Looking for the best things to do in Rosemary Beach? You’re in the right place. As a frequent visitor to Rosemary Beach, I’ve fallen in love with all that this charming beach town offers.
The best things to do in Rosemary Beach include biking around town, relaxing on the white-sand beach, shopping and dining along Main Street, enjoying a beach bonfire, and watching the sunset over the Gulf.
But there’s so much more to this beautiful panhandle town. This guide covers the top walkable things to do in Rosemary Beach, easy nearby day trips, and helpful tips for visiting with kids.
Located along Florida’s Emerald Coast, Rosemary Beach is a thoughtfully designed seaside town known for its walkable layout, beautiful architecture, and clear turquoise water. It’s the kind of place where you can fill your days without ever getting in the car.
My husband’s family has made Rosemary Beach our annual summer trip, and between all of us, we’ve visited dozens of times. I’ve loved exploring both the charming town and the many things to do near Rosemary Beach. There are beautiful nature preserves, state parks, untouched islands, and more – all just a short drive from this idyllic beach town.
I’ll cover the best things in and around Rosemary Beach here! This guide starts with walkable, in-town activities, then expands to easy nearby day trips, dining, lodging, and tips for visiting with kids.
Here’s how this guide is organized:
- Things to Do in Rosemary Beach
- Where to Dine in Rosemary Beach
- Where to Stay in Rosemary Beach
- Things to Do Near Rosemary Beach (Activities & Nature Spots)
- Best Places to Dine Near Rosemary Beach
- Things to Do in Rosemary Beach with Kids
Map of Things to Do in Rosemary Beach
You can open this interactive Google map to see the locations of the things to do in Rosemary Beach, Florida.
Rosemary Beach in a Nutshell
If you’re flying into Panama City Beach, Rosemary Beach is about 16 miles away (roughly a 30-minute drive). It’s the first beach town you’ll reach along Scenic Highway 30A (which is much more of a busy small-town street than a highway), followed by Alys Beach, Seacrest Beach, and Seaside as you head west.
While each 30A town has its own personality, Rosemary Beach stands out for its walkable layout, thoughtfully designed architecture, and polished-but-relaxed feel.
The beaches here are known for their bright white sand and clear turquoise water. They’re part of what makes this stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast so popular.
Most visitors either stay at The Pearl Hotel or rent a beach cottage within town. If you’re planning to spend most of your time in Rosemary Beach, you can easily get around on foot or by bike. Rideshares can be hit-or-miss, though, so renting a car is helpful if you plan to explore beyond town.
So let’s get into it! Here are the best things to do in Rosemary Beach!
Things to Do in Rosemary Beach (In Town & Walkable)
Walkable activities, beaches, shopping, and experiences located right in town.
Rosemary Beach is designed to be enjoyed on foot or by bike. From spending the day on the beach to exploring Main Street, these are the best things to do without ever leaving town.
1. The Beach
Hopefully heading to the beach goes without saying!
Rosemary Beach is a stunningly gorgeous beach with white sand and turquoise waters.
You can bring your own chairs and umbrellas or you can rent them at the beach.
Note that access to Rosemary Beach requires a code to enter and exit the beach; wherever you’re staying should provide an access code and/or a wristband for access to your communities’ amenities.
Also, if they are present, be sure to heed the flags on the beach- they warn against specific things like rough waves or currents.
Tip: Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available daily and make it easy to spend a full day on the sand without hauling your own gear. Just arrive early during peak season! You’ll want to get in line as early as you can to make sure you can snag a group of chairs.
2. Explore Main Street & Town Center
Exploring Main Street is one of the best things to do in Rosemary Beach, hands down.
Rosemary Beach’s Main Street is the heart of town and where most visitors naturally gravitate. It’s a beautiful, colorful street lined with boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and shaded courtyards. And it’s an easy place to spend an afternoon wandering, grabbing a coffee, and people-watching.
Beyond Main Street, the Town Center – which includes Barrett Square, Main Street, and the surrounding areas – expands the heart of Rosemary Beach even further. This area serves as the town’s main gathering spot, with additional restaurants, shops, and green areas. Many of Rosemary Beach’s community events take place here, from live music to fitness classes such as yoga and Pilates.
