Florida's Scenic Highway 30A is a haven for art lovers. Stretching 20 miles along the Emerald Coast, it offers a vibrant mix of galleries, studios, and events that showcase local talent. From Grayton Beach to Rosemary Beach, each community along 30A features its own artistic charm, with highlights like:
- Grayton Beach: Home to The Studio Gallery and Clint Eagar Design Gallery, offering diverse works and monthly First Friday Art Walks.
- Santa Rosa Beach: Explore The Warehouses of Santa Rosa Beach, where you can watch artists at work in open studios.
- Rosemary & Inlet Beach: Visit Curate Gallery or 30A Design Studio for contemporary art and coastal-inspired pieces.
Don't miss the 30A Art Walk, held on the first Friday of every month, or seasonal rotations at The Foster Gallery. Use resources like the Artists of 30A website or sowal.co for maps, artist directories, and event updates. Whether you're looking for a masterpiece or a hands-on workshop, 30A offers something for everyone.
30A Art Gallery Guide: Locations and Key Features by Beach Community
Modus Photography Art Gallery in Grayton Beach located off of 30A
Art Galleries in Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach is the heart of 30A's art scene, offering a walkable area filled with artistic gems. A great starting point is The Shops of Grayton at 26 Logan Lane, where you'll find a variety of galleries showcasing unique styles and talents. Let’s dive into a couple of standout spots in the area.
The Studio Gallery
For more than 25 years, The Studio Gallery has been a cornerstone of Grayton Beach’s art community. Located at 26 Logan Lane, Unit D, this 1,400-square-foot space is a treasure trove of creativity. The gallery features a mix of contemporary and traditional works from Southeastern artists, including acrylic and oil paintings, shell art, handcrafted jewelry, and coastal-inspired home accessories. If you're in town for the First Friday Art Walk, don’t miss their extended hours until 8:00 PM. It’s not just about the art - you’ll also enjoy refreshments and the chance to meet the artists themselves.
Clint Eagar Design Gallery
At 57B Uptown Grayton Circle, the Clint Eagar Design Gallery offers a more personal touch, featuring the original works of its owner, Clint Eagar. A talented industrial designer and artist, Eagar is known for his African wildlife pieces and coastal-themed abstracts. Like The Studio Gallery, this spot participates in the monthly First Friday Art Walk from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, making it an excellent follow-up destination for your evening art stroll.
Art Studios in Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach is home to a vibrant arts scene, with warehouse-based studios where you can watch artists bring their creations to life. One standout location is The Warehouses of Santa Rosa Beach, a collection of nine spacious metal buildings at 416 S. County Road 393. These warehouses house numerous artist studios and artisans, making it a hub for creativity and inspiration. Since many of these studios are active workspaces, it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm their hours before planning your visit.
Here are two must-visit studio experiences in the area:
Artists Warehouse of South Walton
Located at 416 S. Highway 393, Unit #5.4, the Artists Warehouse of South Walton highlights the work of Krista Vind alongside other talented local artists. This collaborative space offers a unique opportunity to witness the artistic process up close, giving visitors a peek into the world of creative expression.
Melissa Mercer Brown Studio and Polli Studio
At 416 Co. Highway 393 South, Building 3, Unit 1, two artists share a dynamic studio space. Melissa Mercer Brown focuses on coastal and landscape art, using oil, acrylic, and mixed media to capture the beauty of the region. Meanwhile, Polli Youngbeck from Polli Studio takes a distinctive approach to traditional fine arts, working with a palette knife technique that sets her work apart. Both artists actively create on-site, and Polli also offers lessons for those eager to learn her signature methods.
Visitor Veronica Diaz shared her experience, saying:
Love this venue! Daily art projects allow for direct interaction with artists.
Art in Rosemary Beach and Inlet Beach
Rosemary Beach and Inlet Beach are home to a thriving art scene, inspired by the area's distinctive West Indies-style architecture and charming pedestrian-only wooden walkways. These elements provide a creative spark for many local artists. As artist Christine Ramey puts it:
The artist in me finds lots of inspiration at Rosemary Beach while I sit and watch people go by... you could be the inspiration for a local artist.
This artistic energy is showcased in two notable venues along 30A.
Curate
Curate, located at 72 Main Street, has been a cornerstone of the local art community since 1999. Founded by Gary Handler in partnership with Atlanta's Vinings Gallery, this gallery features a mix of national and emerging talent, including artists like Simon Kenevan, Steven Quartly, Josef Kote, Nicoletta Belletti, Anna Sweet, and Houston Llew. The collection spans contemporary paintings, sculptures, and photography, making it a must-visit spot for art enthusiasts.
For an even richer experience, consider attending the First Friday art walks. Just be sure to call ahead to confirm event times.
30A Design Studio
Over in Inlet Beach, 30A Design Studio at 12805 US-98, Unit P101, focuses on art tailored for coastal living. Nearby, the 30Avenue development is home to V. Lala Gallery, which offers art classes open to all ages.
Art lovers can also support local causes through the Rosemary Beach Foundation's art auctions. And if you're visiting on a Sunday, don't miss the Farmer's Market (9:00 AM–1:00 PM), where you’ll find local makers and artists alongside fresh produce.
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30A Art Walk and Local Art Events
Community art events are a vibrant way to connect with the local art scene, offering opportunities to meet artists, enjoy live music, and immerse yourself in creative energy. From gallery tours to lively art walks and seasonal showcases, there's always something to discover.
30A Art Walk
Held on the first Friday of every month, the First Friday Art Walk invites visitors to explore galleries along Highway 30A, stretching from Miramar Beach to Rosemary Beach. Participating galleries stay open until 8:00 PM, offering new exhibits, refreshments, and live music to enhance the experience.
