ROSEMARY BEACH
A Classic Town with New Urbanism Ideals
Near the western end of Scenic Highway 30A is the classic town of Rosemary Beach, established in 1995. This traditional neighborhood development (TND) designed on a pedestrian scale ensures that everything is within no more than a five-minute walk, including the beach, restaurants, shops, and amenities.
Boundaries
Rosemary Beach borders Seacrest Beach to the west and Inlet Beach to the East.
Architectural Style
An eclectic blend of architectural styles exists here more than in any other community on Scenic 30A. The mix of materials through both a colonial and Caribbean influence allows for a wide variety in design, but with strict adherence to the covenants and codes that preserve the integrity of the community.
Much of Rosemary Beach’s style is derived from the old, historic towns of St. Augustine, New Orleans, and Charleston. Some of the architectural influence even comes from the West Indies. With tons of outdoor living patios, courtyards, porches, and carriage houses, the town of Rosemary Beach is the ideal place for buyers looking for that classic feel of an old town infused with the coastal casualness of being on the beach.
Real Estate Options
The town covers approximately 107 acres, with about 450 parcels for single-family homes and roughly 150 condominium units. Rosemary Beach offers luxury condos that are unique in name, location, layout, and style. Many live-work units accommodate living quarters above the town’s shops and restaurants, and some residential units include rooftop views of the Gulf of Mexico.
The Private Residence Club offers a more cost-effective option with shared ownership in a luxury residential community. The Private Residence Club includes concierge services, a rooftop pool, and other luxury amenities.
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Unique Features & History
Rosemary Beach’s Master Plan is the design of the town planners who also created Seaside, Florida. Incorporating the fundamentals of New Urbanism offered by Seaside, the plan introduces features that make Rosemary Beach its own community. For one, the color palette is more serious than the pastels found in Seaside and other coastal communities. Cobblestone streets, steep rooflines, Dutch West Indies parapet roofs, and white stucco walls convey European vibes.
The new urban principles applied in the town’s design create a charming and inviting atmosphere. Lanes are intentionally narrow to encourage a pedestrian-friendly environment, and garages are accessed from the rear alleyways, separating cars from pedestrians. Buildings are located close to the street, including porches, windows, and doors, and the tree-lined streets all create a sense of connectivity.
Things To Do in Rosemary Beach
Guests interested in staying at Rosemary Beach can make reservations at The Pearl Hotel, the Rosemary Beach Inn, or one of Rosemary Beach’s cottages.
The town’s four eccentric pools come with distinct architectural designs: the Barbados, Coquina, Cabana, and Sky pools, each giving owners and guests a different atmosphere to enjoy.
The fitness center near the Sky Pool has a newly renovated gym and weight room. The fitness center also has an array of cardio machines, a yoga studio, and massage therapy. Rosemary Beach also boasts a two-mile fitness trail for nature enthusiasts looking to get out and move around the town. For kids, there is a playground over by Round Road and Windward Lane, a splash pad near St. Augustine Green, and sandcastle-building classes are also available on the beach.
Rosemary Beach’s Tennis Center is also worth checking out, which is well-known for its tennis-pro services and classes. The Rosemary Beach Racquet Club & Pro Shop is a popular amenity. The club features eight clay courts for residents and guests and private lessons, clinics, and tournaments year-round. The pro shop sells tennis equipment, apparel, and racquet stringing services, and the nearby clubhouse offers showers, restrooms, lounging areas, and picnic benches around the courts.
With plenty of greenery and open space for events and live entertainment, Rosemary Beach often hosts Farmers' Markets, live concerts, and other annual events.
The close-knit community of Rosemary Beach has various things to do for people of all ages. Owners and guests can utilize the town’s beach service to rent beach chairs on the beach or to request a beach bonfire. For exploring more of the 30A community, Rosemary Beach’s Bamboo Bicycle Company has bicycles available to rent. Bicyclists can get the most scenic tour of 30A and visit neighboring beach communities by biking down highway 30A’s paved sidewalks.
For shopping, head over to Rosemary Beach Trading company for official merchandise, and for any beach necessities, be sure to check out Bombora Sun and Surf. There are plenty of fashionable boutiques to delight every age group. And if you are looking to get pampered, schedule an appointment at the Nail Garten for a mani-pedi or contact Vivo Spa 30A for a massage. The Hidden Lantern Bookstore also has a variety of books to choose from and frequently hosts local author signings.
The variety of these foods includes anything from on-the-go beach picnic food from Cowgirl Kitchen’s Feed and Supply to fine dining in a romantic courtyard under the twinkling cafe lighting at Edward’s. Stop by Playa Bowls or pop into Summer Kitchen Cafe for a quick smoothie or salad. On a sugar kick? Don’t worry – the Sugar Shak and Charlie’s Donuts have you covered! Havana Beach inside the Pearl Hotel serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and for any meals in between, stop by their rooftop lounge for some handcrafted cocktails. Pescado also boasts a rooftop bar with family-style dining, and Gallion’s Cocktail Longue is another great place to grab a drink in this adorable little town. Coffee or tea lover? Amavida and 3rd Cup Coffee are happy to serve you! Tapas and dessert at La Crema are a must, and wine lovers will have to check out Restaurant Paradis for their award-winning wine list!
The stunning town of Rosemary Beach is perfect for hosting any private event with all the greenery, unique pools, and open courtyards the town has to offer. Other venues for private events in Rosemary Beach can be hosted in the Town Hall, St. Augustine Green, Eastern Green, Western Green, or even on the beach. The town works closely with local businesses, such as photographers who know the area well, to help ease the stress of coordinating private event details. Recommended vendors can be found on Rosemary Beach’s website for additional information.
Why Rosemary Beach is a great place to live
This sophisticated coastal town draws a diverse group of all ages and walks of life. The carefully designed town plan, the abundance of parks and open spaces, a socially connected atmosphere, and the beautiful beaches truly set this community apart from any other along Scenic 30A.