3. Biking
Other than walking, bicycles are the most common form of transportation here.
I highly recommend renting bikes- especially if you plan on doing most of your activities locally. Many visitors also bike to nearby towns like Alys Beach and Seacrest Beach using the paved Timpoochee Trail along 30A.
Each bike rental company has options for children – whether that’s an attachment to your own bike or a smaller bike (with or without training wheels) for your kids.
At Bamboo Bicycle Company you can rent a bike for day use or for as long as you want. They have great add-on options for families with small children as well. They deliver the bikes to wherever you’re staying, free of charge.
If you’re staying in Seacrest Villas, Peddlers 30a is another bike shop nearby.
4. Shopping
Rosemary Beach is incredibly walkable with stores and restaurants all over the Town Center. Stop in to one of the many shops to browse for swimwear, resort wear, jewelry, books, toys, home decor, and curated gifts.
Almost every store here is a local business, so definitely be sure to stop in and show these small businesses some love!
Don’t miss the towns most popular boutiques on Main Street, like Parish, Gigi’s Fabulous Kids’ Fashions, and The Hidden Lantern Bookstore.
5.The 30A Farmer’s Market
Every Sunday from 9am-1pm the 30a Farmer’s Market comes to Rosemary Beach.
Located at 28 N. Barrett Square, you can shop for produce, snacks, local goods, and more. The shops are set up in a line that stretches a few blocks.
6. The Green
What is colloquially known as “The Green” is pictured on the right-hand side of this photo.
It’s right across from Main Street and is a large open space that is great for kids to run around and play.
Throughout the year, Rosemary Beach hosts seasonal events like outdoor movies, live music, and holiday celebrations, often held on The Green or in the Town Center.
We love attending these events! We’ve listened to live music, enjoyed a Rosemary Beach-sponsored pop-up featuring a balloon-making artist, watched movies on the lawn, and other fun activities.
7. The Pool
Depending on where you stay in Rosemary Beach, you’ll most likely have access to a pool.
The photos above are from the pool associated with Rosemary Beach Cottages. We loved taking a break from the ocean each day and relaxing poolside.
I especially was grateful for the pool because there are shaded areas and I had my five-week-old baby on our most recent trip. (Sand, sun, and newborns do not make for a fun combination!)
8. Art Galleries
Rosemary Beach has a small but thoughtfully curated art scene, with galleries and rotating exhibitions located right along Main Street.
Curate30A Art Gallery is Rosemary Beach’s standout art gallery. This gallery features a well-edited mix of contemporary works from both emerging and nationally recognized artists, with pieces ranging from paintings and photography to sculpture.
Beyond browsing, Curate30A often hosts special events like artist showcases, live painting, and exhibitions that give visitors a deeper look into the creative process.
The gallery is open daily, typically from late morning into the evening, making it easy to pop in during a walk around Rosemary Beach.
9. Admire the Cottages
Remember the idyllic town from the Truman Show? Well, that charming town was filmed in Seaside, a neighboring beach community. And I’d argue that Rosemary Beach is even more beautiful!
Anyone who loves interior design or architecture will love admiring the cottages in Rosemary Beach. Homes in Rosemary Beach look like they’re straight out of Southern Living magazine, and no two are the same.
With its pastel cottages, landscaped paths, and coastal architecture, Rosemary Beach is ideal for scenic walks and casual photography throughout the day.
Tip: While you’re walking around the cottages, don’t miss the butterfly garden on West Kingston Road. There’s a wooden footpath that wanders through an array of plants that are specifically planted to attract butterflies!
10. Peddlers Pavilion
Peddler’s Pavilion, right next to Rosemary Beach (walking distance away), boasts great food, shopping, and live music.
In fact, Peddler’s Pavilion is at the entrance of Seacrest Villas where we stayed.
It has a bunch of cute beach shacks some of which are pictured above that feature great food and boutique items.
