POSTCARD from: a getaway to dreamy Rosemary + Alys Beach
our favorite places + everywhere we took our toddler around 30a
Every May, my little family and I travel down to the Emerald Coast of Florida to the cluster of beaches known as “30A.” Highway 30A is a road that connects a bunch of little beach villages together, and it’s just lovely. Each hamlet has it’s own personality and vibe, and it’s so accessible to walk or bike between them. We usually stay in Rosemary Beach, which is located conveniently adjacent to Alys Beach, which we walk to daily.
With its gorgeous homes, white sandy beaches, and array of restaurants, it’s no wonder these lux little towns have become a popular vacation spot — for influencers, celebrities and families alike. Founded upon the principals of New Urbanism, Rosemary Beach is totally walkable, and was designed with people in mind rather than cars. There’s beauty and European colonial architecture around every corner, and I love being able to stroll to all the different shops, wine stores and food markets.
When we went last year, my daughter was just 8 months. She enjoyed dipping her chubby little feet in the pool and being carried around in her baby carrier, but she didn’t really get to experience it. This year, it was totally different. She LOVED walking around Rosemary, having pina coladas by the pool, and exploring all the local parks and splash pads. Having kids is not a precursor to enjoying this area, but children are definitely welcomed in with open arms around here.
Here are some of my favorite spots to check out around both Rosemary and Alys Beach!
ROSEMARY BEACH ///
restaurants—
Pescado /// Pescado is a seafood-centric restaurant, and is definitely one of the nicer spots in Rosemary Beach. The restaurant was designed by Atlanta-based Smith Hanes Studio, and is located on the top floor of its building, giving it gorgeous views of Rosemary Beach and the ocean. If you can’t get a reservation, you can put your name in around 5 or 6pm, and you’ll likely be able to get a table for later.
La Crema /// La Crema is a Spanish tapas restaurant located on one of the most charming streets in Rosemary. It’s not surprising the family that opened it lived in Spain, because the setting does feel very European. It’s mostly outdoor seating, and they are able to accommodate large groups. This is such a fun spot to try a bunch of different small plates.
coffee—
Amavida + 3rd Cup /// both great little cafes right in Rosemary Beach!
parks + activities—
splash pad, pools, + parklets // there are several “gathering spaces” all throughout Rosemary! there are four pools, a splash pad, and numerous green spaces and parklets. my daughter loved exploring them all! you will inevitably encounter these with any stroll around the neighborhood.
sunday Farmers Market /// The 30a Farmers Market is held every Sunday, year round, from 9am to 1 p.m. on the town green in Rosemary Beach. There’s usually about 30 local vendors, ranging from fresh cut flowers, Gulf shrimp, handmade soaps, crab cakes, fresh breads, and of course local produce. Most of the home rentals in Rosemary Beach are equipped with a great kitchen and grill, and I always love to cook a few nights when I’m there. This market is a great opportunity to get a bunch of gorgeous fruits and veggies to incorporate into whatever dish you’re creating!
fresh seafood markets /// Along with the Farmers Market, Goatfeathers and Destin Ice Market are great places to pick up extremely fresh and local seafood. I usually choose snapper or grouper, since they both do great on the grill and need little else other than olive oil, salt, pepper, and a lemon squeeze. Definitely take advantage of having these markets nearby — especially if you don’t live somewhere coastal!
ALYS BEACH—
restaurants—
The Citizen /// Inspired by coastal and Southern cuisine, The Citizen is a gorgeous restaurant and raw bar located in neighboring Alys Beach, which is just a 15 minute walk from Rosemary. The Citizen prioritizes local and seasonal ingredients, which drive the inspiration for both the food and drink menus. They have a great wine list, and the menu showcases oysters, salads, small plates, and seafood cooked over a wood fire hearth. This would be an amazing spot for a date night!
Fonville Press /// We looove going to Fonville for coffee, pastries, breakfast sandwiches, or lunch! They also have a little market that has anything you might need. Gorgeous space and tons of outdoor seating.
NEAT Cocktail Bar + Bottle Shop /// NEAT offers a coastal-modern atmosphere to enjoy craft cocktails, wine, cider, and small plates. The drinks are creative riffs on the classics, and the food menu includes olives, spiced marcona almonds, hummus-stuffed pickled peppers, and charcuterie and cheese boards. Connecting to the cocktail bar is a Bottle Shop, which has an awesome selection of wine, champagne, and spirits.
Raw + Juicy /// This place is just stunning and the food is amazingly fresh. I always feel so great after I eat there?!???? They are tons of juices, smoothies, acai bowls, breakfast sandwiches, and grain bowls. There is also an AMAZING park with turf that backs right up to the restaurant patio. Such an ideal spot to let our girl run around before the food comes!
O-Ku /// new sushi spot in Alys! I haven’t actually eaten there — but I want to! I peaked in to see the menu, and the space was gorgeous!
coffee—
Holiday + Fonville Press /// both adorable shops and pastries and outdoor seating — can’t go wrong.
___
xx mae
We live 5 minutes away from Alys Beach. Your recommendations are local approved! =)