Top 5 Bookstores on 30A
Guide to five standout bookstores along Florida’s 30A — indie shops, tiny community book swaps, a coastal library, and a used-media treasure trove.
Looking for the perfect bookstore along Florida’s scenic 30A? Here are five standout spots for book lovers, each offering something special:
- Sundog Books: A Seaside staple since 1986, with 22,000+ titles, Southern reads, and a cozy porch.
- The Hidden Lantern Bookstore: Nestled in Rosemary Beach, this shop combines 15,000 curated books with a fine art gallery.
- Grayton Beach Book Swap: A simple, free “take a book, leave a book” setup at Grayton Beach’s public accesses.
- Walton County Coastal Branch Library: A full-service library with books, tech tools, and programs for all ages.
- 2nd & Charles: A Miramar Beach treasure trove for used books, vinyl, games, and collectibles.
Whether you want a quiet reading nook, a bargain, or a community vibe, these spots have you covered.
Top 5 Bookstores on 30A: Quick Comparison Guide
1. Sundog Books
Sundog Books has been a cornerstone of Seaside's Central Square since 1986, when Bob and Linda White transformed a humble plywood shed into what is now a beloved local treasure. In fact, Southern Living Magazine named it Florida's #1 Bookshop to Visit in January 2023.
Inside its 1,800 square feet, you'll find over 22,000 titles. The store features sections that highlight Southern fiction, Florida-centric reads, local cookbooks, and architecture books that celebrate Seaside's New Urbanism style. Whether you're picking up a $4.99 children’s favorite like Bluey: The Beach or diving into specialty architecture books priced between $33.00 and $95.00, there’s something for everyone. Adding to the charm, the store’s wraparound porches, complete with a front swing and creaky plywood floors, invite visitors to linger while enjoying the sea breeze.
Glover, the store's resident blue heeler, adds a touch of whimsy to the experience. The dedicated staff - 5 full-time and 10 part-time employees, many with over a decade of experience - are always ready to offer personalized book recommendations. They even host author signings on the front porch, bringing the literary community closer together.
But Sundog Books isn’t just about books. Shoppers can browse Official 30A Gear, Sundog-branded mugs, clothing, and greeting cards. Coffee lovers can enjoy Jittery Joe's Coffee while taking advantage of free Wi-Fi. Upstairs, Central Square Records offers a treasure trove of vintage vinyl for music enthusiasts. And for a fun twist, the store’s "Books & Cocktails Pairing Series" presents 15 craft cocktail recipes matched with book suggestions.
Located at 89 Central Square, Sundog Books is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., continuing its 35+ year tradition of enriching the 30A community. Stay tuned for a look at another literary gem along 30A - The Hidden Lantern Bookstore.
2. The Hidden Lantern Bookstore
Tucked away in Rosemary Beach at 84 N. Barrett Square, The Hidden Lantern Bookstore has been a haven for book lovers since 2011. With around 15,000 carefully selected titles, owner Diane Brady has created a collection that spans genres like biographies, bestsellers, fine art, Christian fiction, mystery, philosophy, and poetry. It’s a treasure trove for readers seeking something special.
Stepping inside feels like entering a scene from C.S. Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia. A wardrobe-shaped bookshelf greets visitors, and a crystal chandelier reminiscent of the Dawn Treader adds a touch of magic. The dark wooden shelves, deep colors, high ceilings, and cozy seating area combine to create an atmosphere that invites quiet exploration. As StyleBlueprint put it, the space is "quiet, artful, and beautifully curated... an elegant and meditative space - perfect for those who want a thoughtful browsing experience".
But The Hidden Lantern is more than just a bookstore. It also houses a fine art gallery featuring contemporary works by regional artists. The store keeps its calendar packed with engaging events, from author signings to painting classes. Notable authors like John Wemlinger, Kendra Hoey, Deborah Rine, and Bennett Williams have all made appearances. For families, the kids' corner is a standout, and the seasonal Turtle Watch Story Time - held every Thursday at 10:00 AM from early March through mid-April - delights young readers.
“Our passion is helping match the customer with what they are looking for - even if they don’t know what that is yet”.
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, The Hidden Lantern also supports online shopping through Bookshop.org, where 25% of proceeds go directly back to the store. It’s a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to discover their next favorite read.
Next, we’ll take a look at a unique literary gem at Grayton Beach Book Swap.
3. Grayton Beach Book Swap
Grayton Beach Book Swap is a refreshing alternative to the usual bookstore experience. Found at the two public beach accesses in Grayton Beach, this initiative invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy a simple yet meaningful exchange: take a book, leave a book - or just grab one if you're in need of a beach read. The setup features two handcrafted wooden and glass boxes, designed to resemble birdhouses, blending perfectly with the laid-back vibe of the area.
The project was brought to life by the Grayton Beach Neighborhood Association, a group of about 200 dedicated homeowners and residents. Woodworker Sean Merideth built the boxes using reclaimed materials, including old Seaside windows. His motivation? The community connection this idea fosters. As Sean shared:
I loved the idea, that neighborly aspect of people putting books in the boxes and them finding their way to someone else. I wanted to be a part of it.
The selection of books changes quickly. You might find bestsellers, quirky magazines, cookbooks, or even children's stories - but don’t wait too long, as the boxes are often emptied the same day they’re restocked.
Grayton locals Billy and Kelly Buzzett take care of maintaining these boxes, occasionally stamping books with a 30A mark as a free keepsake. Billy captures the essence of Grayton Beach perfectly:
Grayton is not normal. It's a little irregular. It's a little rough around the edges, but it all seems to work so well. The imperfections are what makes it perfect.
