Santa Rosa Beach Vacation Rentals
STAY IN Santa Rosa Beach
ABOUT SANTA ROSA BEACH
Santa Rosa Beach. Exclamation point! For decades, Santa Rosa Beach has been serving up a little bit of everything (actually, a whole lot of everything). As 30A’s biggest community, this spot delivers. Top-tier dining, non-stop natural beauty, paddleboarding on dune lakes, the Gulf, and the Choctawhatchee Bay. And the homes? Just as swoon-worthy as the beach itself.
Go hiking through the peaceful trails of Point Washington State Forest and e-bike along the Timpoochee Trail. Love lounging on the beach? Obsessed with charming neighborhoods? Santa Rosa Beach rules! It’s like your own personal ‘choose-your-adventure’ book, but way better because, well, nature!
HUH? WHERE?
Santa Rosa Beach encompasses an area that’s a bit more difficult to define than the more traditional 30A beach communities. To some, it represents the heart of all things 30A. But geographically, it covers a huge stretch from Choctawhatchee Bay in the north to the Gulf of Mexico in the south, reaching from Miramar Beach in the west to Seagrove Beach in the east. Big!
LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT.
In the early 1900s, Charles Cessna fell in love with the area during his honeymoon and envisioned it as an agricultural hub. By 1910, Hogtown Bayou was alive with sugarcane fields, schools, and churches, attracting newcomers from far and wide. But not everyone got along (locals vs. newcomers, anyone?).
But the good times were short-lived. A yellow fever outbreak and a hurricane in 1926 nearly wiped the town off the map by World War II. Fortunately, by the mid-40s, Santa Rosa Beach began to rise again, proving that comebacks are always possible. Thank goodness!
BIG VIBES.
Santa Rosa Beach. It even sounds dreamy. Families love the relaxed pace, with no shortage of places to eat, shops to explore, and adventures to keep the good vibes goin’. Simply, throw everything you love about 30A into a blender, all things chill, and all things lively, and you start to understand what makes this place a worldwide crowd-pleaser.
NATURE, NATURALLY!
This area is a dream for nature lovers. Beyond the sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters, the lush Point Washington State Forest and the Choctawhatchee Bay are there to stun your senses. And those rare coastal dune lakes? Bravo, bravo! Everybody and their brother are drawn to these stunning landscapes, which are found nowhere else in America. A true Emerald Coast phenom!
DINING IN Santa Rosa Beach
First Watch
First Watch is an award-winning breakfast, brunch and lunch favorite that specializes in both traditional and innovative creations. From avocado toast to protein-packed bowls, everything is made with high-quality ingredients. This bright, welcoming café is perfect for a wholesome start to your day or a light midday meal on 30A.
Louis Louis
Louis Louis offers an eclectic and artistic dining experience with a menu that blends Southern comfort food and international flavors. The quirky décor and lively atmosphere make it a fun and inviting spot for dinner with friends or family. The signature dishes, like crab cakes and blackened fish, are crowd-pleasers.
Los Rancheros
Los Rancheros brings the bold flavors of Mexico to 30A, offering sizzling fajitas, flavorful tacos, and more, all made with fresh ingredients. The colorful décor, festive atmosphere, and friendly service make it a go-to spot for casual dining or family gatherings along the Emerald Coast.
North Beach Social
This laid-back spot on the bay offers a beachy, relaxed atmosphere with a menu full of fresh seafood, cold drinks, and casual bites. With a large outdoor seating area and live music, it’s a perfect place to unwind with friends or family while enjoying waterfront views and delicious food.
Bayou Bill’s Crab House
A classic seafood joint, Bayou Bill’s Crab Shack is known for its fresh crab, oysters, and casual, family-friendly vibe. The extensive menu includes Gulf favorites like shrimp, fish, and crawfish, all served in generous portions. It’s a great spot for a laid-back meal with plenty of local flavor.
Farm & Fire
Located above North Beach Social, Farm & Fire offers a more elevated dining experience with wood-fired pizzas, craft cocktails, and a menu focused on local ingredients. The warm, rustic
atmosphere and bay views make it a great spot for a special meal or evening out. The creative dishes and cozy ambiance set it apart.
The Bay
Nestled along the Choctawhatchee Bay, The Bay offers a casual yet upscale setting with stunning waterfront views. The menu is a fusion of Southern coastal cuisine and Asian-inspired dishes, offering everything from sushi to fresh seafood. With live music and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing meal by the water.
