Known for its pristine beaches with crystalline waters and sugary-white sand, Seacrest Beach is one of Florida’s hidden gems. The Walton County area is part of the scenic Florida Panhandle, and it’s one of the best destinations for vacationers of all age groups. Seacrest Beach is a laid-back community featuring delightful shops, gourmet restaurants, and friendly locals. It’s also known for its picturesque natural beauty. Whether you’re fishing on the dune lakes or teeing off at one of the area’s luxurious golf courses, you’re sure to appreciate every moment in this paradise. Check out the best Seacrest Beach vacation rentals, and book your stay today. Here are several of the most noteworthy neighborhoods in and around Seacrest Beach.

1. Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach is a thriving beach neighborhood that’s home to a wide range of boutique shops and tantalizing eateries. Its beaches have the classic Florida Panhandle pure, white sand and turquoise waves. While you’re in the area, you can rent a bicycle to do some exploring. You could also charter a boat if you feel like doing some fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, the Point Washington State Forest is a fantastic place to do some hiking. The area is home to several endangered plants and animals, so keep your eyes peeled for a once-in-a-lifetime viewing.

2. Miramar Beach

If you’re looking for a beachfront vacation rental, Miramar Beach is a great place to start your search. In addition to its immaculate beaches, Miramar Beach offers world-class shopping, with hundreds of brand-name and designer shops right at your fingertips. Treat the kids to a day at The Track Destin. It is an amusement park with rides, go-karts, arcades, mini-golf, and bumpers cars and boats. Take a hike through the 1,640-acre Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, or head to Gator Beach to watch real Florida alligators in action.

3. Sandestin

Whether you’re looking for an upscale luxury vacation rental, or something a little more budget-friendly, you should be able to find what you’re looking for in the diverse Sandestin neighborhood. Bring the whole family on a three-hour SunQuest dinner cruise for a memorable evening on Destin Harbor. You can’t beat the sunset views, and the food and music are truly divine. Baytowne Adventure Zone is another family-friendly attraction, featuring rock climbing, zip lines, rope courses, and plenty of other thrilling activities.

4. WaterColor

WaterColor is an elegant beachfront community known for its gorgeous architecture and picturesque natural views. There are plenty of private vacation rentals available. Spend the day shopping at the area’s unique boutiques, or treat yourself to a soothing day at the spa. If you feel like beating the heat, head to one of the area’s numerous luxury community pools. WaterColor also boasts a variety of outdoor amenities, including tennis courts, biking and jogging paths, paddle board and kayak rentals, and laid-back public parks.

5. Rosemary Beach

This family-friendly, community-oriented beach neighborhood offers endless charm. Whether you’re unwinding at one of the area’s multiple day spas, trying the delectable local cuisine, or just enjoying a romantic sunset stroll down the beach, you’re never going to want to leave this heaven on Earth. Be sure to head to the farmer’s market on Sunday between 9am and 1pm to grab some fresh, local ingredients so you can make an authentic Florida Sunday dinner for the whole family at your vacation rental.

6. Seaside

Seaside is a vibrant yet relaxed neighborhood that you may recognize from the hit movie, The Truman Show. Most of the area’s residents travel by foot or bicycle, giving the community a friendly and laid-back atmosphere. Seaside’s beaches have that wonderful sugar-fine sand and turquoise water that makes the area so special, and the colorful homes are sure to create wonderful vacation rental memories. Each beach has its own unique pavilion and staircase, creating a special, one-of-a-kind look. Rental bicycles are readily available for you to take on an adventure, and the local Modica Market has everything you need to keep your vacation rental’s kitchen fully stocked.

7. Blue Mountain

Named after the gorgeous local blue lupine flowers that add color to this breathtakingly beautiful neighborhood, Blue Mountain is truly a serene paradise. Whether you’re looking for a quaint cottage near the beach or a large, private luxury home, you should be able to find the perfect vacation rental. Beat the heat with some fresh-made ice cream or frozen yogurt from the Blue Mountain Beach Creamery. While you’re in the area, visit The Shard, a local art gallery where you can take a class and create a piece of art to bring home as a souvenir.

8. Dune Allen

Dune Allen is a haven for those who love the great outdoors. The laid-back community offers that Old Florida vibe that’s becoming increasingly difficult to find. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a fantastic place to go for a leisurely stroll, featuring more than 5 miles of scenic trails. The neighborhood also has three coastal dune lakes, which are extremely rare bodies of water that you need to see to believe. Enjoy paddling down the lake in a rental boat, or just pack a picnic and take in the scenery from the shore.

9. Grayton Beach

Located near extremely rare coastal dune lakes that can only be found in this area and Africa, Grayton Beach is a coastal paradise. Explore the area’s diverse boutique shops to find the perfect gift or souvenir, and then stop by Grayton Artist Collective to procure a one-of-a-kind sculpture or painting. This welcoming community boasts a wide range of places to eat, drink, and enjoy live music. Take a canoe, kayak, or paddle board out for a leisurely jaunt across picturesque Western Lake, or take a scenic hike through Grayton Beach State Park. This area also offers superb saltwater and freshwater fishing.