Scenic Highway 98 - Arizona’s Joshua Tree Scenic Parkway along Highway 93 between Wickenburg and Kingman.
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Scenic Highway 98

4.6
·491k reviews·Destin, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Golden hour light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Scenic Highway 98 - Arizona’s Joshua Tree Scenic Parkway along Highway 93 between Wickenburg and Kingman.

Scenic Highway 98

Best Time

Early mornings

Golden hour light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The most beautiful drive in Florida! Miles of white sand and emerald water."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gulf Coast Vistas

Gulf Coast Vistas

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

Kenny D's Beach Bar

Kenny D's Beach Bar

Destin

A local favorite for 23 years, serving up Cajun-inspired seafood with a perfect batter.

30A Underpass Art

30A Underpass Art

Between Hwy 98 and Scenic Hwy 30A

Explore vibrant murals and replica sculptures, a new artistic hub connecting communities.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Coastal Breeze

Scenic Highway 98 offers stunning Gulf Coast views. Plan for beach access and potential traffic, especially during peak season. Consider early mornings or late afternoons for the best light and fewer crowds.

Local Flavors & Hidden Gems

Discover local eateries and unique spots along Highway 98. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood with Gulf views. Look for spots popular with locals for an authentic experience.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Sunset views, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of the world’s most scenic drives. Highway 93 connects Banff and Jasper over a 230km stretch 🇨🇦 #alberta #canada #scenic #travel
@joshmcca
821.5K likes • 6.2M views

🚗 Beat the Traffic

Drive early or late to avoid peak traffic, especially during summer and holidays. Reddit

🍤 Savor Local Seafood

Don't miss fresh catches at local spots like Kenny D's for a true taste of the coast. Instagram

“THE BIG CUT” ArIzona Highway 89. #thebigcut #arizona #highway #wanderlust #scenicview #scenicroute89 #summelove #grandcanyon
@evol_me4ever
405.3K likes • 3.6M views
A hidden gem in Destin nestled along the beautiful Scenic Highway 98 is @kennydsbeachbar . A locals’ favorite for the last 23 years, New Orleans’ native Kenny and wife Leta were one of the first to bring their Cajun influence to the Destin food scene. I’m a sucker for fried grouper and their batter is seasoned to perfection, light and crispy 👌🏼 while the shrimp is nicely blackened with the pasta...
the850foodie
291 likes • 5.7K views

🎨 Discover Public Art

Check out the new underpass art installation connecting Hwy 98 to 30A for a splash of color. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Coastal Running Routes

Explore residential areas off Gulf Shore Drive for longer running routes during training. Reddit

Exploring 30A’s newest art installation! 🚲The Highway 98 Underpass is officially OPEN, making it easier and safer to get from Hwy 98 to Scenic Highway 30A. This new underpass features @umaflorida replica sculptures and a rotating mural project by 10 local artists, creating a vibrant and inspiring space for our community! Come celebrate with us TOMORROW at the Underpass Get Down @30ave from 4PM-7P...
hey30a
1.7K likes • 25K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Beat the Traffic

Drive early or late to avoid peak traffic, especially during summer and holidays. Reddit

🍤 Savor Local Seafood

Don't miss fresh catches at local spots like Kenny D's for a true taste of the coast. Instagram

🎨 Discover Public Art

Check out the new underpass art installation connecting Hwy 98 to 30A for a splash of color. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Coastal Running Routes

Explore residential areas off Gulf Shore Drive for longer running routes during training. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Beautiful beach views
Fresh seafood
Relaxed coastal vibe

What People Dislike

Traffic congestion
Limited parking

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, RVs can navigate Scenic Highway 98, but be mindful of narrower sections and parking limitations, especially in popular beach towns. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, driving on Scenic Highway 98 itself is free. However, some state parks or attractions along the route may have entrance fees. TikTok

Generally, Scenic Highway 98 does not have tolls. However, some specific bridges or roads that connect to it might have minor tolls. TikTok

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. Instagram

Many public beach access points are free. However, some areas might have parking fees or require a pass, especially during peak season. Reddit

Local tourism websites for Destin and the 30A area, as well as social media pages for specific towns, often list upcoming events and festivals. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. Instagram

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and exploring local shops and restaurants. The highway is also great for scenic drives and photography. Instagram

Absolutely! The coastline offers stunning sunrise and sunset views. Look for piers, jetties, and unique beach access points for picturesque shots. TikTok

Yes, many sections have dedicated bike lanes or are wide enough for cycling. The 30A area is particularly bike-friendly with paved paths. Reddit

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. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Fresh Gulf seafood is king! Look for grouper, shrimp, oysters, and local specialties. Cajun-inspired dishes are also popular. Instagram

Yes, many restaurants cater to families, offering kid's menus and casual dining atmospheres. Beachfront cafes and seafood shacks are great options. Instagram

Numerous beach bars, casual seafood joints, and cafes line Scenic Highway 98, offering everything from quick bites to relaxed meals with a view. Instagram

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. Instagram

Many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask your server. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for beach and coastal shots. TikTok

Public beach access points, piers (like the Destin Jetties), the new 30A underpass art, and charming beach towns provide excellent photo opportunities. Instagram

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. TikTok

Drone usage is often restricted in state parks and near beaches due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local ordinances before flying. TikTok

Videos mention tunnels like those on Zion-Mount Carmel Highway TikTok or Needles Highway.TikTok While not on Scenic Highway 98, these highlight unique road features. For Scenic Highway 98, focus on coastal landscapes and beach architecture. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Scenic Highway 98 is a fantastic destination for families. The calm, shallow waters of the Gulf are perfect for young swimmers, and the soft sand is ideal for sandcastle building. Many beach access points have amenities like restrooms and showers, making a day at the beach more comfortable. Reddit

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. Instagram

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For road trip lovers, Scenic Highway 98 offers a quintessential coastal driving experience. The continuous views of the Gulf, interspersed with charming beach towns, make for a visually engaging journey. Plan to take your time, stopping frequently at public beach access points to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery. TikTok

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. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Fitness Focused Travelers

The residential areas off Gulf Shore Drive, as suggested by locals, offer excellent opportunities for longer running routes, perfect for marathon training. Reddit The flat terrain along the coast is ideal for consistent mileage. Many beach towns also have sidewalks or dedicated paths for cycling and jogging. Reddit

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. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Driving and Navigation

Scenic Highway 98 is a primary coastal route, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. It stretches for miles, passing through popular destinations like Destin and the charming beach communities along 30A. While the drive itself is a major attraction, be prepared for potential traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer, spring break, holidays). Many sections are two lanes, with occasional passing zones. GPS navigation is generally reliable, but it's wise to have a general sense of direction as cell service can be spotty in some more remote beach areas. Reddit

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. Reddit

While Scenic Highway 98 itself is free to drive, some of the tunnels mentioned in other scenic highway contexts (like Zion-Mount Carmel Highway TikTok or Needles Highway TikTok) 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

The allure of Scenic Highway 98 lies in its proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. Numerous public beach access points are scattered along the route, offering convenient entry to the sugar-white sands and emerald waters. These access points often include parking facilities, though they can fill up quickly during busy periods. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

Local Dining and Culture

Scenic Highway 98 is dotted with a diverse range of dining options, from casual beach bars to more upscale restaurants. Kenny D's Beach Bar, a local institution, is frequently highlighted for its Cajun-inspired seafood, particularly its perfectly seasoned fried grouper. Instagram Many establishments pride themselves on serving fresh, locally sourced seafood, offering a true taste of the Gulf Coast. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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