Santa Rosa Beach is a famous beach community located in Walton County on Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast. It is known for its white, sugar-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, state forests, coastal dune lakes, and friendly people. Santa Rosa Beach is a nature lover's dream, offering several entrances to Point Washington State Forest, a 15,000-acre preserve.

It stretches from the Choctawatchee Bay to the North and the Gulf of Mexico to the South. Walton County is among the fastest-growing counties in Florida and truly has something for everyone. There are a variety of family-friendly events in Santa Rosa Beach all year long. Foodies will delight in world-class cuisine, as Santa Rosa Beach has some of the best restaurants in the area.

Scenic Highway 30A is a stretch of highway that hugs the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico coastline on Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast. It is made up of incredibly unique beach communities that have attracted buyers from all over the country and even the world. Each beach community has its own distinct vibe and all are located within minutes of the beautiful emerald waters of the Gulf Coast. Walton County is also home to 15 named coastal dune lakes along the 26 miles of coastline. Coastal dune lakes share an intermittent connection with the Gulf of Mexico and are only found in a few places in the world, including Madagascar, Australia, New Zealand, Oregon, and Walton County.

POPULAR PLACES

North Beach Social: North Beach Social is one of the most popular restaurants for locals in Santa Rosa Beach. Set on Choctawatchee Bay with the most amazing sunsets, families can dine with a view while their kids play in the sand. Enjoy live music 6 days a week, paella with Chef Joyce on Wednesdays, daily drink specials, and nightly bonfires (weather permitting). North Beach Social is another one of famous chef, Jim Shirley's restaurants and won't disappoint. The tuna dip is our favorite!

The Bay: Chef Jim Shirley's family-friendly, waterfront restaurant features Southern Gulf Coast cuisine, sushi, a 12-draft beer system, amazing wine, and bar-crafted cocktails. There is a beach bonfire every Wednesday night and daily happy hour from 3-5 pm.

Louis Louis: Louis Louis is a kitschy American restaurant known for its colorful decor, art-filled walls, live music nights, and great food. Louis Louis is owned by the Petit family and has a very similar menu to the iconic Red Bar in Grayton Beach. Louis Louis is very popular with locals and their Annual Ugly Sweater Party is an event you won't want to miss!

Down Island Gulf Seafood Restaurant: Offering wood-fired seafood and a raw bar, Down Island has quickly become a local favorite. Down Island was opened by the beloved and talented Chef Brannon Janca alongside his wife, Stefani. Janca lost his battle to cancer in 2023 but his legacy and vision remain a staple in South Walton.

STATE PARKS

Eden Gardens State Park: A gorgeous moss-oak-lined estate spanning 163 miles long. This is the perfect place for family fun, photos, and weddings (there is a 700-year-old "wedding tree"). 

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park: Many use the paved bike path for cycling, while others prefer the crystal-clear water for snorkeling.

Deer Lake State Park: Features one of South Walton's longest and most scenic boardwalks,

Camp Helen State Park: Spanning 180 acres from the Gulf to Lake Powell's shoreline.

Grayton Beach State Park: The pride of Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Voted the #1 Beach in the USA in 2020.

TRAILS

Point Washington State Forest, Western Lake, Longleaf GreenWay, Eastern Lake (Yellow & Red), Topsail Trails Circut

PLAYGROUNDS

Padgett Park, Helen McCall Park, Kellogg Bayside Park, Driftwood Estates Park, Viridian Park

BEACH ACCESS

Here are all your main beach access points with seasonal Lifeguards, Parking, Beach Conditions Flag, ADA Accessible Restrooms, ADA Accessible Boardwalk, Water Fountain, and Beach Wheelchairs Available:

DUNE ALLEN: 

Dune Allen is a gorgeous beach destination featuring vast beaches and five coastal dune lakes—Allen, Campbell, Morris, Oyster, and Stallworth. With an emphasis on nature, the area offers extensive trails and a limited commercial presence. Stinky’s Bait Shack provides fishing gear, while Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers secluded beaches and dunes for camping. Stinky’s Fish Camp, a USA Today Top 10 eatery, serves fresh Gulf-to-table cuisine, including the local favorite, Stinky’s Stew. Nearby, Elmo’s Grill is a seafood restaurant. The Timpoochee Trail runs through Dune Allen, ideal for morning trails.

A BREAKDOWN OF 30A EAST vs 30A WEST:

Discover 30A, a picturesque 24-mile stretch in South Walton County, Florida, nestled between Panama City Beach and Destin. Along this coastal haven, charming communities grace the white sand beaches. Begin your journey on the east end, where Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach create an upscale yet laid-back atmosphere. Meander through cobblestone streets, explore boutique shops and embrace the bike-friendly lifestyle. Indulge in a variety of dining options, ranging from exquisite restaurants to quaint cafes.

Transitioning to the central heart of 30A, explore Seagrove, Seaside, Watercolor, and Grayton Beach, with a special nod to Grayton Beach Brewery for craft beer enthusiasts. This vibrant area stands out for its diverse culinary scene and is known for its less crowded ambiance, offering some of the finest beaches in the region.

As you make your way westward, the journey culminates at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, where nature takes center stage. This western end provides a serene escape, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Florida panhandle. Whether you seek upscale charm, diverse dining, or natural tranquility, 30A offers a spectrum of experiences along its captivating coastline.

WHAT GULF PLACE HAS TO OFFER:

Explore a laid-back and colorful beach community offering a mix of beach fun, shopping, dining, and art. Check out The Artists of Gulf Place for local artwork, catch live music at the Gulley Amphitheater, and enjoy casual activities in the surrounding green space. Grab a cup of coffee at Sunrise Coffee Co. or a quick bite at Pizza by the Sea or The Perfect Pig. Experience fresh Gulf seafood and Gulf views at Shunk Gulley. Wind down with a sunset stroll at Ed Walline Regional Beach Access and capture the moment from an elevated platform.