You’ll find clothing, jewelry, a chicken salad place, a pizzeria, and a donut truck to name a few attractions.
And stop by at nighttime for live music under twinkle lights with a festive ambiance.
11. Go to the Spa
If vacation means relaxation and pampering for you, then check out Vivo Spa & Salon.
Located on the second floor in Barrett Square, Vivo Spa & Salon is one of the best spas in 30a.
Whether you want a couples massage, facial, full body treatment, or deep tissue massage, this is the place to go.
12. Rosemary Beach Racquet Club
Tennis players: the Rosemary Beach Racquet Club is for you!
Whether you want to play for fun, get lessons, or participate in a tournament, you can do it all at this top tennis destination.
An individual day pass starts at $25.
Also, if you’ve booked your stay through the Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company, you get free court time included!
13. Water Activities
From swimming and bodysurfing to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, there is no shortage of water sports at Rosemary Beach.
Here are a few rental options for you:
If you want to go boating or jet skiing, you’ll need to do a tour or rental outside of Rosemary Beach. Panama City Beach is a popular destination for these water sports – I’ll cover more in my “Things to Do Around Rosemary Beach” section in this post!
14. Watch the Sunset
Don’t forget to stop and relax on your beach vacation! One of the best ways to do this is to enjoy the sunset.
Head down to the beach to watch the sky change colors and be reminded of the beauty of nature.
Sunrises and sunsets always remind me of Psalm 19:1- The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork! And boy are the sunsets here a work of art!
Our nephews enjoyed collecting seashells along the water while the adults watched the sun go down together.
Tip: Sunrise is another perfect time at the beach! Early mornings are especially peaceful in Rosemary Beach and are perfect for sunrise walks, shell hunting, and enjoying the beach before it gets busy.
15. Beach Bonfire
Did you know you can rent a beach bonfire at Rosemary Beach?
Bonfires typically start around $299 for up to ten people, with optional add-ons like chairs, s’mores kits, and tiki torches depending on the company you book through.
It’s an easy way to do something special one night of your trip, especially if you’re traveling with family or a group.
As the sun sets, the fire gets going and the beach quiets down a bit. Kids usually end up running around with flashlights looking for crabs while the adults sit back, talk, and enjoy being outside together. It’s low-key, memorable, and doesn’t require much planning on your end.
It’s one of those experiences that tends to become a highlight of the trip… something everyone talks about long after you’re home!
Here are some places where you can rent a bonfire:
Where to Dine in Rosemary Beach
The best restaurants, casual eats, and sweet spots located within Rosemary Beach.
Dining is a big part of the Rosemary Beach experience. These restaurants are all located in town and range from casual beach bites to sit-down dinners.
Tip: I recommend always making a dinner reservation in Rosemary Beach well in advance of your stay. Oftentimes in the summer there is a 2-3 hour wait if you visit a restaurant without a reservation after 6pm. We tried to make a reservation a couple of days before our trip, and every place we called was booked for weeks!
16. Havana Beach Bar & Grill and Rooftop Lounge
Not only is the food here wonderful, but so are the views.
Havana Beach Bar & Grill, located in the Pearl Hotel, has beach views and is in the heart of the action on Main Street.
Try the Summer Berry Salad- it is phenomenal!
You can also head to the rooftop lounge for a cocktail (or two- it is vacation after all!) with a gorgeous beach view.
17. La Crema Tapas & Chocolate
La Crema Tapas & Chocolate has some incredible food- some of my favorite in Rosemary Beach.
Known for their tapas and chocolate (hence the name), you can stop in for a light meal or a feast- it’s up to you!
We ordered crab cakes, fish tacos, and a molten lava cake a la mode. Trust me when I say there was not a single crumb left on our plates!
18. Playa Bowls
I’m almost certain that we went to Playa Bowls every single day on our last trip to Rosemary Beach. Smoothies and acai bowls made with fresh fruits just sound right for a beach vacation! And Playa Bowls is conveniently located right on the shops along Main Street.
And if you prefer to start your day with coffee instead of a smoothie, Amavida Coffee is the place to go!
