17 Best Things To Do In Rosemary Beach, Florida - Updated 2024

things to do in rosemary beach florida
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Have you ever dreamed of a vacation in a small and friendly town near the beach? Then, Rosemary Beach is a top choice. “Where is Rosemary Beach?” you ask. This lovely seaside town in Florida is situated in the Gulf of Mexico. It is also called one of America’s most romantic small towns, full of overwhelming ocean views and quiet restaurants, families gathered together and young groups having fun. The beach is not as crowded as other beaches and has beautiful white sand. A trip to Rosemary Beach means days on the beach and quiet evenings with beautiful sunsets, walks in the city between lovely buildings and shops, admiring the unique architecture. Don’t worry about where to stay in Rosemary Beach, as there are plenty of options. For instance, the lovely vacation rentals in the area. Are you ready to plan your trip to this little corner of heaven yet? Scroll down to find a list of the best things to do in Rosemary Beach, Florida.

1. The Hidden Lantern Bookstore

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The Hidden Lantern Bookstore is a must-visit gem in Rosemary Beach for readers of all ages and tastes. This independent bookstore offers a carefully curated selection of books. Whether you’re interested in popular fiction, biographies that inspire, children’s books that ignite young imaginations, or works that delve into arts and culture, this bookstore has something for everyone.

Mystery buffs can explore a captivating array of suspenseful reads, and those in search of the perfect beach read will find a plethora of options to enjoy under the Florida sun.

The Hidden Lantern Bookstore

Address: 84 N Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461, United States

Website: The Hidden Lantern Bookstore

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

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2. 30Avenue

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

30Avenue is a vibrant and upscale lifestyle destination that effortlessly blends dining, entertainment, and shopping in Rosemary Beach into one charming setting. This trendy venue captures the essence of coastal living with its modern design and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can explore an eclectic mix of boutique shops, galleries, and specialty stores that offer everything from fashion to wellness products.

Dining options are equally diverse, featuring a range of gourmet restaurants and cozy cafés that cater to various culinary preferences. Additionally, 30Avenue hosts live events as well, including music performances, for a well-rounded experience.

30Avenue

Address: 12805 US-98 East, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461, United States

Website: 30Avenue

Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)

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3. Amavida Coffee Roasters

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you are a caffeine lover and are interested in eco-friendly products, then consider visiting Amavida Coffee Roasters. Offering special coffee blends from places such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Peru, and Ethiopia, this sustainable cafe also sells coffee brewing equipment. While you are here, you can also enjoy a coffee roasting tour, which can allow you to try out different kinds of coffee. Kids can also have a great time here as the cafe serves hot chocolate and smoothies.

Amavida Coffee Roasters

Address: 104 N Barrett Square #1a, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461, United States

Website: Amavida Coffee Roasters

Opening hours: 6:30am - 8pm (daily)

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4. The Sugar Shak

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Guess what day it is (Because we missed candy day yesterday #slackers) #sugarshak #thesugarshak #30a #rosemary...

Posted by The Sugar Shak on Tuesday, November 5, 2019

This popular candy store can surely satisfy your sweet tooth, offering delicious treats like ice cream. If you are more of a candy person, The Sugar Shak offers a wide variety of candies to choose from, from lollipops to jelly beans. Some popular chocolate brands are also sold here, such as Reese’s, Hershey’s, and M&M’s. Great for those who are traveling with their kids, the store also has gourmet chocolates with unique flavors you can purchase.

The Sugar Shak

Address: 5 Main St suite 2a, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461, United States

Website: The Sugar Shak

Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)

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5. Spa Pearl

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

#WellnessWednesday Book your next spa day at Spa Pearl and enjoy access to the adult-only pool! #thepearlrb #rosemarybeach #30a #southwalton #thepreferredlife

Posted by The Pearl RB on Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Enjoy yourself with a fabulous treatment at Spa Pearl. If you want to relax and have skin soft as silk, you can spend a peaceful day in the small spa with a friendly staff. Manicure and pedicure services are also available and there’s also a splendid pool where you can have fun with your friends. Escape in this restful place and enjoy the therapies and the innovative treatments they offer.

Spa Pearl

Address: 63 Main Street, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461

Hours: Monday - Saturday 9 am – 6 pm. Sunday 9 am – 4 pm

Website: Spa Pearl

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6. Biking

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

You can admire this beautiful small city by getting on a bike and riding amongst lovely houses. This way you can visit the places near Rosemary Beach and stay active at the same time. They have special sidewalks just for bikers and a bike trail so you don’t have to worry about traffic. So take your friends on a bike tour and explore!

Bamboo Bicycle Company

Address: 78 N Barrett Square

Opening hours: 9 am

Website: Bamboo Bicycle Company

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7. Fishing

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Found capt Gilbert’s honey hole this morning as his client was reeling in this big red.

