Located in Florida’s panhandle, 30a has quickly become one of my favorite places to vacation. From the pristine Emerald Coast to the charming little beach towns, I would highly suggest a visit to 30a this summer. But my absolute favorite spot on 30a by far is Rosemary Beach.

Founded in 1995, the architecture of this master-planned community is absolutely exquisite. Chic yet quaint, this little beach town has it all. From a luxurious five-star hotel to a town center with adorable shops and incredible restaurants to weekly activities for the entire family, Rosemary Beach is the perfect place to eat, shop, and play this summer.

Eat

Rosemary Beach has some incredible restaurants to offer! I would highly recommend La Crema for apps or a late night dessert, The Cowgirl Kitchen for a taste of the southwest,  and for fine dining I would definitely recommend Restaurant Paradis or The Havana Bar & Grill inside The Pearl Hotel. Paradis’ ambiance can’t be beat and The Havana Bar & Grill serves the best craft cocktails.

If you’re looking for an afternoon pick me up, you must check out the Amavida Coffee Shop for the wide selection of coffees and teas or “the sweetest place on earth” The Sugar Shack for ice cream and all the candy one can consume … seriously so yummy!

Shop

Rosemary Beach definitely has its share of great shopping! Rosemary Beach Trading Co.  has awesome local apparel, Willow Boutique has gorgeous tops and dresses, Tracery has beautiful home decor, and my absolute favorite … the Bombora Surf Shop has the best beach threads.

Carrying brands such as Billabong, O’Neill, L*Space, and RVCA, you’re sure to find the perfect bikini or beach attire at Bombora. Below I’m wearing an Amuse Society tee, O’Neill hat, and Sea Folly tote … all from the Bombora Surf Shop!

Play

If you’re idea of a vacation is not just laying on the beach all day, then Rosemary Beach is the perfect place for  you. With weekly family friendly events such as the summer concert series, the farmer’s market, children’s theatre, and moonlight movies, Rosemary is sure to have something everyone in the family can enjoy.

If you’re looking to be a little more active on your vacation, be sure to hit up the Bamboo Bicycle Company for daily or weekly bike rentals. As a compact little beach town, Rosemary is an ideal place to ride bikes around the community town square or on the boardwalks between the gorgeous homes.

If you’re looking to be really active at the beach, I would suggest renting a kayak, surfboard, or stand up paddle board from SeaOats Beach Service. I had a blast learning to SUP (stand up paddle) one afternoon at the beach. Some beginner hints if you’re looking to do this on your next vacation …

1. paddle out on your knees first until you are past the waves
2. only attempt to stand up on your board when you are in the calm area past where the waves break
3. once you are standing up, paddle back in towards the shore to actually ride the surf
4. make sure you don’t get too far out on a windy day (rookie mistake!) or you’ll get stuck and it will take hours and lots of upper arm strength to get back to shore.

(photos by Blue Genes Photography)

Perhaps one of the best features of Rosemary Beach is you can literally bike or walk to all of the above places. With all Rosemary has to offer, in addition to its stunning Gulf Coast beaches, I think its seriously one of the best beach towns in America. Hope you can check it out one day!

Where are you guys vacationing this summer?!