Best Scenic Drives for Large Groups on the Emerald Coast

The Emerald Coast is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, charming coastal towns, and pristine state parks, making it the perfect destination for a scenic road trip. Whether you’re staying in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or along the famous 30A, there are plenty of picturesque drives for large groups to explore. These scenic routes offer the best of the Emerald Coast’s natural beauty, with opportunities to stop, take in the views, and enjoy the local charm. Here are the top scenic drives that your group won’t want to miss.

1. 30A Scenic Highway: The Quintessential Emerald Coast Drive

No trip to the Emerald Coast is complete without driving along Scenic Highway 30A. This 24-mile stretch of road winds through some of the most charming beach towns in Florida, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, coastal dune lakes, and quaint communities. Perfect for group road trips, 30A offers plenty of spots to stop for shopping, dining, and beachside relaxation.

• Must-See Stops: Seaside, Grayton Beach, Rosemary Beach, and Alys Beach are all quintessential 30A towns. Each town has its own unique charm, from Seaside’s iconic Airstream food trucks to Rosemary Beach’s European-inspired architecture.
• What to Expect: Scenic views of sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and charming coastal villages.
• More Info: Visit 30A
• Tip: Plan a stop at Grayton Beach State Park for a quick hike or a picnic by the water.

2. Scenic Highway 98: The Coastal Connection

For groups staying in Destin or Miramar Beach, a drive along Scenic Highway 98 is a must. This road runs parallel to the Gulf of Mexico, providing stunning ocean views along much of the route. Scenic 98 is known for its beachfront homes, casual dining spots, and access to some of the area’s most beautiful beaches. Perfect for groups, this leisurely drive is ideal for stopping at the beach, grabbing lunch, or simply soaking in the ocean breeze.

• Must-See Stops: The Crab Trap Beach Access, Pompano Joe’s, and the beachfront areas of Crystal Beach are popular stops along this route.
• What to Expect: Panoramic views of the Gulf, beach access points, and local restaurants.
• More Info: Visit Destin
• Tip: Stop at James Lee Park in Destin for a beach break and picnic tables with Gulf views.

3. Gulf Islands National Seashore: A Nature Lover’s Dream

For groups looking to explore the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast, a drive to the Gulf Islands National Seashore is highly recommended. Located near Pensacola, this coastal preserve offers miles of undeveloped beach, stunning dunes, and a variety of wildlife. The road leading to the seashore provides beautiful views of both the Gulf and inland waterways, making it an excellent spot for scenic photography or a group day trip.

• Must-See Stops: Fort Pickens, one of the most popular historic sites within the park, and Perdido Key, known for its quiet beaches.
• What to Expect: Pristine beaches, coastal dunes, historic sites, and opportunities to see wildlife.
• More Info: Visit Gulf Islands National Seashore
• Tip: Pack a picnic and stop at one of the park’s shaded areas to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

4. Blue Mountain Beach: A Scenic Gem on 30A

For a more tranquil and off-the-beaten-path drive, take your group through Blue Mountain Beach on 30A. This small but scenic community is known for its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty. The “mountain” in Blue Mountain Beach is actually a series of high dunes, offering a unique coastal landscape that’s perfect for a slow, scenic drive. The area is also known for its wildflowers and quiet beaches, making it ideal for groups looking to enjoy a peaceful day of exploration.

• Must-See Stops: Blue Mountain Beach Creamery is a popular spot for a sweet treat, and the nearby Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers beautiful hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• What to Expect: A quieter, less crowded part of 30A with natural beauty and fewer tourists.
• More Info: Visit Blue Mountain Beach
• Tip: Enjoy a scenic walk along the trails in Topsail Hill Preserve for a closer look at the coastal environment.

5. Point Washington State Forest: A Serene Drive Through Nature

For those who want to experience the Emerald Coast’s natural landscapes beyond the beach, a drive through Point Washington State Forest is an excellent option. This expansive forest covers over 15,000 acres and features a variety of habitats, including wetlands, pine forests, and coastal dunes. It’s a great place for groups who want to combine a scenic drive with some hiking, biking, or birdwatching.

• Must-See Stops: Point Washington State Forest offers multiple trailheads for hiking and biking, making it easy for your group to explore the forest’s diverse ecosystems.
• What to Expect: Quiet, shaded roads through the forest, wildlife sightings, and scenic nature trails.
• More Info: Visit Point Washington State Forest
• Tip: Pack water and snacks for a hiking stop at one of the forest’s many trails.

6. Western Lake Scenic Drive (Grayton Beach)

Western Lake, located in Grayton Beach State Park, offers one of the most scenic drives in the area, with stunning views of both the lake and the Gulf of Mexico. This unique coastal dune lake is a natural wonder, and driving along its shoreline provides endless photo opportunities for groups. After your drive, stop at Grayton Beach for some of the best beach views on 30A.

• Must-See Stops: Grayton Beach State Park is the highlight of this scenic route, with its sugar-white sand beaches and access to Western Lake.
• What to Expect: Scenic views of coastal dune lakes, pine forests, and the Gulf.
• More Info: Visit Grayton Beach State Park
• Tip: Rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore Western Lake after your scenic drive.

Where to Stay: Legacy Beach Homes

After a day of scenic drives along the Emerald Coast, your group will need a spacious and comfortable place to unwind. At Legacy Beach Homes, we offer the Emerald Coast’s largest collection of newly-built, large vacation rentals, perfect for multi-family or large group vacations. Whether you’re exploring the scenic roads of Destin, Miramar Beach, or 30A, Legacy Beach Homes provides the ideal base for your road trip adventures.

Our homes feature 8-bedroom properties that sleep 20+ guests and side-by-side homes that accommodate even larger groups of 50+ guests. With easy beach access, private pools, complimentary golf carts, and paddleboards, you’ll have everything you need for a luxurious, stress-free vacation. Plus, we offer 5-star hosting and no third-party fees, ensuring your group’s stay is as enjoyable as possible.

 

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