8 Little-Known Towns In Florida's Emerald Coast

Florida's Emerald Coast is a hotbed for vacationers across the country. This should be no surprise, with its numerous sandy beaches, relatively affordable amenities, and amazing weather almost year round. There are, however, many communities here that fly under the radar to many.

If you are looking for a beach that is a little less crowded this year, a new park to discover, or more affordable accommodations in Florida, read on to discover these little-known communities and what makes them so great.

Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach, one of the oldest communities on the Emerald Coast, is a lesser-known seaside town, renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and interesting history.

Located along Scenic Highway 30A, this small town offers visitors access to Grayton Beach State Park, a 2,200-acre preserve featuring beaches, coastal dune lakes, and extensive hiking trails. The park is an ideal destination for kayaking, bird-watching, and spotting native wildlife such as herons and deer as well.

The heart of Grayton Beach lies in its historic district, where galleries, boutiques, and longstanding eateries welcome visitors. The Red Bar, a popular locale, is a popular spot with its eclectic décor and live music.

Freeport

Located slightly inland from the Emerald Coast, Freeport provides a quieter alternative to the bustling beach towns. Its main draw is its easy access to nature, highlighted by the proximity to Choctawhatchee Bay and the adjoining Lafayette Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Nearby, you can launch kayaks or paddleboards from the Freeport Regional Sports Complex or explore the bay’s winding estuaries rich with birdlife and native vegetation.

In the center of the town itself, Freeport has a quaint downtown area with a number of useful amenities. Restaurants and eateries like Bubba Jacks or Lucky Star Bar feed and entertain visitors, while The Heritage Center of Freeport Museum and Visitor Center will better educate you about the area.

The nearby E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center offers an educational experience focused on the region’s biodiversity, making it a favorite for families and nature enthusiasts alike

Seaside

Seaside is a distinctive planned community in Florida. Known for its New Urbanism design, the town is laid out around a central amphitheater, which hosts live performances and local events.

The Seaside Chapel, with its strikingly simple design, offers a peaceful retreat and an up-close look at the town’s unique architectural style. Airstream Row, a collection of vintage food trailers along Central Square, provides quick bites ranging from fresh seafood to creative desserts.

Visitors should also check out Sundog Books, a beloved independent bookstore, or shop at Modica Market, a gourmet grocery known for its famous breakfast muffins, a great place to fuel up before a day in the sun.

Seaside’s uncrowded beaches, paired with its walkable layout, make it a great destination for those seeking local flavor and Gulf Coast relaxation.

Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach is near draws like the Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Located a short drive away, this park is a true highlight of the region, with over 1,600 acres of rare coastal dune lakes, secluded beaches, and hiking trails. The park is also a great spot for fishing and wildlife sightseeing. Point Washington State Forest, just minutes away, provides yet more opportunities for outdoor fun, like hiking, biking, and exploring the native ecosystems.

In town, be sure to stop by Gulf Place, a vibrant hub featuring specialty shops and casual dining options. The Artists at Gulf Place cooperative is a standout too, offering handcrafted works from local artists.

Navarre

Navarre, tucked between Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach, offers a quieter alternative to some of Florida’s more crowded coastal destinations. The town is best known for Navarre Beach, a stunning stretch of shoreline bordered by the Gulf Islands National Seashore. This protected area provides miles of undeveloped beaches, perfect for walking, shell collecting, or spotting dolphins in the surf.

Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, the longest in the Gulf of Mexico, is a popular spot for anglers and visitors seeking panoramic views. The nearby Navarre Beach Marine Science Station offers educational programs and exhibits about the region’s marine life, making it a great stop for families. Dining in Navarre includes casual beachfront eateries like Juana’s Pagodas and local seafood staples such as Dewey Destin’s Navarre.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Blackwater River State Forest, located a short drive away, features hiking trails, boat launches, and scenic picnic areas.

Inlet Beach

Inlet Beach, located at the eastern edge of the Emerald Coast, is near natural attractions like Camp Helen State Park. Situated nearby, this is a standout destination for outdoor adventurers, offering a network of hiking trails, nature viewing decks, and access to Powell Lake, one of the region’s best coastal dune lakes.

The town itself is home to a stretch of uncrowded white-sand beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing. The Rosemary Beach Farmers Market held just minutes away from the waterfront, is a popular weekend spot for fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts. For dining, local favorites include Shades Bar and Grill, known for its seafood and casual atmosphere.

Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach, while often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, like Pensacola, still offers much in the way of history, natural attractions, and relaxed coastal living.

Heritage Park & Cultural Center serves as a gateway to the town’s past, featuring exhibits at the Indian Temple Mound Museum and historic buildings like the Garnier Post Office and Camp Walton Schoolhouse. Dining options in town range from fresh seafood at The Shack to international flavors at popular local spots.

If you're looking for more outdoor-oriented fun, you can visit Liza Jackson Park, where picnic spots and a dog-friendly beach invite you to explore the Santa Rosa Sound. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, a long-standing attraction, provides up-close encounters with marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and rays. The nearby Okaloosa Island also offers up some uncrowded beaches and fishing spots at the Okaloosa Island Pier.

Niceville

Situated along the northern shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, Niceville provides a different perspective on the Emerald Coast. Niceville is notable as the home to the Mattie Kelly Fine and Performing Arts Center, which features art exhibitions and live performances showcasing local and visiting talent throughout the year.

The town’s waterfront Mullet Festival Grounds also hosts events throughout the year, including the popular Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival. Lions Park, located along the bay, provides a more relaxing spot for soaking in some sun in nature and fishing, with scenic views of the water available at several lookout points.

The Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park is another local highlight, where maintained trails are shaded by longleaf pines, kayak launches, and viewing decks to hopefully see the local wildlife are abundant.

See Another Side of the Emerald Coast

From quiet beachfront to wonderful state parks, these little-known towns on the Emerald Coast will surely make for a memorable and more laid-back trip to Florida this year. Whether you are looking for a less pricey hotel or resort to stay the night at, an under-the-radar yet delicious seafood restaurant, or simply a clean beach with fewer people in your way, definitely try to consider these small towns the next time you venture out to the Gulf Coast.