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Gather at Gulf Place for Food, Fashion and Fun

September 6, 2018 by Audrey Johnson

Gulf Place is a vibrant neighborhood on the west end of Scenic Highway 30A just steps from the Gulf of Mexico.

Visitors and locals love Gulf Place for local art, down to earth shopkeepers, a bustling dining scene, and community events. The town center is across Scenic 30A from Ed Waline Beach Access, one of the most popular beaches in SoWal. Here’s your local’s guide on where to eat, stay, shop and play in Gulf Place.

Whether you are staying at Gulf Place or just hanging out, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings any time of day. Start your morning with coffee and a cinnamon roll at Sunrise Coffee Co. Pick up local honey and other goods while you’re there. Get your taco and margarita fix at La Playa, where you can dine outside in the salty breeze. Restock your liquor cabinet at Shunk Gulley and grab a pie from Pizza by the Sea to enjoy with a cold one.

Praise the lard at The Perfect Pig. Belly up to the full bar or grab a table with friends. We recommend the open-faced roasted gulf shrimp sandwich on brioche bread with heirloom cherry tomatoes, crisped prosciutto, creamy goat cheese and lemon dill vinaigrette. Stop next door at the restaurant’s Deep South Market for special Charcuterie jellies and sides, as well as novelties like hand towels and games.

The town center is best known for the Artists at Gulf Place, tiny houses filled with big creativity. Buy your pot from Dwight, a local beloved potter with a great sense of humor. Find t shirts, jewelry, crafts, wall art and more as you peruse the co-op and support living artists.

Whether you aim to relax or take it to the max, Gulf Place is the perfect spot to treat yourself. Just steps from the bustling Ed Waline Beach Access is YOLO Board + Bike. Rent a board to take out into the Gulf, or a bike to cruise along the Scenic Highway at this one stop shop for adventure. If you’re more in need of a spa day than an adventure, head over to Jade Nails for a mani and pedi, or Ocean Elements Day Spa for a massage.

Jewel Toffier Clothing is an upscale women’s boutique with classic investment pieces for the luxe wardrobe. Garments from the local brand are designed in house and made in the USA. Quality fabrics and perfect accessories will have you looking and feeling like a million bucks. Affinity Boutique’s variety of women’s clothing, accessories, home décor, local jewelry and art have a quintessential beachy vibe. Soho has two locations at Gulf Place, Soho Beach and Soho Style. Soho Beach caters to contemporary women’s fashions (think juniors and misses), while Soho Style has a more sophisticated appeal.


Local handmade jewelry and art at Affinity Boutique. 

Gulf Place has something for your little dog, too. Furry Fanatics has everything you could possibly need for your furry family member. Find food and treats, including cookies! Also available, clothing, books, leashes, and squeaky toys. Bring in your pup and go wild! SoWal Insider Tip: 30A Vet is open at Gulf Place, making it a one stop shop for pet care.

Gulf Place hosts some fun community events throughout the year. From Songwriters Festival and outdoor concerts to Third Thursday Wine Walkabouts, Gulf Place always has something going on in their grassy amphitheater. Stay tuned to the SoWal.com events calendar for upcoming events. Don't miss Gulf Place Sunday night Fall concerts at The Gulley Amphitheater during the most beautiful time of year in South Walton.  The annual 30A Half Marathon & 5K is coming up October 14. On Halloween morning, the Witches of South Walton will gather in Gulf Place for their annual bike ride and brunch. 

Gulf Place has more than 200 vacation rental options available for those who need a getaway. The Scenic 30A oasis is the complete vacation spot with rental condos, swimming, tennis, dining, shopping and the beauty of the clear, turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Guests are encouraged to go at their own pace, whether they need an active vacation or time and space to relax and unwind. Onsite reservations and check-in at the ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rental office located in Gulf Place. Visit www.gulfplacefl.com/accomodations to book a stay.

Gulf Place is located on the quiet end of Scenic Highway 30A, at the intersection of CR 30A and CR 393, across the street from Ed Walline Beach Access. Visit www.gulfplacefl.com to see all the restaurants, artists and merchants. Stay up to date with the latest on Facebook.

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Audrey Johnson's picture

Upon realizing that life is too short not to follow her dreams, Audrey moved to the beach and became a writer. SoWal’s pristine beaches inspire her to explore further, look deeper, and do better.

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