Gulf Place is a vibrant, colorful, and friendly community situated at the intersection of County Roads 30A and 393. Known for its town center-like environment, it’s a hub of activity and a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
What sets Gulf Place apart is its mix of leisure, retail, dining, and entertainment, all within a short walk from the stunning beaches of the Emerald Coast. The beautiful emerald waters and sugar-white sands are easily accessible with several beach access points, making it an ideal location for beachgoers.
The heart of Gulf Place is its Town Center, a lively area filled with local shops, eateries, and services. It’s a fantastic place for a leisurely stroll, a bit of shopping, or a delicious meal. You’ll find a variety of boutique shops selling everything from beachwear to handmade jewelry, local arts, and crafts.
When it comes to dining, Gulf Place offers a range of options. The Perfect Pig Grill and Fish House is a local favorite serving up Southern coastal cuisine with a focus on local, fresh ingredients. Another great spot is Shunk Gulley, a seafood and oyster bar with stunning gulf views from their rooftop bar.
For coffee lovers, Sunrise Coffee Co. is a must-visit. It’s a great spot for a morning latte or a quick bite. For something sweet, be sure to stop by Pecan Jacks, an ice cream and candy kitchen that’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
Gulf Place is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The Artists at Gulf Place is an artist colony where you can find a variety of art and handcrafted items, from paintings to pottery to jewelry. Often, you’ll find artists working on their craft, and they are always willing to chat about their work. There are also occasional workshops and demonstrations, so it’s worth checking the schedule if you’re interested in arts and crafts.
In addition to the shopping and dining, Gulf Place is home to an outdoor amphitheater which is the center of many community events. Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of events such as free outdoor concerts, festivals, and farmers’ markets, making it a lively and dynamic place to visit. One notable event is the Third Thursday Wine Walkabout, where for a small fee, you can sample a variety of wines while exploring the various shops and venues.
Gulf Place is not just about shopping and dining, though. The community also boasts three swimming pools, tennis courts, and shuffleboard courts, and it’s just steps away from the Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club, a semi-private golf club that’s open to the public for golf and dining.
As for accommodations, Gulf Place offers a variety of options, from vacation rental homes to condos overlooking the Gulf. Many of the accommodations are conveniently located within walking distance of the Town Center, so you’re never far from the action.
One more unique feature of Gulf Place is the large, vibrant, turtle-shaped public art installations scattered throughout the community. These “turtle trails” were created as part of a public art project and they add an extra dash of color and whimsy to the area.
Gulf Place is a vibrant, welcoming, and lively community that offers a mix of beach relaxation, shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful beach vacation, a shopping excursion, or a foodie adventure, Gulf Place has something for everyone.
