8 Best Lakeside Towns on Florida's Emerald Coast
Want to experience a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the United States. Take a tropical trip to Florida's Emerald Coast. This remarkable slice of paradise in Northwest Florida beautifully intertwines with the Gulf of Mexico. Soak up some rays while feeling the gorgeous white sand on your skin. Dip your toes in the refreshing turquoise waters on the pristine Destin Beach. Explore the unique ambiance along the iconic and scenic State Road 30A. This incredible stretch is lined by rare coastal dune lakes, the largest being Lake Powell. Brimming with historical sites, luxury hotels, designer shops, and unique outdoor exploration like the Dead Lakes, Florida's Emerald Coast has an abundance of cozy lakeside towns. Here are the eight best lakeside towns on Florida's Emerald Coast.
Seaside
Neighboring Western Lake is the luxurious waterfront community of Seaside. Calling this area stunning is an understatement. Seaside is famously known for the pastel cottages that line the crystal-clear beach and gleaming white sands. It's the town where the Jim Carrey film "The Truman Show" was made. Being a charming community, the area naturally has some stunning boutiques waiting to welcome visitors. Discover a new favorite read at Sundog Books. Feel like being a little defiant? Sundog Books has a small collection of banned books for sale. Spruce up your style with flattering fashions from Mercantile and grab something for the kids from The Seaside Style Kids. Be the hottest at the beach with a new suit from Ophelia Swimwear. While shopping for coastal gear, grab a new surfboard at Ono Surf Shop, and you will be the star of Seaside beaches.
After a long day of shopping, kick back at Bud and Alley's, a local favorite. Savor waterfront dining and a lively rooftop retreat. Nothing beats a sunset dinner by the water. Indulge in roasted salmon and vanilla bean crème brulee, while soaking in the alluring coastal serenity. Finally, get a taste of the good life in this lakeside beauty by renting a cottage and breathing in that fresh, salty air. Seaside is truly a luxurious and one-of-a-kind experience. Book a stay at The Court, the only boutique hotel in the area. The intimate rooms are stocked with plush bedding. It's the perfect romantic getaway or elegant treat.
Panama City Beach
Right by 800-acre Powell Lake, the largest coastal dune lake in the United States, is the energetic town of Panama City Beach. Night owls will feel right at home in this exciting lakeside town as the area is known for its thriving nightlife. Known as the spring break capital of the world, Panama City Beach is all about free-spirited fun, mingling, and getting the party started. For the best cocktails, head over to Pineapple Willy's and lose yourself in the beachy atmosphere. Try the iconic Pineapple Willy, a delicious and famous concoction made with rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut. Pineapple Willy's website states they sell more than 70,000 of these bad boys every year. The unique flavor profile is out of this world.
But there's plenty to enjoy in nature, too. Visitors to Camp Helen State Park will find room for birding, boating, fishing, hiking, and much more. Rejoice at sunset and watch the daily cannon firing at Schooner's Last Local Beach Club. Catch them at the right time and they might have a live band such as Glory Days or Stainless Steel. Have a wild night at the iconic Coyote Ugly Saloon. Dance the night away and embrace the energetic and entertaining atmosphere. After a night of getting rowdy, a coffee the size of your head is vital, drown yourself in the good stuff with a coffee from The Pour. The coffee shop is open at 7 am if you dare to be up that early. Afterward, visit Dave and Buster's for the best hangover cure. Chicken strips with fries are a classic remedy or try the smashed burger sliders for smaller hungers. Avoid the fear of missing out by staying at the Boardwalk Beach Hotel. Relish being in the heart of all the action. All the exciting nightlife is within walking distance so there is no need to worry about finding a ride.
Destin
South of the majestic Choctawhatchee Bay is Destin, the "World’s Luckiest Fishing Village." From red snapper to tiger shark, Destin waters are loaded with more fish species than you can count. Try to catch them all during your stay in this wonderful lakeside town. Rent a boat and go solo or book a fishing charter to have an expert show you the ropes. For an adrenaline-filled water adventure through Destin's crystal-clear waters, book a Crab Island Adventure Tour. Check off the bucket list, as the ticket includes everything from snorkeling and paddle boarding to shelling and kayaking. It is the ultimate experience and a must-try when in Destin.
