Posted on 12/18/2019

Things to Do in Rosemary Beach

Once named one of the most romantic towns by CNN, Rosemary Beach is at the Easternmost point of Highway 30A and has oh so much to offer. Aside from award-winning architecture, this master-planned community was designed with you, the beach lover, in mind. Wood plank pathways wind their way around stunning and carefully placed homes, and the town is so aesthetically pleasing that you may never want to leave. There is a surprise around every corner when you come to Rosemary Beach.

Where to Eat:

Built as part of the New Urbanism movement, Rosemary Beach was designed so that no place is more than a 5-minute walk to the town square. There are many restaurants available to choose from when it comes time to dine. Here are some of our favorites:

Stop by Southside Slice and grab a piece of pizza by the slice, or grab a whole pie and enjoy it on the beach. Southside Slice also delivers so you can have the goodness brought straight to your doorstep.

Self-proclaimed as “fun, no-frills, kickback cuisine,” Cowgirl Kitchen is an old favorite. This sidewalk cafe is located right on Main street so you can enjoy a side of people watching with your lunch.

Paradis offers a coastal fine dining experience focused on celebrating local produce and fresh Gulf seafood alongside choice cuts of meat and fine wines. Casual fine dining meets its maker at restaurant Paradis.

Another favorite sidewalk cafe on Main Street, La Crema is a tapas and chocolate bar serving Spanish inspired small plates and decadent chocolate confections. La Crema was inspired by the many tapas and chocolate shops adorning the streets of Barcelona, and we must admit, the chocolate fondue is otherworldly good.

Where to Drink:

Equally as important as access to good food is access to good drinks!

Start the morning with a stop at Amavida Coffee for your cup of morning Joe and ensure your day has a strong start. These local roasters are a 30A favorite, and the cinnamon rolls don’t hurt either.

Located on top of the iconic Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach sits a bar where you can look over the town and enjoy the breeze. The Pearl Havana Beach Rooftop Lounge offers the chance to dine and drink alfresco in a bistro-style setting serving tapas-style food and noteworthy drinks.

Another renowned Rosemary Beach rooftop is newer to the area but has already taken the town by storm. Pescado 30A offers sweeping views and is the new most popular place to catch a sunset. The specialty cocktails and wine list are as memorable as the view.

Where to Shop:

The courtyard of Rosemary Beach, officially named Barrett Square, is lined up and down with all kinds of shops. From apparel to signature souvenirs to a cozy book store, there is so much to see. Whether you like to pop in every store, window shop, or have something specific in mind, shopping the square is a fun way to spend the afternoon.

Rosemary Beach Trading Company is the official one-stop-shop for all things Rosemary Beach. The Trading Co is right on the corner of Barrett Square, ready to greet you and invite you in. Their storefront is the only licensed provider of trademarked Rosemary Beach ® logo and gear, and they also carry other fun gifts and souvenirs so you can bring the memories home with you.

If you have a young one or you need a gift for a young one, Gigi’s is a must. This whimsical store is filled with fashions and toys for babies and children. Unique and fashionable clothing can be found amongst toys for boys and girls to delight in.

Pish Posh Patchouli’s is an apothecary boutique featuring skincare, beauty, and fragrance products from “around the corner, and around the world.” Patchouli’s has a custom scent bar where you can mix up your own personal perfume, they sell handmade soap by the slice in various scents and designs, and they carry high-end brands in beauty and loungewear. This is a great place to grab a special present for a friend... or yourself!

Fashionistas can also enjoy apparel and accessory shopping at Bombora, Disco, Willow, and Hissyfits Boutique. The eclectic mix of high end, casual, beachy clothing ensures there is something to suit everybody’s style.

The Rosemary Beach Farmers Market is in full swing every Sunday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Enjoy walking around the green while browsing handmade treats, fresh fruits and vegetables, artisanal products, and more. Anything from freshly baked macaroons to flavorful Indian food, homemade dog treats, organic skincare, and everything in between can be found. The Farmers Market is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and support small, local businesses, and people.

In addition to all the eating, drinking, and shopping there is to enjoy, Rosemary Beach, of course, offers plenty of activities for those ready to get active. Aside from enjoying the beach, one can play tennis at the racquet club, ride a bike up and down the Scenic 30A bike path, go kayaking or fishing in the nearby coastal dune lakes, take a jog on the fitness path, and explore all of the neighboring towns South Walton has to offer. We offer many esteemed rentals in the nearby towns of Seacrest and Alys, all within easy walking distance to the town square. Rosemary Beach is a lovely place to spend a day. All you have to do is get here!

Photo courtesy of sowal.com
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