Choosing your next vacation can be both exciting and stressful. You picture yourself enjoying all sorts of unique activities, but the question remains: where should you go? This year, pick a place that your whole family will love. 30A is one of Florida’s premier vacation destinations, with its Emerald Coast and turquoise waters. This area also offers a variety of beaches to choose from, including the choice between Destin vs Santa Rosa Beach!
These two might not be very far apart, but they offer entirely different experiences. So, are you ready to decide which one’s made for you and your family? Let’s get into it!
Whatever you choose, you can always download our free 30A Vacation Guide! Inside, we compiled some of our favorite local recommendations for restaurants, shops, museums, events, and outdoor activities. You don’t want to miss any of them!
Comparing Destin and Santa Rosa Beach: Discover the Best Beaches and Activities
Is Destin Your Destiny?
Best for nature lovers, foodies, and fishermen.
If you’d rather spend a romantic vacation on 30A, then Destin is an excellent destination. After all, it offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Gulf in the area, so why not take advantage of it? Surprise your better half with a romantic sunrise walk on the beach, take a hike through the nearby St. Andrew’s State Park (even pack a picnic!), then head over to Serenity By the Sea Spa for a couple’s massage. You can then unwind at the Destin Harborwalk and catch dinner with a cocktail before returning to your cozy home at Adagio.
Do you dream of a relaxing vacation away from all the hustle and bustle of the city? If you want to find a place where serenity meets nature, then Destin and the greater Sandestin area are the top picks for your 30A getaway.
What to Do in Destin?
Go Fishing: Make the most of your passion when you visit Destin! Enjoy some of the best panhandle fishing while gazing at gorgeous views of 30A and catch some local fish!
Savor a Delicious Dinner: Experience top-notch Sandestin dining at excellent local restaurants like Sunset Bay Cafe and Bijoux.
Santa Rosa: a Match Made in Heaven!
Best for beach bums, golfers, and history buffs.
Did you know Santa Rosa Beach is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets? Indeed, this lovely beach community is one of the top destinations in the state — especially on 30A. Santa Rosa is a community within the South Walton area that boasts some magnificent beaches. It’s considered South Walton’s original beach neighborhood! Slow down your pace and enjoy a wide array of things to do and see. Santa Rosa is ideal for a fun, low-key vacation.
If you dream of a scenic and laid-back family vacation, look no further than Santa Rosa Beach. There, you can relax on the beach, build sandcastles with your little ones, and eat at some of the best restaurants on 30A. Cafe Thirty-A is one of our all-time favorites and offers a great selection of seafood in a homey and elegant atmosphere. Do you love to play golf during your spare time? You’ll be delighted to know that Santa Rosa Beach is also home to some of the most beautiful golf courses on 30A. The Emerald Bay Golf Club is one of the most prestigious and offers a peaceful atmosphere as you swing the ball with views of the bay in the distance.
What to Do in Santa Rosa?
Hit the Golf Course: The Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club is a must-see, with its pristine beaches, lush greens, and jaw-dropping landscapes. This 18-hole course was named the purest in the Florida Panhandle by Golf Magazine and ranked as one of the best places to watch the sunset by the readers of Destin Magazine. We also recommend checking out the Emerald Bay course.
Go Kayaking: Santa Rosa offers many opportunities for water sports, including a kayaking adventure! Check out the various Santa Rosa Beach kayak rentals and prepare for a fun day on the water.
Visit the Eden Gardens: History buffs will love strolling through this park and discovering the original 1895 mansion. It boasts magnificent Louis XVI furniture!
No Matter What You Decide, Stay at Adagio!
Now that you’ve learned all you need to know about Destin vs Santa Rosa Beach, it’s time to find your perfect condo! Adagio 30A is ideal for a family vacation or romantic getaway, and our rentals are conveniently located near Santa Rosa and Destin!
Pamper yourself in Adagio D-502. This beautiful corner unit offers splendid views. It has three spacious bedrooms and three bathrooms, plus a scenic balcony where you can sip on a glass of wine and enjoy a stunning sunset. The rental also includes a well-equipped kitchen with granite countertops, and stainless appliances. It’s the perfect place to cook yourself a delicious breakfast when you wake up in the morning! Think about all the quality time you’ll spend with your loved ones and the unforgettable memories you’ll make here.
If you can’t make it to the beach one day, check out our pools! We have a 1,700-square-foot, heated Gulf-side pool with an infinity edge overlooking the Emerald Coast, and an 8,000-square-foot front pool with three tiers of fountains and waterfalls.