek out the public access points around Heron Walk and Sea View Circle. These narrow sandy paths are like secret portals that transport you to the wide shores and vibrant turquoise waters that Hideaways is famous for.
Imagine this: you’re strolling down the path, feeling like Indiana Jones on a beach mission. Suddenly, the path opens up and you’re greeted by a scene straight out of a postcard – pristine white sand, crystal-clear water and a sense of tranquility that makes you wonder if you’ve stumbled into a hidden paradise. That, my friend, is the magic of Hideaways Beach.
How to Get to Hideaways Beach
Hideaways Beach is approximately a 2.5-hour drive west from Tallahassee, FL and around 4 hours east of New Orleans, LA. The nearest airport is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), just a 25-minute car ride away.
If you are driving yourself, input these directions into your maps app:
From Destin/Hwy 98: Head east on US-98 W and turn right onto Emerald Coast Pkwy. Continue onto County Road 30A E. Turn left on East Wall St then left to stay on E Wall St. Limited public parking will be on your right at Heron St.
From Panama City Beach: Head west on US-98 W/FL-30 W. Continue to follow US 98-W and merge onto Emerald Coast Pkwy via the ramp to County Road 30A. Turn slight right onto E County Hwy 30A. Turn right onto East Wall St then make the first left to stay on E Wall St. Limited public parking will be on your right at Heron Walk.
Parking is extremely limited, with only 16 spots at the two tiny access points. Arrive early if you want to secure a space or better yet bike or walk to the beach. Golf carts and water taxis are also popular modes of transportation in the area.
And if you’re not driving yourself, rideshares like Uber and Lyft readily operate in South Walton County. The Santa Rosa Beach Taxi Company and Beach Buggies Taxi Service both provide car transportation specifically tailored for the 30A area.
Best Time to Visit Hideaways Beach
Hideaways Beach is like that friend who always looks good, no matter the season. But if you want to catch it in it’s prime, aim for late spring to early fall.
Summer (June-August) is when things get hot and steamy, both in terms of temperature and the chance of afternoon thunderstorms. But hey, with ocean water averaging 82°F, it’s perfect for swimming and water sports. Plus, Hideaways really knows how to shine during summer, with nearly 12 hours of sunshine daily. It’s like the beach is saying, “Look at me, I’m fabulous!”
Spring and fall are like the Goldilocks of beach seasons – warm weather, fewer crowds and lower lodging rates. It’s not too hot, not too cold and your wallet won’t be too empty.
And winter? Well, let’s just say it’s like a game of hide-and-seek with the sun. You might catch glimpses of it, but occasional cold fronts can make it a bit chilly. But hey, if you’re looking for some alone time with the beach, winter is your season. It’s like having a private beach party, minus the party.
Hideaways Beach Amenities
As a neighborhood beach access, Hideaways does not have lifeguards or offer beach rentals. However, there are still a few amenities available:
- Restrooms: Public restrooms can be found at both the Heron Walk and Sea View Circle access points.
- Showers: Rinse off after enjoying the gorgeous Gulf waters with a quick outdoor shower located at the restroom buildings.
- Picnic Areas: Pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy at the picnic tables situated at both narrow pathways leading down to the beach.
- Beach Wheelchair: A free beach wheelchair is provided daily on a first come, first served basis, allowing people with mobility limitations to also enjoy the beach. Inquire at the Eastern Lake public access point.
And while basic, these amenities allow you to focus on soaking up the sun and natural beauty around you. Few distractions means more ability to relax and unwind on your beach escape.
Top Things to Do at Hideaways Beach
Hideaways Beach may appear sleepy and uneventful to those seeking crowded shores and action-packed getaways. But it’s simplicity is what makes it so special. Spend your days filled with sun, sand and water activities in this laidback beach town.
Relax on the Beach
Who needs fancy beach chairs and umbrellas when you have nature’s own plush lounger? The soft white sand at Hideaways Beach is like a giant, comfy towel just waiting for you to lay down and soak up those rays. It’s like the beach is saying, “Come on, take a load off and relax!”
But hold up, before you get too comfortable, make sure you slather on that sunscreen. The Florida sun is no joke – it’s like a powerful spotlight that can turn you into a human lobster if you’re not careful. So, unless you want to be the star of your own “Lobster Tales” story, don’t forget the SPF!
Take a Dip in the Emerald Green Waters
Ready to make a splash? Wade into the shallow, gentle waves at Hideaways Beach and let the water tickle your toes. Feeling bold? Take the plunge into the deeper waters for a refreshing ocean swim. It’s like taking a dip in a giant, sapphire and emerald-hued bathtub, minus the rubber ducky.