Heading to the beach? Bring along a finished book to leave behind. It’s a small way to keep this wonderful community tradition alive.
4. Walton County Coastal Branch Library
The Coastal Branch Library in Walton County plays a vital role in 30A's literary scene, offering a mix of traditional library services and engaging community programs.
Located at 437 Greenway Trail in Santa Rosa Beach, this 12,572-square-foot library is more than just a place to borrow books. Visitors can access a wide range of materials, including books, audiobooks, DVDs, large print editions, and reference resources. The library also lends tech tools like Chromebooks, mobile hotspots, STEAM kits, and literacy tablets. For families, there's a dedicated Children's section, while history enthusiasts can explore the Historic Section, which includes local archives and a video docu-series about the area’s past.
The library also houses the Friends of the Library resale Book Shop, where visitors can purchase used books at affordable prices, with proceeds going toward expanding the library's collection. For even more accessibility, a free book rack and a tiny library onsite offer additional reading options.
Throughout the year, the library hosts a variety of programs to engage the community. Highlights include a winter speaker series (Wednesdays at 10:00 AM, January through March), Preschool Story Time every Thursday at 10:00 AM, and a Lego Club on Wednesdays at 3:30 PM. Fitness enthusiasts can join Tai Chi and Yoga Flow classes, while book lovers can meet monthly for the Book Lovers' Club (second Tuesday, September–May).
Beyond its walls, the library manages 30 Tiny Libraries scattered across Walton County and collaborates with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to provide free, age-appropriate books to children in the area. Open Monday through Saturday, the library also offers free Wi-Fi and public computers for all visitors.
With its extensive resources and community-driven events, the Coastal Branch Library is a cornerstone of 30A's thriving literary culture.
5. 2nd & Charles
Just a short drive from the 30A corridor in Miramar Beach, 2nd & Charles offers a shopping experience that’s more like a treasure hunt than a traditional bookstore. Located at 130 Scenic Gulf Drive, this 8,000-square-foot entertainment hub opened its doors in November 2021 and has quickly become a go-to spot for collectors and bargain hunters alike. Whether you’re after books, vinyl records, or video games, this place has something for everyone.
The store operates on a unique buyback model, sourcing most of its inventory from customers trading in items for cash or store credit. General Manager Mia Otillio explains:
We accept everything from books to CDs, video games, comic books, action figures, and other collectables - anything that's considered entertainment media. We're very different, mostly in the fact that we are primarily used as opposed to new.
This approach keeps prices impressively low. For instance, you can snag a copy of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo for just $5.95 (65% off retail) or A Court of Thorns and Roses for $9.95 (48% off).
The store’s inventory is divided into four main sections: young adult/graphic novels/sci-fi, fiction, children's books, and non-fiction. But it doesn’t stop at books. You’ll also find vinyl records, DVDs, Funko Pops, action figures, puzzles, and tech accessories. Notably, children’s books are the top-selling category, and there’s even a dedicated “beach reads” section perfect for vacationers. This focus on exchange and collectability truly sets 2nd & Charles apart from other literary spots in the area.
According to Otillio, the store’s ever-changing inventory and unbeatable prices make it a haven for shoppers on the hunt for rare finds or great deals. Open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, every visit promises something new to discover.
Conclusion
30A's bookstores serve as cornerstones of South Walton's identity, weaving together threads of history, art, and community. Sundog Books, with its 35-year presence in Seaside, stands as a testament to this legacy. Similarly, The Hidden Lantern in Rosemary Beach enchants visitors with its Narnia-like charm, offering more than just books - it’s an experience. These spaces reflect their neighborhoods' unique characters, supporting local authors, hosting literary gatherings, and preserving the area's stories through treasures like those found at the Coastal Branch Library.
These venues go beyond being mere bookstores - they create cultural hubs. Sundog Books, for example, shares its space with Central Square Records, making it a lively spot for both book and music lovers. The Hidden Lantern pairs its literary offerings with an art gallery and painting classes, enhancing its creative appeal. Even the Grayton Beach Book Swap, crafted from repurposed Seaside materials, embodies the relaxed, unpretentious vibe of its community.
Whether you're hunting for a personalized book recommendation, exploring bargains at 2nd & Charles, or picking up a free read from a tiny library, there's something for every book lover along 30A. Many of these books carry a distinctive 30A touch, adding a personal connection to your literary finds. Together, these spaces highlight the area's seamless blend of literature, art, and community spirit.
So, as you plan your 30A adventure, keep an eye on local events and make time to visit these cherished venues. They’re not just stops on a map - they’re vibrant gathering places where the love for books, creativity, and connection thrives.
FAQs
Which 30A bookstore is best for kids?
Nestled in Rosemary Beach, The Hidden Lantern Bookstore is a haven for kids who love to read. With a carefully chosen collection of children’s books, it offers young readers the perfect place to discover new stories and let their imaginations soar.
Where can I find free or cheap books on 30A?
You can discover free or low-cost books on 30A through local tiny libraries and community book exchanges. Take a stroll along South Walton's beaches to find these charming tiny libraries, or stop by the shared book exchange at the Visitor Information Center. These spots encourage a love for reading by offering books at no charge, making it simple to pick up your next read while enjoying the area.
Which spots have author events or classes?
Sundog Books and The Hidden Lantern Bookstore are fantastic spots for connecting with authors and celebrating the joy of reading. At Sundog Books, you’ll find regular book signings, giving readers a chance to meet writers and dive deeper into their works. Meanwhile, The Hidden Lantern goes a step further by hosting not only author signings but also special storytime events, making it a great destination for families and book lovers alike. Both places create a welcoming atmosphere to engage with authors and immerse yourself in the local literary scene.