For a smooth evening, consider calling ahead to confirm gallery hours. To make navigation easier, you can grab a printed 30A Art Map from over 100 South Walton businesses or at the Visit South Walton welcome center. This monthly event keeps the local art scene buzzing with energy. If you're visiting later in the month, check out the Third Thursday Wine Walkabouts at Gulf Place, which also features the lively "Battle of the Brushes" live painting competition.
The Foster Gallery Seasonal Rotations
The Foster Gallery, managed by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, serves as a hub for local creativity. With a rotating lineup of at least 12 artists, the gallery keeps its offerings fresh year-round. These seasonal rotations highlight a mix of emerging and established talent, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting. Frequent visitors are always treated to a variety of styles and perspectives.
Online Resources for Finding Local Art
Planning ahead can make all the difference when exploring art galleries that align with your interests. Thankfully, online platforms now offer tools like interactive maps and curated artist directories to help you navigate the creative scene along 30A.
Artists of 30A Website
The Artists of 30A website (artistsof30a.com) serves as a go-to hub for discovering professional visual artists along Highway 30A. Its standout feature? An interactive "30A Artist Map" that highlights over 100 art venues scattered across the coastline.
"Florida's Scenic Hwy 30A has long been known as a haven for creatives... Here you will find visual artists of all media and style." – Artists of 30A
The map can be expanded to full-screen mode, making it easy to chart your route through beachside communities like Grayton Beach and Seaside. Plus, the site’s "Updates" section keeps you informed about late-night gallery events during seasonal art walks - perfect for those who want to experience the local art scene after hours.
To broaden your exploration, another online resource offers a more community-focused perspective.
sowal.co as a Community Guide
sowal.co blends art with South Walton’s dynamic lifestyle. The platform features the "30A Gallery Trail", which organizes must-visit artists and galleries in an easy-to-follow west-to-east layout along the coast. For a more curated experience, check out their specialized guides like "Top 5 Local Artists to Watch on 30A" or the "Where the Locals Go" section, which highlights insider gems such as Moon Creek Gallery in Grayton Beach.
"If you look behind the brush, tool, or camera you'll see that each artist is a valuable part of the fabric of our community." – SoWal Staff
The site also includes a calendar packed with art festivals, gallery events, and seasonal exhibits. Beyond just art, sowal.co weaves in travel tips, local dining recommendations, hidden beach spots, and community happenings, making it a one-stop resource for exploring South Walton’s vibrant culture.
Conclusion
This guide has highlighted the vibrant art scene along 30A, showcasing the variety of venues and events that bring local creativity to life. From the well-established galleries in Grayton Beach and Santa Rosa Beach to the open studios in Rosemary Beach and Inlet Beach, there’s no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in the artistic spirit of South Walton. Whether you’re admiring the works of over 70 artists at The Studio Gallery or strolling through the First Friday Art Walk, it’s clear that art is an integral part of the coastal culture here.
To stay in the loop, follow hashtags like #30a and #southwalton on Instagram or visit sowal.co's event calendar, where you’ll find details on seasonal exhibits and community art festivals.
Get hands-on with the local art scene by joining workshops and events. Try your hand at a glass collage class at The Shard Shop, explore pottery-making at Fired Up!, or mark your calendar for the Biophilia Art Festival happening on January 17th, 24th, and 31st, 2026.
Beyond personal enrichment, the art community here also gives back. Local artists contribute to charity auctions supporting causes like the Alaqua Animal Refuge and the Cultural Arts Alliance. By visiting these galleries, participating in events, and engaging with the local art community, you’re not just enjoying the beauty of 30A - you’re becoming part of its creative soul.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit art galleries along 30A?
The First Friday Art Walk is a fantastic opportunity to dive into the lively gallery scene along 30A. Taking place on the first Friday of every month from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., this event often features galleries staying open late, with perks like refreshments, live music, and sometimes even discounts. Since the lineup can change depending on the month or season, it’s smart to check ahead or give the galleries a call to confirm details.
If you prefer a quieter visit, most galleries welcome guests during their regular hours, which are usually between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. or 12:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For example, the Foster Gallery in Santa Rosa Beach is open daily from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., while its Seaside location operates Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
For up-to-date information on gallery hours, seasonal happenings, and art walks, head over to the sowal.co digital guide, your go-to resource for South Walton's art scene.
How can I join art workshops or classes on 30A?
Joining art workshops or classes along 30A is a fun and straightforward way to immerse yourself in the local creative scene. Start by exploring studios or venues that host workshops. For example, CHROMA in Santa Rosa Beach offers acrylic painting classes, while Artists at Gulf Place provides opportunities to try pottery or painting.
To get started, check their schedules online or give them a call to find details like dates, times, and any specific requirements (such as age or skill level). Most workshops make it easy to sign up through their website or over the phone, and fees are usually listed in U.S. dollars. While many classes include supplies, it’s always smart to double-check and bring along comfortable clothing and any personal essentials you might need.
Once you’re signed up, just show up ready to create and enjoy the experience! To stay in the loop about future classes and events, keep an eye on local community calendars or South Walton-focused guides.
How can I explore the local art scene along 30A?
Discovering the lively art scene along 30A is a breeze with the right tools. Start by picking up a 30A Art Map, a printed guide available at the Visit South Walton Welcome Center or over 100 local spots like galleries, cafés, and boutiques. This handy map highlights key destinations, making it easy to plan your artistic adventure.
Prefer a digital approach? Head to Sowal's searchable business directory. You can filter for galleries, studios, or art events to tailor your experience. For an even more curated journey, check out Sowal's 30A Gallery Trail - a pre-planned guide to some of the area's standout artists and galleries.
Pro Tip: Use both the printed map and the online directory for a seamless experience, whether you're exploring on foot, by bike, or in your car!
