Plan a Road Trip from Atlanta to 30A
Wanting to take a break from land-locked Atlanta? Luckily, the stunning beaches along 30A are only a road trip away! Rather than making the drive in one trip, why not enjoy the journey and stop for some sight-seeing gems along the way? Check out our picks for the best stops along the way with two separate routes: taking you into Alabama near Montgomery, or through Columbus, GA, and then down the state lines into Florida.
- Route: Approximately 307 miles
- Driving Time: Approximately 5 Hours
This route takes you along I-85 into Alabama, near Montgomery, and then south down to 30A! Getting you closer to Seaside, WaterSound, and Rosemary Beach, this route takes roughly 5 hours of driving time but features highlights along the way you won’t want to miss!
Atlanta to West Point Lake
Nestled on the Georgia-Alabama state line, West Point Lake is the perfect place to take a break from driving to step into nature! Along the lake’s shoreline, you can find picturesque fishing piers, nature trails, and picnic areas that are the perfect place to stop for lunch.
West Point Lake to Montgomery
Montgomery, AL is a town steeped in the history of the Civil Rights Movement. Depending on how long you plan to make your stop in Montgomery, you can experience some incredible tributes and educational experiences. The Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, the Freedom Rides Museum, and the Rosa Parks Museum and Library are all located in Montgomery and would make for an educational and impactful stop along your trip. You can also make a visit to the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, which is where Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. once served as a pastor. If you don’t have time for a museum, make a stop at the Civil Rights Memorial which features educational components as well as The Wall of Tolerance.
Vortex Spring
Make a final stop at Vortex Spring outside of Ponce De Leon, Florida before you make it to your 30A vacation rental! Offering scuba diving, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and more, this park invites guests to enjoy a swim in the crystal "gin" clear spring water!
- Route: Approximately 296 Miles
- Driving Time: Approximately 5 Hours
Also starting off on I-85, this route stays closer to the Georgia-Alabama state line and takes through Columbus, GA. Once you pass Columbus, you will take Highway 431 and follow that down into sunny Florida! Explore some historical sites in Pine Mountain, a museum or two in Columbus, and enjoy the great outdoors at a final stop in a Florida State Park before you head down to drive along 30A.
Pine Mountain
A charming small-town in western Georgia, Pine Mountain is a perfect first stop along the way! After just over an hour of driving, make a stop in Pine Mountain to drive through the Wild Animal Safari or check out the F.D. Roosevelt State Park. In the park, you can enjoy 42 miles of hiking trails or even learn more about the president’s Little White House which served as a vacation home.
Columbus
A stop in Columbus, GA allows you to make a visit to one of the museums like the National Civil War Naval Museum, the Columbus Museum, and the Coca-Cola Space and Science Center. If you want to spend time outdoors, make a visit to the Columbus Botanical Gardens or enjoy time outdoors at Flat Rock Park.
Falling Waters State Park
Once you cross the state line into Florida, you’re in the home stretch of getting to your home-away-from-home along 30A! However, there is one more stop worth seeing before you make it to the coast.… Falling Waters State Park is located outside of Chipley, Fl, and is home to the state’s largest waterfall. Featuring hiking trails, a boardwalk, and even a butterfly garden, this state park is a stunning place to stop, stretch your legs, and take in the beauty of the Sunshine State!
Find Your 30A Vacation Rental
Now that you know the excitement that awaits on a road trip to 30A, it’s time to find your perfect beach vacation rental! Enjoy oceanfront Gulf front relaxation, beach days, and so much more when you book a Royal Destinations vacation rental! Book online or contact us directly at (850) 534-0841, 7 days a week to speak with a Destination Specialist.