19. Cowgirl Kitchen
Located right on Main Street, Cowgirl Kitchen is one of the relatively more affordable dining options in Rosemary Beach.
We ordered takeout one night and enjoyed it with our whole family back at the house.
They’ve got great pizza and salads- we ordered the Margarita pizza and the CK taco salad with shrimp.
20. The Summer Kitchen Cafe
This place was so good we ate here twice!
The Summer Kitchen Café has a much more laid-back vibe compared to the other restaurants you’ll find in Rosemary Beach. (Fun fact: it was the first restaurant in Rosemary Beach!)
Their crab cakes are divine, as are their fries and burger.
(They actually have my husband’s favorite burger in Rosemary Beach of the restaurants we tried- and at a price that won’t break the bank.)
The Summer Kitchen Café also serves great coffee and drinks which you can easily order at the bar.
It’s conveniently located at the end of Main Street near the beach.
21. Restaurant Paradis
When you’re by the ocean, you simply must add fresh seafood to your diet, and Restaurant Paradis does just that.
This upscale seafood restaurant serves up coastal fine dining made from carefully selected seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
Though we haven’t dined at Restaurant Paradis, I’ve heard great reviews of this place and knew I had to add it to this list! (We often stay in a condo above it so I have no clue how we haven’t eaten here yet… Next summer!)
Restaurant Paradis requires a reservation, so be sure to call in way ahead of time (I’m talking days or even weeks ahead of time) to make sure you get one.
If they’re booked, try Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar! They’re also known for their seafood and the bar has terrific views.
22. 30a Candy Shops
Vacation is one of the times when calories don’t count, right? 😉
You’ll find some great candy shops in Rosemary Beach, namely the Sugar Shak on Main Street and the Sweet Peddler in Peddler’s Pavilion.
We have young nephews who adored these two shops- I think it’s easy to see why!
23. Ice Cream Shops
In a similar vein, vacation always calls for ice cream!
Both of the candy stores I mentioned serve up ice cream, and you can also find ice cream (and other yummy treats) at Kilwins (our favorite!), Smallcakes Cupcakery, and Creative Crepes.
Tip: Try the Superman ice cream (like a fruity vanilla) at Kilwins! It may look like it’s for kids only (hello neon red, yellow, and blue ice cream!) but don’t knock it til you try it! It’s my go-to flavor when I’m in Rosemary Beach or anywhere on the East Coast that sells it!
Where to Stay in Rosemary Beach
Hotels, cottages, and vacation rentals within walking distance of the beach and town center.
Whether you prefer a boutique hotel or a private cottage, Rosemary Beach offers beautiful places to stay that put you close to everything. These are the best options for a comfortable, walkable stay.
24. The Pearl
First things first: you need a place to stay.
The Pearl is a remarkable, award-winning hotel a block away from the beach.
With top-notch service and gorgeous architecture & interiors, this 4-star hotel exudes luxury and class.
Featured in Southern Living, Conde Nast Traveler, and Travel & Leisure, The Pearl Hotel is known as one of the best hotels in Florida and the USA.
Intrigued? Book your stay in one of The Pearl Hotel’s 55 rooms here.
You can also book a spa treatment at Spa Pearl for some extra pampering.
25. Rent a Cottage
Shop my outfit here! (The skirt has built-in shorts- perfect for biking around Rosemary Beach!)
If you’re not staying at The Pearl, the most common thing to do at Rosemary Beach is to rent a house.
The cottages/houses in Rosemary Beach are straight out of a Southern Living magazine (I’m not kidding- some literally have been featured in Southern Living).
With gorgeous pastels, remarkable architecture, and exquisite attention to detail, pretty much every cottage in Rosemary Beach is picture perfect.
There are so many vacation rentals in Rosemary Beach, and you can find a great house through the Rosemary Beach cottage rental site. We’ve stayed in a condo above Paradiso for the past two summers and have had wonderful stays.
For a more affordable option:
One summer, we stayed at the Villas at Seacrest Beach and loved our place. (The name is pretty misleading since this neighborhood of cottages is much closer to Rosemary Beach than Seacrest Beach.)