Hungry? Santa Rosa Beach cares about your cravings! Savor a wood-fired pizza at Farm & Fire, or enjoy modern American eats with a view at The Bay. From casual beachside bites to upscale dining, the region delivers more than just a taste of everything—it’s a full buffet!
EVENTS OF Santa Rosa Beach
Thu, January 23
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Fri, January 24
From Brush to Pen: An Ekphrastic Writing Workshop at The Joe Center for the Arts
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
Emerald Coast Storytellers offers a distinctive blend of art and writing at The Joe Center for the Arts. This interactive workshop is open to writers, artists, and creative individuals of all skill levels, encouraging them to draw inspiration from the gallery's exhibits and translate it into written expression. The event features a gallery tour, writing breakout sessions, and optional group sharing and discussion. Participants can enjoy wine and refreshments while nurturing their creativity in a lively, artistic environment. This workshop is ideal for those seeking to spark their imagination and explore the connection between visual and literary arts. Attendees are encouraged to bring a pen, journal, paper, or laptop for their work. The instructor fee is $40 for guests and $36 for members, with a minimum of four and a maximum of 35 participants of all ages. Emerald Coast Storytellers was established to bring a touch of big-city culture to the small 30A beach community. Through monthly events and creative meetups, it provides a platform for writers, storytellers, and creative minds to connect through the written and spoken word. Their live storytelling events, held at popular venues throughout 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, and beyond, offer a space for igniting creativity, sharing stories, and building community. The founders believe everyone has a story to tell and are dedicated to fostering creativity and providing platforms for people to explore their voices through storytelling. With backgrounds in writing, storytelling, and events, they have created a creative haven where both seasoned and aspiring writers can come together. Whether attending virtual writing nights or live open mics, they aim to inspire and nurture each individual's creative journey, one story at a time. Kristy Holditch, a co-founder, is a published writer and aspiring novelist based in Grayton Beach, Florida. With a Journalism degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder, her passion for writing was ignited during a transformative semester abroad in Europe. Her travels across the continent and beyond have been a source of creative inspiration, fueling her desire to capture the world through writing. Kristy's work has been featured in various publications, and she balances her marketing career with her passion project, her forthcoming debut novel, "Just Passing Through." She is also actively involved in the literary community as a Board Member and Marketing Manager for the Longleaf Writers Conference. Alexandra Diamond-Tumbush, also a co-founder, is a writer, entrepreneur, journalist, and aspiring author. Originally from Cross Plains, Wisconsin, she moved to Santa Rosa Beach in late 2019. With a Journalism degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she initially pursued journalism but later shifted directions after college. Following the successful acquisition of her Milwaukee-based start-up, she relocated to the sandy beaches of 30A. Alexandra hopes to publish her first horror novel and continues to contribute to the Emerald Coast Storytellers.
Learn More
Sat, January 25
2025 In the Woods 30A 50K
Santa Rosa Beach
Sports & Games
Registration for the In the Woods 30A 50K is now open. The race is scheduled to take place at Pt Washington State Forest, with the start and finish at the Eastern Lake Trailhead, on Saturday, January 25th. The race will begin at 6:30 a.m. Participants will receive a fantastic long-sleeve race shirt and a finisher's award. Awards will also be given to the winner and runner-up. A post-race celebration is planned. For registration or more information, participants are encouraged to visit the official registration site.
Learn More
Sat, January 25
Live Music: Dion & Friends
Santa Rosa Beach
Live Music
Visitors are invited to unwind on the Magnolia Patio, where they can enjoy live music, delectable food, and an impressive cocktail menu. Papa Surf Burger Bar offers a perfect start to the weekend, eagerly anticipating the arrival of guests. During the off-season, the establishment operates six days a week from 11 AM to 8 PM, remaining closed on Tuesdays. Happy Hour is available Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM. The venue is located at 4324 W County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. For updates and events, followers can stay connected on Instagram at @papasurfburgerbar or visit their website.
