Founded in the early 19th century, Santa Rosa Beach is the largest in South Walton, located east of Destin, almost touching both the Choctawhatchee Bay to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, stretching from Sandestin to Inlet Beach. This is one unbeatable coastal destination home to various natural preserves, parks, and ancient coastal dunes. We have prepared a list of things to do in Santa Rosa Beach FL.
Things to Do in Santa Rosa Beach FL
1. Santa Rosa Beach
From adventurous to foodies, everyone will find something to do on the largest beach that offers unparalleled diversity. You can shop, get a tan on the beach, paddle board, or bike around the local scenery, a stay in this impressive neighbourhood is a must.
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2. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Named as such for its dunes that rise like a sail, these same white quartz dunes are the reason we can explore rare coastal freshwater ecosystems abundant with unique wildlife. Stroll past the old pines, sandy scrubland, dunes, and wetlands, or hike and birdwatch on 3 miles of pristine beaches with your loved ones.
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3. Point Washington State Forest
If you want to do something exciting and spend quality time with yourself or your loved ones, visit this park as it has all the activities you can think of. For recreational activities like camping, hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, and paddling, ten natural communities consist of sandhills, basic swamps, wet flatwoods, wet prairie, and cypress swamps.
4. Grayton Beach State Park
One of the excellent spots for snorkelling, hiking, and picnicking, Grayton Beach State Park should be on your bucket list. Don’t forget your gear for snorkeling as they have some of the best spots in the area. You can also explore the 2,000 acres of clean and beautiful beaches while staying in a cabin or cozy campground. You can stroll through a coastal forest of scrub oaks and magnolias or go fishing and paddling at Western Lake.
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5. Welsey Mansion
Lovingly preserved, the historic Wesley House is a major attraction for those who love history and culture. It maintains the original yellow heart pine siding, floors, interior molding, and glass pocket windows. You will learn about the history of Point Washington, the Wesley family, and Lois Maxon, the park’s benefactor.
6. Eden Gardens State Park
Stroll down the nature trail, picnic along Tucker Bayou, and plan a wedding! Yes, you can find your Eden and book your special day among the oaks and gardens where you will feel like you stepped back in time. You can spend a day with your friends fishing or hiking, and if that’s not enough, you can learn history and gain some cultural insight by visiting the historic mansion set in moss-draped live oaks.
7. Deer Lake State Park
A once-in-a-lifetime experience by visiting the rare dune lakes where magnolias, golden asters, woody goldenrods, and scrub oaks can be seen will fulfill your bucket list. There are many rare plants such as spoonflowers, pitcher plants, and splashes of color from summer wildflowers where the ecosystem has other residents like birds and butterflies. You can picnic, swim, or fish by walking across the dunes on a boardwalk offering spectacular views.
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8. Arnett’s Gulfside Trail Rides
If you are traveling with kids, then it is a good thing to make a stop here but it isn’t that bad a date idea either. You can enjoy horseback riding on the trails that have been provided and stay at their campgrounds. A large open bard with strong and lean horses bred especially for horseback riding and pastures where they roam will make you feel like you stepped into the countryside.
9. Vue on 30A
There are many award-winning restaurants in downtown Santa Rosa, but this one takes the cake. If you want something romantic along with the panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, then Vue on 30a is the choice. While sampling the unique flavors, it is guaranteed you will not want to leave the place and will be more than eager to come back.
10. Seaside Repertory Theater
Founded in 2001, it is located in the heart of downtown Seaside, Florida, it isn’t your typical small-town artistic outfit but a premier professional theatre with seasonal shows produced and performed by professional actors. If you are bringing your kids along, some special shows and readings will entertain them and teach them about the art.
11. The Zoo Gallery
Started in 1979, the gallery’s vision is to promote American artists known for their exceptional quality of art and provide excellent service. They carry handcrafted pottery, unique jewelry, handmade furniture, artisan glass, wearable art, recycled metal, and more. They feature art from around the country and the world and if you are an art lover, a visit is a must.
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12. Andy Saczynski Studio Gallery
As you learn about art and culture, visiting the 2013 Artist of the Year will have you learn more than just about his artistic style and flair. An artist best known for his mixed media art and loves working with house paint, recycled musical instruments, found objects, reclaimed wood, and repurposed materials finds inspiration from surfing, music, Florida’s coastal landscape, and wildlife.
13. Enjoy Locally Crafted Beer
The warm salty breeze on your face and a glass of beer in your hand sounds like a plan, doesn’t it? Relax with locally crafted beer from Grayton Beer Company or Idyll Hounds Brewing Company. Grayton Beer Company boasts that their craft reflects and complements their way of life down in Florida’s Santa Rosa. With snow-white sands, grassy marshes, and lush pine forests surrounding you, drinking beer from places that have a strong sense of history, traditions, and sustainability is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Summary
Santa Rosa has an unbelievable coastal outdoor scene and a friendly environment enhancing your feelings about the place. You can enjoy a bit of snorkelling, scuba diving, or fishing – while your children build sandcastles. There is live music to theatrical shows that will be both knowledgeable and culturally enriching. Enjoy delectable Florida cuisine and experience history, art, and culture in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.
