Scenic Highway 98
A picturesque coastal drive along Florida's Gulf Coast, renowned for its sugar-white sands and turquoise waters.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Scenic Highway 98
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque coastal drive along Florida's Gulf Coast, renowned for its sugar-white sands and turquoise waters.
"The most beautiful drive in Florida! Miles of white sand and emerald water."
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Drive early or late to avoid peak traffic, especially during summer and holidays.
🍤 Savor Local Seafood
Don't miss fresh catches at local spots like Kenny D's for a true taste of the coast.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gulf Coast Vistas
Drive along the sparkling Gulf of Mexico, with pristine beaches and turquoise waters at every turn.

Kenny D's Beach Bar
Destin
A local favorite for 23 years, serving up Cajun-inspired seafood with a perfect batter.

30A Underpass Art
Between Hwy 98 and Scenic Hwy 30A
Explore vibrant murals and replica sculptures, a new artistic hub connecting communities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Breeze
Local Flavors & Hidden Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Drive early or late to avoid peak traffic, especially during summer and holidays.
🍤 Savor Local Seafood
Don't miss fresh catches at local spots like Kenny D's for a true taste of the coast.
🎨 Discover Public Art
Check out the new underpass art installation connecting Hwy 98 to 30A for a splash of color.
🏃♀️ Coastal Running Routes
Explore residential areas off Gulf Shore Drive for longer running routes during training.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Drive early or late to avoid peak traffic, especially during summer and holidays.
🍤 Savor Local Seafood
Don't miss fresh catches at local spots like Kenny D's for a true taste of the coast.
🎨 Discover Public Art
Check out the new underpass art installation connecting Hwy 98 to 30A for a splash of color.
🏃♀️ Coastal Running Routes
Explore residential areas off Gulf Shore Drive for longer running routes during training.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning Gulf Coast scenery and the abundance of beautiful beaches along Scenic Highway 98. The local seafood and relaxed atmosphere are frequently praised, with many highlighting the charm of places like Kenny D's. Some find traffic and parking challenging during peak seasons.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Scenic Highway 98 runs along the coast of the Florida Panhandle, primarily through Destin and the 30A area. It's easily accessible from major highways like US-98.
While there isn't extensive public transit directly on the highway, local trolleys and ride-sharing services are available in popular areas like Destin and 30A.
Driving is the most common way to experience Scenic Highway 98, allowing you to stop at various beaches and attractions. Biking is also popular on designated paths.
Parking availability varies greatly. Many public beach access points have parking lots, but they can fill up quickly. Some restaurants and shops offer dedicated parking.
Yes, RVs can navigate Scenic Highway 98, but be mindful of narrower sections and parking limitations, especially in popular beach towns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, driving on Scenic Highway 98 itself is free. However, some state parks or attractions along the route may have entrance fees.
Generally, Scenic Highway 98 does not have tolls. However, some specific bridges or roads that connect to it might have minor tolls.
Operating hours vary by attraction. Beach access is typically from dawn to dusk. Restaurants and shops have their own hours, often extending into the evening.
Many public beach access points are free. However, some areas might have parking fees or require a pass, especially during peak season.
Local tourism websites for Destin and the 30A area, as well as social media pages for specific towns, often list upcoming events and festivals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular spots include Destin's beaches, Henderson Beach State Park, and the numerous public access points along the 30A corridor, known for their sugar-white sand.
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and exploring local shops and restaurants. The highway is also great for scenic drives and photography.
Absolutely! The coastline offers stunning sunrise and sunset views. Look for piers, jetties, and unique beach access points for picturesque shots.
Yes, many sections have dedicated bike lanes or are wide enough for cycling. The 30A area is particularly bike-friendly with paved paths.
You might spot dolphins in the Gulf, various shorebirds, and sea turtles nesting during the season. Keep an eye out for marine life from the shore or piers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Fresh Gulf seafood is king! Look for grouper, shrimp, oysters, and local specialties. Cajun-inspired dishes are also popular.
Yes, many restaurants cater to families, offering kid's menus and casual dining atmospheres. Beachfront cafes and seafood shacks are great options.
Numerous beach bars, casual seafood joints, and cafes line Scenic Highway 98, offering everything from quick bites to relaxed meals with a view.
While known for casual beach vibes, you can find upscale dining experiences in Destin and along the 30A corridor, often featuring gourmet seafood and ocean views.
Many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask your server.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for beach and coastal shots.
Public beach access points, piers (like the Destin Jetties), the new 30A underpass art, and charming beach towns provide excellent photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive beach scenes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting dolphins. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water shots.
Drone usage is often restricted in state parks and near beaches due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local ordinances before flying.
Videos mention tunnels like those on Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
or Needles Highway. While not on Scenic Highway 98, these highlight unique road features. For Scenic Highway 98, focus on coastal landscapes and beach architecture.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for restaurants with kid-friendly menus and casual atmospheres. Many beachfront spots offer outdoor seating with views that will entertain children. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy more space on the beach. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and beach toys for endless fun.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Consider incorporating stops at local seafood shacks for authentic flavors and exploring the unique art installations like the 30A underpass. The highway is also a great base for exploring nearby state parks and nature preserves. Remember to factor in potential traffic delays, especially during peak travel times, to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable road trip.
🏃♀️ Fitness Focused Travelers
Beyond running, the calm Gulf waters are perfect for swimming and paddleboarding workouts. You can rent equipment at various beachside vendors. Early mornings are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities, offering cooler temperatures and beautiful sunrise views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving and Navigation
Consider using apps that provide real-time traffic updates. For those planning longer drives or exploring side roads, downloading offline maps is a good precaution. The highway is well-maintained, but some areas might have construction or temporary closures, so checking local advisories before you set off is recommended.
While Scenic Highway 98 itself is free to drive, some of the tunnels mentioned in other scenic highway contexts (like Zion-Mount Carmel Highway or Needles Highway ) often have associated fees for oversized vehicles. This is not typically the case for Scenic Highway 98, which focuses on coastal beauty rather than dramatic mountain passes.
Beach Access and Activities
Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and collecting seashells. For the more adventurous, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are readily available through rental services. Many visitors enjoy simply strolling along the shore, taking in the stunning coastal scenery. Keep an eye out for dolphins, which are frequently spotted playing in the Gulf waters.
Beyond the beach, you'll find opportunities for fishing from piers or charter boats. Some areas also offer nature trails and opportunities for birdwatching. The 30A underpass art installation provides a unique cultural stop, blending art with the coastal landscape.
Local Dining and Culture
Beyond the culinary scene, the area boasts a relaxed, coastal culture. You'll find charming boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops, especially in the 30A communities. The vibe is generally laid-back, encouraging visitors to slow down and enjoy the beach lifestyle.
For those interested in local history and community, exploring the smaller towns along the highway can be rewarding. The recent opening of the Highway 98 Underpass art installation signifies a growing appreciation for public art and community engagement in the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit