9 Adorable Small Towns on Florida's Emerald Coast to Visit in 2024
The Emerald Coast is a pristine stretch of coast on Florida's Panhandle. It is known for its white sand beaches, clear Gulf of Mexico water, and laidback atmosphere. The coast is dotted with small towns, each with its unique beauty. Several features make these towns memorable: charming downtown areas, historic sites, and a welcoming attitude. For example, movie lovers flock to Seaside, the filming site of The Truman Show, while foodies adore the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Here are the nine most adorable small towns along Florida's Emerald Coast.
Niceville
Niceville is a town as pleasant as its well-deserved name. This quaint community of 16,000 in Okaloosa County is known for its abundance of outdoor activities. The Turkey Creek Nature Trail and Pavillion are among the main attractions, offering kayaking, fishing, and nature trails. Further out, the boardwalk includes many stops with tables and shade, which is a great way to enjoy the serene setting. Those interested in getting out on the water can also hit the Lincoln Park Boat Ramp for a fun day.
Back on the paved streets of Niceville, the laid-back downtown area is ideal to walk around. Several restaurants, such as the waterfront Wharf 850 and the two-story The Local's Eatery, add to the charm of this adorable coastal town. Moreover, the town is undergoing major renovations to the lumber mill and is adding more local shops.
Santa Rosa Beach
Azure-colored water and white, sugary sand beaches are just a tiny part of what makes Santa Rosa Beach special. This family-friendly beach town offers spectacular restaurants, a pleasant downtown, and state parks. Among the natural sites, Point Washington State Forest is a top draw, with ten natural communities, wetlands, and cypress swamps. Another outdoor retreat is Edin Gardens State Park, bustling with beautiful flora along the coast.
Cultural enthusiasts opt for the Point Washington neighborhood, where visitors are welcomed to tour the Wesley Mansion, the area’s focal point. The checkered diamond sidewalks guide pedestrians to art galleries, shops, and eateries, making Santa Rosa Beach even more endearing.
Seaside
Seaside is a planned community on a tranquil coast known for its laidback yet modern New Urbanism architecture. The pastel-colored houses and white picket fences are so pleasant that the town became the setting for the Jim Carrey movie The Truman Show. Those interested can visit the Truman Show House, a landmark specifically catered to the movie.
Walking through town, many will notice the eclectic local restaurants like Great Southern Cafe and Bud and Alley's. Bud and Alley's offers rooftop dining with the best sunset views and a pleasant atmosphere. Nearby, Airstream Row is a collection of retro-fitted Airstream food trucks offering everything from seafood to barbeque and is a perfect way to try small bites of local fare.
Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach is a classic coastal town with gorgeous views and a charming town center. It is a planned community with New Urbanism architecture, similar to Seaside. The pedestrian-only town center is wrapped by forward-facing three-story residences and restaurants. Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar is one such restaurant, and dinner on the rooftop promises a spectacular sunset. Havana Beach Bar and Grill also has rooftop food and Caribbean-inspired dishes. Book a room at the European-style Rosemary Beach Inn for the complete coastal treatment. The boutique hotel offers seaside views and elegant furnishings. Afterward, one can end the day along the tranquil beach, known for its pristine surroundings.
Destin
Long known as an angler's paradise, Destin is one of the most sought-after fishing destinations in the state. To this end, people flock to the town in October for the Destin Fishing Rodeo, an annual event full of fishing challenges. Back on land, the Destin Harbor Boardwalk is the center of activity on the beach and adds charm to its natural beauty. You can enjoy a quiet walk, shop at one of the many shops, or book a parasailing or boat charter.
Among the many restaurants on the Boardwalk are A.J's Seafood and Oyster Bar and Boathouse Oyster Bar. If getting away from the crowds is more your speed, check out Henderson Beach State Park. The pristine shoreline includes 30-foot dunes, 60 campsites, and a nature trail.
Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach offers a peaceful respite from some of the more crowded Emerald Coast beaches. Beachfront cottages, surf shops, and scenic roads complete the coastal aesthetic. Shopping is a favorite pastime at Silver Sands Premium Outlets, boasting over 100 retail shops and restaurants. Some tourist favorites are Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, and the Disney Store Outlet, where one can get luxury goods at a bargain.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Dolphin Snorkel Reef, 685 feet offshore and comprised of 79 EcoSystem Reefs, is also popular. It is ideal to explore the underwater world and witness dolphins, fish, and other marine animals in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, those not interested in snorkeling adore the Scenic Highway 98 Trail, which leads through several beach towns.
Grayton Beach
Halfway between Destin and Panama City Beach, the historic village of Grayton Beach is a fun and diverse community. In fact, the town's unofficial motto is "Nice dogs, strange people." One of the many attractions is Grayton Beach State Park. The 2,000-acre park is home to 4.5 miles of hiking trails and Western Lake, great for fishing and kayaking.
One of the prettiest attractions in Grayton Beach actually lies 58 feet below underwater, 1 mile from the shores of Grayton State Park. The Underwater Museum of Art is a collection of sculptures from numerous artists on the ocean floor. The works of art are changed annually, so there is always something fresh to see. If dry activities are more your style, The Shops of Grayton offers eight local, colorful shops and restaurants that are perfect for a day out.
Port St. Joe
A quaint and charming coastal village, Port St. Joe is a hub for boating and fishing. The historic downtown is only a few blocks from Highway 98 and, along with quaint shops, has the Constitution Convention State Park. The park showcases Florida's first constitution, written in St. Joe. in 1838
Nearby, the St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve has 19 archaeological and historical sites from prehistoric times to the 20th century. Then there is the Cape San Blas Lighthouse. The historic lighthouse was built over 150 years ago and can be seen ten miles offshore. With these landmarks and plenty of small stores and restaurants, Port St. Joe is one of the most unique towns on this coast.
Mexico Beach
Mexico Beach has long been a popular vacation spot, somewhat of an "open secret" due to its small crowds and pretty shoreline. It is known as the "Unforgettable Coast" because of the white sand beaches, emerald-colored water, and ecotourism. Those looking to escape into the waters and go fishing can join Panhandle Adventures on one of their many fishing charters.
The culinary scene is also excellent, with restaurants like Killer Seafood and Mango Marley's offering bright Floribbean fare. Similarly, The Shell Shack has been serving fresh seafood since 1965, combining good vibes with good food.
Wrapping Up
The Emerald Coast is known worldwide for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. These nine towns exemplify the character of this coast—the history of Port St. Joe, the underwater art of Grayton Beach, and the fishing in Destin are unbeatable. The area has several state parks and natural preserves if nature is more your pace. The charming downtown districts add to the charm of these towns and are an excellent opportunity to mingle with the townspeople. The walkability, easy beach access, and diversity of attractions make these towns the most adorable on the Emerald Coast.