As you swim, you’ll be dazzled by the Gulf waters, sparkling like a liquid gem in shades of bright jade and azure. It’s as if someone spilled a giant box of crayons into the ocean, creating a mesmerizing display of color. Just remember, while the water looks good enough to drink, it’s best to stick to your bottled water – salt water isn’t exactly a thirst-quencher!
Go Shelling
Keep an eye out for colorful scallop shells, cockles and delicate angel wing shells as you walk the sandy shoreline. Early in the morning after high tide offers the best shelling conditions.
Build Sandcastles
Bring along your buckets and shovels so the kids (and kids at heart!) can construct elaborate sand creations along the wide open beaches.
Pack a Beach Picnic
Stake out a prime section of sand and make a day out of it! Bring along beach blankets, folding chairs, umbrellas, coolers stocked with food and drinks and the best company for an ideal beach picnic getaway.
Take Scenic Beach Strolls
With over a mile of coastline, Hideaways is perfect for leisurely beach walks any time of day. Enjoy the tranquility as you meander past sand dunes, native beach grasses and small sandy coves.
Try Beach Yoga
Find your zen with soothing beachfront yoga amidst refreshing ocean breezes. Many local instructors offer private or small group sessions right on Hideaways Beach, combining fitness with nature.
Go Fishing
Throw out your line from the shallow coastal waters in search of flounder, redfish, black drum or sheepshead. Just be sure to obtain a Walton County fishing license first if over 16 years old.
Photograph the Spectacular Sunset
You’ll want to have your cameras ready as the golden sunset reflects off the glittering emerald waters and colorful sky at Hideaways. There may not be a more picturesque place to witness the daily phenomenon along the entire Gulf Coast.
With picturesque sugar-sand shores, dazzling green waters and few crowds, Hideaways Beach allows you to connect with nature and enjoy this coastal paradise just as it should be.
Hideaways truly offers something for everyone – the chance for families to create special memories, outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy unspoiled natural landscapes, couples to be immersed in each other’s company and solitary visitors to get away from it all.
Where to Eat and Drink near Hideaways Beach
While you won’t find any restaurants or bars directly on Hideaways Beach, there is no shortage of dining options just a quick drive away. The surrounding scenic Highway 30A corridor is exploding with creative chef-driven cuisine celebrating fresh seafood, farm-to-table flavors and innovative cooking techniques.
Here are some of the best places to eat and drink within 10 minutes of Hideaways Beach:
30A Breakfast Place
Fuel up in the morning with hearty Southern breakfast classics like shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles and eggs benedict. Locals rave over the fluffy buttermilk biscuits smothered in sausage gravy.
Amavida Coffee
Sip expertly roasted direct trade coffee amongst rustic-chic décor at this cozy neighborhood café baking pastries, quiche, paninis and more daily.
La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar
From vibrant Baja fish tacos to sizzling fajitas and frozen margs, La Cocina brings vibrant flavors inspired by the coastal cities of Mexico to South Walton County. The festive patio with twinkling lights is an ideal spot for groups.
George’s at Alys Beach
Tuck into exquisitely plated seafood entrées with Mediterranean influences, as well as freshly shucked oysters and locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss the delicious coastal cuisine paired with gorgeous Gulf views from the airy dining room or alfresco patio.
Old Florida Fish House
Locals flock to Old Florida Fish House for the daily caught selection, simply fried or blackened, served with traditional fixings like coleslaw, cheese grits and hush puppies. Giant signature rum runners provide the requisite beachfront buzz.
La Crema Tapas and Chocolate
Savor Spanish tapas both savory and sweet (alongside wine, sangria and craft chocolate!) at this locally adored haunt resembling a charming Old World bodega. Small plates allow you to try many items like bacon-wrapped dates, patatas bravas and imported charcuterie.
Shrimp Shack
Pop into this tiny gray shack adorned with rainbow Christmas lights for heaps of fried shrimp by the pound, best enjoyed at picnic tables or right on the sand. Load them up with cocktail or tartar sauce.
The Hub 30A
Imbibe adult snow cones, spiked milkshakes, local craft brews and other cheerful cocktails at The Hub’s expansive open-air bar. Coastal bites like beach nachos, fish dip and grouper sandwiches make it easy to linger for hours.
With an array of delightful dining choices from beachy hole-in-the-walls to upscale destinations, the restaurants around Hideaways Beach offer something to satisfy every craving and occasion. Savor the flavors of the Gulf Coast between trips to the shoreline!
Popular Annual Events Near Hideaways Beach
In addition to picture-perfect weather and scenery year-round, there are also some exciting annual events happening in the Hideaways Beach vicinity. Local favorites attract visitors from all over to celebrate food, wine, music and culture along scenic Highway 30A and the South Walton shoreline.
