Beware of 30A Vacay – A Deeply Disappointing and Unprofessional Experience
This is the first negative review I’ve ever felt compelled to write, and I do so not out of frustration alone, but to help others avoid the distress our group endured. If you're planning a visit to the beautiful 30A area, I strongly encourage you to book with a different vacation rental company.
We made our reservation with 30A Vacay on February 20, 2025, for a stay from April 4th to April 7th, paying in full — including a deposit and a final payment on March 26. We received multiple confirmations from 30A Vacay, including texts on April 2nd, 3rd, and the day of our arrival, all welcoming us to our stay.
However, upon arrival, our group of ten — which included individuals aged 21 through 52 — stood outside the rental property waiting for the access code that never came. Instead of a warm welcome, we were met with complete silence from the company. No phone call. No explanation. Eventually, we received an abrupt email stating only: “30A Vacay had to cancel.”
Four hours later, after repeated attempts to contact someone, we received a second email explaining that “the property is not ready.” Not once during those hours were we called, spoken to, or offered any assistance or alternative accommodations, despite having fully paid for our stay weeks in advance.
The cancellation was not only last-minute and unexplained but also handled with a stunning lack of professionalism and empathy. We tried in good faith to clarify the situation. We were told that an ID was needed — and we immediately provided valid identification for the 23-year-old guest who booked the property, as well as for a 52-year-old accompanying adult. Our group’s age composition clearly met the stated requirements according to the lease, and multiple adults were present to supervise younger members. When we offered to amend the lease or speak with a manager, we were refused. The staff would only say, “Your reservation is being reviewed,” and then stopped taking our calls altogether.
To be clear: 30A Vacay made no effort to resolve the issue, no effort to relocate us, and no effort to communicate proactively. Seven members of our party had driven over seven hours; the other three flew in from California, Virginia, and Wisconsin — only to be stranded without a place to stay.
In the days that followed, I attempted to reach the owner of 30A Vacay in hopes of resolving the matter privately and constructively. That, too, was refused. It is deeply disappointing that a company entrusted with hospitality would handle guests in this way — with disregard, silence, and ultimately abandonment.
Had there truly been an issue with the reservation, there was ample time between February and April for it to be communicated and corrected. Instead, 30A Vacay waited until we arrived at the doorstep to act, leaving our daughter's wedding weekend plans in turmoil.
To anyone considering this company: please think twice. There are many reputable rental agencies in 30A that would never treat guests with such indifference.
That said, Rosemary Beach itself is extraordinary. The area is beautifully maintained, safe, and full of charm. We absolutely plan to return — but we will never again book...
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