Explore by bike or take a pedal tour of local boutiques, art galleries and indulge in award-winning cuisine.

One of Travel + Leisure’s “Top 5 Favorite Towns in America,” Santa Rosa Beach is also South Walton’s oldest and largest neighborhood, stretching from Choctawhatchee Bay south to the Gulf of Mexico. Explore miles of nature trails, local watering holes and fine dining hotspots, quaint shops and fine art. Whether you want to step out onto the beach from a cottage or grill on the deck at a tucked away villa, there’s an option for every mood and time of day.

Before you hit the beach, head to Christina D Swim + Resort for swimwear with a perfect fit. After, duck out of the sun and into Lola’s on 30A for boutique shopping complete with gifts and decor you’ll adore. For a touch of South Walton that’s at home in any home, Justin Gaffrey Gallery and Emerald Light Gallery offer award-winning, original fine art that steals the eye and captures the heart.

Santa Rosa Beach’s eclectic dining scene will have your mouth watering from morning to night. Grab a coffee and queue up at The Donut Hole, a true South Walton icon (with sprinkles). Head to North Beach Social for fresh, modern flavor on the spacious deck or spring for sushi from the sophisticated menu at The Bay. For a romantic evening, there’s no better place to toast the sunset than Vue on 30A, over specialties like blackberry barbecued shrimp. Or go casual with seafood classics and sides that hit the spot every time at Goatfeathers.

When you’ve worked up an appetite for adventure, hit the trails at Point Washington State Forest or get out and explore gorgeous state parks. Soak up the beauty at Eden Gardens State Park, known for its camellia blossoms and the historic Wesley House. Built in the 1890s, the house is open to the public for touring.

Exploring by bike is a great way to experience Santa Rosa Beach up close. Companies like Pedego offer electric bikes, making the scenic 18.6-mile Timpoochee Trail even more accessible. Or take a pedal tour of local galleries, breweries, parks and other attractions. Of course, there’s nothing like time on the water for immersing yourself in the moment. Charter a day of fishing with Reel30A for maximum fun tailored to your experience level and preferences.

Hit the beach via the Gulfview Heights or Santa Clara regional beach accesses. Complete with plentiful parking, clean ADA-accessible restrooms, seasonal lifeguards (and a picnic pavilion at Gulfview Heights), you can unwind with a seaside lunch after a day of fun in the sun. 

For Santa Rosa Beach nightlife, Farm and Fire is a must for live music and signature cocktails at sunset, or settle in at Idyll Hounds Brewing Company to end the day and let the expert staff guide you through the tap menu, from stouts to sours.

Visiting Santa Rosa Beach for the first time? CLICK HERE to check out our First Timer's Guide.