Seacrest Beach Recap

Family favorites, challenges, and what we learned on 30A

Episode 91 – The Family Vacationer with Rob and Danny

This week, Rob recaps his family’s recent vacation to Seacrest Beach, Florida, along scenic 30A. With plenty of great meals, family time, and a pontoon adventure to Shell Island, there were also a few bumps in the sand—including beach accessibility issues, a crowded coastline, and an underwhelming condo experience. Rob shares the lessons learned and tips for families considering a similar stay.

🎙️ In this episode:

• Seacrest Beach location & layout: between Rosemary and Inlet Beach on 30A
• The pros of staying in a well-designed development with a tram system and community pool
• Why the snack bar burger near the pool was one of the best Rob’s ever had
• Dining highlights:
• Shades Restaurant – redfish over goat cheese grit cake with béarnaise sauce
• Salty Sue’s – top-notch grouper and standout service
• Pizza by the Sea – perfect family pizza night
• The Doughnut Hole – vanilla angel donuts (and a strawberry twist)
• Acme Oyster House in Destin for a big finish to the trip
• 
  
• A day on the water with Lagoon Pontoon rentals to Shell Island—slides, sea creatures, and smiles

🌊 Challenges & takeaways:

• Beach access was limited, crowded, and physically difficult, especially for multi-gen families or those with mobility issues
• Condo looked great online but was not clean, poorly maintained, and had AC issues
• Public beach access at Inlet Beach turned out to be more pleasant and accessible
• 30A’s rising popularity brings longer waits, high prices, and limited views of the water
• Importance of knowing what matters most: ocean view, walkability, accessibility, or price

💡 Rob’s key advice for families:

• Do your research—photos and location alone don’t guarantee a good stay
• Prioritize your must-haves as a family: view, proximity, comfort, and kid-friendly features
• Don’t be afraid to try new destinations—your next favorite beach may surprise you
• And yes, a bad day at the beach is still better than a good day almost anywhere else

✉️ Planning your next beach trip?

Rob’s a Certified Travel Associate and offers free family vacation planning

📧 Email: [email protected]

🎧 Subscribe to The Family Vacationer on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen

📱 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube: @thefamilyvacationer