Located on the western edge of Florida’s Panhandle, WaterSound is part of a collection of resorts … [+]
The white sand beaches that decorate the Florida coast are certainly no secret. In Miami Beach alone, with a full-time population of around 80,000, just under 11 million visitors spend the night in the small beach town each year. A similar story can be seen in many coastal towns in the Sunshine State.
However, with an incredible 1,350 miles of coastline, some Florida beach towns go unnoticed. In the case of all of the small coastal communities that make up the 24-mile stretch known as 30A, it’s this anonymity that has created the area’s relaxed, private reputation.
Stretching 24 miles along the coast, 30A lies between Panama City to the east and Dustin to … [+]
Nestled on the west side of the Florida Panhandle, 30A, named for the two-lane country highway that runs along the coast, is located between the popular destinations of Panama City and Destin.
Situated along the “Emerald Coast,” the coastal region is home to a long stretch of soft, rustic sand beaches that touch the cerulean waters of the Gulf of Mexico, rivaling even the best Caribbean islands. Along these coasts are distinct and picturesque seaside towns, each with its own character and appeal.
Although each city differs in its aesthetic, many offer community amenities like clubhouses and events.
So it’s no surprise that this secret treasure isn’t as secret anymore: the area has seen a significant influx of visitors lately, says James Watts And Brad Hilderbrandco-founders of luxury brokerage Coastal abode.
“At one point in the last ten years, we were the sixth fastest growing county in the country in terms of population. It used to be a very seasonal area, but there has been a shift toward more full-time residents, and now there is year-round activity. »
As the area’s popularity continues to grow, waterfront real estate prices have soared.
Despite the new popularity and subsequent increase in commercial and residential development, Watts says 30A has yet to lose its laid-back vibe.
“It always seems friendly; it’s always inviting. What people say here is that it’s luxury.
This completely renovated home, priced at $7.125 million, offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of … [+]
Houses in 30A
Except for what might be described as a “beach vibe,” it’s difficult to pin down an overall architectural trend for the area, as many communities in 30A feature unique and different aesthetics and styles.
For example, Watts described the town of Rosemary Beach as having “an almost European village feel with cobblestone streets and a downtown area”, while the neighboring town, Alys Beach, is a mix of “the Mediterranean and Bermuda , with an emphasis on bright, white beach houses. Further west, another seaside community, Watercolor, is known as an “upscale beach cottage community.”
This rendering for 161 Rolling Dunes in Blue Mountain Beach highlights the high-end finishes of many … [+]
This variation allows a wider range of buyers to find something that fits their preferences, Watts added. “Everything is not uniform; it’s a little bit of everything. Whatever your taste, you can probably find it.
Although the style may differ, many homes in 30A have similar amenities, including golf cart garages, ocean view And access to collective facilities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers and spas.
Taking advantage of the area’s breezy coastal climate, homes often feature outdoor living spaces.
Real estate prices in 30A
According to August Market Update provided by Coastal Abode, the average sales price for the West End of 30A was $1.7 million and for the East End was $3 million. On the high end of those averages was a sale for $10.9 million, while the cheapest sale went for $484,000.
Such a price range reflects the diversity of the 30A market, where properties with values that differ by millions of dollars can often be found within blocks of each other, Watts says.
In addition to a variety of designs and styles, real estate in 30A is available in a wide range of … [+]
“30A is a hodgepodge: You can have a $15 million house facing the golf course, then down the street a classic 1950s cottage for about a million.”
The most expensive homes in the area are primarily those located directly on the beach, costing upwards of $20 million. In particular, newer beachfront homes, often larger than older homes and equipped with modern amenities, command the highest prices.
The 30A stretch of coast is famous for its turquoise waters and white sand, as evidenced by this … [+]
The atmosphere of 30A
Although it’s famous for its pristine beaches, Watts says 30A has much more to offer than surf and sand.
“We’re not 100% focused on the beach. There are exceptional hiking and biking trails, golf courses, and incredible restaurants and events.
In recent years, the neighborhood has adapted to the arrival of a greater number of full-time residents with an increase in commercial offerings. “The longer people stay here, the more they want the things they’re used to at home: they want restaurants, they want stores, they want events. So this has led to an increase in these local amenities.
With the recent increase in new residents, restaurants and shops have mushroomed.
Many cities in 30A were designed with pedestrian mobility in mind. One city in particular, Seaside, is known as a model of New Urbanism, an urban planning movement that promoted environmentally friendly habits by creating walkable neighborhoods. The small seaside town’s reputation for “picturesque perfection” even attracted the attention of Hollywood, with Seaside serving as a filming location for the 1998 film. The Truman Show.
Grayton Beach, a small historic village, adjoins the nearly 2,000-acre Grayton Beach State Park.
About 30A
Several airports are located within a short distance of cities in 30A. To the east, Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in Panama City offers direct flights from all over the country, including major hubs like Atlanta, Denver, and Dallas. The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is approximately 40 minutes from Miramar Beach.
Tallahassee is located more than 100 miles to the east, about a two and a half hour drive.
MORE FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES