Sandy feet, salty hair and a cone in hand is how we like to end a beach day, and Ice Cream Shoppe at 30A makes that easy. We send our guests here in Santa Rosa Beach when the kids need a treat and nobody wants a long drive after dinner.
What to expect when you stop in for a scoop
It's a small, bright pink shop with 32 flavors in the case and a wall of candy, chocolate and fudge right next to the register. We usually keep it simple with a scoop or two, but the floats are worth ordering if you're in the mood for something old-school.
The staff here is the reason we keep coming back. They're patient with indecisive kids, happy to talk you through the flavors and the prices won't wreck your vacation budget the way beach-town desserts sometimes do.
Good to know before your treat run
Pints are available to take back to the rental, which is our move when we'd rather eat dessert on the porch than in the car. There's a coffee shop right next door too, so the grown-ups can grab something while everyone else picks flavors.
Evenings after dinner are the busiest stretch, especially in summer. If you're with a big group, send one person in to order while everyone else waits outside.
Insider Tips
- We'd get here right after dinner in shoulder season and skip the summer rush that builds later in the evening.
- Cotton candy is a reliable pick for kids, and we've never had anyone complain about it.
- Ask for a sample before you commit. The flavor names are playful and don't always tell you what you're getting.
- Grab a pint to go if you're staying nearby. We like eating dessert on the porch better than in the car.
- Don't skip the candy and fudge case by the register. We usually walk out with more than we planned.
- The coffee shop next door is an easy pairing if you want a latte while the kids work on their cones.