Since it’s technically not Rosemary Beach, as it’s right on the other side of the Rosemary Beach boundary line, the price was about a third of what we saw in Rosemary.
Here are some more great options for your stay in Rosemary Beach!
Things to Do Near Rosemary Beach (Easy Day Trips)
Easy day trips, outdoor adventures, and nearby attractions worth leaving town for.
While Rosemary Beach has plenty to do on its own, there are several great beach towns, parks, nature preserves, and attractions nearby. These activities are all within 5–35 minutes of Rosemary Beach.
Alys Beach
About a 5–10 minute bike ride or a quick drive west of Rosemary Beach.
Alys Beach is right next to Rosemary Beach, just a bike ride away.
It’s a premier luxury beach town that looks more like Mykonos, Greece than the Florida Panhandle!
Don’t believe me? Check out this drone footage we captured!
Picture-perfect white cottages (more like mansions) adorned with ivy line cobblestone roads.
One thing to keep in mind: exclusive beach access is for Alys Beach residents only.
Eden Gardens State Park
Located about a 10–15 minute drive north of Rosemary Beach.
Eden Garden State Park is full of beauty, much like its name suggests.
Spanish moss drapes over winding branches of the Live Oaks that live on the 163 acres that comprise the park.
Built in the 1800s, the stately Wesley House is the focal point of Eden Garden.
Though the park is open daily from 8am until sunset, hours are limited if you want to take a tour of the house.
Visit between 10am-3pm Thursday-Monday for a house tour; they give tours on the hour.
Don’t forget to bring $4 cash per vehicle for the honor-system parking fee (bring exact change!).
Conservation Park
Roughly a 25–30 minute drive from Rosemary Beach.
Want a change of scenery? The nature at Conservation Park is so different from what you’re used to at Rosemary Beach. These cypress trees are gorgeous and you’ll see them all throughout the park’s 2,912 acres.
You’ll find 12 different trails here at varying lengths from .6 miles to 11 miles long. They are perfect for hiking, cycling, or just taking a stroll.
There are wetlands here, too- bring your binoculars if you’re an avid wildlife watcher!
Conservation Park is completely free to enter and there is no parking fee. Don’t forget to bring water!
Timpoochee Trail & Deer Lake State Park
The Timpoochee Trail runs along 30A, with Deer Lake State Park about a 10–15 minute drive from Rosemary Beach.
The Timpoochee Trail runs all along the side of 30a.
It is an 18.6-mile bike trail that is paved and fairly flat, stretching from Inlet Beach all the way to Dune Allen.
If you’re biking the trail from Rosemary Beach, along the way you should stop by Deer Lake State Park, pictured above.
At Deer Lake State Park you can follow the easy boardwalk path that crosses over the sand dunes until it reaches the beach.
Deer Lake State Park also contains the rare coastal dune lake that gives it its name.
Bring $3 cash (exact change) for the honor-system parking fee per vehicle. If you’re biking, the entrance fee is $2 per cyclist.
Camp Helen State Park
Just a short ~10 minute drive east of Rosemary Beach, right near the entrance to 30A.
Science nerds (like me) will love the fact that Camp Helen State Park is an ecological wonder. The 185-acre state park is surrounded by water on three sides. The type of lake that forms its eastern border is known as a coastal dune lake; these are extremely rare and only exist in a few places on the planet!
As you walk through Camp Helene State Park, you’ll find five distinct natural communities:
- basin swamp
- depression marsh
- marine unconsolidated substrate
- mesic flatwoods
- scrub oak
Whether you want to observe the wildlife, go fishing (there is both freshwater and saltwater fishing here!), explore the different types of nature, or simply relax on its gorgeous white sands, you’ll love it here.
The entrance fee is $4 cash per vehicle; simply place it in the park’s honor box.
St. Andrews State Park
Approximately a 30–35 minute drive east in Panama City Beach (can be 45+ in summer traffic).
St. Andrews State Park combines crystal clear waters with frequent dolphin sightings- you’ll want to have your phone handy to take photos here!
