Seacrest Beach Recap
Family favorites, challenges, and what we learned on 30A
Episode 91 – The Family Vacationer with Rob and Danny
This week, Rob recaps his family’s recent vacation to Seacrest Beach, Florida, along scenic 30A. With plenty of great meals, family time, and a pontoon adventure to Shell Island, there were also a few bumps in the sand—including beach accessibility issues, a crowded coastline, and an underwhelming condo experience. Rob shares the lessons learned and tips for families considering a similar stay.
🎙️ In this episode:
- Seacrest Beach location & layout: between Rosemary and Inlet Beach on 30A
- The pros of staying in a well-designed development with a tram system and community pool
- Why the snack bar burger near the pool was one of the best Rob’s ever had
- Dining highlights:
- Shades Restaurant – redfish over goat cheese grit cake with béarnaise sauce
- Salty Sue’s – top-notch grouper and standout service
- Pizza by the Sea – perfect family pizza night
- The Doughnut Hole – vanilla angel donuts (and a strawberry twist)
- Acme Oyster House in Destin for a big finish to the trip
- A day on the water with Lagoon Pontoon rentals to Shell Island—slides, sea creatures, and smiles
🌊 Challenges & takeaways:
- Beach access was limited, crowded, and physically difficult, especially for multi-gen families or those with mobility issues
- Condo looked great online but was not clean, poorly maintained, and had AC issues
- Public beach access at Inlet Beach turned out to be more pleasant and accessible
- 30A’s rising popularity brings longer waits, high prices, and limited views of the water
- Importance of knowing what matters most: ocean view, walkability, accessibility, or price
💡 Rob’s key advice for families:
- Do your research—photos and location alone don’t guarantee a good stay
- Prioritize your must-haves as a family: view, proximity, comfort, and kid-friendly features
- Don’t be afraid to try new destinations—your next favorite beach may surprise you
- And yes, a bad day at the beach is still better than a good day almost anywhere else
✉️ Planning your next beach trip?
Rob’s a Certified Travel Associate and offers free family vacation planning
📧 Email: [email protected]
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The Family Vacationer
The Family Vacationer is a weekly podcast helping families travel smarter, spend better, and create lasting memories together. Hosted by Rob and Traci, the show features expert interviews, real-life stories, and practical tips for planning meaningful, family-first adventures. From hidden gems to budget hacks, it's a must-listen for parents who want stress-free, joy-filled travel.
Meet the Hosts
Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.
Traci's been shaking up the Dawson County School System for four years now, injecting it with her unique brand of energy and enthusiasm. When she's not molding young minds, you'll find her co-conspiring with her sister at Seasonal Events and Design—because who doesn't love a good party?
She's a self-proclaimed beach aficionado, never meeting a sandy shore she didn't instantly click with. And let's not forget her partner-in-crime for the past eighteen years, Rob, who's been keeping up with her antics and their three beautiful troublemakers—Ruthie, Chase, and Nash. Together, they're a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and love.
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