Santa Rosa Beach also has several access points into Point Washington State Forest, offering a unique contrast to the beachy vibe of the rest of the community. This 15,000-acre natural preserve houses a variety of flora and wildlife. If you're visiting for a beach vacation, the sugar sand and turquoise waters are certainly worth the trip. Santa Rosa Beach also includes a unique colony of artists in Gulf Place, offering a creative space with plenty to see and do.
When should you travel to Santa Rosa Beach, FL?
The climate in Santa Rosa Beach is similar to other parts of the state of Florida, which has warm, humid summers and moderate winters. The average high temperature is around 78 degrees, while the wintertime average low temperature is in the mid-50s. It gets about 30 inches of rain between June and September, although the rest of the year tends to stay drier. During hurricane season, the climate can become volatile so plan ahead and bring the right attire or better yet, pick a different time to visit.
Since it's a bit chillier during the winter months, you may be able to score discounted rates at local hotels. Many people enjoy visiting this area when it's warmer, especially when they're planning beach getaways. Several events in Destin can draw crowds to the surrounding area, which can cause a spike in hotel room rates. Some of these events include the Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest, which takes place in mid-October, the Destin Seafood Festival in early October, and the Destin Fishing Rodeo throughout the month of October.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Santa Rosa Beach, FL:
Santa Rosa Beach by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. You can use these charts to calculate the cheapest seasons to stay in Santa Rosa Beach during the year.
Where are the top luxury hotel options around Santa Rosa Beach, FL?
4 Star Average Prices: $190.14
If you're looking for a luxurious spot to spend your time in Santa Rosa Beach, book a room at Watercolor Inn & Resort. This four-star hotel sits right on the beach, offering stunning views. Your accommodations will include pillowtop mattresses with Egyptian cotton sheets, a private furnished balcony, an iPod docking station, a refrigerator, and a flat-screen TV with cable channels for entertainment. The hotel's spa has therapists available to provide body treatments, facials, and massages, while the property boasts outdoor tennis courts, five swimming pools, and a health club. Room service is available during limited hours or you can grab a bite at one of the three restaurants.
Another luxurious hotel in the area is Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, located on Emerald Coast Parkway West in Miramar Beach. This condominium resort has everything you need to feel right at home, including kitchenettes with coffeemakers and microwaves, free WiFi, and cable programming. The full-service spa offers appointments for body treatments, massages, and facials, while the four outdoor swimming pools make it easy to cool down after a day of sightseeing or on the golf course. At Village at Baytowne Wharf, choose from 19 different dining spots, four bars/lounges, and three coffee shops for your meals and drinks.
You can take advantage of the luxury at Luau at Sandestin, another resort in Miramar Beach. The location provides easy access to shopping at the Silver Sands Premium Outlets or exploring at Topsail Beach State Preserve. Guestrooms are equipped with free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, microwaves, tea and coffee makers, and plush bedding. On the property, you'll find three cafes, three bars, and 15 restaurants serving a variety of menu options. Amenities for guests include a full-service spa, free WiFi, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, concierge services, a business center, and an arcade.
What are the most affordable hotels in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida?
3 Star Average Prices: $178.77
The small community of Santa Rosa Beach has a handful of hotel options, although for budget-friendly accommodations, you'll have to travel slightly outside the area. One of the most affordable properties is about 12 miles away in Niceville. This spot, Quality Inn at Eglin AFB, is close to Turkey Creek Nature Trail and Eglin Golf Course. Each of the 119 guestrooms comes equipped with a microwave, a refrigerator, a tea and coffeemaker, and a TV with cable channels. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a fitness center, free newspapers each day in the lobby, a complimentary hot and cold breakfast buffet, and a picnic area.
Another reasonably priced location in the area is Home2Suites by Hilton Destin. This property is newer with modern furnishings and spacious rooms. Recreational amenities include a 24-hour fitness center and an outdoor pool, while the property also has a picnic area with barbecue grills for guest use and a shuttle offering service in the area. All rooms come with full-sized refrigerators, complimentary wireless internet access, workspaces, and tea and coffee facilities. Start your day at the complimentary breakfast buffet, serving fresh waffles, a selection of juices, coffee and tea, cereal, hot breakfast sandwiches, and oatmeal.
You can enjoy a relaxing and affordable stay at Holiday Inn Express Destin E Commons Mall Area, located on Hutchinson Street in Destin. All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, wired and wireless internet access, complimentary toiletries, refrigerators, microwaves, and desks. On the property, you'll find a fitness center and an outdoor pool, along with a 24-hour business center. Breakfast is served each morning for guests, which you can enjoy while you catch up on the events in the free daily newspapers. This hotel is close to several attractions, such as Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park and James Lee Park.
