Ramble in Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach is a picturesque beach community on the easternmost end of scenic 30A in Walton County. Built in the New Urbanism style of Seaside, but with European architectural elements and lots of other amenities to set it apart, Rosemary Beach is well worth the trip. The houses and setting were designed to leave as much of the natural beauty of the coastal site intact.
The Rosemary Beach Land Company began construction on the 107-acre plot of land in 1995. The architects adhered to the New Urbanist style where everything would be accessible within a five minute walk or bike ride. Cobblestone streets connect homes to each other and lead you toward the expansive green parks set aside with areas for shopping at family-owned boutiques and galleries and dining at Main Street and the town square.
Dining
If you’re looking for laid back eats, Cowgirl Kitchen is your place to go for their Cowgirl Burger or Drunken Shrimp Tacos, or maybe you’re in the mood for a hand rolled pizza. If fine food and wine is more your style Edward’s is where you’ll experience wonderful cuisine accompanied by an award-winning wine list. Time for dessert – La Crema’s chocolate concoctions will hit the spot.
Rosemary Beach’s famous Farmers’ Market is open to the public every Sunday from 9am – 1pm with vendors offering a large variety of goods, from fresh vegetables, pies, hand-made items, local artist’s paintings and sculptures, and a whole lot more. Bethany and her boys enjoy Rosemary Beach: “Out of all the communities on 30A, my favorite to walk around and enjoy the shops and sights is Rosemary Beach. The Spanish style architecture is gorgeous. My kids love getting crepes or a cupcake shake, and I love the walkway down to the beach.”
Things To Do
You can also rent bicycles to explore, or get yourself a massage, find a beach read at The Hidden Lantern, cast a line into the water, or just relax in one of the four pools and let your cares leave you behind. Spending time on the white sand beach, gazing at the beautiful expanse of gently rolling water, and drinking in the swooshing sound of the waves stroking the beach, is the best medicine for calming your soul.
Patti Smith, Publisher of GO! Christian Magazine is very familiar with the area. “Traveling down 30A, I am always amazed at how different each of the beach communities are. Rosemary Beach is my absolute favorite. The architecture is a mix of old-world charm with a contemporary feel. The traffic is managed extremely well, which makes it very safe for both pedestrians and bicyclists. You can’t beat the variety of restaurants there – cafes, coffee shops, bistros, and fine dining. Rosemary Beach has it all.”
Whether you come to Rosemary Beach to live or vacation or just drive out for a day of shopping and dining, you won’t be disappointed. This elegantly outfitted jewel along 30A has become one of the most enjoyable places to spend a day or week or a lifetime.
Visiting Rosemary Beach for the first time? CLICK HERE to check out Visit South Walton’s First Timer’s Guide.