Destin is energetic, lively, and full of the typical hustle and bustle. Make a splash at Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park. Bring your surfer dreams to life by riding the waves at the Honolulu Half Pipe, a surf simulator. Take a thrilling slide down the Maui Pipeline or the Pirates Escape. For out-of-water activities, be fearless on the Skycoaster or relax with Tropical Mini Golf. Finish off the day with a wonderful dining experience at Harborwalk Village. Stop by East Pass for fresh, locally sourced seafood. Afterward, mingle at Fish Heads Bar, a high-spirited outdoor bar with refreshing cocktails. Pick up a late-night snack from The Fudgery. Nothing beats a midnight munch session in the hotel room.
Rosemary Beach
State Road 30A highway is home to many captivating lakeside towns. For the ultimate VIP treatment, venture around the upscale gem of Rosemary Beach. Located by Lake Powell, the area's beachy vibes and colorful tropical architecture are a true taste of the Caribbean. Book a stay at The Pearl and experience the pinnacle of elegant luxury. This top-rated boutique hotel is conveniently in the center of all the action. Sleep until noon and sprawl out on the private balcony while soaking in the views of the Gulf of Mexico. Spend an afternoon at the rooftop pool and then treat yourself to a hydrafacial at the spa. Take a step into Cuba at the Havana Beach Bar. The Caribbean-inspired menu and Cuban decor are a vacation in itself.
Walk the cobblestone streets and browse the cutest shops in the Town Center. The area features a unique blend of architectural styles with a mix of European and Caribbean style buildings making it an incredible backdrop for photos. Curl up with a good book at The Hidden Lantern Bookstore. Now is the time to grab a new nighttime read for the hotel. Choose a new outfit from Disco, Willow, or Luminary for the perfect addition to your wardrobe. After an exciting browse, kick back with a cappuccino or matcha latte at Charlie's Cafe. You are what you surround yourself with. An area as beautiful as Rosemary Beach must also be home to an amazing art gallery. Take an afternoon to wander through the collectible fine art at Curate30a.
Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach is a peaceful lakeside town and striking coastal retreat. Home to Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, you can walk, hike, or bike alongside Campbell Lake and Morris Lake. Visitors on alltrails.com state the area has some of the most immaculate hiking trails and it's one of their favorites on the Florida Panhandle. Grayton Beach State Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or those looking for an adventure. Coast through Western Lake with a paddleboard or kayak rental. Given the rarity of the coastal dune lakes, gliding through Western Lake should be a priority. Rent a cozy cabin in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park for a remote home away from home and the perfect weekend getaway.
Wake up next to the waters at the exquisite WaterColor Resort, right around the corner from Western Lake. The coast, the Gulf of Mexico, or the natural sand dunes can be your daily morning greeting. Catch some rays on the resort's private beach, zone out at a bonfire, and indulge in the local Floridian cuisine at Gather Kitchen + Bar. Have an unforgettable experience with a visit to the Underwater Museum of Art, conveniently near Grayton Beach State Park. The museum is the first permanent underwater sculpture garden in the country and is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. From the Arc of Nexus to the Neptunian Oak, this unique gallery is one to be remembered for a lifetime. Continue satisfying your art itch with stunning works at the Justin Gaffrey Gallery and the Mary Hong Studio. Both galleries have a solid 5 stars from visitors on TripAdvisor.
Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is a wonderful lakeside marvel and a seamless blend of quiet luxury. Delicately placed near stunning lakeside properties, Stewart Lake is a relaxing Miramar Beach landmark. This family-friendly area is a top choice for water activities, indulging in nature, and high-class shopping. Kids and adults alike will love the relaxing atmosphere and endless activities.
