This Could Be Your Family's Story!
We've crafted this itinerary to help you imagine your family enjoying a long weekend at Pinewood 30A, making memories, exploring the beach, and indulging in top-notch amenities. While this story is a glimpse into the adventures of one hypothetical family, it could easily be your family’s story, complete with your own unique activities and fun! From shared meals to beach days and poolside relaxation, Pinewood 30A is the perfect setting for a family reunion or getaway.
Day 1 Begins...
It’s the start of a long weekend at Pinewood 30A, and our family couldn’t be more excited. We’ve been planning this family reunion for months, and now that we’ve arrived, it’s clear that Pinewood 30A is the perfect place to spend time together while also having our own space. With several of our relatives staying in nearby condos within the resort, the whole family can enjoy time together without feeling crowded.
Morning: Easy Breezy Start with Coffee and Relaxation
We wake up to the sound of birds chirping and the scent of fresh pine from the surrounding woods. The kids are already eager to explore, but first, we head down to the on-site coffee shop and general store at Pinewood for a quick breakfast. They’ve got delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee, the perfect start to our day. While we’re here, we pick up snacks and drinks to take to the beach later on.
With everyone fueled up, we head back to our condos to get ready for a beach day. The beauty of staying at Pinewood is that even though we’re not staying directly on the beach, the complimentary shuttle makes the journey super easy. The shuttle picks the group up right at our condo, and with our beach rental gear from Benchmark’s partners—including umbrellas, chairs, and boogie boards—it’s a breeze to get to the shore.
Mid-Morning: Beach Time at Ed Walline Public Access
Just a short 5-minute shuttle ride away, we arrive at Ed Walline Public Beach Access. The kids are thrilled, and within minutes they’re running into the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, while we set up camp with the beach chairs and umbrellas provided by Benchmark. The sugar-white sand and gentle waves make it a perfect spot for families, and we spend the morning building sandcastles, paddleboarding, and splashing in the shallows.
Some of the older family members take a stroll along 30A while others relax on the beach with a good book. It’s so nice knowing that even though we’re all staying in separate condos, the beach and the pool bring us together for quality family time.
Lunch: Pizza at Pizza by the Sea (10-minute drive)
After working up an appetite, we head over to Pizza by the Sea, just a 10-minute drive from Pinewood. Their pizzas are a family favorite, with options for everyone, including gluten-free crusts and fun toppings for the kids. It’s a quick and casual lunch that keeps everyone happy and full of energy for the afternoon ahead.
Afternoon: Pool Time and Fitness Fun
Back at Pinewood, it’s time for a dip in the zero-entry pool. The kids jump straight into the shallow end, splashing around while the adults lounge poolside. It’s a wonderful place to relax and unwind after a busy morning. For those who still have energy to burn, the Pinewood fitness center is just steps away, offering state-of-the-art equipment for a quick workout.
While the kids are at the pool, a few of us wander over to check out the community amenities, including a peek at the soon-to-open Pinewood Club and dining options. We’re already planning to grab a bite here during our next visit!
Evening: A Stroll Around Gulf Place and Dinner at Local Catch (7-minute drive)
As the day winds down, we gather the family and take a short drive to Gulf Place, a quaint area with charming shops and art galleries. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, and the kids love the outdoor space to run around and explore.
For dinner, we settle in at Local Catch Bar & Grill, just 7 minutes from Pinewood. The seafood here is fresh and locally sourced, with dishes that range from blackened grouper to shrimp tacos. It’s the perfect spot for our family dinner, with a relaxed atmosphere and seating that accommodates our large group.
Night: Family Time and Stargazing
Back at Pinewood, we gather on the balcony of one of the condos, reminiscing about the day’s adventures while the kids wind down with a movie. The sky is clear, and we can see the stars twinkling above the pines. It’s moments like these that make the weekend special—quality family time, great food, and the beauty of the Emerald Coast.
Tomorrow promises more adventures, with plans to explore Grayton Beach State Park and maybe even take a family bike ride along the Timpoochee Trail. But for now, we’re all happy to be together at Pinewood 30A, enjoying the perfect blend of relaxation, fun, and family connection.
Pinewood 30A has been the ideal home base for our family reunion. With each family having their own condo, we all have privacy, but the shared pool, shuttle service, and proximity to the beach make it easy to come together for meals, adventures, and quality time. Benchmark Management has thought of everything to ensure a seamless, relaxing stay—from the well-stocked general store to the responsive service and thoughtful beach gear rentals.
If you’re planning a family vacation or reunion, Pinewood 30A is the perfect place to experience the best of 30A living, with luxury accommodations, top-notch amenities, and easy beach access.