Posted by Florida Boy Adventures on Friday, August 9, 2019

If you’re an enthusiast for fishing, here at Rosemary Beach you can choose whether you want to go to a quiet place or if you want to try out the deep sea, catching fish from a boat. The Gulf of Mexico provides tourists boats and equipment for such activities. Here’s a list of fishing services, so prepare to enjoy a fresh catch!

30-Angler Fishing Charters

Address: 63 Hotz Ave, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Website: 30-Angler Fishing Charters

Florida Boy Adventures – Inshore Fishing

Website: Florida Boy Adventures – Inshore Fishing

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8. Farmers Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The Grand Boulevard Farmers' Market will relocate near the Publix at Grand Boulevard, Another Broken Egg At Grand...

Posted by 30A Farmers' Markets LLC on Sunday, January 7, 2018

You can’t visit Rosemary Beach without tasting the delicious food from Farmers Market. Prepare your bags for a wide variety of fresh fruits like juicy peaches and guacamoles. Delicious food and friendly local vendors will make you want to come back to this little heaven of treats.

30A Farmers Market

Address: 28 S Barrett Sq, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461-6930

Hours: Every Sunday and Thursday from 8 am to 1 pm

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9. Gulf World

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

What better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than with a double shot of Salsa! #CincoDeMayo

Posted by Gulf World Marine Park on Thursday, May 5, 2022

Gulf World is located in Panama City Beach, and it rivals many top Rosemary Beach attractions. Visiting Gulf World is a fun way to spend the day. It has many shows with dolphins and programs for all ages! You can have a great learning experience and you get to know more about the wonderful dolphins by interacting with them. You even get to experience a fast and exciting ride with the dolphins while you hold onto their pectoral fins!

Gulf World

Address: 15412 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL

Website: Gulf World

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10. Racquet Club

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Rosemary Beach Racquet Club has been named one of the best tennis facilities in the 2021 Perfect in South Walton...

Posted by Rosemary Beach, Florida on Thursday, January 28, 2021

Rosemary Beach is the perfect place for you if you’re a tennis lover. Even if you’re not an expert the staff is friendly and ready to assist you with great instruction and new equipment. There are also restrooms and shower facilities along with a viewing deck for observation of matches and tennis programs. There’s a shop that is fully stocked with clothes, racquets, shoes, drinks, and rental equipment. Give it a try, you won’t regret it!

Racquet Club

Address: Rosemary Beach Racquet Club, PO Box 611156, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461

Website: Racquet Club

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11. Walkin' On Water Paddleboards

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Had a great creek trip yesterday with this crew!

Posted by Walkin On Water Paddleboards, LLC on Thursday, April 13, 2017

This is such a fun adventure in the beautiful nature of Florida. This activity is suitable for all ages and there’s an instructor that will help you whether you’re a beginner or an expert. It’s a perfect way to do some exercise! To get to the point where you’ll meet your instructor you’ll have to drive for about 30 minutes from Panama City to Panama City Beach. The shop where you meet is easy to find - look for a long sign that says WOW on it. The tour lasts 2 hours after a brief introduction. You’ll also learn about the history of Florida’s nature and the instructor takes amazing pictures of you. You can’t miss this!

WOW Paddleboards

Address: 108 Carillon Market St, Panama City Beach, FL 32413-8083

Website: WOW Paddleboards

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12. Camp Helen State Park

The Lodge at Camp Helen State Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Steveirwin1 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

This is a peaceful place if you want to escape into a wild place full of history. The history of the park and buildings is very captivating as well. There are hiking trails and wildlife and nature all around. There are some nice trails, one of which leads to the beach. It is a bit of a walk to the beach, but worth it. The beach is pretty large and usually, it is very quiet. It’s really amazing that something so quiet and beautiful is so close to 30A. They also have canoe and kayak rentals available and you can get in with a car for 4 USD. It gets very hot in the summer so don’t forget your sun cream.

Camp Helen State Park

Address: 23937 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Inlet Beach, FL 32413-7369

Website: Camp Helen State Park

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13. Eden Gardens State Park

SR Beach Eden Gardens SP Wesley06
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Take a break from the sea and sand and surround yourself with the beautiful blooming flowers in the Eden Gardens State Park, the former home of the William Henry Wesley family, which features the Wesley mansion in which you can have a tour around manicured lawns and moss-draped gardens. There is also a heritage rose garden, a butterfly garden, and a secret garden with paths winding through the grounds, showstopping azaleas, and over 250 camellias. You can also meditate by a quiet reflection pond filled with lilies and koi fish. The park has a boat launch on Tucker Bayou which connects the Intracoastal Waterway to the Choctawhatchee Bay. For simple family gatherings, there are picnic areas and screened pavilions with a kitchen available for rent. The best time to visit is early spring.