Spend the day at Silver Sands Premium Outlet. Fashionistas can browse over 100 designer and branded stores and enjoy savings of up to 65%. Take the kids along; they will love the mall's play area. If you still have energy and money after this excursion, check out Grand Boulevard, for another shopping extravaganza. The area boasts an impressive 765,000 square feet of excitement. Grab a new gadget for the chef in your life at William's Sonoma, pick up something cute for your home at Pottery Barn, or grab some activewear at Lululemon for all of your Miramar Beach activities.
See the beauty of Miramar Beach on wheels through Runaway Rentals or go snorkeling in the stunning turquoise waters at Dolphin Reef. May the best man... or kid win in a heated beach volleyball match. The loser has to buy dinner at Emeril's Coastal, an incredible restaurant for all tastes. Emeril's menu has fancier fare like the Yellowfin Tuna Poke Bowl and kid-friendly choices like the buttermilk fried chicken.
DeFuniak Springs
Located inland lies the historical masterpiece and lakeside town of DeFuniak Springs. Take a day to lounge around Chipley Park and lose yourself in the perfect circular body of water that is Lake DeFuniak, one of two natural and nearly perfect circles of spring-fed water in the world — the other being Kingsley Lake in northeastern Florida. Immerse yourself in the calm waters by fishing, kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding. For more family-friendly fun, head over to Lake Stanley Park. Swim in the lake, let the kids hang out on the swings, and finish the day with a cozy picnic.
Take a tour of history and explore the DeFuniak Springs Historic District. Wander around Circle Drive and snap photos of Saint Agatha's Episcopal Church, the Chautauqua Building, and other timeless Victorian landmarks. DeFuniak Springs's rich heritage continues at Walton County Heritage Museum. See the original couch from Hotel DeFuniak, vintage items from the 1930s at Allison's Grocery, a handmade rug from the 1960s, and more wonderful vintage artifacts. Perla Baking Co. is a relaxing afternoon pitstop. Enjoy fresh farm-to-table cuisine and homemade bread. Warm up with French Country Soup and a comforting cup of Earl Grey tea. Visitors love Perla's soothing atmosphere, delicious pastries, and satisfying Cuban sandwiches.
Wewahitchka
Wewahitchka is an inland lakeside beauty by the iconic Dead Lakes and Apalachicola River. Get some exercise and wander through the swampy labyrinth at Dead Lakes Park. Paddle and hike the day away, wave hello to the surrounding wildlife, and set up camp to stay the night. The ecosystem at Dead Lakes Park is truly one of a kind. Visit Wewahitchka in May and check out the annual Tupelo Honey Festival, by the stunning Lake Alice. An article on The Spruce Eats website describes Tupelo Honey as having unique flavor notes of cinnamon, butter, and floral. Tasting the honey is a rare experience considering Tupelo Honey is only produced in two regions in the United States. Try interesting drink combinations at Birdie's Brew. Nothing says Wewahitchka like the Honey Bunnie Latte, an intriguing blend of honey and lavender. For a fun night out, grab the gang and head to Pub 71. Enjoy live music on the weekends or a game of pool or darts. Pub 71 has typical bar classics like a Whiskey Ranch Burger, chicken club, shrimp tacos, and loaded fries.
Venture Around Florida's Emerald Coast
Soaking up the sun on the snow-white sands near the shimmering aqua waters is an unbeatable experience. While Florida's Emerald Coast is known for its pristine and magazine-worthy beaches, the area has so much more to offer. Stroll by the pastel cottages in Seaside, visit Destin for top-tier fishing or get wild in Panama City Beach for the ultimate nightlife. Enjoy family-friendly fun at Miramar Beach or soak in luxury at Rosemary Beach. Load up on the rich history in DeFuniak Springs or immerse yourself in Santa Rosa's creative haven with its unique art. Make your way through the iconic dead lakes or take home a rare jar of Tupelo Honey in Wewahitchka. Florida's Emerald Coast is an absolute masterpiece featuring an amazing combination of warmth, unique experiences, and eight of the best lakeside towns you'll ever encounter.
