Gentle Gulf Air

Tucked between Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach on Florida's Scenic 30A, this four-bedroom house is ideally placed for a proper coastal escape. The beach and Seacrest's resort-style pool – the largest on 30A – are both a short walk away, with no tram required. Every bedroom has its own balcony or porch, and the third-floor entertainment deck delivers Gulf views that are hard to leave once the sun starts dropping. Four complimentary bikes make it easy to ride into Rosemary Beach for dinner, so the whole stretch of coastline feels within reach.

Home truths:
* There's free parking for up to three cars on the driveway.
* Beach towels are not provided here, so pack your own or plan to pick some up locally. Cooking basics such as salt, pepper, and oils are also not stocked, so it's worth bringing essentials if you plan to cook regularly.
* You'll need to complete a Guest Registration Form at least two weeks before arrival in order to access community amenities, including the pool. Make sure to factor that into your planning after booking.
* The lead guest must be at least 25 years old.
* The community pool is heated only until March – if you're visiting in early spring, the water may be on the cold side, especially for young children.
* The Seacrest Beach section of shoreline is popular and can get very busy in peak season – around three quarters of the beach is managed by a set-up vendor, leaving limited space for guests who want to place their own chairs. If you're visiting in summer, it's worth heading out early to secure a good spot.