European colonial architecture meets Florida beach vacation in the charming South Walton planned community of Rosemary Beach, where the sand is fluffy white, the green spaces are plentiful, and the dining scene is top notch. Elegant homes sometimes feature carriage houses, and are linked by a winding network of cobblestone paths and wood-plank boardwalks illuminated by gas-lit lanterns.

It might sound like a historic town, but the Rosemary Beach community was built in 1995 to resemble an amalgam of towns in the West Indies, Charleston, St. Augustine, and the Caribbean. Construction followed New Urbanism’s guiding principles, with priorities including inviting public spaces (think bubbling fountains, courtyards, grand sculptures, and playgrounds) and walkability. Add all that to a half-mile of blissful beach and you have a glorious getaway with romantic small-town vibes.

Two airports serve Rosemary Beach: Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is a little over an hour’s drive from the west, while Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) is a 30-minute ride from the northeast. Folks also tend to drive in on Highways 98 and 79; cruising down the scenic 30A, which is strung with charming enclaves including Rosemary Beach, is practically a rite of passage.

While many visitors still opt for wheels, those who arrive by plane can also get by with a combo of taxis, rideshares, and bicycle rentals. Restaurants and shops in Rosemary Beach are all within walking distance, and it’s only a short bike ride to such neighboring beaches as Alys Beach, Inlet Beach, and Seacrest Beach. If you’re interested in day trips to such further-flung destinations as Panama City Beach, Seagrove Beach, Grayton Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or Dune Allen Beach, you’ll need a car.

The best months to visit Rosemary Beach are the bookends to the blazing hot and humid summer. April and May offer lovely warm temperatures but low humidity, and October brings low humidity and fewer bugs, but still-warm air and water temperatures. Note that hurricane season stretches from early June to late November, peaking in August and October.

Winter temperatures hover in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, and the beach is mostly deserted due to chilly water. March brings the spring breakers, roadside wildflowers, and slightly warmer temperatures, and things heat up big time in the summer high season, which also sees high humidity and regular afternoon thunderstorms. Depending on when you visit, be sure to pack sun protection and/or raingear. And don’t forget the flip flops.

Rosemary Beach

White sand. Turquoise water. Bring your own chair and umbrella, or rent them at the beach. Enough said.

Timpoochee Trail

An 18.6-mile bike trail that’s paved and mostly flat, stretching from Inlet Beach to Dune Allen and traversing beach communities and access points, dune lakes, and state parks. Consider a stop at Deer Lake State Park, where you can explore coastal dunes, go fishing, or just hit the beach.

The East Long Green

A grassy knoll along 30A that often comes to life with outdoor festivals, concerts, and events. Regular farmers’ markets and crafts markets here feature food, art, jewelry, and other handcrafts.