Which Area Is The One For You? | Where To Live In Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the charming beach towns of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Whether you're considering moving to this picturesque locale or just curious about what it offers, you're in the right place. Today, we're exploring the diverse neighborhoods and communities along the Emerald Coast, particularly focusing on Santa Rosa Beach.

Exploring Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and characteristics. From serene beachfront communities to bustling town centers, there's something for everyone here. Let's dive into some of the major areas you should consider if you're thinking about making Santa Rosa Beach your new home.

Dune Allen - Serenity and Scenic Beauty

• Location: Western part of Santa Rosa Beach
• Highlights: Serene atmosphere, less developed, Dune Lakes
• Ideal for: Those looking for a peaceful environment
• Median Home Price: $932, 000

Dune Allen is a tranquil area known for its serene environment and scenic beauty. It's less developed compared to other parts of Santa Rosa Beach, offering a peaceful retreat. The area is famous for its Dune Lakes, which are rare coastal dune lakes found in only a few places around the world. The presence of trails and the proximity to an elementary school make it an excellent choice for families.

Gulf Place - A Touch of European Charm

• Location: Central Santa Rosa Beach
• Highlights: Euro Town Center, artist colony vibe, Amphitheater
• Ideal for: Art lovers and those who enjoy a vibrant community
• Median Home Price: $919,000

Gulf Place is reminiscent of a European town center and is known for its unique artist colony atmosphere. The area features a cool Amphitheater and is a hub for vacationers. It's perfect for those who appreciate art and a lively community feel.

Blue Mountain - Elevated Living

• Location: Slightly east of Gulf Place
• Highlights: Highest dunes, Lupine flowers, old Florida charm
• Ideal for: Nature lovers and those seeking a historic vibe
• Median Home Price: $1.07 million

Blue Mountain, named after the Lupine flowers that once covered its dunes, offers some of the highest elevations in the area. This neighborhood retains the old charm of Santa Rosa Beach with its vintage homes and local creamery shop, making it a desirable location for those who cherish nature and history.

Grayton Beach - Bohemian Rhapsody

• Location: Further east along the coast
• Highlights: Small town feel, hippie style, white sand beaches
• Ideal for: Those looking for a laid-back lifestyle
• Median Home Price: $2 million

Grayton Beach is the quintessential small town with a bohemian twist. Known for its "nice dogs and friendly folks," this area offers a unique blend of old Florida charm and a relaxed, hippie vibe. The stunning white sand beaches are a major draw, and the lack of parking is mitigated by shuttle services, making it easy to enjoy the beach without the hassle.

WaterColor - Nature and Luxury Combined

• Location: Just beyond Grayton Beach
• Highlights: Large nature preserves, upscale shopping and dining
• Ideal for: Those seeking luxury amidst natural beauty
• Median Home Price: $2 million

WaterColor is a beautifully planned community that boasts extensive nature preserves and luxurious amenities. The area offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and high-end living, with plenty of shopping and dining options. It's ideal for those who appreciate both nature and a sophisticated lifestyle.

Seaside - The Heart of Outdoor Adventure

• Location: Adjacent to WaterColor
• Highlights: Amphitheater, outdoor activities, vibrant community
• Ideal for: Active individuals and families
• Median Home Price: $3 million

Seaside is one of the most popular areas in Santa Rosa Beach, known for its dynamic outdoor scene and community-focused atmosphere. With its amphitheater, food trucks, and plethora of small shops, Seaside is a bustling hub for those who thrive in a lively environment. It's also the venue for the Seaside Marathon, adding to its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.

WaterSound - Modern and Upscale

• Location: East of Seaside
• Highlights: Newly built, upscale amenities, custom homes
• Ideal for: Those looking for new construction with luxury features
• Median Home Price: $1.1 million to $4 million

WaterSound is a modern, upscale community featuring newly constructed homes with custom features. This area is perfect for those who desire a luxurious lifestyle with all the latest amenities. The community is rapidly developing, offering a range of properties from relatively affordable to high-end luxury homes.

Alys Beach - Mediterranean Elegance

• Location: Further east from WaterSound
• Highlights: Unique Mediterranean architecture, luxury boutiques, exquisite dining
• Ideal for: Those who appreciate architectural beauty and upscale living
• Median Home Price: $3.7 million

Alys Beach stands out with its striking Mediterranean-inspired architecture and high-end atmosphere. This area offers a "simple luxury" lifestyle with its beautiful stucco buildings, boutique shops, and gourmet eateries. It's a place where you can enjoy the finer things in life in a stunningly beautiful setting.

Rosemary Beach - European Village Charm

• Location: East of Alys Beach
• Highlights: French Quarter feel, lush greenery, farm-to-table dining
• Ideal for: Those who love a European village atmosphere
• Median Home Price: $1.8 million

Rosemary Beach is reminiscent of a quaint European village, complete with cobblestone streets and lush greenery. This area is known for its farm-to-table restaurants and chic boutiques, making it a favorite for foodies and shoppers alike. The beautiful beach and vibrant community life add to its charm, making it a highly desirable place to live.

Community and Lifestyle

Living in Santa Rosa Beach offers more than just beautiful homes and scenic views. The community here is vibrant and welcoming, with a mix of Southern hospitality and the unique "Florida man" culture. It's a place where you can enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle, whether it's running marathons, exploring nature preserves, or just relaxing on the beach.

The area is also great for families, with schools ranging from B+ to A- ratings and several private schooling options. Shopping is convenient with major stores like Publix nearby, and for more extensive shopping , Destin and Panama City are just a short drive away. This accessibility makes Santa Rosa Beach not only a beautiful place to live but also a convenient one.

Education and Amenities

• Schools: Elementary, middle, and South Walton High School, rated between B+ and A-
• Private Schools: Available throughout the area
• Shopping: Publix locally, with Whole Foods in nearby Destin
• Dining and Entertainment: A variety of dining options from farm-to-table restaurants to quaint coffee shops and upscale eateries

The Whittemore Group - Your Local Experts

If you're considering moving to Santa Rosa Beach or just exploring your options, the Whittemore Group is here to help. With deep local knowledge and a commitment to providing outstanding service, we can assist you in finding the perfect home that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Conclusion

Santa Rosa Beach is not just a place to live; it's a lifestyle. With its diverse communities ranging from the serene Dune Allen to the luxurious Alys Beach, there's a neighborhood to suit every taste and lifestyle. The combination of stunning natural beauty, vibrant community life, and high-quality amenities makes Santa Rosa Beach a top choice for anyone looking to make the Emerald Coast their home.

Whether you're drawn to the artistic vibe of Gulf Place, the historic charm of Blue Mountain, or the modern luxury of WaterSound, each area offers its unique benefits and attractions. And with the support of the Whittemore Group, you can navigate your move with ease and confidence.

For more information or to start your home search, don't hesitate to reach out. Feel free to call/text us at 850-204-4416 or email us at Admin@WhittemoreGroupRE.com. We're here to support you every step of the way in discovering the perfect spot in Santa Rosa Beach for your next chapter.

Click here to see all available homes for sale in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida area.