Santa Rosa Beach Content

Get ready to kick off your shoes and dive into a weekend of bay-front rhythms and savory coastal flavors in SoWal's North Beach at the foot of the 331 bridge in Santa Rosa Beach.

The first-ever Smoke, Salt & Sound Festival is officially hitting the shores of South Walton this April 3–5, bringing a sunny, sandy three-day celebration to North Beach Social and The Bay. Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, or a little Easter magic, this free community event is shaping up to be a standout weekend in South Walton.

Rinse off the old and welcome the new! South Walton Fire District will hold its Annual Polar Bear Plunge on New Year’s Day at Ed Walline Public Beach Access. In-person sign-up starts at 11AM at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar on January 1, 2026, which will be followed by a costume contest at 12PM, and the Plunge itself at 1PM.

Resort Resale on US HWY 98 in Santa Rosa Beach offers lightly used designer furniture & decor at prices around half of what you would pay for the exact same items at designer showrooms. And you can have it today, with no ordering and waiting.

The South Walton Fire District Junior Lifeguard Program returns for Summer 2025 with approximately 200 participants ready to learn what it takes to work as a surf rescue professional along the Emerald Coast.

The program begins Tuesday, June 10, with a dual-curriculum approach, creating a fun and welcoming environment for both first-time and returning Juniors. More information and registration online at SWFD.org.

Representatives for the Walton County Board of County Commissioners and Walton County Tourism participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Visitor & Nature Center at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on December 20th.

The $4.2 million project will provide education, host events and connect visitors to the park's natural wonders. Walton County provided $285,000 in Tourist Development Tax funds to support the project, which is expected to be completed in late 2025.

Farm & Fire, a favorite South Walton waterfront restaurant on the bay, offers a diverse menu and dining experience that is sure to please with incredible views and memorable sunsets.

The Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center recently released seven rehabilitated sea turtles back into the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico after having spent time at the CARE Center.

The turtles were returned home to the Gulf at Topsail Hill State Preserve State Park, where several hundred locals and tourists gathered and cheered. Even a group of dolphins joined in the celebration, swimming alongside the turtles as they made their way back into the Gulf.