The scenic stretch of Highway 30A along Florida’s Emerald Coast is more than just a destination — it’s a way of life. From the upscale vibes of Alys Beach to the bohemian charm of Grayton Beach, each community along 30A has its own unique flavor. Join us on a happy hour tour of 30A, where we’ll explore the best places to sip, savor, and soak in the views.
SB Tip: As you plan, check the restaurant links in each section, as happy hour participation varies according to the season.
Inlet Beach: Amigo’s & Cuvee 30A
Start your tour at the front end of 30A in Inlet Beach, where you’ll find a little something for everyone. Amigo’s serves up flavorful margaritas and an impressive selection of tequilas, making it a must-visit for those who love a classic happy hour with a kick. Between 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily, the price of ‘ritas drops to $7!
If you’re in the mood for something more refined, Cuvee 30A is just across the courtyard. It offers a sophisticated atmosphere, expertly crafted cocktails, and a wine list that pairs perfectly with its elevated menu. From 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., it has a rotation of specials, but most always offers up to 50% off its bar items and was voted “Best of the Emerald Coast” by Emerald Coast Magazine.
Rosemary Beach: Pescado
For rooftop elegance with breathtaking Gulf views, Pescado in Rosemary Beach is the place to be. This upscale spot is perfect for sipping craft cocktails while taking in the sunset. Try a signature Old Fashioned or crisp glass of rosé as you enjoy the seafood-forward menu. Its happy hour is a literal hour (known as Rooftop Hour) early in the week and then extends to 90 minutes from Wednesday through Sunday. Make sure you’re ready to head to your next spot when it ends at 4 p.m.!
Seacrest: LaCo
A hidden gem in Seacrest, LaCo (formerly Latin Coastal Kitchen) offers a refreshing twist on a traditional happy hour. With house-made margaritas and delicious Latin-inspired small plates, it’s the perfect spot to sip and snack after a day at the beach. The Seacrest area is often skipped when going from Rosemary to Alys, but from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily, this location is worth the stop.
Alys Beach: Neat & Citizen
The chic, white-washed setting of Alys Beach is home to two fantastic happy hour spots. Neat is a stylish cocktail bar and bottle shop known for creative craft cocktails and a well-curated selection of wine and spirits. It currently features an “8 for $8” Happy Hour between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. from Tuesday through Saturday, with select classics at a reduced price.
A short stroll away, Citizen serves up an elegant coastal menu and refreshing drinks in a beautifully designed space. It consistently updates its Happy Hour menu, so be sure to check what’s on offer between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Generally, there are select cocktails on a $10 menu, and when in season, it even includes oyster offerings.
Watersound: Ambrosia
For an intimate and sophisticated happy hour, head to Ambrosia in Watersound. While technically not on 30A, this cozy yet upscale restaurant is perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine or a signature cocktail paired with a fresh seafood dish or delicious sushi rolls.
The Caymus Happy Hour is available on the patio and tucked inside at one of the most relaxing bars in the area, making it a go-to on a rainy day. It is also one of the longest happy hour options in the area, offering great deals from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Seagrove: Wild Olives
Wild Olives walks the line between casual and fun while also offering high-end vibes that make it a great spot for happy hour. The laid-back, Mediterranean atmosphere makes it an ideal place to kick back with friends and enjoy a 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. happy hour filled with chef-inspired small plates and carefully crafted drinks.
Seaside: Daytrader Tiki Bar & Great Southern
You’ll find two standout happy hour spots in the heart of Seaside. With its tropical-inspired cocktails and breezy ambiance, The Daytrader offers a fun and relaxed vibe. It is one of the few “no reservation” restaurants left in the area and often fills up fast for its everyday happy hour between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Meanwhile, The Great Southern Café is a staple for visitors. It is known for its famous mojitos and oysters, making it a must-stop for happy hour enthusiasts. It has great outdoor seating and welcomes pets to join the fun. It offers half-priced select cocktails and wine as well as discounts on 30A Beach Blondes.
WaterColor: Fish Out of Water & Wine Bar
Overlooking the Gulf, Fish Out of Water (FOOW) in WaterColor is a dreamy setting for happy hour. Enjoy an expertly crafted cocktail or a glass of wine as you soak in the views. It offers a 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. happy hour that is ‘WaterColor Casual,’ allowing for resort casual attire, including swimsuits with T-shirts for gentlemen or cover-ups for ladies.
For a more intimate experience, The Wine Bar is part of a four-store chain in the panhandle that offers an impressive selection of wines by the glass paired with delicious small bites and charcuterie boards. It does not provide the same views as FOOW, but does boast great outdoor seating for its daily specials.
Grayton Beach: Hurricane Oyster Bar & AJ’s
Grayton Beach differentiates itself from the rest of 30A with its fun and funky vibe, which makes Hurricane Oyster Bar a perfect reflection of that energy. With great happy hour specials on food and drinks, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Daily specials favor beer lovers, but you can also snag margaritas and hurricanes between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Just down the road, the iconic AJ’s is a must-visit for live music, signature cocktails, and an unbeatable atmosphere with great outdoor seating. It has a rolling happy hour, so be sure to check the daily special. Thankfully, bottomless mimosas and tunes are a staple — and a great way to start Sunday Funday.
Blue Mountain Beach: Mimmo’s Ristorante Italiano
Mimmo’s is a relatively new restaurant to the 30A collection, but it has impressed everyone, from locals and long-time 30A visitors to new travelers. It has even won multiple awards in the area.
The Beekeeper is a signature whiskey beverage, while the weekday-only happy hour offers discounts on wine, beer, and a limited food menu. The piatto all’Italiana is a delicious charcuterie option regardless of the meat and cheese selection on tap.
Gulf Place: Shunk Gulley
For a classic beach bar experience with unbeatable Gulf views, head to Shunk Gulley in Gulf Place. The open-air setting, fresh seafood, and refreshing cocktails make it a prime spot for happy hour with a view. The Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. happy hour option offers $6 margaritas and select wines, $5 well drinks, and discounts on oysters. The catch-of-the-day specials make for great eats, too.
Dune Allen: Vue on 30A
Our happy hour tour ends at the far end of 30A at the legendary Vue on 30A in Dune Allen. For over four decades, this award-winning location has offered spectacular sunsets with amazing coastal cuisine. The staff is focused on every detail and curates the menus to complement fresh tastes and ideas. The happy hour runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, but note that lunch ends at 2:30 p.m. and dinner does not start until 5 p.m. This means the menu options are limited.
No matter which side of the 24-mile corridor you find yourself in along 30A, there’s a perfect happy hour waiting for you. So grab your friends, raise a glass, and toast to the beauty and flavors of this beloved coastal paradise. Cheers!
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