The Emerald Coast, stretching along the Gulf of Mexico in northwest Florida, is celebrated for its stunning beaches, clear emerald waters, and luxurious living. Real estate in this area is highly coveted, driven by its picturesque landscapes, upscale amenities, and vibrant communities.
In this article, we will explore These Are The Top 10 Most Expensive Areas In Emerald Coast, highlighting the unique features and real estate markets of each location.
Destin: The Jewel of the Emerald Coast
Destin often hailed as the “Jewel of the Emerald Coast,” continues to captivate visitors and residents alike with its stunning white sandy beaches and emerald-green waters. In 2024, Destin remains a premier destination for both leisure and real estate investment.
The Destin Harbor Boardwalk serves as the heart of the city’s vibrant community, offering a plethora of activities such as fishing charters, dolphin cruises, and parasailing adventures. This bustling area is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a popular spot for both daytime fun and nightlife.
The real estate market in Destin reflects its prestigious status, with properties ranging from luxurious beachfront estates to modern condominiums.
Recent listings show a diverse range of options, with prices for single-family homes and condos varying significantly based on location and amenities.
For instance, homes in the Crystal Beach neighborhood can fetch prices upwards of $2.5 million, while condos in the Tides of Destin are listed at around $1.3 million. This robust market, driven by the city’s appeal and amenities, ensures that Destin remains one of the most sought-after and expensive areas on the Emerald Coast.
Miramar Beach: Resort Living at Its Best
Miramar Beach, located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, is celebrated for its luxurious resort lifestyle, blending upscale living with an array of recreational activities. This vibrant community offers everything from beach volleyball and jet skiing to antique shopping and fine dining.
One of the standout features of Miramar Beach is its extensive shopping options. Silver Sands Premium Outlets, a shopper’s paradise, boasts over 100 designer stores, including Michael Kors and Coach, while Grand Boulevard at Sandestin offers a more upscale shopping experience with high-end boutiques and top-notch restaurants like Emeril’s Coastal Italian and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.
Real estate in Miramar Beach is equally impressive, featuring a variety of luxurious properties. The current market showcases diverse options, such as the two-bedroom condos at Amalfi Coast Resort listed for around $750,000, and larger homes that can exceed $1 million.
Communities like Avalon Beach Estates and Gulf Pines are particularly sought after for their premium location and amenities.
Additionally, Miramar Beach’s commitment to active living is evident in its offerings of world-class golf courses, such as Seascape Golf Club and Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, and numerous watersports activities like kayaking and parasailing, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Santa Rosa Beach: Serene and Scenic
Santa Rosa Beach, nestled along Florida’s Emerald Coast, is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green landscapes. This charming beach town offers a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Visitors can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities such as beachcombing, kayaking, and fishing. The 26 miles of coastline are ideal for exploring, and the calm waters of Choctawhatchee Bay provide excellent opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy the Longleaf Pine Trail in the Point Washington State Forest, where they might spot deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. Additionally, the Timpoochee Trail offers scenic views along the coast, perfect for biking and taking in the Gulf’s stunning vistas.
Real estate in Santa Rosa Beach is a hot commodity, reflecting the area’s desirability. The market offers a range of options from cozy cottages to luxurious beachfront homes. This town’s appeal lies in its balance between serene natural surroundings and a vibrant community life.
Visitors and residents alike enjoy the local art galleries, boutique shops, and diverse dining options. Popular eateries such as Stinky’s Fish Camp and Vue on 30A provide a taste of the local seafood, while the Seaside Farmers Market offers fresh produce and artisanal goods every Saturday.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an active outdoor adventure, Santa Rosa Beach stands out as a top destination on the Emerald Coast.
Seaside: Iconic and Idyllic
Seaside, Florida, located on the Emerald Coast, is a picturesque town known for its unique New Urbanist design and vibrant community atmosphere. Established in the 1980s by Robert and Daryl Davis, Seaside was one of the first towns in the U.S. to implement New Urbanism principles, focusing on walkability, sustainability, and a strong sense of community.
This design philosophy is evident in Seaside’s layout, which features pastel-colored cottages with white picket fences, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a bustling town center that encourages social interaction and community engagement.
WaterColor: Luxury and Nature
WaterColor, located along Florida’s scenic Highway 30A, epitomizes the blend of luxury living and natural beauty. This 500-acre resort community is renowned for its elegant coastal architecture and lush landscapes.
