15 Fun Things to do on 30A When it Rains

Are you waiting out a rain storm on your beach vacation? Or does the forecast for your upcoming trip look questionable? Don’t fret—I’m here to help. I have some exciting ideas on how to enjoy your beach vacation even with rainy weather as I have vacationed in the area for years. Follow along as I share the best things to do on 30A when it rains.

Best Beach Supplies

30A Weather

Florida’s weather is beautiful all year, but honestly, it is quite hot in the summer. My favorite time to visit during the swimming season is fall, and then I love a winter getaway. Due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, rain is common throughout all of Florida, especially in the summer. Expect pop-up showers! Sometimes, they are short and sweet to cool off the heat.

In the summer and fall, you may experience storms related to hurricanes. Even if you are in the vicinity of the eye of the storm, you may experience heavy rains and secondary storms. My advice: check the weather before you leave!

Best Rainy Day Activities in 30A

30A is a stretch along the white sand beaches of Walton County. Sandwiched between the large beach communities of Destin and Panama City Beach, it is a serene retreat visitors flock to in all seasons. I organized my suggestions based on the communities in case you wanted to do multiple things in one day.

Panama City Beach

Panama City is just east of 30A. If you are staying in Rosemary Beach, Seacrest, or Alys Beach, it’s not far. If you are further down 30A, I suggest hopping on Hwy 98, which is faster.

1. Pier Park

Pier Park is a massive outdoor entertainment center in Panama City. Visitors can choose between shopping, dining, and entertainment. If you are interested in shopping, you may want to pack an umbrella, as you will still be outdoors.

As for dining, they offer many typical American fare, although there is some seafood such as Back Porch Seafood and Oyster House. You’ll mostly find chain restaurants like Longhorn Steakhouse. However, some are fun, such as Margaritaville.

Rainy days are the perfect opportunity to catch a movie at Grand IMAX. Kids can burn off some energy at Mirror Maze & Laser Crave. Or, if that isn’t your scene, play arcade games at Dave & Buster’s.

2. Gulf World Marine Park

If you don’t like large-scale American entertainment centers, check out Gulf World Marine Park, also in Panama City. Open year-round, rain or shine, it is one of the best rainy-day activities in the area.

Guests can participate in interactive programs, swim with dolphins, watch a dolphin show, or learn about marine life.

3. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Panama City is also home to an iconic museum, Ripley’s. This venue is perfect for a day of heavy rain where you want to be inside for a bit to escape the weather. Kids can see rare artifacts and enjoy interactive activities.

Book your Ripley’s Ticket NOW by clicking HERE!

30A

4. Bookshop

Nestled throughout 30A, guests can explore local and quaint bookstores. Hidden Lantern Bookstore in Rosemary is one of my favorites. We spent a cooler and rainy winter break at Rosemary, and this was one of my kids’ favorite activities- browsing and picking out new books for the trip and ride home. Seaside is home to another amazing option, Sundog Books.

Both stores are in quaint communities, so you can grab a coffee or ice cream and browse your next great read.

5. Fresh Seafood

fresh steam shrimp from Goatfeathers

This region is known for its delicious fresh seafood. If you visit at peak season, expect large crowds and long wait times. Brunch and lunch are ideal, but they pull you away from the beach on sunny days. Use a rain day to try local fare at a cheaper rate and potentially fewer crowds.

Our favorites, such as the Bay, Great Southern Cafe, Shunk Gulley, and Fish out of Water, have large covered porches with great views. We also love picking up fresh seafood from Goatfeathers if you don’t want to wait for a table.

6. Local Breweries

Grayton Beer Company is a popular local brewery and the perfect spot for a rainy day. Further west in Santa Rosa, you can check out Idyll Hounds Brewing Company.

7. Visit a Local Art Gallery

A rainy day is the perfect opportunity to explore the galleries of talented local residents. Check out The Saczynski Gallery in Grayton Beach, A. Wickey Studio, and Justin Gaffrey Studio in Santa Rosa Beach.

8. Shard Shop

Grayton Beach offers a fun and unique experience at Shard Shop. Here you can make your own artwork out of a mixed material of glass and resin. Kids ages 6 and up and welcome!

Miramar Beach

9. Silver Sands Premium Outlets

Nothing beats killing time on a rainy day like shopping. This outlet mall offers something for everyone and has covered walkways. Now, you still want to pack an umbrella because others will have the same idea, and you may have to park a little bit away. The outlets are right off 98 and easy to navigate.

10. Village of Baytowne Wharf

Located in the heart of Sandestin, Baytowne Wharf offers numerous activities, including entertainment, shopping, and dining. If you want indoor activities, check out Blast Arcade and Laser Maze or Cloak and Dagger Escape Room.

11. Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade

The Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade near Miramar is another excellent option for rainy-day activities. Guests rave about the fun experience for all ages and the customer service provided by staff.

Destin

beautiful beaches of Florida's Panhandle

12. Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill

If interested in a unique twist on bowling, check out Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill in Destin, a bit further west on 98. You can dine in their restaurant before or after bowling. The experience places you in an “underwater” theme, something you’ll never forget.

13. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

If you have active kids like mine, you may want them to burn off some energy. Destin is home to a fun experience, the Urban Air Park. Check out the website for hours, as they don’t open until the afternoon during the week.

14. AMC Destin Commons

Nothing beats a movie on a rainy day. Grab some popcorn and a snack to enjoy a new film! Check out their matinee specials to save some money.

Fort Walton Beach

15. Emerald Coast Science Center

Although it is a bit of a drive, the Emerald Coast Science Center would be a perfect day trip. If the forecast looks gloomy for the day, I’d pack the car and hit the road. You could always combine it with a stop at the outlet mall in Destin.

Affordable Rainy Day Activities

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money, consider packing movies, popcorn, cards, arts and crafts, and games before you leave home. This will easily occupy your time without spending money. If you are flying, several Walmart stores are scattered on Hwy 98 that you can run into for games and snacks!

In Conclusion: Fun Things to Do on 30A When it Rains

Rain at the beach can be a bummer, but don’t be discouraged! 30A and surrounding areas have many diverse and fun activities to occupy your time while the storm passes. I hope my guide on fun things to do on 30A when it rains helps you plan your next great adventure!

30A Resources
Best 30A Beaches
Best 30A Tours
Breakfast in 30A
Ice cream in 30A
Best Seafood on 30A
30A State Parks
30A Winter
30A Fall
Christmas in 30A
Spring Break on 30A
30A When it Rains
How to Vacation at 30A on a Budget
Vacation Rentals on 30A for Families
Beach Packing List for Families
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