Eden Gardens State Park

Address: 181 Eden Gardens Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, United States

Website: Eden Gardens State Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

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14. Timpoochee Trail

Timpoochee Trail is a 29.3-km (18-mi) moderately trafficked point-to-point trail located near Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. It traces the Gulf of Mexico shoreline and the scenic Highway 30-A as it passes through communities by the beach and state forest lands, 40% of which is dedicated to preservation. Once you decide to walk the trail, you will enjoy scenic views of the sea, marsh lakes, sandy dunes, and charming coastal neighborhoods in the tree-lined path along the Emerald Coast. It also features a lake and is good for all skill levels. You can park and pick up the path anywhere along Scenic Highway 30-A from Dune Allen to Inlet Beach. You’ll have a number of activity options to choose from. If your dogs are well-behaved and leashed, you can bring them along for a walk, too.

Timpoochee Trail

Address: Begins where Highway 30A separates from US Highway 98, Inlet Beach, FL 32459

Website: Timpoochee Trail

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15. Curate 30A Gallery

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Aside from the beauty of its surrounding nature, Rosemary Beach also offers an exhibit of its representations through art. Located in the heart of Rosemary Beach, between Panama City and Destin, Curate 30A Gallery is a truly original art gallery that features paintings from different local, national, and international artists. It is a place where you can watch exclusive shows and live painting performances of the artist to make your art acquisition process more personal. It also has a no-pressure environment for buying. Curate 30A is led by owner Gary Handler who shares more than 20 years of experience in art curating in the Southeast. Gary believes in creating strong personal relationships between the artist and the collector.

Curate 30A Gallery

Address: 72 Main St, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461, United States

Website: Curate 30A Gallery

Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)

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16. Havana Beach Bar and Grill and Rooftop Lounge

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Step in to a new beverage experience at Havana Beach Lounge, where our mixologists craft made-to-order cocktails that creatively engage all of the senses: https://bit.ly/3FwmlP8.

Posted by The Pearl RB on Wednesday, May 25, 2022

The award-winning Havana Beach Bar & Grill is The Pearl hotel’s restaurant that offers a comfortable ambiance for eating and drinking. It is a stylish breakfast and lunch spot serving New American fare with Caribbean influences. Their food is prepared using locally sourced ingredients. Guests can opt to dine in the vibrant dining area or alfresco on the rooftop lounge, which features bistro-style seating and communal tables with a sweeping view of the Gulf of Mexico and Main Street. The rooftop has two fire pits with seating, as well as four cabanas for lounging under the sun or the starry skies. This establishment does not accept reservations and only allows walk-in customers for more efficient seating. After a morning filled with Rosemary Beach excursions, head here for a delicious brunch.

Havana Beach Bar and Grill and Rooftop Lounge

Address: 63 Main St, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461, United States

Website: Havana Beach Bar and Grill and Rooftop Lounge

Opening hours: 8am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm (daily)

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17. The Summer Kitchen Cafe

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Pan sautéed swordfish over mashed potatoes, broccoli, and a tarragon cream sauce. You’re taste buds will thank you, trust me. #special #dinner #rosemarybeach

Posted by Summer Kitchen Cafe on Saturday, August 10, 2019

Another popular go-to in Rosemary Beach is Summer Kitchen, which has been opened since 1999. Summer Kitchen was the first restaurant and commercial business in Rosemary Beach. Today, it is an intimate eatery serving delicious home-style American fare. It serves casual breakfast and lunch by day and transitions to a more fine dining experience by evening. Being the oldest eating spot in a small neighborhood, you’ll find that most diners and staff are familiar with each other. When you visit, don’t forget to try their breakfast favorites like french toast, house-made granola and yogurt, fresh fruit, egg wraps, and omelets. For lunch, salads, locally sourced beef from Tall Pines Farm, chicken sandwiches, and grilled local fish are highly recommended, and for dinner, they offer full service and a seasonal menu. Recently, the restaurant has included options for children and has shifted to the use of compostable cutleries to promote a sustainable business practice.

The Summer Kitchen Cafe

Address: 78 Main St, Rosemary Beach, FL 32461, United States

Website: The Summer Kitchen Cafe

Opening hours: Mon: 7:30am - 3pm; Tue: 7am - 3pm; Wed - Sat: 7:30am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm; Sun: 7:am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm

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Get ready for a magical experience at Rosemary Beach

Rosemary Beach, Florida Beach and Gulf of Mexico
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Miamireader used under CC BY-SA 4.0

There are plenty of fun activities in Rosemary Beach that keep you occupied before you retire to your room in one of the beachfront hotels. If you’re still wondering what to do in this magical place, then you should just pack your bags and experience the magical atmosphere of this unforgettable town. It won’t be so easy to forget with all its sun and white-sanded beaches. For a pleasant stay with the family, be sure to book rooms in any of the family resorts in and around the area.

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Frequently asked questions about things to do in Rosemary Beach


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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