Learn More
Thu, January 30
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Food & Drink
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, February 6
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, February 13
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, February 20
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, February 27
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, March 6
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, March 13
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, March 20
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, March 27
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, April 3
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, May 15
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, July 17
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, July 24
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, July 31
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, August 7
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, August 14
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, August 21
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, August 28
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Learn More
Thu, January 23
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Fri, January 24
From Brush to Pen: An Ekphrastic Writing Workshop at The Joe Center for the Arts
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
Emerald Coast Storytellers offers a distinctive blend of art and writing at The Joe Center for the Arts. This interactive workshop is open to writers, artists, and creative individuals of all skill levels, encouraging them to draw inspiration from the gallery’s exhibits and translate it into written expression. The event features a gallery tour, writing breakout sessions, and optional group sharing and discussion. Participants can enjoy wine and refreshments while nurturing their creativity in a lively, artistic environment. This workshop is ideal for those seeking to spark their imagination and explore the connection between visual and literary arts. Attendees are encouraged to bring a pen, journal, paper, or laptop for their work. The instructor fee is $40 for guests and $36 for members, with a minimum of four and a maximum of 35 participants of all ages.
Emerald Coast Storytellers was established to bring a touch of big-city culture to the small 30A beach community. Through monthly events and creative meetups, it provides a platform for writers, storytellers, and creative minds to connect through the written and spoken word. Their live storytelling events, held at popular venues throughout 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, and beyond, offer a space for igniting creativity, sharing stories, and building community. The founders believe everyone has a story to tell and are dedicated to fostering creativity and providing platforms for people to explore their voices through storytelling. With backgrounds in writing, storytelling, and events, they have created a creative haven where both seasoned and aspiring writers can come together. Whether attending virtual writing nights or live open mics, they aim to inspire and nurture each individual’s creative journey, one story at a time.
Kristy Holditch, a co-founder, is a published writer and aspiring novelist based in Grayton Beach, Florida. With a Journalism degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder, her passion for writing was ignited during a transformative semester abroad in Europe. Her travels across the continent and beyond have been a source of creative inspiration, fueling her desire to capture the world through writing. Kristy’s work has been featured in various publications, and she balances her marketing career with her passion project, her forthcoming debut novel, “Just Passing Through.” She is also actively involved in the literary community as a Board Member and Marketing Manager for the Longleaf Writers Conference.
Alexandra Diamond-Tumbush, also a co-founder, is a writer, entrepreneur, journalist, and aspiring author. Originally from Cross Plains, Wisconsin, she moved to Santa Rosa Beach in late 2019. With a Journalism degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she initially pursued journalism but later shifted directions after college. Following the successful acquisition of her Milwaukee-based start-up, she relocated to the sandy beaches of 30A. Alexandra hopes to publish her first horror novel and continues to contribute to the Emerald Coast Storytellers.
Sat, January 25
2025 In the Woods 30A 50K
Santa Rosa Beach
Sports & Games
Registration for the In the Woods 30A 50K is now open. The race is scheduled to take place at Pt Washington State Forest, with the start and finish at the Eastern Lake Trailhead, on Saturday, January 25th. The race will begin at 6:30 a.m. Participants will receive a fantastic long-sleeve race shirt and a finisher’s award. Awards will also be given to the winner and runner-up. A post-race celebration is planned. For registration or more information, participants are encouraged to visit the official registration site.
Sat, January 25
Live Music: Dion & Friends
Santa Rosa Beach
Live Music
Visitors are invited to unwind on the Magnolia Patio, where they can enjoy live music, delectable food, and an impressive cocktail menu. Papa Surf Burger Bar offers a perfect start to the weekend, eagerly anticipating the arrival of guests. During the off-season, the establishment operates six days a week from 11 AM to 8 PM, remaining closed on Tuesdays. Happy Hour is available Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM. The venue is located at 4324 W County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. For updates and events, followers can stay connected on Instagram at @papasurfburgerbar or visit their website.
Thu, January 30
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Food & Drink
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, February 6
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, February 13
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, February 20
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, February 27
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, March 6
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, March 13
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, March 20
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, March 27
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, April 3
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, May 15
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, July 17
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, July 24
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, July 31
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, August 7
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, August 14
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, August 21
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Thu, August 28
Foam Roller Stretch Class
Santa Rosa Beach
Workshops & Classes
The community is invited to participate in a Foam Roller Stretch class held every Thursday from 5 to 6 PM. This session, designed for relaxation and release, takes place in the meeting hall of the Coastal Library Branch.
Sip and savor at the annual South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival or explore local goods at a weekly Farmers’ Market. A definite crowd-pleaser, the 30A Songwriters Festival spans multiple locations along 30A. Visiting in the summer? Or during the quieter months? There’s always something happening in Santa Rosa Beach.
THERE'S MORE TO EXPLORE ON 30A
Along County Road 30A are communities that shimmer. The several small beach towns are simply delightful, running between Panama City and Destin.
