One of the best things about staying at WaterColor Inn & Resort on 30A is how easy it is to enjoy fantastic food without ever straying too far from the beach. From casual breakfast spots to unforgettable sunset dinners, Santa Rosa Beach and neighboring Seaside have so many great options. After years of family vacations here, these are my favorite restaurants to try while staying at WaterColor.
Breakfast Favorites
Start your day with something delicious and energizing before heading to the pool or the bike trails. Here are my top breakfast picks:
Bud & Alley’s (Seaside)
Just a short drive, bike ride, or golf cart trip over to Seaside, Bud & Alley’s serves breakfast with a Gulf breeze. Their rooftop deck is an ideal spot to sip your morning coffee.
Great Southern Cafe (Seaside)
Another excellent breakfast option in Seaside, known for their Southern specialties—try the beignets or the grits.
Black Bear Bread Co. (Seaside)
Arrive early—lines here can be long, and for good reason. Their pastries, fresh bread, and locally roasted coffee are worth waking up for.
Crackings
A local favorite for hearty Southern breakfasts—think omelets, pancakes, and fresh coffee. You can’t go wrong here before a busy beach day.
Fish Out of Water
This is WaterColor Inn’s own signature restaurant. They serve brunch only on Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It’s the perfect way to ease into vacation mode with an ocean view.
Lunch Spots You’ll Love
After a morning on the sand or by the pool, these lunch options will hit the spot:
Beach Club Grill (WaterColor)
If you’d rather stay close to your lounge chair, the Beach Club Grill is right in WaterColor and perfect for casual poolside bites.
Seaside Food Trucks
Head over to Seaside’s town square for a relaxed lunch. The Airstream Row has everything from BBQ to gourmet grilled cheese, plus plenty of spots to sit and people-watch.
The Drome
Known for the best dumplings in Seaside, The Drome is a hidden gem if you’re craving something different.
Fish Out of Water (WaterColor)
With views overlooking the ocean, this is an elevated lunch spot that still feels relaxed.
Bud & Alley’s (Seaside)
Their lunch menu is as good as breakfast—enjoy salads, sandwiches, and seafood while overlooking the Gulf.
Dinner Destinations
Dinner on 30A is an experience all its own. These are my go-to restaurants for a memorable evening out:
Mimmo’s 30A
If you’re in the mood for Italian, Mimmo’s is your spot. Fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a warm atmosphere make it perfect for families or date night. Get reservations early!
Fish Out of Water
This is in WaterColor and I love looking at the view. Enjoy dinner overlooking the water, then head down to the beach to catch the sunset.
O-Ku (Alys Beach)
For something more elevated and unique, O-Ku is a must. Located in Alys Beach, it’s one of the top Japanese dining experiences on 30A. From high-quality sushi to creative cocktails, it’s perfect for a romantic night or a stylish evening out.
Great Southern Cafe (Seaside)
Yes, they’re open for dinner too—and it’s just as good. Think Southern classics with a gourmet twist, fresh seafood, and a warm, lively atmosphere right in the heart of Seaside. They do not take reservations.
Shunk Gulley (Santa Rosa Beach)
A casual, vibrant seafood spot with live music and fantastic oysters. They do not take reservations at this restaurant.
Red Bar
A lively, always-popular restaurant with fantastic food. Be prepared—it’s loud and bustling, but the energy is part of the fun. They do not take reservations at this restaurant.
Old Florida Fish House
Set on Eastern Lake, this beloved spot offers a classic coastal dining experience with fresh seafood, sushi, live music, and a laid-back Old Florida vibe. It’s great for families and groups—and the views at sunset are unbeatable. Reservations are available if you would like to.
Don’t Skip Dessert
No beach trip is complete without something sweet. Here are my top picks:
Frost Bites (Seaside)
A bright, retro food truck serving up shaved ice, frozen custard, and floats—perfect for cooling off after a hot day.
It’s Heavenly (Seaside)
Their shortcakes and ice cream are exactly what you crave after dinner or an evening stroll through Seaside.
Final Tips
- Reservations are essential at popular spots like Old Florida Fish House and Red Bar, especially in peak season.
- If you’re staying in WaterColor, biking or taking a golf cart to Seaside is the easiest way to get around.
- Try to plan early dinners so you can enjoy the sunset—it’s one of the most magical parts of any 30A trip.
Whether you’re in the mood for fresh Gulf seafood, comforting Southern breakfasts, or a sweet treat by the shore, the dining options near WaterColor make every meal feel like a little vacation in itself.
Have questions about where to eat or how to get around? Leave a comment below—I’m happy to share more recommendations from our years of visiting 30A!
