Discover Gulf Place: 30A’s Premier Hub for Dining, Shopping, and Coastal Charm – 30A

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Discover Gulf Place: 30A’s Premier Hub for Dining, Shopping, and Coastal Charm

Coastal charm meets dining and shopping.

Discover Gulf Place: 30A’s Premier Hub for Dining, Shopping, and Coastal Charm Gulf Place. Photos by Ragan Smith

Nestled at the crossroads of Scenic Highway 30A and Walton County Road 393, where the road meets the coastline, Gulf Place is one of 30A’s earliest town centers.

With its inviting blend of dining, shopping, and entertainment, this charming mixed-use development has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike.

DINING

Shelby’s Beach Bar & Grill

Fronting both 30A and Highway 393, Shelby’s patio is perfectly positioned for porch sippin’ and people-watching. Happy Hour is 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. everyday often accompanied by local live music. With such varying dishes as Pimento Cheese Wontons, Lobster Grilled Cheese, “Slaw”py Dawg foot long, Heirloom Panzanella salad, and the very healthy Power Bowl waist watchers on both ends of the spectrum are sure to be satisfied.

Pizza by the Sea

A local institution with multiple locations, including Gulf Place, this family-friendly spot serves up hand-crafted pizzas, build-your-own options, and a variety of non-pizza offerings like salads, sandwiches, and pastas. Ideal for a casual dinner or takeout, their pizzas pair perfectly with a 30A Beach Blonde Ale for a bonfire night by the beach.

The Perfect Pig

This local favorite has several locations along 30A, but many claim the Gulf Place outpost is the best. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, it’s always the perfect time to indulge. Their quiche is legendary, available for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. For lunch, the smoked chicken salad is a flavor-packed option, while dinner’s standout is the pork chop with a coffee crust, stir-fried vegetables, and a rich chocolate mole sauce. Truly a reason to “Praise the Lard.

Chef’s Bistro 30A

Tucked on the back side of Gulf Place, Chef’s Bistro brings an eclectic menu with a focus on Jamaican-inspired dishes, a rarity in the area. Breakfast features fresh-pressed juices and hearty classics, while lunch offers a variety of options like poke bowls, wagyu burgers, and garden-fresh salads. For dinner, highlights include jerk chicken, escovitch fish, and duck fat ribeye. Perfect for those seeking a mix of bold flavors in a charming setting.

Renaissance French Restaurant

For those craving French cuisine, The Renaissance brings a taste of Paris to the Gulf Coast with its authentic menu and charming atmosphere, the chef and staff are absolutely the most hospitable and welcoming individuals. Make sure that you make a reservation several days in advance as it has now become quite  the sought after latest dining.

Cava and Cakes

Located just steps from Chef’s Bistro, this delightful spot is a haven for dessert lovers. Indulge in custom cakes, cake pops, and cupcakes, or enjoy a glass of cava, Spain’s sparkling wine answer to prosecco. Whether you enjoy your sweets before or after dinner, there’s no judgment here—have your cake and eat it too.

Gulf Place’s culinary lineup is a perfect mix of coastal comfort and elevated dining, ensuring there’s something for everyone to savor in this charming destination.

Shunk Gulley

Just steps from Gulf Place, Shunk Gulley boasts a prime location and unforgettable Gulf views. Open-air dining downstairs spills onto a sunlit patio, while upstairs, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Gulf with your meal. Their menu features fresh seafood, hearty salads, and indulgent duck-fat fries that are not to be missed. Live music and friendly vibes make it a must-visit for lunch or sunset dinners.

Growler Garage

A brief walk past Shunk Gulley you’ll find more libations in beer form. Growler Garage’s interior is an ode to motorcycles, music and those who appreciate both. It’s the perfect mix of modern grunge, Elvis suave and 1950s garage with a touch of sea. They host a sizable number of local, regional and national beers on tap to satisfy your thirst. Grab a brew, head outside to their patio and chat up some locals.

SHOPPING

Retail therapy enthusiasts will find a delightful array of boutique experiences at Gulf Place.

Cher Jean Boutique

Cher Jean Boutique is a must-visit destination for high-end wardrobe essentials, offering a stunning selection of thoughtfully curated fashion, accessories, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Whether you’re searching for the perfect outfit for a special occasion or elevating your everyday style, this boutique on the Emerald Coast caters to every fashion-forward individual. With its elegant, quality pieces now also available online, you can effortlessly shop your favorite styles from anywhere.

The Gypsy Garage

Along the back side of the green sits a fantastic shop with locally designed clothing and various curiosities. This is definitely NOT the place for touristy knick-knacks and logo wearables. A fair selection of vintage items and garments are also available. A less shabby more chic positive aura prevails in this fun, funky treasure box of a boutique.

Alvin’s Island Beach Store

Meanwhile, Alvin’s Island Beach Store provides everything you need for a day by the water or a keepsake to remember your visit. From beachwear and practical accessories to a variety of souvenirs, it’s a convenient one-stop shop for all your beachside essentials.

SERVICES 

Awakening Wellness Acupuncture and Organic Spa

A full-service spa, this locale has varying massages, facials, waxes, scrubs and acupuncture as well as the seldom offered reiki energy healing.

Jade Nails and Spa

Sand ruined your pedicure? Opening those cans on the beach got your manicure a bit mangled? Stop in after beaching or call for an appointment for a refresher.

30A Vet

Sometimes things can go awry for your best friend. Luckily there’s a comprehensive services vet right here for your feline and canine children. Like they say “Peace, love, and Sandy Paws.”

AMBIANCE & AMENITIES

Gulf Place offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by its beautiful outdoor spaces. The Green by the Gulf, a manicured lawn near the amphitheater, provides the perfect spot for relaxation, picnics, or simply soaking up the coastal vibes. The amphitheater itself is a lively venue hosting live music and community events, making it a focal point of activity. Walking paths wind through the development, connecting its colorful buildings, inviting courtyards, and various amenities. Convenient beach access across Scenic Highway 30A ensures easy enjoyment of the stunning Gulf coastline.

With its colorful buildings, inviting courtyards, and a calendar filled with community events, Gulf Place is a year-round hub of activity that warmly welcomes both locals and visitors.

A spectacular sunset beach bonfire at Gulf Place. Photo by Ragan Smith.

For the latest updates, events, and more info, check out www.gulfplacefl.com.

author image
Whitney Rabalais is a gastronome who has studied the culinary and cocktail arts and cultures for over 40 years. Whitney makes a mean galatine du poulet and a meaner mai tai.

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