Alys Beach: Florida's Best Kept Secret
I know the heartbreak of
your favorite place transitioning from a little known secret to a popular tourist destination. Over the past year, my emotions have ranged from sad to frustrated to downright mad at the increasing demand of those seeking solace under the Big Sky (Montana is my home state, for those unaware). Intuition has led me to believe that natives and those who grew up vacationing along scenic Highway 30A in the Florida Panhandle share the sentiment.
I say this simply because I have been hesitant to share many details about our recent trip to Alys Beach. Not because 30A holds a piece of my heart, but because I feel for those whose heart it does belong to. When you have something special and rare, like an inspired Alys Beach or an untamed Montana, you long to keep it as undiscovered as possible. But, the truth of the matter is the secret is getting out. So, as it's what I love to do, I am sharing a little about Alys Beach for those of you curious.
Situated on the soothing shores of Florida's Panhandle, Alys Beach is a seaside town unlike any other. With 158 acres to explore, this thoughtfully planned community transports you much farther than the Sunshine State in which it resides. In tune with the natural surroundings, Alys' architecture takes center stage while pulling influence from Bermuda, the Mediterranean and Moorish-designs. On paper, it's an unlikely combination, but, in reality, it's beyond stunning. Cobbled alleys wind through white-washed stucco homes and charming courtyards creating an unusual, but welcomed, backdrop for a beach vacation.
Here, days are intended to be simple and enjoyed with loved ones. Whether swimming in the ocean, leisurely biking between the towns dotting county road 30A, or nodding off while reading a book midday, peace and contentment are cornerstones of an Alys Beach vacation, and who doesn't want that? A community pool, wellness center and beach chair service are a few of the amenities offered that add a resort-like touch to your trip.
An overnight stay in this coveted town requires you to be a homeowner, as there are intentionally no hotels (though this boutique resort which hugs the town's border is set to open in the near future!). The good news for those wanting to experience daily life in Alys Beach for a short period is that some homeowners rent their properties as vacation rentals, which are strictly available through the town (no need to waste your time searching on Airbnb). From small apartments to five-bedroom homes with courtyard pools, the interiors of these high-end rentals reflect the town's refined beach aesthetic, allowing the essence of Alys to saturate every moment of your day.
The Ideal Day
Start your day off on the right foot with breakfast. For those with a sweet tooth, head to the center of town to grab a donut (or two!) from Charlie's Donuts. This food truck is quite popular, so aim to get here as early as possible before the favored varieties sell out (they open at 6:30am). If healthier food (or sleeping in) is more your thing, then Raw & Juicy is the place for you! Enjoy an acai bowl in the shaded outdoor dining room or order a fresh juice to go and hit the town's nature preserve for a morning walk. Late morning is a great time to throw on your swimsuit and hit the beach! Offering private access to residents and rental guests, the beach at Alys is quiet and sparse, ensuring each guest has space and unobstructed views of the ocean. Simply give your name and address, and the staff will set you up with chairs and an umbrella - a seamless way to enjoy the beach, just as if you were at a resort. Be sure to order lunch at the beach and have it delivered to your chairs. It was surprisingly some of the best food we had our entire trip!
If you're looking for some midday activity but aren't ready to leave the beach, rent kayaks or paddle boards and hit the water; otherwise, head to The Bike Shop and rent a set of wheels to explore the surrounding area. Alys Beach is just one of a dozen small towns that line 30A, and each one is worth visiting during your trip. Bike to neighboring Rosemary Beach (a European-inspired village) for some afternoon window shopping, or head west and take in the changing scenery. The Hub is a great destination if you're looking for a not overly strenuous ride and is somewhere to grab a cold drink before turning around. Another alternative for the afternoon is spending time at the stunning community pool, Caliza. This large facility features eye-catching archways in traditional Moorish design, three pools and plenty of lounge-worthy daybeds and chaises. For ultimate relaxation, head to Caliza around 4pm after most guests have left for the day and order a cocktail from the bar while you soak up the day's last few rays.
Before heading to dinner, there are a few retailers in Alys Beach worth stopping in. For simplistic and chic home goods and clothing, visit MAST; for a curated collection of spirits and locally made beers, visit The Bottle Shop at Neat; and for elevated resort wear and logo gear, visit Alys Shoppe. You won't leave empty handed! As far as dining goes, reserving a table at The Citizen is an absolute must! This recently opened coastal tavern serves up not only delicious fare but equally noteworthy dining room vibes. By far the best meal we had throughout 30A. If you don't have a reservation and have to wait for a table, head next door to NEAT for a round of pre-dinner cocktails and appetizers (though equally as hard to snag a table). End the day with a sunset bonfire on the beach or around one of the town's courtyard fire pits before turning in for the night. And there you have it. A perfect day in Alys Beach!