At 1,200 acres, there’s plenty to do here. On land, you can relax on the beach or go hiking, biking, and even camping.
And there’s no limit to the activities you can do in the water, like swimming, snorkeling, boating, paddleboarding, and more. You can rent snorkel gear, paddleboards, or a kayak from the Shell Island Shuttle Company. You can even kayak to Shell Island- I’ll talk more about Shell Island in the next item on this list of things to do around Rosemary Beach!
The park has both freshwater and saltwater, making for some great fishing. You can get fishing equipment from the Jetty Store or Camp Store nearby.
If you’re in the area for lunch or dinner, the Grand Marlin is very close by and serves up fresh Gulf seafood made with local ingredients when possible. Ask for a table by the window to get a view of the Grand Lagoon (where you’ll find the docks that you see in the second photo above!).
Shell Island
Accessible by boat or shuttle from Panama City Beach, about a 30-minute drive from Rosemary Beach before boarding.
Adjacent to St. Andrews State Park, the 7-mile long barrier island of Shell Island is completely undeveloped, which means it has some of the most pristine white sands in all of the Florida Panhandle! Marine life is plentiful and dolphins are common in this area, too.
Since you can only reach Shell Island via water, you’ll need to either kayak, book a jet ski or boat tour, or take the Shell Island Shuttle.
We did a jet ski tour which was so much fun- we saw dolphins and a manatee! Your guide will even give you opportunities to get in the water with the wildlife. I tried to swim with the dolphins but they were too fast!
If you want to take a shuttle instead, you’ll find the Shell Island Shuttle at Adventure at Sea, located at 5709 N. Lagoon Drive in Panama City Beach. It leaves every half-hour from 9am to 5pm in the summer and the last shuttle out is at 3pm. (Visiting Rosemary Beach in the spring or fall? The shuttle runs every hour from 10am-4pm with the last shuttle out at 2pm.) You can get your round-trip tickets here.
Making a day of it? Feel free to bring coolers, chairs, umbrellas, etc., just know that there is no restroom on Shell Island! You can also rent snorkel equipment from the Shell Island Shuttle Company.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Located about a 35–40 minute drive west near Santa Rosa Beach.
Covering 1,640 acres near Santa Rosa Beach, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers plenty to do.
It borders 3 miles of ocean and contains gorgeous sand dunes- some of which peak at over 25 feet!
With 209 campsites and 32 cabins, this state park is also a great option if you like to go camping.
It has lakes, hiking trails, sand dunes, and amenities like a gazebo, snack shop, picnic areas, and even tram service to the beach.
For day use it is open from 8am to sundown, and there is a $6 honor-system entrance fee per vehicle.
Pier Park and the SkyWheel
About a 15-20 minute drive east in Panama City Beach.
Rosemary Beach is just about 17 minutes down the road from Pier Park in Panama City Beach. It’s one the biggest attractions in Panama City Beach! You’ll find 124 shops with beachy store fronts and lots of pastel colors.
There’s a wide range of activities here, from the Grand IMAX movie theater and laser tag to shopping and dining (might I suggest Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse and Sushi Bar?). Those looking for nightlife in the area will love dancing to country music at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge.
While you’re at Pier Park, grab a cute pineapple drink from Coco Locos Drink Paradise- they’re pricey (we ordered the Fruit Passion for $13) but yummy! (Super Instagrammable, too… check out more photo-worthy spots in Panama City Beach here!)
And if you want to go fishing near Pier Park, simply walk down to the Russell-Fields City Pier. There’s a $4 admission fee to this 1500+ foot long pier. Once you’re on it, you can buy a fishing license and rent fishing gear at the bait & tackle shop right on the pier. Species in this area include cobia, flounder, king mackerel, pompano, redfish, and Spanish mackerel.
Side note: if you brought your furry friend to Rosemary Beach, there’s a Dog Beach right next to the pier!
Lastly, the whole family will enjoy the SkyWheel- it’s a Ferris Wheel that looks out over Panama City Beach. The 10-minute ride costs $18.99 for adults and $14.99 for children 4 and up, get your tickets here.
