There are many beautiful and majestic qualities the Florida Gulf Coast has to offer. From gorgeous beaches and fresh coastal breezes to long days in the sun, everyone can agree that vacationing in Florida is amazing. One often overlooked activity is stargazing along 30A. Admiring the night sky is something you will want to add to your vacation itinerary.
For great tips and things to do during your next 30A vacation, get this FREE Destination Guide.
Stargazing is a family-friendly and free activity that is fun for all ages. It is also a fabulous addition to any romantic getaway. Keep reading to discover how to make the most of viewing the night sky during your stay.
Where to Stargaze on 30A
If you are enchanted by the stars, planets, constellations, meteors, comets, and the moon, you won’t have to go far when you stay at Adagio. After dark, walk out to the beach from your vacation rental condo and be swept away in the magic of the night sky. Standing on Blue Mountain Beach, you get a 360-degree view of the stars. You can look south, southeast, and southwest over the Gulf of Mexico and in all other directions over land. Because Adagio is located in a less populated area of 30A, you will have less light pollution and better stargazing.
If you happen to be out and about for the evening or grabbing dinner at one of our fantastic restaurants, stop for an epic sunset or to stargaze on your way back to Adagio is an excellent idea. Here are a few other places you may consider for stargazing:
- Several spots off Highway 20 on the north side of Choctawhatchee Bay
- The beach between Okaloosa Island and Destin Bridge (Gulf Side)
- Seagrove Beach
- WaterColor
- From a dinner cruise
- Grayton Beach
The Best Time for Stargazing
The best time to stargaze along 30A depends on what you hope to view in the night sky. Some astrological events occur at a specific time, so be sure to consult websites like Time and Date. You can learn the time of the sunset, moonrise, planets visible, moon phase, special occurrences, and so much more for your location. An Interactive Night Sky Map is available to help you with location, time, and direction.
Of course, after the sun sets is typically the best time for stargazing. After sunset and until sunrise (the next morning) is the best time for viewing the night sky. When the moon is new or nearly new, it offers the darkest sky for seeing stars. However, viewing a full moon over the Gulf is also an unforgettable sight to behold.
During the summer, be sure to take note of the annual Perseid Meteor Shower that occurs every August.
Tip: No matter what time you decide to look up at the stars, be sure to give your eyes plenty of time to adjust to the dark for optimal viewing.
Stargazing Tech & Accessories
In addition to helpful websites, such as the one mentioned above, there are also excellent resources for making your night of stargazing successful.
Apps
Download a few Apps on your phone to help you navigate the night sky. These will help you track constellations, stars, planets, and more.
- Star Walk 2 (best for beginners)
- Star Chart (free)
- SkySafari 7 (great overall app)
- NightSky 11 (best for Apple users)
Accessories
Here is a short list of accessories that may come in useful while you are out on your stargazing adventure:
- Blanket/Towel (for lying on the beach or sitting on the ground)
- Telescope
- Binoculars
- Flashlight with red lens (won’t disrupt your night vision as much as white light)
- Paper star chart
- Bug spray
Stay with Adagio 30A for the Best Stargazing Fun
Adagio 30A offers an unforgettable, family-friendly vacation experience. With three and four-bedroom condos, your entire family can enjoy days of playing in the sun and nights of relaxing under the stars. Browse the selection of condos today and find one that is perfect for your next family adventure to the Florida Gulf Coast. From sunrise to moonset, you will be seeing stars when you stay at beautiful Adagio.