A Golf Trip Your Wife Will Actually Enjoy

A golf getaway to 30A doesn’t have to be just about golf. In fact, when you plan it right, it can be the perfect mix of fairways for him and fun for her. With world-class courses just minutes away, endless shopping, art, spas, and luxury vacation homes, 30A is a perfect vacation destination for both of you!

Golf for Him

Many courses along 30A have transitioned to private play, but don’t worry, there are still plenty of fantastic public and semi-private golf courses nearby.

David, our local golf insider, recommends these top picks:

Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort (Miramar Beach)

The Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort is home to three courses open for public play. The Raven, a Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed course, has hosted several PGA and Korn Ferry events and is consistently ranked one of the best golf courses in Florida. Baytowne and The Links make for a one-of-a-kind golf outing, each offering their own unique challenges for players of all levels, plus stunning views of the Emerald Coast and the Choctawhatchee Bay.

Destin Favorites

Just west of 30A, in Destin, you’ll find several world-class courses. Emerald Bay, Regatta Bay, Indian Bayou, and Kelly Plantation are all semi-private courses that welcome public play.

Windswept Dunes (Freeport)

About 30 minutes north of the beach, Windswept Dunes offers wide fairways, generous greens, and some of the best-maintained conditions around.

Eagle Springs (DeFuniak Springs)

A hidden gem run by Walton County, Eagle Springs Golf has dramatically improved in recent years and offers a fun, affordable round just 25 minutes north of 30A.

Shopping, Art & Relaxation for Her

Book him a tee time, drop him off, and enjoy a day to yourself!

Shopping

Head to Destin Commons’ while he plays Emerald Bay, Kelly Plantation, or Regatta Bay, or venture to Silver Sands Premium Outlets—one of the largest outlet centers in the South—while he plays SanDestin.

From upscale shopping at 30Avenue to boutiques in Seaside or Grayton Beach, there’s no shortage of adorable boutiques along 30A! A few of our must-visit favorites are the Shops of Grayton for something fun and funky, Mercantile in Seaside for high-quality styles, and The Art of Simple for eclectic home décor and gifts.

Don’t forget to take home 30A souvenirs with a trip to the official 30A Store in Seagrove or inside Amavida Coffee Roasters at Rosemary Beach.

Art

30A is full of creative spots for art lovers! The Shops of Grayton is home to several local artists’ galleries, including the Saczynski Gallery, featuring mixed media art by local artist Andy Saczynski, and The Shard Shop, a make-your-own art boutique.

In Seaside, several art galleries are within walking distance of each other, perfect for an art stroll and discovering one-of-a-kind pieces. Don’t miss Anne Hunter Galleries, Fusion Art Glass & Fine Jewelry, and An Apartment in Paris.

Bookstores & Coffee

Shop for your next beach read with a visit to Sundog Books, a cozy independent bookstore in Seaside. While there, indulge in a perfectly brewed mocha from Amavida Coffee Roasters. If your shopping adventures take you to Rosemary Beach, there’s an Amavida Coffee Shop there too, next door to another delightful bookshop, The Hidden Lantern.

Spa Day

Nothing says vacation quite like a massage or facial. Local spas like The Spa in Seaside or Viva Spa along 30A will leave you feeling refreshed, recharged and relaxed. 

Homes You’ll Both Love

At the end of the day—when the golf clubs and shopping bags are put away—you’ll want to come back to a place where you can both relax, unwind, and enjoy your time together.

Just the Two of You—Stay at Magnolia Honeymoon Cottage, the perfect romantic retreat.

Magnolia Honeymoon Cottage

Bring Another Couple Along—Cottage 62 and Follow the Heron offers a cozy setup for four.

Follow the Heron

Foursome Getaway—For a golf trip with friends (four couples), try Sunday Morning, Beach You to It, Jada’s Dare, or High Tide. All of these gorgeous, expansive homes are designed with king beds and private baths, so everyone has their own space.

Jada's Dare

The Perfect Plan

Day one: Tee off at one of Destin’s or Sandestin’s top courses while she shops, browses art, or finds her next great read.

Day two: Recover together on the beach with your toes in the sand and a drink in hand.

This is how you make a golf trip that you both will remember and want to repeat year after year.