Dolphin Tours
Most dolphin tours depart from Panama City Beach, roughly a 30-minute drive from Rosemary Beach.
If you are looking for an epic water adventure, make a reservation with Blue Dolphin Tours.
While they are not located in Rosemary Beach, they are just a short drive away in Panama City Beach.
They take you out on a 2-hour tour to find the resident pod of wild bottle-nosed dolphins that frequent the area- and then you can actually swim with them!
Book a few days ahead of time to make sure there is a boat available for you and your crew. (For a holiday weekend, make your reservation at least a week in advance).
Blue Dolphin Tours is great if you want a small group size on a smaller boat, but here are some other cheaper options that also depart from Panama City Beach:
- For a catamaran tour (great for those who get seasick easily) with more people, check out this 3-hour tour.
- This sunset catamaran dolphin-viewing cruise is perfect if you want a romantic sail (you don’t get in the water on this tour).
Golf
Several public and resort golf courses are located within a 8–35 minute drive of Rosemary Beach.
For those who enjoy the sport, golfing is the perfect vacation activity.
The closest golf club that is open to the public is Origins Golf Club – it’s less than 10 minutes away.
However, there are multiple golf clubs around Rosemary Beach:
Panama City Beach (roughly 15 miles away):
About a 25–30 minute drive east of Rosemary Beach.
- Legacy Golf Club (also known as Holiday Golf Club)
- Signal Hill Golf Course
Sandestin (roughly 20 miles west of Rosemary Beach):
Approximately a 30–35 minute drive west.
Destin (roughly 24-30 miles west of Rosemary Beach):
Around a 40–45 minute drive, depending on traffic.
Freeport (roughly 29 miles north):
About a 40–45 minute drive north of Rosemary Beach.
Niceville (34 miles west of Rosemary Beach):
Roughly a 50-minute drive west, near the Choctawhatchee Bay.
Best Places to Dine Around Rosemary Beach
Great restaurants just outside of town, from casual favorites to date-night spots.
If you’re willing to drive a few minutes, you’ll find even more excellent dining options near Rosemary Beach. These restaurants are popular for a reason and worth adding to your itinerary.
The Citizen
Located in Alys Beach, just a 5–10 minute bike ride or 15 minute walk.
Located on 30A at Alys Beach, this restaurant has the perfect ambiance for a nice dinner out. Grab a cocktail at the bar while you’re waiting for your table, then enjoy a tasty meal with fresh seafood.
The Citizen at Alys has something for everyone’s tastes. Warm cheddar biscuits, a smoked beef short rib, wood grilled swordfish, gulf coast oysters on the half shell, mac n cheese, whipped feta with garlic naan… need I go on?
They’re also open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
George’s at Alys Beach
Also in Alys Beach, about a 5–10 minute bike ride from Rosemary Beach.
George’s is in Alys Beach and serves up delicious coastal cuisine with a global flair.
Book a reservation ahead of time, this place gets crowded quickly, even at lunch!
Raw & Juicy
In Alys Beach, roughly a 5–10 minute bike ride or 15 minute walk away.
Raw & Juicy is also located at Alys Beach, just a bike ride away from Rosemary Beach.
If you’re looking for a lighter breakfast, they have great smoothies and healthy breakfast options.
I ordered the Antioxidant Smoothie (maqui berry, blueberries, strawberries, goji berries, banana and oat milk… yum!) while Harrison chose the strawberry banana smoothie.
We paired our smoothies with a buttermilk biscuit breakfast sandwich.
You can enjoy your meal in their beautiful restaurant or on their plant covered patio.
Amicis & Amigos
Located near the intersection of 30A and Highway 98, about a 5-minute drive from Rosemary Beach.
Amigos and Amicis are two sister restaurants- one Mexican and one Italian- that share one big space.
They are located right where 30a intersects with Highway 98, and often have less of a wait than the restaurants directly in Rosemary Beach or along 30a.
Because of that, we ended up eating there one night when everything else was booked- and were so glad we did!
