Visit Santa Rosa Beach

Coastal Beauty Meets Laid-Back Luxury

Santa Rosa Beach offers a dreamy escape where sugar-white sand meets turquoise waves, and every day feels like a vacation. From outdoor adventures to fine dining and charming coastal communities, this South Walton gem is where relaxation and recreation effortlessly go hand in hand.

Make the Coast Your Playground

Let’s start with the obvious. The beaches here are breathtaking—soft, white sand underfoot and clear, gentle waves lapping the shore. Spend the day swimming, shell-hunting, paddleboarding, or simply kicking back under a striped umbrella with your favorite beach read.

Just inland, Point Washington State Forest is a paradise for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. With over 15,000 acres of preserved land, this peaceful retreat offers well-maintained trails winding through pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. Bring your camera—you’re likely to spot deer, birds, and maybe even a fox or two.

Santa Rosa Beach is home to some of the world’s rare coastal dune lakes, found in only a handful of places on Earth. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and float across these serene bodies of water, where freshwater mixes with the saltwater from the Gulf—a natural wonder you won’t find just anywhere.

Eat, Drink, and Savor the Coast

Whether you’re craving fresh-off-the-boat seafood or laid-back beach bites, Santa Rosa Beach brings the flavor.

The Bay

This stylish bayside restaurant blends Southern comfort with coastal flair. Grab a seat on the deck overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay and dig into dishes like Thai shrimp salad, crab cakes, and local grouper.

Chanticleer Eatery

A local favorite for lunch and dinner, Chanticleer serves hearty portions with a homemade feel. Think brisket sandwiches, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts in a relaxed, no-rush setting.

Stinky’s Fish Camp

Don’t let the name fool you—Stinky’s is one of the best seafood spots around. Known for oysters, crawfish pie, and a killer brunch menu, this funky, fun eatery is a must-stop on your culinary tour.

Blue Mountain Bakery

Start your morning here with strong coffee, smoothies, and fresh-baked pastries. It’s also a great spot to pick up a beach picnic or a quick, healthy lunch before hitting the trails or the waves.

Where to Stay and Soak It In

You won’t find many high-rises here—and that’s exactly the point. Santa Rosa Beach is all about charm, character, and comfort.

• Beachfront rentals and luxury homes offer private access to the sand and sunsets. Perfect for families, groups, or a romantic retreat.

• Boutique inns and B&Bs provide cozy, personalized service with touches of coastal elegance.

• Vacation condos and cottages dot the area, giving you easy access to restaurants, shops, and the beach with all the comforts of home.

Don’t Miss: A Day in Seaside

Just a short drive from Santa Rosa Beach, the town of Seaside is a must-visit. With its pastel cottages, walkable streets, and central square filled with food trucks and local shops, Seaside feels like a postcard come to life. Spend an afternoon browsing local art, enjoying live music, or sipping wine with your toes in the sand.