What to Know About Traveling to Destin, Florida and 30A This Summer
2020 has thrown us all for a loop. With the COVID-19 pandemic, states are doing the best they can to maintain health and wellness, but this virus has left us all longing for a sense of normalcy. While many states are slowly opening their businesses again, Florida is among the first to get their state back in action. Beaches are open, outdoor seating is starting back up in restaurants, and short-term vacation rentals are beginning to open their books.
With that said, safety is still a concern, but the Governor of Florida has worked hard with his team to ensure protocols are in place. If you’re thinking about vacationing in the Destin and or 30A area this summer, read on to learn about the newest restrictions, guidelines, and regulations.
Where to Stay
As of May 19, 2020, the Governor gave the OK to allow short-term vacation rentals to open their doors to travelers. His team offers a detailed safety plan encouraging renters to avoid tourists from high-risk states and ensure hygiene protocols are followed per state and CDC guidelines. If you are traveling from a high-risk area, you will be required to quarantine for 14 days in Florida.
Hotels, motels, and resorts are open for business however, many have closed as a precaution. Call all possible lodging options before booking to ensure they are open and that you can travel there safely. They may have their own protocols in place.
Where to Play
While Florida has begun opening a lot of their businesses, they are still in the beginning phases of pandemic recovery. The most important thing to remember during this time is that change is inevitable, and even though something may be open now, it may be closed again for the duration of your trip. Be flexible and remember everyone is doing the best they can to keep us safe and happy. Check all county/state websites before and during your trip for up to date information as phases can shift by day. With that said, here are the latest guidelines per the Governor:
Beaches
As of May 5, 2020, Destin and South Walton County beaches are open to the public, per the Governor’s phase 1 action plan. However, the state suggests taking the standard safety precautions such as using PPE in public spaces and maintaining six feet of space between individuals. There is also a ten-person maximum group allowance, all of which connects to not only the beaches, but walkways, trails, and parking lots. Before you travel to any Florida beach, be sure to check out their individual website to learn about sport and or event restrictions as each beach will have different regulations.
Food/Dining
While restaurants are allowed to open under strict guidelines, bars and nightclubs are to remain closed until further notice. Restaurants must have six feet of space between outdoor tables and can run indoor seating at 50% capacity. You can find a list here of some Destin options, but check out individual websites for more dining opportunities. While some restaurants are not offering in-person dining, most are offering takeout and delivery services in their area.
Fun/Attractions
Many attractions , such as retail spaces and water sports, are also beginning to open using small group numbers and reservation systems. Be sure to check out individual websites and call businesses to see if they are open and can accommodate you during your vacation stay.
How to Stay Safe
No matter where you travel to this summer, it’s important to follow best practice guidelines to ensure safety for all. Here is a list of a few summer fun in the sun reminders for your next trip to Destin and 30A:
Bring your own PPE when you travel (masks, hand sanitizer, wipes, etc.)
Mingle in groups of less than ten people and maintain six feet of space when you are near another group.
Wash your hands often, with soap and warm water, and use hand sanitizer as a replacement when you are away from lodging/a bathroom.
Check all travel guidelines in your state and the states you plan on traveling to/through to ensure correct safety protocol.
If you’re feeling sick, stay home and limit contact with others.
If you experience COVID-19 symptoms, call your doctor or local emergency room immediately.
This summer will undoubtedly look different from years past, but that doesn’t mean we can’t catch some rays in the Florida sun. Check out the latest updates on state websites, work with your own state restrictions, and plan a safe and happy trip to the beach.