Their cocktails are delicious and their homemade pasta is fantastic!
Things to Do in Rosemary Beach with Kids
Family-friendly activities, outings, and nearby experiences kids will love.
Rosemary Beach is an excellent destination for families thanks to its walkability, calm beaches, and community-centered design. Here are the best kid-friendly things to do – all easy to access from town.
- The Beach – wide white sand, gentle waves, and lifeguards in season
- Biking around town – flat paths and easy bike rentals with child seats
- The Green – open space for kids to run, play, and attend movie nights
- Ice cream shops – Kilwins, Smallcakes, and Creative Crepes
- Beach bonfires – unforgettable evening experience for families
- Sunset watching – low-effort, high-reward activity for all ages
Tip: If you’re visiting with toddlers or babies, shaded pools and walkable streets make Rosemary Beach especially manageable. We visited with a five-week-old one year and were able to enjoy our trip, even as sleep-deprived as we were!
Things to Do with Kids Around Rosemary Beach
Looking to mix in a few easy outings beyond town? These kid-friendly attractions are all within a short drive of Rosemary Beach and make great half-day adventures for families.
- Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise (Panama City Beach) – A high-energy pirate-themed boat cruise where kids can dress up, join in games, and hunt for treasure. It’s especially popular with elementary-age kids and makes for a memorable morning or afternoon outing. My nephews had a blast doing this!
- Gulf World Marine Park (Panama City Beach) – Home to dolphin and sea lion shows, marine exhibits, and interactive experiences. It’s an easy way to add something educational to your trip, and kids love the live performances. They also offer swimming with dolphins! Get info here.
- Camp Helen State Park (15-minute drive) – A great option for families who want a quieter beach experience. The calm lake, open spaces, and short nature walks make it manageable even with younger kids.
- Deer Lake State Park Boardwalk (along 30A) – An easy, stroller-friendly boardwalk walk that leads to the beach. Kids love spotting birds and crossing the dunes, and the short distance makes it low-stress.
- Shell Island (via boat or shuttle) – Best for older kids who love exploring nature. The undeveloped island feels like an adventure, with opportunities to spot dolphins and collect shells (no amenities, so plan ahead).
- Pier Park & SkyWheel (Panama City Beach) – A fun change of pace with shops, treats, and the SkyWheel (a gentle Ferris wheel ride with big views that most kids enjoy). Easy to combine with lunch or ice cream.
- Timpoochee Trail Bike Ride – Flat, paved, and perfect for family bike rides. You can choose a short stretch and turn around anytime, making it flexible for kids of different ages.
Tip: If you’re traveling with younger kids, stick to outings within 15–20 minutes of Rosemary Beach to avoid long car rides during peak vacation days.
In conclusion…
I hope you can see just how incredible this slice of paradise is!
From its coastal charm to all the things to do in Rosemary Beach, it’s a perfect vacation destination.
And if you’re looking for more charming vacation locations, check out these gorgeous places in the USA:
- 20 Hidden Gems in the Texas Hill Country
- 32 Things to Do in the Dreamy Bavarian Town of Leavenworth, WA
- 20 Incredible Things to Do in San Luis Obispo, CA
If you’ve been to Rosemary Beach and have more recommendations on things to do (or if you just wanna say hi!) leave a comment below!
Safe travels!
Jasmine
PS. If you found this post helpful, please share it to Pinterest! You can use any of the images below for easy pinning!
2 Responses
Hey there, thanks for sharing these tips! What are the drone rules in Rosemary Beach? I see you got a few drone shots and footage, but I am interested to know if you were just able to fly it, or if you needed a permit, etc?
Hi Linda!
Thanks for commenting. This is Harrison, Jasmine’s husband. I always consult the app, B4UFLY to see if an area has drone restrictions within the US. Sometimes, you can get authorization even if an area does have certain restrictions. This authorization is called LAANC and you can read more about it here. Unfortunately, I don’t believe B4UFLY offers the ability to submit LAANC requests at this time. However, you can make LAANC authorization requests in the app called Aloft and some other ones listed on that gov site with info about LAANC linked above.