30A Songwriters Festival
This mid-January extravaganza sees professional songwriters from around the country host intimate concerts in quaint venues like neighborhood bars, restaurants and small halls up and down the 30A corridor. Fans have enjoyed impromptu performances from renowned artists like Graham Nash and Steve Earle as well in recent years!
George’s Wine & Food Festival
Oenophiles rejoice at the annual George’s Wine and Food Festival every April, where celebrity winemakers and chefs come together to create exclusive wine dinner experiences showcasing the most exquisite vintages and cuisine. Sommelier-led seminars and a grand tasting event give festival goers the chance to mingle with the experts while sampling amazing wines from around the globe right here along 30A.
Baytowne Wharf Wine Walks
On the last Friday of every spring month, stroll the scenic marina at Sandestin’s Baytowne Wharf tasting unlimited pours from over 50 featured wines amid live music and special discounts at village shops and eateries. The autumn months also see wine walks scheduled to showcase seasonal varietals.
South Walton Fashion Week & Junkanoo Festival
Models strut designer fashions along the stunning beach catwalk against the backdrop of Gulf waves during South Walton Fashion Week each May. The grand finale Junkanoo parade over Memorial Day weekend brings excitement with colorful island costumes, lively Junkanoo dancers and beads thrown to the crowds from beach floats.
30A 10K Race
Sweat it out along one of the most beautiful courses in the country during this annual 10K (6.2 mile) run every September. Join nearly 1,000 participants traversing the flat out-and-back course from Seaside past Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, Watersound and back as enthusiastic spectators cheer you onwards across the finish.
Flutterby Festival
A beloved community tradition since the early 2000s, this late September extravaganza celebrates art and nature. Kids and adults delight in a day filled with creative activities like a butterly parade, musical petting zoo, artisan market, nature crafts and real butterflies fluttering all about!
From world-class wine and cuisine events to family-friendly cultural fests to fitness challenges taking advantage of the quintessential Florida surroundings, the South Walton area offers engaging annual programming beyond just beachgoing. Exploring these popular local events makes for an even richer and well-rounded Hideaways vacation experience.
Where to Stay near Hideaways Beach
With vacation rentals far outweighing area hotels or resorts, Hideaways visitors have endless options when choosing beachfront accommodations to suit their crew.
Vacation Rentals
From sprawling beach houses to intimate condos, the options for vacation home rentals in the Hideaways vicinity span from budget to luxury. Experienced rental agencies like Sunburst Beach Vacations, Vacasa, Newman-Dailey Resort Properties and others provide detailed listings to match your exact wants and needs. Consider amenities like beach access, private pools, hot tubs, boat docks, game rooms and more when selecting your dream beach home. Properties managed by individual homeowners are also available on sites like VRBO and Airbnb.
Hotels & Resorts
For those preferring hotel hospitality and amenities like daily cleaning service, on-site restaurants and pools, here are a few beloved options neighboring Hideaways:
- WaterColor Inn – Sophisticated luxury right along 30A featuring cottage-style guest rooms with full balconies plus fine coastal dining at Fish Out of Water restaurant.
- Hotel Effie Sandestin – Newly reimagined boutique hotel near Baytowne Wharf with boho-style rooms, farm-fresh Low Country cuisine at Oxeye daisy rooftop bar and pool deck with picturesque marina views
- Hilton Sandestin – Families appreciate the spacious guest rooms and suites, sprawling lagoon pool complex with flowrider surf simulator and easy access to bike rentals for exploring 30A beaches
Wherever you choose to stay around Hideaways, you’re guaranteed gorgeous beaches, small town charm and abundant area amenities just minutes away. Wake up each morning to sunny blue skies and the peaceful sounds of waves lapping at the shoreline!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Free public parking is extremely limited. Arrive early or walk, bike or take alternative transportation like a golf cart if possible. If driving, park only in designated spots, not the grassy swales.
No, like many smaller neighborhood beach accesses, Hideaways does not have lifeguards monitoring the waters, so please enjoy the Gulf at your own risk. Never swim alone.
Yes! Dogs are allowed at Hideaways Beach any time as long as they are leashed. Please be sure to bring waste bags and clean up after your pets while visiting.
While no food or drinks are sold directly at Hideaway Beach, County Road 30A offers world-class restaurants and casual eateries just a short drive away in either direction. Everything from seafood shacks to upscale dining make for the perfect pre or post-beach meal.
Alcohol is prohibited by law in Walton County public parks like beach accesses. Technically no outside food or drink should be brought to Hideaways. Discreetly enjoying a beach cooler is common at this laidback spot, but please drink responsibly and remove all trash when exiting.
Unfortunately no fires or fireworks are permitted anywhere on the beach in order to maintain Hideaways’ natural beauty and conserve the coastal environment in the area.
Camping or sleeping overnight is not authorized at any time along the beach. There are however many gorgeous vacation rentals available nearby to stay at instead!
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