WaterColor offers a plethora of amenities designed to cater to a variety of interests and age groups. Visitors and residents can enjoy six resort pools, including the family-friendly Camp WaterColor which features water slides and a lazy river, and the WaterColor Beach Club with its stunning views and tiered pool decks.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the community boasts miles of walking and biking trails that wind through picturesque parks, coastal dune lakes, and the serene Cerulean Park, which is adorned with a butterfly garden and tropical flora.
Rosemary Beach: Luxurious Coastal Living
Rosemary Beach, nestled on Florida’s Emerald Coast, epitomizes luxurious coastal living with its blend of natural beauty, upscale amenities, and community charm. Established in 1995, this meticulously planned community showcases New Urbanism principles, featuring pedestrian-friendly streets, European-inspired architecture, and a vibrant town center.
Visitors and residents can enjoy a variety of dining options, from the upscale Restaurant Paradis, known for its fresh seafood and Prime steaks, to the casual Cowgirl Kitchen, offering locally sourced meals. For a unique treat, the Havana Beach Bar and Grill at The Pearl Hotel provides stunning ocean views alongside Gulf Coast cuisine, making it a perfect spot for sunset dining.
Alys Beach: Prestige and Sustainability
Alys Beach, a luxurious community on Florida’s Emerald Coast, is renowned for its stunning white architecture and commitment to sustainability. Designed with the environment in mind, Alys Beach incorporates green building practices, including the use of solar panels and rainwater collection systems.
The community is a model of eco-friendly living, seamlessly integrating natural elements with human design to create a unique and sustainable living environment.
This dedication to sustainability extends to the town’s public spaces, which are designed to promote wellness and community interaction. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy walkable streets, scenic bike paths, and numerous outdoor activities that foster a sense of connection and well-being.
Panama City Beach: Vibrant and Versatile
Panama City Beach (PCB), located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, continues to be a premier destination for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation. Known for its 27 miles of white sandy beaches and emerald-green waters, PCB offers a wide variety of activities and attractions.
In 2024, visitors can look forward to several new developments, including the opening of new hotels such as the Residence Inn by Marriott and the Tru by Hilton, which provide modern amenities and are conveniently located near major attractions like Pier Park.
Pier Park itself remains a bustling hub, featuring new additions like Ford’s Garage, a restaurant offering a unique dining experience with a vintage automotive theme.
Pensacola Beach: Historic and Hospitable
Pensacola Beach, part of Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast, combines rich history with warm hospitality, making it a prime destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration. In 2024, visitors can enjoy a mix of new and classic experiences.
The recently opened Pensacola Beach Resort offers luxurious waterfront accommodations with 360-degree views of the Gulf of Mexico and Little Sabine Bay.
This resort features 161 guest rooms, an elevated pool deck, a new restaurant concept, and various retail offerings, enhancing the beach’s appeal to travelers seeking upscale lodging options.
Navarre: Quiet Coastal Charm
Navarre, located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, is known for its serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful beach getaway.
This charming coastal town offers miles of unspoiled beaches with sugar-white sand and translucent waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Navarre Beach is less crowded than its neighboring beaches, allowing visitors to enjoy a more tranquil experience. The area also boasts the longest fishing pier in the Gulf of Mexico, providing excellent opportunities for fishing and spectacular sunset views.
In addition to its natural allure, Navarre offers various activities and amenities that enhance its appeal. The town hosts numerous festivals and events year-round, such as the Tunes by the Dunes summer concert series and the annual Navarre Fishing Rodeo.
Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary and the Sea Turtle Conservation Center to learn about local marine life. For accommodations, visitors can choose from a range of options, including beachfront vacation rentals and hotels like the Hampton Inn & Suites.
These offerings make Navarre a welcoming and affordable option for families and couples looking to enjoy the best of the Emerald Coast without the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist spots.
Conclusion
These Are The Top 10 Most Expensive Areas In Emerald Coast, each offering unique attractions, luxurious living, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
From the bustling streets of Destin to the serene beaches of Santa Rosa, the Emerald Coast provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities.
As the demand for prime real estate continues to grow, these areas will likely maintain their status as some of the most coveted and expensive locations on the Emerald Coast.
For those planning to relocate to the Emerald Coast, hiring professional FFE movers is highly recommended. These companies can efficiently transport your belongings, ensuring a hassle-free move and providing valuable assistance in getting acquainted with the new surroundings.
Moving companies often offer comprehensive services, including packing, loading, transportation, and even tours of the local area to help new residents settle in comfortably.
Also Read: Investment Opportunities in Florida
