Santa Rosa Beach is located in Walton County, Florida, in the state's panhandle. It boasts more than 60 public access beaches, as well as a number of beaches located in state parks, including Grayton Beach and Blue Mountain Beach.
Eden Gardens State Park features a 19th-century-style house set amidst beautiful moss-covered oak trees. The renovated home is a showcase for the second largest collection of Louis XIV furniture in the U.S. and offers a great glimpse into the country's past.
In addition to lounging on the beach and hiking in the parks, you can rent bikes to peruse the shops, go golfing or fishing, play tennis, and go on a guided tour.
After you have spent the morning or afternoon at the beach you'll want to try one of the great local restaurants, and there are numerous casual dining options, including Pickles Beachside Eatery, 98 Bar-B-Que, Fat Daddy's Pizza and the Donut Hole Bakery Cafe. If you are looking for something a bit more formal then check out Bud & Alley's and Goatfeathers.
For those more interested in shopping, visit Magnolia House for its jewelry, handcrafted rugs and original artwork, Mystic Porte, which is home to a variety of unique shops, and the Shops of Grayton, which specializes in fine art and gifts.
In Santa Rosa Beach, look no further than Gulf Place. This shopping and dining village is located right across from the public access beach, Ed Walline Park, and features a great selection of clothing, surfing accessories and home décor items. And for a bit of extra pampering after a long day of shopping and beachside fun, there is also a lovely day spa.