One of my favorite places to visit in Florida is any stop along 30A. This stretch of road encompasses just about everything that I love about the beach. Here you can walk the pristine sand of over 16 beaches, dip your toes in the sparkling water and enjoy the sights and sounds of the surrounding area.
Image from www.30a.com
Along with the unspoiled beaches and sea oat covered dunes a visitor can find old Florida architecture, lovely wildflowers and native trees as well as plenty of dining and shopping opportunities. We have stayed at various places over the past several years on our quest to find the perfect beach and I have to admit that this area is my favorite so far. There is plenty going on to keep me entertained and the draw of the white sand is where my heart seems to find happiness.
On one of our recent trips we stayed at Gulf Place in Santa Rosa Beach and loved the convenience of the area where we stayed. Not only were there plenty of restaurants within walking distance of our studio apartment rental there was shopping as well. My favorite stop was The Artists At Gulf Place that was right outside our accomodations.
Some of the booths at the Artists at Gulf Place
Many of the artists in this cute little complex had signs asking that no photos be taken and I respected that (unless I missed a sign in a booth) but was thrilled to be able to talk to the artist Jeffre Behm of 30A Frogs. He said he was happy for me to photograph some of his delightful creatures and I could see why they are becoming a favorite around the 30A area. Look at these cuties.
Seriously, how cute are those frogs? It was hard to resist buying one but resist I did. This time.
Each artist who has space in this little venue mans the shops on a regular basis and the shops are open daily from 9 am until 8 pm. There is even a resident cat whose name I forgot to write down but who is very friendly and keeps an eye on things when the artists are away. (Thanks to Dan for finding out the name of the cat is Socks.)
The booths offer a variety of items from illustrated books about starfish to jewelry to home decor. Each shop had a flavor of the artist and the creations were all fun to look at. 
For more information on the 30a Artists at Gulf Place click on their website here where you can explore more.
I would highly recommend a visit to any of the beaches located off of 30A. They are simply marvelous and a great place to kick back any time of the year and relax. For more information and to access the 30A Florida Visitor’s Guide click here to be taken directly to their website.
