In this edition of 30A Q&A, we sat down with Mary Chris Murry, Communications Director at Alaqua Animal Refuge, to find out some of her favorite tips for experiencing 30A like a true local.

1. What makes living at the beach so special? 

After living in Atlanta for 26 years, I returned ‘home’ a few years ago. It was the best decision I’ve made in a long time. My whole body, mind, and spirit experienced a renewal and a lifestyle change that was needed. Living here is beyond special—it is a true blessing to live and play in a place where others vacation and where my heart and soul live. My family and friends also play a huge part in my happiness here. I am lucky enough to wake up every day and live my life to the fullest, surrounded by family and friends in this area I’ve loved forever.

2. What’s your favorite local event? 

Mary Chris at Rosemary Beach Unleashed

At the 100 Point & Cult Wine Dinner with friends

There are so many fabulous events around 30A and I enjoy many of them. My two favorite events are Alaqua Animal Refuge’s Sip N Shop and their Animoré event, which includes a 100 Point and Cult Wine Dinner and the Barn Jam. They are very special, and how can you not enjoy knowing you are helping to give animals a second chance by participating!?

3. Where do you go when you need some quality me-time? 

Without a doubt, I head to the beach. It has always been my “happy place.” I was born and raised in Walton County, and my parents had a beach house back in the ’70s in Blue Mountain. At the time, our little 900 square foot cinder block house was the norm, but it was perfect for this flip flop girl and it instilled my early affinity for “beach life.” My love of our incredible beaches started then and has never stopped. The beach brings me peace and calms my soul.

4. What’s your favorite month on 30A? And why? 

I love October! First of all, it’s my birthday month! And it is also an ideal time to enjoy 30A and all it offers in a semi-less crowded environment.

The weather is perfect for floating in the water, biking, walking on the beach, having a bonfire, or just hanging out with friends and watching the perfect sunset.

5. Tell us your three favorite local spots and why you love them.

The Bay: Oh my! I love the live music, the food (fried oysters and Hot Mess are my fave), the wait staff, the atmosphere, and its location. Love the laid-back nature of the restaurant, and the fact I can bring my dog Phyllis on the patio! Truly a good vibe.

Grayton Beach: It brings back childhood memories of my father riding me around in his dune buggy, swimming and playing in the coastal dune lake (aka, the tea water – which I still love!), and visiting the old Butler General Store before a walk on the beach with my Mom and our friends.

The Vue on 30A / Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club: Simply sitting on the beach on the weekends can’t be beat; the Terrace for lunch or dinner is absolutely awesome; and the sunsets are amazing! There aren’t too many locations along 30A that have a view this spectacular! Chef Isley is Jamaican and his creativity with food is awesome – my favorite dishes are the lobster ravioli, crab cakes salad (yummy dressing), and the lobster grilled cheese. The service is always impeccable and brings a smile to my face. Oh, I cannot forget the most fabulous French fries!

6. What’s something you’re looking forward to? 

 The summer and my beach time with friends!

Are you a 30A local? We’d love to hear from you! Email us a little bit about yourself and we might just feature you in our next 30A Q&A!