Art and Culture on 30A: A Guide to Local Galleries
Embarking on a vacation to 30A this fall? There’s so much to look forward to, from refreshing gulf breezes to a variety of fun events and activities to partake in.
Did you know 30A is home to a vibrant arts community? It’s true; many talented artists call this beautiful beach community home. Perusing a local gallery is one of our favorite ways to spend a vacation day on 30A.
Want to spend some time checking out the local arts scene while you’re here? You’re in luck! We’ve designed this extensive guide to art galleries on 30A right here! Read on to find out how you can enjoy the best art this community has to offer.
30A Art Walk
South Walton
Visit many galleries in one and see work from multiple 30A artists! The 30A Art Walk occurs in South Walton on the first Friday of every month. You can see new local artwork and meet the artists behind your favorite pieces!
Enjoy live music and refreshments while you take in the sights of the art walk. Many beach communities of 30A are represented here, from Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and even more! It’s a great way to get involved with many communities all at once and immerse yourself in their cultures. Whether you’re looking for soft watercolors, funky sculptures, or mixed media wonders, you’ll find it all on the 30A Art Walk!
Art & Soul 30A
Various Locations in South Walton
If you want to get a true feel for what locals are creating all along the Emerald Coast, Art & Soul 30A is your spot. Owner Christine Ramsey, an established artist herself, opened the gallery in 2019 so she and other local artists could showcase their work.
Art & Soul 30A used to be a gallery in one physical spot, but nowadays, the art travels around! Make sure to check out the events page on their site to see where you can see Christine and others’ work and support the 30A art scene. Plus, many of these events have live music, food and drinks, and more!
The Blue Giraffe
WaterSound
Mother-daughter duo Debbie Taylor and Christi Sheffield run this charming art gallery in WaterSound! The Blue Giraffe won the #1 spot for the Perfect in South Walton Diamond Award in 2024.
This exciting gallery offers pieces for people of all ages, from little ones to more seasoned art admirers. Looking to be a part of the artistic fun, too? You can make your very own art at The Blue Giraffe!
Many 30A vacationers return here year after year to create unforgettable memories with their families. Make new favorite memories and learn how to paint, write, and create glass art in the gallery’s creative space. Don’t forget to snap a photo with their famous blue giraffe, Jeanie, on your way out!
Fusion Art Glass
Seaside
Have you ever been to an art glass gallery? Fusion Art Glass was one of the first of its kind in the Southeast. Glass artist Russ Gilbert opened the gallery in 1996, bringing an exciting new art form to an otherwise sleepy beach town.
Over 150 North American glass artists are represented in the shop now, and you can find art pieces of all kinds! Their wall art, home décor, glass sculptures, and kaleidoscopes are impressive examples of what the artists of 30A and beyond have to offer.
Fusion Art Glass even has art with a function beyond just aesthetics—explore their functional glass collection to see glass lighting fixtures, bowls, platters, and more. Don’t forget to check out their selection of “wearable art,” too; their gorgeous necklaces, earrings, and rings are sure to catch your eye. Browse their collections to see truly high-end art—it’s a great opportunity to do some window shopping!
The Shard Shop
Grayton
Most of this list is focused on appreciating other people’s art…but at The Shard Shop, you can make your own! Whether you want to make a special gift for a loved one or simply want to do something new and exciting on your 30A vacation, this stop won’t disappoint.
This make-your-own-art boutique offers daily classes in Shardworx Art, art made with glass and resin. Almost anyone can participate in these classes, with all ages classes (children aged six and up are welcome) and adult-only classes. Try your hand at something new and walk away with a wonderful keepsake from your 30A vacation!
Salt Crust Studios
Santa Rosa Beach
Salt Crust Studios showcases the outstanding work of Doug Foltz, a noted artist originally from Miami and now based in Santa Rosa Beach. He believes there’s great joy in finding new places; you can feel that joy in exploration through his art.
As you walk through his gallery, you’ll see incredible landscape paintings of South Walton and beyond, as well as stunning photographs that truly showcase Doug’s creative eye and artistic vision. Doug and several other artists in the warehouses of Santa Rosa Beach open up their studios to the public every third Thursday of the month. Stop by to see some outstanding art, and remember to BYOB for a good time!
Book Your Trip to 30A With Royal Destinations!
Featured Home: 74 Elysee Court is furnished with beautiful art pieces of its own.
Who knew 30A was home to such amazing art? We can’t wait to check out these galleries. You can, too, on your next trip to 30A!
When it comes to choosing your accommodations for your 30A vacation, look no further than Royal Destinations. Our luxury vacation rentals are designed to meet all of your needs. Whether you’re looking for a rental with a private pool, want to stay in a pet-friendly rental so you can bring your pup along, or are looking for a longer-term monthly rental, you can find it all with us.
Browse our available vacation rentals now and book your 30A vacation with Royal Destinations!